The Uplifters

Ever wondered what it takes to break through barriers and pursue your dreams relentlessly? In our latest episode, we talk to Shannon Eastin, the first woman to officiate in the NFL, and the author of Lady Ref: Making Calls in a Man's World.

Tune in to the full episode to gain valuable insights, practical lessons, and a dose of motivation to pursue your dreams despite the challenges.

A few highlights from Shannon’s Story:

1. Separating Emotions from the Game: As an official, Shannon discusses the necessity of separating emotions from the game, offering valuable insights on staying focused and calm in high-pressure situations.
2. Resilience and Overcoming Challenges: Shannon's journey involves setbacks, disappointments, and even a personal assault. Her ability to overcome these challenges is a wonderful reminder that every Uplifter has a deep well of resilience and determination.
3. Surrounding Yourself with Supportive People: Throughout the conversation, Shannon highlights the impact of mentors, supportive colleagues, and her family in helping her navigate obstacles and achieve her goals.
4. Value of Communication: Shannon shares her approach to diffusing tense situations through effective communication, a valuable skill applicable beyond the football field.
5. Dream Big, Work Hard, Trust God: Shannon emphasizes the importance of dreaming big, working hard, and trusting in a higher power, and the significance of faith in her journey.

*Connect with Aransas Savas:*

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aransas_savas/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_uplifters_podcast/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theuplifterspodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aransas

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theuplifterspodcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aransassavas/

*For more uplifting content, resources, and community support, visit www.theuplifterspodcast.com

Learn more about Shannon:

Website: www.shannoneastin.com

Instagram: @rileysmilescoopercares

🌍Do you dream of a life where you can break free from the monotony, explore the world, and live on your terms?

In our latest episode, I talk to Heather Markel, a coach to people who want to become full-time travelers. 

Heather worked in a corporate 9-5 but dreamed of traveling full-time. Every year, she’d talk herself out of it, though. She finally realized that if she didn’t do it, she’d spend the rest of her life regretting it, so she took the leap. In this conversation, you’ll discover the insights, challenges, and wisdom gained from Heather's journey to life on her own terms, and learn how you can also embrace a life of adventure and authenticity.

Key Takeaways:

* *Listen to Your Heart:* Heather emphasizes the importance of tuning into your inner voice, challenging societal norms, and following your heart's desires.

* *Journey Over Destination:* Discover how the challenges of travel led Heather to realize that the true value lies in the journey, not just the destination.

* *Embracing Change:* Heather discusses how navigating major life transitions involves uncertainty, but it also opens the door to self-discovery and growth.

* *Financial Freedom:* Explore the misconception that you need excessive wealth to lead a fulfilling life, and how a minimalist approach while traveling can lead to greater happiness.

* *Solo Travel:* Overcome the fear of solo travel by understanding the importance of building confidence and gradually expanding your comfort zone.

Topics Discussed:

* The transformative moment in Costa Rica that sparked Heather’s full-time travel journey.

* Facing challenges, from giant cockroaches in a beach tent to the dilemma of reaching a destination without a map.

* The importance of focusing on where you can go rather than fixating on unreachable destinations.

* The inward journey of self-discovery during the first year of full-time travel.

* The decision-making process that led Heather to commit to a life of continuous exploration.

* Finding mentors and role models on the road and the unexpected sources of inspiration.

* Managing hurdles and safety concerns while traveling solo.

* The evolving perception of full-time travel and the growing community of travelers embracing it.

Ready to embark on your own journey of self-discovery and adventure? Join us in this inspiring conversation by listening to the full episode right here in your email, or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Substack, YouTube, or TikTok.

Connect with Heather Markel:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TravelForTransformation/

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/heathermarkel

Instagram: @heathermarkel

YouTube: https://youtube.com/heathermarkel

If you want more conversations like this one, consider going paid. Producing a weekly podcast requires a significant investment of time and resources from several talented people. Paid subscriptions make all of our work possible! 

In our latest episode, I talk to Heather Markel, a coach to people who want to become full-time travelers. 

Heather worked in a corporate 9-5 but dreamed of traveling full-time. Every year, she’d talk herself out of it, though. She finally realized that if she didn’t do it, she’d spend the rest of her life regretting it, so she took the leap. In this conversation, you’ll discover the insights, challenges, and wisdom gained from Heather's journey to life on her own terms, and learn how you can also embrace a life of adventure and authenticity.

