What's Your Why?

Even for all the problems that it brings forward, it also brings forward possibilities and promise. - Stephen Aron

Discover the American West's alternative history. In this What’s Your Why? podcast we discover some of the little-known stories of peace and friendship amidst the frontier's violence. Join us as we unravel the perspectives and role of government in Western expansion. Get ready for a more nuanced understanding of the American West's complex past. But what if everything you thought you knew about the Wild West was just one side of the coin? Stay tuned to hear the untold tales that challenge conventional narratives and give a new perspective about the American West. For example, the Spanish influence in the American West is often overlooked in traditional history. That’s the joy of history, there's always a different perspective to learn and imagine.

My special guest is Stephen Aron

Stephen Aron, President and CEO of the Autry Museum of the American West in Los Angeles, California, is not just an author, but a storyteller who unravels the complexities of the American West. His latest book, “Peace and Friendship: An Alternative History of the American Frontier”, challenges conventional narratives by spotlighting lesser-known currents that diverge from the mainstream of Western American history. With a background in colonial American history, Aron's journey into the history of the American West led him to explore the moments and places where peace and unexpected friendships between former foes emerged, offering an alternative perspective to the often-violent history taught in schools. Aron's work presents a fresh and thought-provoking take on the American West, emphasizing the importance of understanding the realities of historical events.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Explore alternative perspectives of American West history that challenge traditional narratives, offering a fresh understanding of the era. 

• Uncover the profound impact of colonialism on Native Americans, shedding light on a crucial but often overlooked aspect of Western history. 

• Examine the pivotal role of government in the expansion of the Western frontier, providing insight into the complex dynamics of power and influence. 

• Learn about Daniel Boone's interactions with the Shawnee Indians, revealing the complexities of cross-cultural encounters during this period. 

• Discover the remarkable resilience and survival strategies of Native American cultures in the face of immense challenges, offering a deeper appreciation of their enduring heritage. 

Alternative Perspectives on Western American History

 In exploring the history of the American West, Stephen Aron offers a fresh perspective by highlighting moments of peace and friendship amidst the conflict-ridden narratives typically associated with the region. His book, “Peace and Friendship: An Alternative History of the American Frontier”, challenges traditional views by showcasing instances of cooperation and connection between different cultural groups. By shedding light on these lesser-known aspects, Aron encourages a more nuanced understanding of the complexities of Western expansion.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

•  Autry Museum of the American West - Learn more about the Autry Museum of the American West and explore their exhibits, events, and resources by visiting their official website at theautry.org. 

• Peace and Friendship:  an Alternative History of the American West - Discover Stephen Aron's latest book, which delves into the lesser-known currents of the American West's history. Find the book on major online bookstores or at local book retailers. 

•  Reclaiming El Camino Exhibit - Explore the Reclaiming El Camino: Native Resistance in the Missions and Beyond exhibit at the Autry Museum, focusing on the genocidal destruction, resistance, and resilience of Native American communities in California. 

• Wyoming Humanities - To learn more about Wyoming Humanities and their initiatives, including the What's Your Why podcast, visit thinkwy.org. 

• Worlds Together, Worlds Apart - Explore Stephen Aron's co-authored world history textbook, provides a comprehensive understanding of global historical contexts. 

Follow Us On These Channels:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/emydigrappa/

• www.ThinkWY.org

• https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutwhy

• https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutwhy

Listen on all your favorite platforms and subscribe! As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!

Did you know that the first Native American to chair the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) grew up on a Navajo reservation in Arizona and faced tremendous challenges on her journey to higher education? Her story will inspire you. Discover how she is promoting indigenous knowledge and cultural inclusivity in education at a national level to make a difference.

The National Endowment for the Humanities has a bold new vision focused on expanding its reach and funding organizations it hasn't supported in the past. This drive towards Native American education comes at a pivotal moment. With new grant programs tailored for smaller groups and key partnerships, the NEH seeks to elevate overlooked stories and communities.

