Duncan Tree Podcast with Ouida

Until the Walls Come Down - A Conversation with Author Gal Podjarny

The Duncan Tree Podcast with Ouida – Featuring Author & Psychologist Gal Podjarny In this episode of The Duncan Tree Podcast, host Ouida Duncan sits down with writer and psychologist Gal Podjarny to explore the power of stories to bridge divides. Gal’s debut novel, Until the Walls Come Down, follows a Jewish Israeli woman who discovers her childhood home once belonged to her Palestinian husband’s family—forcing her to confront history, identity, and uncomfortable truths. Together, Ouida and Gal reflect on generational trauma, resilience, empathy, and the courage it takes to hold space for multiple truths. Gal shares how her multicultural journey—from Israel/Palestine to Canada and the UK—shaped her worldview, and why fiction can open hearts where politics often closes doors. This inspiring conversation reminds us that listening without judgment, choosing compassion over fear, and embracing complexity are powerful tools for personal and collective healing. Gal Podjarny, PhD, is an author, psychologist, and social impact leader. Born in Israel/Palestine, she has also lived in Canada and now resides in London. Her work—including the short story collection Human Fragments, contributions to anthologies, and her new novel Until the Walls Come Down—explores how cultural histories, displacement, and personal identity intersect. Through her blog GalPod.com [https://www.galpod.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com], she shares essays and free stories, and as co-lead of the Disrupt Foundation, she supports initiatives for social justice and dialogue across divides. Learn more: galpod.com [https://www.galpod.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Ouida Duncan, CPC, ELI-MP, MBA (Strategy) is the founder of Duncan Tree Ventures and a transformational coach dedicated to helping individuals and organizations break free from limiting beliefs and lead with purpose. A Jamaican native and former advertising strategist, Ouida blends her 20+ years of business experience with deep training in emotional intelligence, diversity and inclusion, and trauma-informed leadership. Through her nonprofit and consulting practice, she created In the Middle, a coaching and mentoring program designed to support emerging leaders and communities in transition. Ouida draws on her lived experience, resilience, and faith to empower others to cultivate wholeness—emotionally, spiritually, physically, and financially. Learn more: ouidaduncan.com [https://www.ouidaduncan.com] | duncantree.org [https://www.duncantree.org] #TheDuncanTreePodcast #OuidaDuncan #GalPodjarny #UntilTheWallsComeDown #UncomfortableTruths #MultiplePerspectives #GenerationalTrauma #Resilience #Empathy #TransformationalCoaching #EmotionalIntelligence #IsraelPalestine #LondonUK #CognitiveFlexibility #Complexity #ActiveListening #StorytellingForChange #FictionForEmpathy #SocialJustice #HealingConversations #LeadershipWithPurpose #Compassion #HumanConnectionWithPurpose, while reminding us that #Compassion and #HumanConnection remain at the heart of transformation.

Beware the Quiet Man: A Conversation with Tony Bennett

🎙️ S3E4 : Beware the Quiet Man – A Conversation with Tony Bennett In this rich and reflective episode, host Ouida Duncan sits down with writer, international businessman, psychotherapist, and hypnotherapist Tony Bennett to explore the deeply personal and universal themes behind his work. His powerful novel centres on Ollie, a young boy from Wales whose journey to adulthood unfolds in the vibrant yet turbulent landscape of 1960s London. Tony opens up about his origins as a storyteller, how his father’s unfinished legacy inspired his writing, and why the landscapes of Wales—its myth, mystery, and music—serve not just as setting but as living character in his fiction. Together, they discuss the quiet rebellion of a man who turns away from societal noise to embrace a soulful, introspective path to healing. You’ll hear about the transformative power of place, the emotional scars of grief and guilt, and the enduring value of storytelling in preserving both personal identity and collective memory. As Tony recently celebrated his 81st birthday, he shares hard-won wisdom for younger generations on agency, mindset, and the importance of surrounding yourself with those who uplift your growth. This episode is a poignant blend of literary insight, emotional depth, and timeless life lessons—perfect for fans of character-driven narratives and seekers of quiet truths. 🎧 Listen now—and discover why you should always beware the quiet man. About our guest Tony Bennett Tony grew up in Wales, UK, working in the family garage business, pumping gas, cleaning windshields, and fixing flats. Chef, Caterer, International Businessman, Public Speaker, and Author. Ouida Duncan's bio Ouida Duncan is a transformation coach, podcast host, and founder of the Duncan Tree Ventures, Inc. (formerly Duncan Tree Foundation). Born in Jamaica and seasoned by a global journey of healing, leadership, and service, Ouida empowers individuals to rise above adversity and live purpose-driven lives. As a Certified Professional Coach and emotional intelligence expert, she brings wisdom, warmth, and a deep commitment to personal and collective growth. Through her podcast and nonprofit work, she’s changing lives—one story, one conversation, one act of service at a time. Follow Ouida Duncan on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ouida-duncan/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coached.by.ouida https://www.ouidaduncan.com Or visit: https://www.duncantree.org to learn more about Duncan Tree Ventures. We invite you to volunteer, join our Board of Directors or make a financial contribution. * #BewareTheQuietMan * #TonyBennettInterview * #OuidaDuncan * #QuietStrength * #SpotifyPodcast * #PodcastInterview * #LeadershipConversations * #EmotionalIntelligence * #PowerOfSilence * #MensMentalHealth * #TransformativeTalks * #AuthenticLeadership * #CourageousConversations * #MindfulLeadership * #StillWatersRunDeep * #CommunityChangeMakers * #DeepDiveDialogue * #TheQuietManSpeaks * #DuncanTreeConversations