1. *Listen to Your Heart:* Heather emphasizes the importance of tuning into your inner voice, challenging societal norms, and following your heart's desires.
2. *Journey Over Destination:* Discover how the challenges of travel led Heather to realize that the true value lies in the journey, not just the destination.
3. *Embracing Change:* Heather discusses how navigating major life transitions involves uncertainty, but it also opens the door to self-discovery and growth.
4. *Financial Freedom:* Explore the misconception that you need excessive wealth to lead a fulfilling life, and how a minimalist approach while traveling can lead to greater happiness.
5. *Solo Travel:* Overcome the fear of solo travel by understanding the importance of building confidence and gradually expanding your comfort zone.

1. The transformative moment in Costa Rica that sparked Heather’s full-time travel journey.
2. Facing challenges, from giant cockroaches in a beach tent to the dilemma of reaching a destination without a map.
3. The importance of focusing on where you can go rather than fixating on unreachable destinations.
4. The inward journey of self-discovery during the first year of full-time travel.
5. The decision-making process that led Heather to commit to a life of continuous exploration.
6. Finding mentors and role models on the road and the unexpected sources of inspiration.
7. Managing hurdles and safety concerns while traveling solo.
8. The evolving perception of full-time travel and the growing community of travelers embracing it.

Ready to embark on your own journey of self-discovery and adventure? Join us in this inspiring conversation by listening to the full episode right here in your email, or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Substack, YouTube, or TikTok.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TravelForTransformation/

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/heathermarkel

Instagram:

Get full access to The Uplifters at www.theuplifterspodcast.com/subscribe

🎧 New Podcast Episode Alert! Do your own needs sometimes take a backseat to the needs of those you support and care for? Don’t miss this conversation with Dinée Dorame, host/producer of the Grounded Podcast. 🌟

Dinée Dorame is a citizen of the Navajo Nation and also of Yaqui descent. She is Tábąąhá (Edge of Water Clan) and born for Naakai Dine’é (Mexican People Clan). Her maternal grandfather’s clan is Tótsohníí (Big Water Clan) and her paternal grandfather’s clan is Naakai Dine’é. She is an avid runner born and raised in Albuquerque, NM (on Tiwa ancestral lands).

Dinée always loved running, but as she listened to running podcasts she noticed the underrepresentation of Indigenous runners’ rich stories and experiences. She started the Grounded Podcast to share the stories she wanted to hear. The show quickly grew in popularity, and Dinée found a thrilling purpose and impact in her new work. At the same time, though, she was working full-time in a complex and emotionally demanding role. She was stretching herself too thin, and something had to give. Her love for running and her mental health ultimately took the hit.

“I knew as I was approaching 40, 50 episodes that I was not okay... It was getting so tiring to do this unpaid work that I knew was helping people. But at night I was crying… trying to make the deadline. I hadn't pulled all-nighters since college and I was pulling all-nighters because I was going to my job at 9 a.m. and working till five and then finding time to record an episode and edit it. I was putting pretty much everything I had into it…And it was just too much to handle. I don't think I had felt my mental health crumble like that ever before. I finally determined I needed a big break.” Dinée Dorame

The ground covered in this conversation:

* The story behind the creation of the Grounded Podcast.

* The challenges of balancing a full-time job with a passion project.

* Insights into recognizing when it's time for a much-needed break.

* The importance of mental and emotional well-being on Uplifters’ journeys.

* Finding happiness without compromising commitment to the community.

You can always listen right here in your email, where you’ll also receive full transcripts (edited and condensed for clarity). But please also subscribe directly to The Uplifters on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Substack, or YouTube, or follow our TikTok for uplifting daily videos. Just click one of those links to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

If you want more conversations like this one, consider going paid. Producing a weekly podcast requires a significant investment of time and resources from several talented people. Paid subscriptions make all of our work possible! 

Thank you to Gordon Bakoulis for nominating Dinée for The Uplifters.

Episode Summary

-Introducing Dinée:  Dinée Dorame is a citizen of the Navajo Nation and also of Yaqui descent. She is Tábąąhá (Edge of Water Clan) and born for Naakai Dine’é (Mexican People Clan). Her maternal grandfather’s clan is Tótsohníí (Big Water Clan) and her paternal grandfather’s clan is Naakai Dine’é. She is an avid runner born and raised in Albuquerque, NM (on Tiwa ancestral lands) and the Host/Producer of the Grounded Podcast with Dinée Dorame. With nearly a decade of career experience in college access/higher education, Dinée now focuses on the intersection of sport and culture from an Indigenous lens.