My special guests are:

Shelly Lowe, Chair of the National Endowment for the Humanities. She is a citizen of the Navajo Nation and grew up on the Navajo Reservation in Ganado, Arizona. From 2015 to 2022 she served as a member of the National Council on the Humanities, the 26-member advisory body to NEH, an appointment she received from President Obama. Lowe’s career in higher education has included roles as Executive Director of the Harvard University Native American Program, Assistant Dean in the Yale College Dean’s Office, and Director of the Native American Cultural Center at Yale University.

Shawn Reese, Executive Director of Wyoming Humanities, with a deep-rooted commitment to promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity in education. Shawn's passion for the organization's mission is palpable. His dedication to fostering the significance of integrating indigenous perspectives into educational curricula, shedding light on the transformative impact it can have on students and the broader community.

In this episode, you will be able to:

•  Explore the transformative impact of Native American experiences in education, gaining valuable insights into cultural diversity and inclusion. 

•  Discover the profound influence of storytelling on community building, unlocking the power of oral tradition and indigenous wisdom. 

•  Uncover the pivotal role of humanities in fostering empathy and understanding in diverse communities. 

•  Engage in enhancing civil discourse through living room conversations, cultivating respectful dialogue and meaningful connections. 

•  Embrace the significance of promoting indigenous knowledge in education cultural awareness in curriculum. 

Uncover the role of Humanities

1. Uncovering the vital role of humanities in promoting indigenous knowledge highlights the importance of incorporating diverse voices and narratives in educational curricula. 

2. Understanding the role of humanities in fostering cultural understanding and awareness can lead to more informed and empathetic educational practices. 

3. By uncovering the role of humanities in promoting diversity, educational policymakers can work towards creating a more equitable and culturally responsive education system.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

•  Visit Thinkwy.org to learn more about Wyoming Humanities and their initiatives such as Native Narratives 

•  Subscribe to the What's Your Why and Winds of Change podcasts to stay updated on the storytelling importance of people, places and history. 

•  Explore the Living Room Conversations to learn about facilitating civil conversations and discussions on challenging topics. 

•  Consider participating in the United We Stand program to combat hate-motivated violence and promote understanding and openness in communities. 

Follow Us On These Channels:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/emydigrappa/

• www.ThinkWY.org

• https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutwhy

• https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutwhy

Listen on all your favorite platforms and subscribe! As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!

It's almost like someone telling you that your child is wrong - I mean, she'd be really perfect if you would just change her hair and add some freckles and then make her taller. - Traci Jones 

Traci Jones, an accomplished young adult novelist, brings a unique blend of creativity and insight to her writing, enriching the literary landscape with diverse representation. With a background in psychology and a master's degree in advertising, Traci's unconventional journey to becoming an author reflects her ability to weave compelling narratives. Her genuine passion for writing for the average African American female reader is evident in her storytelling, as she endeavors to fill the void she experienced in her own childhood reading. Drawing inspiration from everyday life and profound human experiences, Traci's novels capture the essence of embracing diversity and the beauty of being different. Through her work, she has played a significant role in advancing and enhancing representation in young adult literature, making a lasting impact on readers seeking authentic and diverse voices in the literary world.

My Special Guest is Traci Jones:

Traci L. Jones holds a B.A. in psychology from Pomona College in Claremont, CA. An M.A. in advertising from the University of Denver and has taken several courses in Creative Writing at the University of Denver.  Before launching a young adult novelist career, Traci L. Jones wrote articles for the local business magazines In The Black and Emerging Markets.  Traci L. Jones’ first Young Adult novel, Standing Against the Wind, was published in 2006 and won the Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent Award.  It was also recognized as a 2007 Bank Street Best Children’s Book of the Year.  Her second novel, Finding My Place published in 2010. Her third novel, Silhouetted by the Blue released in July 2011; Ransoming the Captive in July of 2022. In 2016, she began working as a creative writing instructor for the MFA program at Regis University.  