Redeemed: How Living a Purpose Driven Life Can Bring You Joy

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with KC Curberson-Alvarado—educator, leader, and community champion—to explore what it means to live a purpose-driven life. KC shares her journey from classroom teacher to Assistant Principal and District CTE Director at Lakeway Christian Schools [https://www.lcstn.org/], and how she found joy through serving others. As co-founder and Vice-Chair of HOLA Lakeway [https://www.holalakeway.org/], KC also discusses the power of inclusion, multicultural advocacy, and community transformation in East Tennessee. Tune in for a powerful conversation about calling, faith, leadership, and legacy. 🔗 Learn more and follow: * Lakeway Christian Schools: lcstn.org [https://www.lcstn.org/] * HOLA Lakeway: holalakeway.org [https://www.holalakeway.org/] * @theunstoppablekc * http://linkedin.com/in/mrskcalvarado KC Curberson-Alvarado Bio KC Curberson-Alvarado is a transformative leader with over 15 years of experience in educational strategy, workforce development, and community engagement. As District Director of Career and Technical Education and Assistant Principal at Lakeway Christian Schools, KC manages the operations of a 48-teacher, 35-staff team, steering the creation of cutting-edge programs that integrate technology into curricula and enhance student career readiness. KC's impact resonates beyond the school district. As Co-Founder and President of HOLA Lakeway, they have successfully secured over $1 million in grant funding, led crisis-response initiatives, and organized impactful community events to foster resilience and empowerment. Her entrepreneurial spirit shines through co-founding Frank’s Weld Works, where KC honed expertise in business management, client relations, and strategic growth. Renowned for their ability to drive organizational success, KC combines data-driven decision-making, cross-functional collaboration, and a passion for lifelong learning to align strategic goals with measurable outcomes. Ouida Duncan's bio Ouida Duncan is a transformation coach, podcast host, and founder of the Duncan Tree Ventures, Inc. (formerly Duncan Tree Foundation). Born in Jamaica and seasoned by a global journey of healing, leadership, and service, Ouida empowers individuals to rise above adversity and live purpose-driven lives. As a Certified Professional Coach and emotional intelligence expert, she brings wisdom, warmth, and a deep commitment to personal and collective growth. Through her podcast and nonprofit work, she’s changing lives—one story, one conversation, one act of service at a time. ✨ Healing is possible. Joy is a choice. Purpose is the path. ✨ #OuidaDuncan #TransformationCoach #PurposeDrivenLife #DuncanTreePodcast #EmotionalIntelligence #GlobalImpact #WomenWhoLead ✨ #KCAlvarado #LakewayChristianSchools #HOLALakeway #PurposeDriven #EducationalLeadership #CommunityImpact #FaithInAction #CTE #EastTennessee