- Inspiration Behind "Grounded" Podcast: Dinée talks about her motivation to start the "Grounded" podcast, which stemmed from her family's involvement in sports and her cultural appreciation for running as a Navajo person. The podcast's mission is to provide a platform for indigenous voices in the world of sports and running.

- Balancing Running and Podcasting: She discusses the challenges of maintaining her running routine while running a podcast. Initially, the physical act of running became intertwined with her podcast, making it challenging to find a balance. The podcast's growth added extra responsibilities and disrupted her self-care routine.

- Taking a Hiatus and Prioritizing Mental Health: Dinée shares how she decided to take a hiatus from the podcast to prioritize her mental health and well-being. The decision was prompted by her realization that she had been working relentlessly without taking a significant break since high school. The hiatus allowed her to address her mental health, injuries, and trauma accumulated over the years.

- Finding Balance and Sustainability: Dinée discusses her commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance and personal happiness as a priority. She acknowledges the need to focus on her own happiness while continuing to support her community.

- Responsibility to Set an Example: She expresses her sense of responsibility to set an example for other Native women by prioritizing happiness. She believes that personal joy is a crucial element that many Native women do not get to experience often.

-Taking Back Responsibility for Her Happiness: The next chapter in Dinée's life is about returning the responsibility for her own happiness. She wants to honor her truth and integrity, free from external expectations or constraints.

Do your own needs sometimes take a backseat to the needs of those you support and care for? Don’t miss this conversation with Dinée Dorame, host/producer of the Grounded Podcast. 🌟

Dinée Dorame is a citizen of the Navajo Nation and also of Yaqui descent. She is Tábąąhá (Edge of Water Clan) and born for Naakai Dine’é (Mexican People Clan). Her maternal grandfather’s clan is Tótsohníí (Big Water Clan) and her paternal grandfather’s clan is Naakai Dine’é. She is an avid runner born and raised in Albuquerque, NM (on Tiwa ancestral lands).

Dinée always loved running, but as she listened to running podcasts she noticed the underrepresentation of Indigenous runners’ rich stories and experiences. She started the Grounded Podcast to share the stories she wanted to hear. The show quickly grew in popularity, and Dinée found a thrilling purpose and impact in her new work. At the same time, though, she was working full-time in a complex and emotionally demanding role. She was stretching herself too thin, and something had to give. Her love for running and her mental health ultimately took the hit.

“I knew as I was approaching 40, 50 episodes that I was not okay... It was getting so tiring to do this unpaid work that I knew was helping people. But at night I was crying… trying to make the deadline. I hadn't pulled all-nighters since college and I was pulling all-nighters because I was going to my job at 9 a.m. and working till five and then finding time to record an episode and edit it. I was putting pretty much everything I had into it…And it was just too much to handle. I don't think I had felt my mental health crumble like that ever before. I finally determined I needed a big break.” Dinée Dorame

The ground covered in this conversation:

• The story behind the creation of the Grounded Podcast.
• The challenges of balancing a full-time job with a passion project.
• Insights into recognizing when it's time for a much-needed break.
• The importance of mental and emotional well-being on Uplifters’ journeys.
• Finding happiness without compromising commitment to the community.

-Introducing Dinée:  Dinée Dorame is a citizen of the Navajo Nation and also of Yaqui descent. She is Tábąąhá (Edge of Water Clan) and born for Naakai Dine’é (Mexican People Clan). Her maternal grandfather’s clan is Tótsohníí (Big Water Clan) and her paternal grandfather’s clan is Naakai Dine’é. She is an avid runner born and raised in Albuquerque, NM (on Tiwa ancestral lands) and the Host/Producer of the Grounded Podcast with Dinée Dorame. With nearly a decade of career experience in college access/higher education, Dinée now focuses on the intersection of sport and culture from an Indigenous lens.

- Inspiration Behind "Grounded" Podcast: Dinée talks about her motivation to start the "Grounded" podcast, which stemmed from her family's involvement in sports and her cultural appreciation for running as a Navajo person. The podcast's mission is to provide a platform for indigenous voices in the world of sports and running.

- Balancing Running and Podcasting: She discusses the challenges of maintaining her running routine while running a podcast. Initially, the physical act of running became intertwined with her podcast, making it challenging to find a balance. The podcast's growth added extra responsibilities and disrupted her self-care routine.

