Our Other Stories

Jennifer Anderson: International Community in Activism

And we're finally here with the first guest episode of Season 03. Things are moving a bit slower over here at Our Other Stories this season, but we are working away and having some great conversations to share with you as soon as I can. For now, please enjoy this episode with Jennifer of Anakbayan Portland. We cover her journey into activism, the impact of US imperialism on the Philippines, the importance of community building and creating international solidarity across movements, moments, and cultures. Jennifer shares her personal experiences, including her trips to the Philippines, her work on Precious Seedlings Farm, and the connections between local and global struggles for justice. This is a special conversation as Jennifer and I have known each other for over a decade! We first met when we were both young adults and have each navigated our own journeys that brought us to where we currently are: living in the same city and taking action. Enjoy! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jennifer and Anakbayan 12:01 Understanding US-Philippines Relations 29:28 The Impact of US Imperialism 35:09 Connecting Local and Global Struggles 57:06 Personal Journeys: Returning to the Homeland 01:12:43 Farming, Community Building, and Revolution Keywords Anakbayan, activism, community building, US imperialism, Filipino youth, social justice, migration, farming, international solidarity, advocacy

Season 03: Community, Humanization, and Updates

Summary We're back! After a longer-than-originally-planned hiatus, Our Other Stories is back with this short solo episode with Madeleine. Here, I reflect on the ending of season two of Our Other Stories and share my personal journey over the past few months. I discuss my challenges with overcommitment, the importance of community engagement, and the need for action in the face of societal chaos. I continue to emphasize the significance of recognizing our shared humanity and shared experiences while identifying the life-threatening impacts of dehumanization in today's world. Through Our Other Stories, I highlight the vital role storytelling plays in fostering connection while encouraging you to remain engaged and active in your communities. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reflections on the Past Season 06:21 Navigating Life Changes and Community Engagement 12:43 The Importance of Humanity in Times of Conflict 18:30 Resistance and Collective Action 24:34 Looking Ahead: Future Conversations and Community Involvement Keywords podcast, community, activism, mental health, resistance, dehumanization, engagement, life updates, personal growth, storytelling, Paola Ramos, Matthew Torres, neighbors

Yvonne Hernández: Healing Through Mindfulness & The Goal of One Million

Summary As we near a close to season 02, Yvonne Hernandez shares her journey of becoming a meditation teacher and reiki master and her mission to teach meditation to one million children. She discusses the importance of self-care, cultural heritage, and the impact of meditation on children's emotional well-being. Yvonne reflects on her personal experiences with healing, how big life changes manifested in her physical body, the significance of community, and the creation of Little Om Breaths, aimed at providing mindfulness resources for families. Our conversation culminates in a guided meditation, emphasizing the need for mindfulness and connection. You can find more info on working with Yvonne on her website [https://www.decidebalance.com/links]. Chapters 03:02 Yvonne's Mission: Teaching Meditation to Children 08:45 Yvonne's Journey into Meditation and Reiki 14:52 Overcoming Personal Struggles and Embracing Change 29:21 The Impact of Meditation on Children 45:59 Understanding Disease and Body Awareness 49:32 Exploring Bilingual Meditation and Connection 58:41 Community and Support in Times of Need 01:05:24 Bilingual Guided Meditation Keywords meditation, children, healing, Latina voices, self-care, community, mindfulness, cultural heritage, Reiki, personal growth, Decide Balance, Little Om Breaths

Sonia Saunders: Building Community through Authenticity & Reflection

Summary In this episode, I speak with Sonia Saunders, founder of Mujerón Movement, about the importance of community, cultural identity, and personal growth. We discuss Sonia's journey from pageantry to television to creating a supportive platform for Latinas, the impact of motherhood on her life and business, and the significance of authenticity in building connections and relationships. Our conversation emphasizes the value of asking for help, reflecting on life transitions, learning when to say no, and nurturing relationships within a community. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mujerón Movement and Community Building 10:54 Transforming Labels: The Birth of Mujerón 21:00 The Power of Community in Transition 27:20 Owning Your Story and Authenticity 39:49 The Transformative Journey of Motherhood 58:40 Supporting Your Future Self Keywords Mujerón Movement, Sonia Saunders, community building, Latina empowerment, motherhood, authenticity, cultural identity, personal growth, networking, self-discovery

Areli Barrera Grodski: Fumbling to Your Truth

Summary In this episode, I speak with Areli Barrera Grodzki, co-founder of Little Waves Coffee Roasters in a conversation that feels like a love letter to North Carolina and the places we call home. We discuss Areli's journey growing up in Cherokee, the challenges of leadership in the coffee industry, and the importance of storytelling and cultural identity. Areli shares her thoughts on embracing imperfection, the immigrant experience, and the significance of personal development in professional settings. Our conversation highlights the interconnectedness of personal and professional growth, as well as the value of community and cultural heritage. Areli and I explore themes of personal identity, cultural representation, and the importance of community. We talk about the impact of nature on our lives, the role of therapy in personal growth, and the journey towards self-love and acceptance. The episode emphasizes the significance of embracing one's roots and the power of voice in shaping narratives. Through our shared experiences, we highlight the beauty of vulnerability and the strength found in connection with others. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections 09:05 The Connection Between Places 17:26 Exploring North Carolina's Richness 38:53 The Impact of Place on Personal Growth 44:59 Fumbling Through Your Truth 01:02:39 Navigating Identity and Confidence 01:11:40 Cultural Perspectives and Language 01:22:18 The Power of Guidance in Therapy 01:31:06 Embracing the Messy Journey Keywords Areli Barrera Grodzki, Little Waves Coffee Roasters, cultural identity, immigrant experience, leadership, storytelling, coffee industry, personal development, community, entrepreneurship, personal growth, cultural identity, community, therapy, resilience, self-love, representation, nature, change, empowerment, North Carolina, Seattle, Gabriel Garcia Marquez