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Explore the journey from psychology to young adult novelist, unlocking the potential for a unique perspective in storytelling.

• Embrace the significance of representation in young adult literature, and the power of diverse voices and narratives.

• Find inspiration for young adult novels, igniting creativity and originality in your writing.

• Discover the impact of personal history on authors, understanding how it shapes and enriches storytelling.

• Overcome the challenges in rewriting and editing novels, mastering the art of refining your work for maximum impact.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• TraciLJones.com - This is where you can find more information about Traci Jones and her books. You can also find direct links to purchase her books on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

• Traci Jones' Facebook Author Page - Traci Jones has a Facebook author page where she keeps fairly up to date with her activities, book fairs, and speaking engagements. You can follow her page for updates and news about her work.

• Learn more about Wyoming Humanities at ThinkWY.org

Follow Us On These Channels:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/emydigrappa/

• www.ThinkWY.org

• https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutwhy

• https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutwhy

Listen on all your favorite platforms and subscribe! As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!

"How do we move forward? How do we hold the past in all its complexity and move forward?" - Rebecca Clarren

"I think we're all here to be a good ancestor. How do we not create mess for our children and grandchildren to inherit?" - Judge Abby Abenanti (Yurok Tribal member)

Emy Digrappa interviews the interesting and sometimes surprising journey of Rebecca Clarren, a journalist investigating the hidden history of her Jewish ancestors' land in South Dakota and its impact on the Lakota people. Uncover the unexpected connection between homesteading, cultural reparation, and the untold narrative of Native American sovereignty. Join us in exploring the complexities of history, empathy, and the quest for meaningful reconciliation. 

My special guest is Rebecca Clarren

Rebecca Clarren has been delving into the stories of the American West for over 25 years, earning numerous journalism awards along the way. Her latest work, "The Cost of Free: Jews, Lakota, and an American Inheritance," delves into the entwined history of her Jewish ancestors' land in South Dakota and the displacement of the Lakota people by the United States government. Her captivating storytelling and dedication to shedding light on the impact of historical events on real lives make her a captivating guest with a wealth of knowledge on cultural reparation, native sovereignty, and the far-reaching consequences of the Homestead Act on Native lands. Her deep connection to the American West and her ability to bring to life the impact of federal laws on real families make her an engaging and insightful guest for anyone eager to understand indigenous history and culture.

In this episode, you will be able to:

•  Explore the Impact of Homestead Act on Native Lands to gain a deeper understanding of historical injustices and their lasting effects on Native American communities. 

•  Discover Jewish Immigration History to uncover the rich tapestry of cultural diversity in the United States and the contributions of Jewish immigrants to the nation. 

•  Delve into Writing Investigative Journalism to learn how to uncover hidden truths and bring important stories to light through the power of investigative reporting. 

•  Understand the Role of Federal Laws in American West to grasp the complexities of legal frameworks and their impact on the development of the American West. 

•  Embrace Cultural Reparation and Native Sovereignty to honor the resilience of Native American cultures. 

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

•  The book The Cost of Free Land: Jews, Lakota, and an American Inheritance by Rebecca Clarren is available on Amazon, in independent bookstores, and in many library systems. It is also available in audio and ebook formats. 

•  For further information about the book and upcoming events, visit Rebecca Clarren's website at rebecca-clarren.com. She can also be found on Instagram and Facebook. 

•  Teachers interested in using the book as an educational resource can download a free PDF resource guide from Rebecca Clarren's website. This guide includes links to resources for teaching about native nations, treaties, and the history of land takings. 

•  Wyoming Humanities produces the What’s Your Why podcast 

•  For those interested in learning more about the Wind River Reservation and native cultures, Wyoming Humanities provides educational resources available on their website called Native Narratives.

Follow Us On These Channels:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/emydigrappa/

• www.ThinkWY.org

• https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutwhy

• https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutwhy

Listen on all your favorite platforms and subscribe! As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!