- Taking a Hiatus and Prioritizing Mental Health: Dinée shares how she decided to take a hiatus from the podcast to prioritize her mental health and well-being. The decision was prompted by her realization that she had been working relentlessly without taking a...

Get full access to The Uplifters at www.theuplifterspodcast.com/subscribe

🎙️ New Podcast Alert!

The latest episode of The Uplifters Podcast is here! This time, I talk to Denise Pines, an age enthusiast, community health advocate, and media pioneer. Discover her journey into midlife wellness and pro-aging health. From hot flashes to mental reset, this episode will leave you feeling empowered, no matter your age! 💪

☕️ Denise has generously offered our Uplifters community a 20% discount off everything in the Tea Botanics store until Black Friday, Nov. 24th. Use code Uplifters20 to enjoy your discount.

🙏🏽 Huge thanks to another woman who shifts the paradigms of aging, Alyse Hart , for nominating and introducing Denise!

You can always listen right here in your email, where you’ll also receive full transcripts (edited and condensed for clarity). But please also subscribe directly to The Uplifters on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Substack, or YouTube, or follow our TikTok for uplifting daily videos. Just click one of those links to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

If you want more conversations like this one, consider going paid. Producing a weekly podcast requires a significant investment of time and resources from several talented people. Paid subscriptions make all of our work possible! 

Thank you for reading The Uplifters. This post is public so feel free to share it.

Episode Summary

Introduction of Denise Pines:

- Denise Pines is introduced as an "age enthusiast," a longtime community health advocate, and a media pioneer. She is an expert in midlife wellness.

- Denise is the co-founder of Tea Botanics and the founder of WisePause Wellness, a pro-aging health and education platform.

- She is also the founder of the Femaging Project, which hosts pitch competitions with investors for innovation designed for women aged 40+.

Denise's Background:

- Denise's background is discussed, including her role as the immediate past president of the Medical Board of California and her involvement in various medical boards.

- Her experience as an award-winning filmmaker who has produced 11 documentaries is highlighted.

Entering the Menopause Space:

- Denise shares that she entered the menopause space after experiencing a hot flash, which was her wake-up call.

- She reflects on how she didn't understand the experiences of menopause and had not been kind to her older friends who went through it.

- The lack of early conversations with physicians about the transition into menopause is discussed, along with the need for more education on menopausal symptoms.

Natural Approach to Menopause:

- Denise discusses her preference for a natural approach to managing menopause symptoms.

- She shares her experience with a naturopathic doctor who introduced her to a tea that helped reduce her hot flashes.

- The importance of understanding the impact of aging on nutritional needs and the need for nutritious foods is highlighted.

- Denise emphasizes the role of knowledge and access to information in making informed choices about managing menopause.

Transforming Perceptions of Menopause:

- Denise shares her vision of helping women approach menopause positively and resolve their symptoms to thrive during this life stage.

- The idea of finding a "new normal" during menopause is discussed.

- Denise emphasizes the economic potential and wisdom that women in midlife bring to society.

Impact on Brain Health:

- The impact of perimenopause on brain health is discussed, including the potential connection between hot flashes and reduced oxygen to the brain.

- Research on brain changes during perimenopause is mentioned, and the importance of addressing cognitive changes is highlighted.

Positive Perspectives on Aging:

- Denise shares her belief in embracing different life stages and perspectives.

- We discuss what it means to be one's 5-year-old self, 16-year-old self, and 50-year-old self.

Setting Boundaries:

- Denise discusses the importance of setting boundaries and maintaining them.

- She shares her approach to setting boundaries with technology and how she communicates them to her team.

Morning Routine:

- Denise describes her morning routine, which includes 10 belly breaths, capturing thoughts, and focusing on her priorities.

Positive Media Consumption:

- The importance of consuming positive and uplifting media and stories is highlighted along with the impact of the stories we surround ourselves with and the environments we create.

Closing Thoughts:

- The episode ends with a discussion of the transformative impact of one's environment, including the people and stories in one's life.

In this episode, we dive into the world of midlife wellness and pro-aging with a remarkable guest, Denise Pines.

Denise shares her inspiring journey of embracing midlife with enthusiasm and empowering others to do the same. Join us as we explore the keys to vitality, resilience, and wellness in your second act.