Healing Words: A Creative Writing Journey

Episode Title: Healing Words: A Creative Writing Journey, A Conversation with Gilly Beckett Episode Description: In this gentle yet deeply insightful episode, Ouida Duncan sits down with Gilly Beckett, author of Pull and a seasoned creative writing facilitator, to explore the healing power of writing. From reading Shakespeare aloud in the kitchen with her mother to completing four novels while living on a Greek island, Gilly shares how writing has shaped her personal journey, relationships, and understanding of the human condition. Listeners will gain: * A deeper appreciation for writing as a tool for self-discovery and emotional well-being * Insights into the role of creative writing in mental health and community healing * Encouragement to start or return to writing—whether for publication or personal growth Whether you’re an aspiring writer or simply curious about how storytelling helps us make sense of life, this conversation will pull you toward your own creative spark. About Gilly Beckett: Gilly Beckett is a UK-based author, creative writing teacher, and advocate for writing as a wellness practice. Her debut novel Pull draws from her years of observation, imagination, and resilience. She holds a Master’s in Creative Writing and Wellbeing, and her workshops have helped many discover the joy and transformation of writing. 🌐 Visit: www.gillybeckett.com [http://www.gillybeckett.com] About Ouida Duncan: Ouida Duncan is the founder of The Duncan Tree Venntures and White River Consulting. A global coach, educator, and storyteller, she is committed to emotional intelligence, healing-centered education, and empowering voices that often go unheard. To learn more about Ouida visit ouidaduncan.com. About Tony Bennett: Tony Bennett is a writer and former public speaker based in Porthcawl, South Wales. His Substack, Tony Bennett: Unforgettable Stories, features immersive narratives where fiction and real life collide, drawing inspiration from his Welsh roots and personal experiences. Follow Tony Bennett on Substack and learn more about his book 'Beware The Quiet Man.' https://yestonybennett.substack.com/p/beware-the-quiet-man?utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web Audio engineer: Lemuel Hernandez For more information about Duncan Tree, visit duncantree.org

Next-GeN Narratives: Gen Z insights and Bridging the Generational Gap

🎙️ Duncan Tree Podcast with Ouida – Season 3, Episode 1: “Next Gen Narrative—Gen Z Insights and Bridging the Generational Gap” In this powerful Season 3 opener, Ouida sits down with Rishi Singhal, one of Duncan Tree Ventures' newest Board Members, who is a dynamic Gen Z voice that helps to unpack the complexities, pressures, and potential of today’s youth. From navigating mental health challenges and the aftershocks of COVID-19 to confronting the curated chaos of social media, this episode explores the emotional terrain Gen Z is learning to master in real time. The conversation with Rishi tackles: 1. Misconceptions about Gen Z’s work ethic and emotional resilience 2. The importance of mindset, peer support, and mentorship in shaping identity 3. How to lead when you're not the loudest or smartest in the room 4. The evolving definition of “impact” as young professionals chart their paths 5. Why soft skills are not optional—they’re essential 6. Strategies for managing leadership conflicts and interpersonal tension 7. The reality that life doesn’t peak at college, and what comes next Listeners are invited into a rich dialogue about intergenerational wisdom, emotional intelligence, and the value of being met exactly where you are. 🎧 Join the ITM movement: If you believe in mentoring the next generation with compassion, clarity, and curiosity, share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Subscribe to The Duncan Tree Podcast with Ouida and join our movement to democratize coaching, bridge generational gaps, and transform communities—one conversation at a time. 🌱 Want to support our work with youth and emerging leaders? Donate or volunteer at www.duncantree.org [http://www.duncantreefoundation.org] or email us at info@duncantree.org. Who is Rishi Singhal? Rishi Singhal, a Senior Software Engineer at a leading global medical device manufacturer, specializes in firmware development for cardiac rhythm management. Passionate about medical innovation, he focuses on global mental health solutions, pacemakers, and minimally invasive surgical devices. With a B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering and an M.Eng. in Biomedical Engineering from Cornell, Rishi has experience in medical device development and co-founded Vita Innovations, where he helped create VitalMask, a triage assist device improving ER patient monitoring. Beyond engineering, he advocates for mentorship and education as Community Outreach and Partnerships Coordinator for Duncan Tree Ventures, supporting initiatives that empower individuals to reach their full potential. Who is Ouida Duncan? Founder, President, Chief Executive Officer, and Board Chair of Duncan Tree Ventures, a nonprofit dedicated to mentorship, coaching, and transformative education. A transformation coach specializing in COR.E energy and emotional intelligence, she empowers individuals to overcome worthiness struggles and lead with confidence. With a background in advertising and executive leadership, Ouida blends strategic vision with a passion for social impact. She leads initiatives like the in the Middle (ITM) coaching program, helping young people navigate challenges and build resilience. Her work has taken her across 30 countries on six continents, reinforcing her commitment to global change. Currently, she is expanding Duncan Tree’s reach, fostering partnerships, and advocating for coaching as a tool for education reform and personal transformation.