I had become a writer. The habit had stuck, and I fell in love with books and reading and writing, and the rest of the path unfurled from there. - Mason Engel

Discover the epic journey of Mason Engel, who embarked on a mind-blowing adventure to all 50 states in just 50 days, to read 50 books and interview 50 authors. Whoa! Imagine the day to day of meeting fascinating authors, navigating through time changes and road challenges, and learning the heartwarming stories of small-town America. Hear Mason’s perspective on storytelling and the human connection. This a super fun and captivating expedition that unfolded on the road. 

My special guest is Mason Engel

Mason Engel is an independent author and filmmaker. His sci-fi novel, 2084, has been downloaded over 35,000 times, and his short documentary about indie bookshops, The Bookstour, has played at the Miami, Brooklyn, Louisiana, and Portland Literary Festivals. His upcoming feature-length documentary, Books Across America, follows him as he travels to 50 states, reads 50 books, and interviews 50 authors, all in 50 days. A treatise on why we tell stories, the film includes interviews with James Patterson, Joyce Carol Oates, Ann Patchett, Walter Mosley, Brandon Sanderson, Ken Liu, and many more. Mason lives in Columbus, Indiana, where he spends his time editing Books Across America, writing a new novel based on his travels, and dreaming about a "Parts Unknown" for the book world.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the journey of Mason Engel's 50-state book tour. 

• Understand the vital role of independent bookstores in communities and how they contribute to local culture and literary diversity. 

• Uncover the profound impact of reading and storytelling on personal development, empathy, and societal change. 

• Discover the enriching experience of exploring local cultures through literature and discover the power of storytelling in connecting communities.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Subscribe to the Winds of Change newsletter by visiting the website mentioned in the conversation ThinkWY.org. This will keep you updated on the latest episodes and news related to the podcast.

• Follow Books Across America on social media platforms for updates on the release of the documentary. You can find them on Instagram and Facebook with the handle books across America and on Twitter as books x America.

• Visit the website booksxamerica.com and subscribe for updates on the release of the documentary. This will ensure that you receive notifications about the film's availability and release date.

• Stay tuned for the release of the documentary and learn more here: 

• Explore the work of author CJ Box, who was interviewed in the podcast. Discover his books and delve into the captivating stories that represent the geography, people, and causes of Wyoming.

Follow Us On These Channels:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/emydigrappa/

• www.ThinkWY.org

• https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutwhy

• https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutwhy

Listen on all your favorite platforms and subscribe!

As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!

"You can move mountains when you're happy and you're motivated and you're getting rewarded for your actions." – Susan Rogers

In this episode of "What's Your Why?" hosted by Emy Digrappa, you'll dive into the captivating journey of Susan Rogers, a former record producer renowned for her work with music icon Prince. Susan shares her transition from the music industry to pursuing a doctoral degree in behavioral neuroscience, emphasizing the transformative power of passion and continuous learning. She reflects on her experiences working closely with Prince, shedding light on his private nature and the challenges of superstardom. Susan's deep love for music and her profound connection to the process of making music are evident throughout the conversation, offering valuable insights into the intersection of science, art, and personal identity. By delving into themes of self-discovery, music appreciation, and the significance of personal resonance in relationships and art, Susan's story serves as a testament to the power of following one's true calling and embracing new opportunities. 

She recounts her early days repairing equipment for Crosby, Stills & Nash, and how her love for music and technical expertise led her to the opportunity of a lifetime - working with her musical idol, Prince. Susan's story is a testament to the power of passion and the impact of seizing opportunities, even when they seem beyond reach. As she candidly discusses her experiences, listeners will be captivated by her unwavering dedication and the profound impact that this journey had on her life. Through Susan's narrative, listeners gain insight into the remarkable intersection of talent, dedication, and the transformative power of music. 