Key Takeaways:

1. **Pro-Aging Philosophy:** Denise shares what it means to be “pro-aging”, emphasizing the importance of embracing the aging process with enthusiasm and positivity.

2. **Wellness Redefined:** We delve into the idea of wellness as a holistic approach that includes mental, emotional, and physical well-being, and how it's achievable at any age.

3. **The Power of Resilience:** Denise shares her personal experiences of resilience and how they have shaped her outlook on aging, health, and happiness.

4. **Community Building:** Discover the importance of building a supportive community and network to thrive in midlife, and how Denise's work with WisePause encourages these connections.

5. **Inspiration for Midlife:** Denise's story serves as an inspiration for anyone approaching midlife, demonstrating that it can be a time of growth, fulfillment, and renewal.

Topics Discussed:

- Pro-aging and embracing the aging process.

- Holistic wellness and its components.

- Denise's personal journey to midlife wellness.

- The importance of resilience in facing life's challenges.

- Building a community of support and wisdom.

- The mission and impact of WisePause.

Tune in to this empowering episode and embark on a journey towards a more enthusiastic and fulfilling midlife. Don't miss the insights and wisdom shared by Denise Pines. Listen now!

More about Denise:

An age enthusiast, longtime community health advocate and media pioneer, Denise Pines is a trusted resource for women as they pursue midlife wellness. She’s the co-founder and head task master for Tea Botanics and inspiration behind Hot Flash Tea. Pines founded WisePause Wellness, a pro-aging health and education platform and The FemAging Project which hosts pitch competitions with investors and provides the health and tech industry sector with research addressing innovations specifically designed for women ages 40+. She’s the immediate past president of the Medical Board of California and serves on the Boards of the Federation for State Medical Boards and the Osteopathic Medical Board of California. Pines co-founded Women in the Room Productions and is an award-winning filmmaker producing 11 documentaries.

Find lots more for Uplifters on our Substack at www.theuplifterspodcast.com

#AgeEnthusiasm #MidlifeWellness #ProAging #PodcastEpisode

Listen to the latest episode of The Uplifters Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Substack, or YouTube, or follow our TikTok for uplifting daily videos.

“As part of my work with a group called Faith Commons, I facilitate inter-religious conversations. I was making a dual-narrative trip to Israel and Palestine. I left with my mom from Dallas, Texas on Friday, October 6th. We landed in Tel Aviv on Saturday, October 7th at about five o'clock local time. We were the last flight that was allowed in because war had already broken out. I didn't know any of this. I flipped on my phone to text my husband and say we were there. And that's when I found out and everything blew up from there.”

Mara Richards Bim, episode 31

Mara Richards Bim, a theater professional turned seminary student, boarded a flight on Friday, October 6, 2023, to facilitate interfaith dialogue between Israel and Palestine. While she was in flight, Hamas attacked. 

We discuss her harrowing journey, what it was like in the first hours and days of the war, and the impact of violence and hatred for both Israelis and Palestinians. 

But, as Uplifters, we also look for a path forward, one of deep listening, empathy, and courageous conversation.

Please listen and share this important conversation.

You can always listen right here in your email, where you’ll also receive full transcripts (edited and condensed for clarity). But please also subscribe directly to The Uplifters on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Substack, or YouTube, or follow our TikTok for uplifting daily videos. Just click one of those links to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode Summary

- Introduction (00:00 - 02:17): Aransas introduces the podcast and its guest, Mara Richards-Bim, setting the stage for a discussion about Mara's remarkable journey.

- Mara's Background and Mission (02:17 - 06:26): Mara describes her background in theater and the founding of Cry Havoc Theater Company, which focused on tackling challenging social issues. She outlines her transition to theological studies and her goal to work in the interfaith space.

- Mara's Trip to Israel and Palestine (06:26 - 14:27): Mara shares her experiences during a dual narrative trip to the conflict-ridden region, emphasizing the importance of interfaith dialogue and understanding. She highlights the rise of Jewish nationalism and Christian nationalism, which paralleled her experiences.

- Challenges and Conflict (14:27 - 17:57): The conversation delves into the challenges of addressing the Israel-Palestine conflict, distinguishing between critiques of governments and joy at civilian suffering. Mara emphasizes that Hamas does not represent all Palestinians and condemns the violence on both sides.

- Addressing Hate and Misunderstanding (17:57 - 21:46): Aransas and Mara discuss the rise of hate, including Islamophobia and anti-Semitism, and how it contributes to conflict. The importance of extending love and concern to both Muslim and Jewish communities is emphasized.

- The Path Forward (21:46 - 24:48): Mara discusses the need for the United States to play a role in fostering dialogue and peace between Israelis and Palestinians. Faith communities are key players in this process.

- Finding Common Ground (24:48 - 27:19): The conversation shifts to the importance of focusing on shared values across religious traditions, such as compassion and kindness, to build bridges between communities.

- The Role of Empathy (27:19 - 28:54): Mara and Aransas discuss the significance of empathy, understanding, and experiencing human stories in fostering peace.

- Taking Care of Oneself (28:54 - 30:30): Mara shares how she coped with the emotional toll of her experience, highlighting the importance of seeking therapy, setting expectations, and finding joy in moments of respite.

- Uplifting Conversations (30:30 - 38:13): The episode concludes by reflecting on the role of uplifters in engaging in challenging conversations, promoting connection, and inspiring empathy and understanding.

- Closing Remarks (38:13 - 38:16): Aransas and Mara exchange closing thoughts, expressing their commitment to more love, compassion, and courageous conversations.

Thank you so much for being here! Let’s keep rising higher, together, 💓 Aransas

In transition? Sign up for a private one-hour session with me to get clear on your direction and next steps.

“As part of my work with a group called Faith Commons, I facilitate inter-religious conversations. I was making a dual-narrative trip to Israel and Palestine. I left with my mom from Dallas, Texas on Friday, October 6th. We landed in Tel Aviv on Saturday, October 7th at about five o'clock local time. We were the last flight that was allowed in because war had already broken out. I didn't know any of this. I flipped on my phone to text my husband and say we were there. And that's when I found out and everything blew up from there.” Mara Richards Bim, episode 31

Mara Richards Bim, a theater professional turned seminary student, boarded a flight on Friday, October 6 to facilitate interfaith dialogue between Israel and Palestine. While she was in flight, Hamas attacked. 

We discuss her harrowing journey, what it was like in the first hours and days of the war, and the impact of violence and hatred for both Israelis and Palestinians. 

But, as Uplifters, we also look for a path forward, one of deep listening, empathy, and courageous conversation.

Episode Summary

- Introduction (00:00 - 02:17): Aransas introduces the podcast and its guest, Mara Richards-Bim, setting the stage for a discussion about Mara's remarkable journey.

- Mara's Background and Mission (02:17 - 06:26): Mara describes her background in theater and the founding of Cry Havoc Theater Company, which focused on tackling challenging social issues. She outlines her transition to theological studies and her goal to work in the interfaith space.

- Mara's Trip to Israel and Palestine (06:26 - 14:27): Mara shares her experiences during a dual narrative trip to the conflict-ridden region, emphasizing the importance of interfaith dialogue and understanding. She highlights the rise of Jewish nationalism and Christian nationalism, which paralleled her experiences.

- Challenges and Conflict (14:27 - 17:57): The conversation delves into the challenges of addressing the Israel-Palestine conflict, distinguishing between critiques of governments and joy at civilian suffering. Mara emphasizes that Hamas does not represent all Palestinians and condemns the violence on both sides.

- Addressing Hate and Misunderstanding (17:57 - 21:46): Aransas and Mara discuss the rise of hate, including Islamophobia and anti-Semitism, and how it contributes to conflict. The importance of extending love and concern to both Muslim and Jewish communities is emphasized.

- The Path Forward (21:46 - 24:48): Mara discusses the need for the United States to play a role in fostering dialogue and peace between Israelis and Palestinians. Faith communities are key players in this process.

- Finding Common Ground (24:48 - 27:19): The conversation shifts to the importance of focusing on shared values across religious traditions, such as compassion and kindness, to build bridges between communities.

- The Role of Empathy (27:19 - 28:54): Mara and Aransas discuss the significance of empathy, understanding, and experiencing human stories in fostering peace.

- Taking Care of Oneself (28:54 - 30:30): Mara shares how she coped with the emotional toll of her experience, highlighting the importance of seeking therapy, setting expectations, and finding joy in moments of respite.

- Uplifting Conversations (30:30 - 38:13): The episode concludes by reflecting on the role of uplifters in engaging in challenging conversations, promoting connection, and inspiring empathy and understanding.

- Closing Remarks (38:13 - 38:16): Aransas and Mara exchange closing thoughts, expressing their commitment to more love, compassion, and courageous...