My special guest is Susan Rogers

Susan Rogers holds a doctoral degree in behavioral neuroscience from McGill University. Prior to her science career, Susan was a multi-platinum earning record producer, engineer, mixer, and audio technician. She is best known for her work with Prince (1983-1987) but production/engineering credits also include David Byrne, Barenaked Ladies, Geggy Tah, Nil Lara, Robben Ford, Tricky, Michael Penn, and Jeff Black. In 2021 she became the first female recipient of the Music Producer’s Guild Award for Outstanding Contributions to U.K. Music. She teaches psychoacoustics and neuroscience for Berklee College of Music, Boston. Her book on music listening for W. W. Norton is titled This Is What It Sounds Like: What the Music You Love Says About You.

Key Takeaways

• Explore Susan Rogers' inspiring journey in the music industry and gain insights into her unique experiences working with Prince.
• Discover the transition from music to neuroscience and its impact on Susan's career, offering valuable lessons on self-determination and career evolution.
• Uncover the importance of self-determination in pursuing a career in the music industry and beyond and learn from Susan's experiences in navigating this path.
• Gain insights into the "Love at First Listen" concept, understanding its significance in the music industry and how it shapes the creative process.

Resources

• This is What It Sounds Like - Susan Rogers' book, which delves into the neuroscience of music and the listener's experience. Available for purchase on major online book retailers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
• Berkeley Online - Susan Rogers is writing a course on music and neuroscience for Berkeley Online, a successful online education program for musicians. 
• Wyoming Humanities - The podcast What's Your Why? is brought to you by Wyoming Humanities. Visit their website to learn more about their initiatives and how you can support their work.
• The life and music of Prince.

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• https://www.linkedin.com/in/emydigrappa/  

Uncover the unexpected truth about embracing differences and the power of unhiding. Join Ruth Rathblott as she shares her journey of self-acceptance and authenticity, challenging the norms of diversity and inclusion. Ruth unveils the surprising impact of embracing differences and fostering inclusive environments. Ruth was born with a limb difference and is passionate about expanding the definition of diversity to embrace visible and invisible differences.  She shares solutions to help you achieve this result. Get ready to uncover the power of authenticity and foster a sense of belonging for yourself and those around you. 

My special guest is Ruth Rathblott

Ruth Rathblott is a leader and expert in the field of diversity and inclusion, with over 25 years of experience. As someone born with a limb difference, Ruth is passionate about expanding the definition of diversity to embrace visible and invisible differences, fostering inclusive environments. She has a BA in Psychology from Goucher College and a Master of Social Work degree from Boston University. She was honored as the youngest alum ever awarded the Goucher College Excellence in Public Service Award. Her journey of self-acceptance and authenticity has equipped her with valuable insights into the challenges individuals face when embracing their differences. Ruth's story and expertise offer an inspiring perspective on navigating personal growth and embracing authenticity, making her a valuable and relatable voice for those seeking to foster inclusive environments.

We often define invisible diversity as those differences that cannot be readily seen, such as religion, sexual orientation, military experience, socioeconomic background, and more. However, in the conversation on Diversity, there is rarely consistent guidance on inclusion for people with disabilities. Disabilities, such as a limb difference may be visible or invisible, such as mental health and neurodiversity. Ruth Rathblott

In this episode, you will be able to:

•  Embrace Ruth Rathblott's inspiring journey of self-acceptance and inclusivity, and discover the transformative role it can play in your own life. 

•  Relate to the challenges of self-acceptance and societal pressure to conform, and learn to embrace your uniqueness with confidence. 

•  Consider the conversation on Diversity, there is rarely consistent guidance on inclusion for people with disabilities.

•  Learn the art of embracing differences and fostering inclusive environments to create authenticity and acceptance in your life and community. 

• Disabilities, such as a limb difference may be visible or invisible, such as mental health and neurodiversity.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

•  Visit Ruth Rathblott's website to learn more about her speaking engagements, books, and journey of unhiding. 