Get full access to The Uplifters at www.theuplifterspodcast.com/subscribe

Listen to the latest episode of The Uplifters Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Substack, or YouTube, or follow our TikTok for uplifting daily videos.

Welcome to Episode 30 of The Uplifters Podcast!

This week we are releasing our episode a couple of days early in light of the tragic events unfolding between Israel and Hamas. Today I am joined by my friend, Sara Axelbaum who leads a global team responsible for keeping diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at the center of her company by fostering a true sense of belonging for every employee. Sara was honored as one of the top women in media and ad tech as a DEI champion, and recognized by The Ragan Awards for Wellness and South by Southwest in 2023 for her work in DEI. Before her current role, Sara was an SVP at 21st Century Fox and an entrepreneur. Sara is also Jewish, a mom to two joyful little boys, and the descendant of holocaust survivors.

Sara and I are going to share a conversation today that's different than any conversation we've had on The Uplifters. Our show normally features individual stories of the amazing women that we are talking to and how that has impacted their world. But Sara and I are going to get a little messier today and talk about what's happening in the world and how it's impacting her and others.

You’ll hear us struggle with what we don’t know and get clear about what we do know for sure. You’ll hear us wrestle with what to say and not say. In fact, Sara even wonders whether it’s safe to use her real name in this conversation.

We’re talking about a specific moment in history, and Sara’s personal experience, but our goal for this conversation is to explore what it means to be an Uplifter in times of crisis and extraordinary fear.

Uplifters, we will all have moments of loss and fear in our lives. Wherever our minds are in this extraordinarily complex time, I hope this episode can be a reminder to hold each other tight, open our hearts, and support one another as only Uplifters can.

I’m profoundly grateful to Sara for mustering the energy to talk to us in this difficult time.

Thank you so much for being here! Let’s keep rising higher, together, 💓 Aransas

You can always listen right here in your email, where you’ll also receive full transcripts (edited and condensed for clarity). But please also subscribe directly to The Uplifters on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Substack, or YouTube, or follow our TikTok for uplifting daily videos. Just click one of those links to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

The Uplifters is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Episode Summary

Sara Axelbaum's Background (2:15 - 7:12)

* Sara Axelbaum is introduced as the global head of diversity, equity, and inclusion at MIQ.

* She leads a team focused on fostering a sense of belonging for every employee, and her accomplishments in the field are recognized.

* Sara shares her personal connection to her Jewish heritage and being the granddaughter of Holocaust survivors.

Navigating a Challenging Topic (7:12 - 10:44)

* We discuss the challenging topic of the recent conflict on the southern Israel border.

* We acknowledge the confusion, fear, and complexities surrounding the issue.

Supporting and Uplifting Each Other (10:44 - 17:58)

* Sara emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the suffering of innocent people caught up in the conflict.

* The conversation shifts to how individuals can support and uplift one another during times of crisis.

* We discuss the significance of being there for one another, even when the right words may be hard to find.

The Power of Connection (17:58 - 27:30)

* Sara highlights the importance of reaching out to friends and loved ones during difficult times.

* We discuss their fears about speaking out and the vulnerability that comes with sharing personal experiences in a public space.

* Aransas shares her regret about not reaching out to a friend who was battling cancer and how she learned the importance of showing support, even if it feels uncomfortable.

Creating Space for Grief (27:30 - 34:44)

* We emphasize the significance of creating space for grief and the transition from collective grief to collective joy.

* Sara reveals how her organization is focusing on supporting team members and fostering a sense of community during challenging times.

Intentional Communication (34:44 - 39:21)

* Aransas and Sara stress the value of intentional communication and being honest about difficult topics, rather than staying silent due to fear of saying the wrong thing.

Self-Care and Resilience (39:21 - 44:50)

* Sara shares her personal practices for taking care of herself during tough times, such as keeping a gratitude journal, seeking moments of joy, and being kind to herself.

* The conversation ends with a reflection on the awe-inspiring nature of human resilience and the importance of appreciating the beauty of authentic, courageous, and supportive individuals.

Conclusion (44:50 - 46:07)

* The episode encourages listeners to connect, support, and uplift one another during complex and challenging times.

* It highlights the strength of human connection and the power of unity and gratitude.

Outro (46:07 - 46:26)

* Aransas Savas thanks Sara Axelbaum for joining the podcast and sharing her insights on navigating difficult conversations and supporting one another.