•  Check out Ruth Rathblott's first book Single Handedly to explore her personal journey of hiding and unhiding. 

•  Stay tuned for Ruth Rathblott's upcoming second book focusing on connection, loneliness, belonging, and leadership. 

• Explore opportunities to connect with communities and groups that resonate with your own journey of hiding and unhiding.

Follow Us On These Channels:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/emydigrappa/  

• www.ThinkWY.org

• https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutwhy

• https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutwhy 

Listen on all your favorite platforms and subscribe!

As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!

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"If we don't protect it, there's going to be nothing left. This is our backyard. There's a responsibility upon all of us to look after nature in whatever way we can." - Damien Mander

Discover the remarkable journey of a former special operations sniper who transitioned from a life of combat to becoming the founder and CEO of the International Antipoaching Foundation. From the intensity of military operations in Iraq to the African wilderness, Damien Mander's transformation will leave you inspired. But that's not the end of the story. Join us as we learn more about his efforts in leading a team of female rangers, the Ashakinga, in protecting Zimbabwe's wildlife from the devastating impact of poaching. His story tale of unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation and the inspiring people he has met on his journey.

About Damien:

Damien Mander, a former Australian Navy clearance diver and special operations military sniper, is widely recognized as the founder and CEO of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF). After a pivotal encounter in Africa, he committed his life savings to establish the IAPF, focusing on training and supporting rangers across African wilderness. Notably, Mander's innovative approach led to the formation of the first all-female Ashakinga rangers in Zimbabwe, marking a significant advancement in wildlife conservation. With a steadfast goal to employ 1000 women by 2025, Damien Mander's strategic leadership has positioned the IAPF as a prominent force in wildlife conservation and anti-poaching initiatives, contributing significantly to the protection of endangered species and their habitats. With insights from influential figures like Dr. Jane Goodall and Dr. Ian Player, the conversation underscores the importance of protecting nature for future generations. Damien's journey and dedication serve as a compelling reminder of the vital role each individual plays in preserving wildlife.

Learn More:

• Discover effective wildlife conservation efforts to make a positive impact. 

• Learn about the International Antipoaching Foundation's critical role in protecting endangered species. 

• Uncover strategies for safeguarding high target species from poaching threats. 

• Understand the importance of addressing root causes of poaching for long-term conservation success. 

• Find inspiration from role models in conservation and their impactful contributions. 

• Understand the importance of addressing root causes of poaching in conservation efforts. 

• Learn about Akashinga — originally named the International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF) — was founded in 2009 by Australian-born and Zimbabwean-based environmentalist Damien Mander. https://films.nationalgeographic.com/akashinga

• https://www.akashinga.org/about-us/our-story

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• https://www.linkedin.com/emydigrappa  

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• https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutwhy 

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As always leave a review if you enjoyed these stories and follow us on Instagram or visit the webpage of the Wyoming Humanities!

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Renowned comedian W. Kamau Bell fearlessly challenges societal norms and amplifies underrepresented voices, sparking conversations on race and identity in America. W. Kamau Bell shared his journey of self-discovery and growth. From childhood dreams of becoming a superhero or entering show business to finding his voice as a comedian. Kamau's path reflects the universal quest for identity and purpose. His decision to use the initial "W" in his stage name was a tribute to the wide-eyed kid within him, aspiring to be in show business.

As he delved into the world of comedy, his experiences and interactions with diverse communities expanded the scope of his storytelling. Kamau's commitment to addressing issues of race, identity, and social justice through his unique brand of "social political" comedy reflects his desire to spark meaningful conversations and bring about positive change. His journey from coffee shops and bars to hosting thought-provoking shows on CNN underscores the power of embracing uncomfortable dialogues and seeking understanding in a divided world. Through humor and introspection, Kamau invites us to ponder life's complexities and embrace the value of engaging in open, honest conversations.

About W. Kamau Bell

W. Kamau Bell, a renowned filmmaker, comedian, and the former host and executive producer of the Emmy award-winning CNN docuseries United Shades of America, brings a unique perspective on race and identity in America. With his recent HBO documentary 1000% Me: Growing Up Mixed, Bell delves into the complexities of growing up with a mixed-race identity, shedding light on the experiences and challenges faced by individuals and families in the San Francisco Bay area. His insights on underrepresented communities and productive conversations provide valuable and thought-provoking content that resonates with diverse audiences. Kamau's ability to tackle sensitive topics with humor and authenticity makes him an influential voice in the realm of race relations and social issues Explore Kamau Bell's inspiring journey into show business and how it shaped his perspective on race and identity. 

• Understand the importance of embracing awkward conversations about racism to foster meaningful change and understanding. 

•  Discover the power of using humor as a tool to facilitate constructive and engaging conversations about race and social issues. 

•  Learn about the significance of highlighting underrepresented communities in media and the positive impact it can have on society. 

•  W. Kamau Bell's HBO Documentary 1000% Me: Growing Up Mixed - To watch Kamau Bell's documentary tackling the joys and challenges of growing up mixed race, including conversations with kids and families in the San Francisco Bay area, visit HBO's official website. 

•  United Shades of America - To watch W. Kamau Bell's five-time Emmy award-winning CNN docuseries, United Shades of America, visit CNN's official website for streaming options. 

• #UnitedShades #unitedshadesofamerica
• #GrowingUpMixed #wkamaubell #kamaubell #mixed #mixedrace #mixedbabies #interracial #interracialcouple

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• Subscribe to our newsletter! 

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“Just treat people the same way you treat anyone else. Don't just assume something about someone and just truly see them for what they can become.” - Tanner Dunn

In this episode of What's Your Why? hosted by Emy Digrappa, our guest Tanner Dunn, a photographer and musician with autism, shares his journey from capturing nature's beauty to aspiring to be part of his first ever photography art exhibit. Tanner's determination to achieve his artistic aspirations while emphasizing the importance of treating everyone with respect and empathy makes this an episode of true inspiration and finding your path. Tanner's story is sure to uplift and create a create a curiosity to learn more about Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of autism spectrum disorder. Alongside his passion for photography, Tanner's personal journey with autism has driven him to become an inspiration for others facing similar challenges. His determination serves as a reminder that obstacles can be overcome, fueling his dedication to work as a registered behavioral technician and provide support to children on the autism spectrum.

“I have been doing photography as a way to express my appreciation for nature and wildlife. I also photograph musicians at concerts I attend. I too am a musician who plays guitar. When I was 4, I was diagnosed with autism. The fact that I can develop my talents in music and photography, as well as excel in them, is a miracle! For my day job, I work with kids with autism as a way to give back to those in need, just as I received help whenever I was in their shoes years ago.” Tanner Dunn

Key Takeaways:

• Explore Tanner Dunn's inspiring photography journey to ignite your own creative spark. 

•  Discover how individuals with autism overcome challenges to achieve remarkable success. 

•  Uncover the art of wildlife spotting and nature photography to enhance your connection with the natural world. 

•  Learn effective ways to support children with autism and make a positive impact in their lives. 

•  Embrace artistic aspirations and learn the importance of treating others with respect in your creative journey. 

Resources:

• Visit Wyoming Humanities website at ThinkWY.org to learn more about the organization and subscribe to the podcast for future episodes. 

•  Check out Tanner Dunn's photography on Instagram and show your support by following his page and engaging with his content. 

•  Consider reaching out to Tanner Dunn for any photography inquiries or collaborations, as he continues to develop his photography career. 

• Consider exploring opportunities to support individuals with autism, such as volunteering or donating to organizations that provide resources and support for individuals with autism. 

•  https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutwhy 

•  https://www.linkedin.com/emydigrappa 

•  www.ThinkWY.org 

#Photography #Inspiration #Nature #AutismAwareness

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