What does 'being connected with self' actually look like…feel like?  It’s impossible to describe, as we explore with Sydney in part 2 of this conversation.  Whether or not we can describe it, what is true from this conversation is that vulnerability and the willingness to express it with yourself and others is a big step in finding that connection. Once she was willing to be vulnerable with her music it all changed, and her music went to a new level.   ///   Today, we are with singer/songwriter Sydney Lauren.  SYDNEY TELLS STORIES THROUGH HER SONGS. SHE GREW UP SINGING AND WRITING MUSIC JUST OUTSIDE OF NEW YORK CITY, THE PLACE SHE NOW CALLS HOME. THE CITY SERVES AS HER INSPIRATION AS WELL AS HER STOMPING GROUNDS, AND SHE HAS PERFORMED IN NYC VENUES LIKE THE DELANCEY & THE BITTER END. SYDNEY’S TRAINING IN PIANO, GUITAR AND SONGWRITING ARE CLEARLY REFLECTED IN HER SONGS, WHICH TAKE INSPIRATION FROM SOME OF HER FAVORITE ARTISTS INCLUDING JP SAXE, SARAH BAREILLES, INGRID ANDRESS, AND MORE. HER MUSIC HAS BEEN FEATURED ON “TEMPTATION ISLAND” AND "THE BIGGEST LOSER" ON USA NETWORK. SYDNEY’S NEW ERA OF MUSIC REPRESENTS A CHAPTER IN HER LIFE LYRICALLY, AND HER AUTHENTIC VISION SONICALLY. SHE DIVES INTO THE EMOTIONS THAT OCCUR DURING HEARTBREAK AND THE SIMPLISTIC HAPPINESS THAT CAN COME WITH LOVE. NEW YORK CITY WILL ALWAYS PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN HER MUSIC, WHETHER IT’S A STREET SHE REFERENCES OR THE SUBWAY HOME. SHE’S A STORYTELLER AT HEART AND HOPES TO SING WORDS YOU WERE THINKING BUT DIDN’T KNOW HOW TO SAY.   ///   Topics we discuss: How she got good at her MusicAccepting that she is good at it Music built her confidence Tracking Downloads and attention Being vulnerable through her music Turning Around a bad mood Creating music that resonates with people Understanding Self   References: Harkness Method Nodes Scene from Pitch Perfect Her song Bucket Hat  Sydney Lauren.com   Credits: Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

What is a fact?  A fact is something that is true.  Yet, today we are so conflicted about our facts because we have decided to conflate them with truth. Truth is subjective.  What is true to you may not be true to me.  You may think The Matrix is the greatest cinematic accomplishment of the 20th century.  I may think that award belongs to Schindler’s List.  What isn’t true is that either sentiment is a fact.  This is merely an opinion one holds.  However, we have the tendency to think of our truths as facts and it can create serious issues connecting with others and navigating conversation. We explore this reality with Sydney in part 1 of our awesome conversation with her.   ///   Today, we are with singer/songwriter Sydney Lauren.  SYDNEY TELLS STORIES THROUGH HER SONGS. SHE GREW UP SINGING AND WRITING MUSIC JUST OUTSIDE OF NEW YORK CITY, THE PLACE SHE NOW CALLS HOME. THE CITY SERVES AS HER INSPIRATION AS WELL AS HER STOMPING GROUNDS, AND SHE HAS PERFORMED IN NYC VENUES LIKE THE DELANCEY & THE BITTER END. SYDNEY’S TRAINING IN PIANO, GUITAR AND SONGWRITING ARE CLEARLY REFLECTED IN HER SONGS, WHICH TAKE INSPIRATION FROM SOME OF HER FAVORITE ARTISTS INCLUDING JP SAXE, SARAH BAREILLES, INGRID ANDRESS, AND MORE. HER MUSIC HAS BEEN FEATURED ON “TEMPTATION ISLAND” AND "THE BIGGEST LOSER" ON USA NETWORK. SYDNEY’S NEW ERA OF MUSIC REPRESENTS A CHAPTER IN HER LIFE LYRICALLY, AND HER AUTHENTIC VISION SONICALLY. SHE DIVES INTO THE EMOTIONS THAT OCCUR DURING HEARTBREAK AND THE SIMPLISTIC HAPPINESS THAT CAN COME WITH LOVE. NEW YORK CITY WILL ALWAYS PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN HER MUSIC, WHETHER IT’S A STREET SHE REFERENCES OR THE SUBWAY HOME. SHE’S A STORYTELLER AT HEART AND HOPES TO SING WORDS YOU WERE THINKING BUT DIDN’T KNOW HOW TO SAY. ///   Topics we discuss: Knowing when to walk away from conflictHarkness Method Saying what you don't mean Being Brutally Honest Facts vs. Truth Accepting Others   References: Harkness Method Nodes Scene from Pitch Perfect Her song Bucket Hat  Sydney Lauren.com   Credits: Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

In a postindustrial, technology centric, world we are taught to be productive, get a job, work, work, work… We reserve play for short periods of time and for our childhood.  Yet, we are increasingly demanding more productivity of our children to get ahead.  The thing about play, is that it is a necessity of life.  We need it.  We especially need it to improve learning and how we absorb information.  Games are a great way to help kids learn and also enjoy life. Mastermind Adventures is helping kids who have a hard time learning social and emotional skills.  They are doing it by challenging kids through games so they also have fun with their life.    ///   Today we are with Krysten Callina.  She is the Founder of Mastermind Adventures LLC, a talent management agency for professional game masters of tabletop role playing games (like Dungeons & Dragons).  Krysten helps people find connection and community through games so they can embrace their creativity and individuality and have more fun. Her goal is to create the industry standard for professional game masters and to establish a vibrant, safe community of fans of role playing games. Examples of non-traditional game applications developed by Mastermind Adventures are Quest! Adventure Game for Social Skills Mastery to help kids improve their social emotional skills, and The Game of Influencers, a unique training program for businesses to learn about how to use influencers as part of a marketing strategy. Mastermind Adventures is currently developing programs that will serve as inroads for young people into the gaming industry - especially for kids in marginalized communities. Krysten is a serial entrepreneur, loves cooking, gardening, photography, interior decorating, nerd topics and whiskey.    ///   Topics we discuss: Income correlation to effectiveness of Homeschooling Building perspectiveTraveling Exposing to others Creating Mastermind AdventuresHow it started as a Game Night What it is now The concept called BLEEDManaging the potential dangers   References: Home schooling resources Mastermind AdventuresLive Action Role Play (L.A.R.P.) Who is Percy Jackson More In Common Website   Credits: Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

What do you think of when you think someone is homeschooled?  What do you think when someone homeschools their kids? Homeschooling is a great example of the subtle biases we all project onto other because of our cultural influences.  There are many reasons for homeschooling and it’s important to understand when it makes sense for your kids.  In this conversation with Krysten, we get into some of those reasons and why she made that very decision.   ///   Today we are with Krysten Callina.  She is the Founder of Mastermind Adventures LLC, a talent management agency for professional game masters of tabletop role playing games (like Dungeons & Dragons).  Krysten helps people find connection and community through games so they can embrace their creativity and individuality and have more fun. Her goal is to create the industry standard for professional game masters and to establish a vibrant, safe community of fans of role playing games. Examples of non-traditional game applications developed by Mastermind Adventures are Quest! Adventure Game for Social Skills Mastery to help kids improve their social emotional skills, and The Game of Influencers, a unique training program for businesses to learn about how to use influencers as part of a marketing strategy. Mastermind Adventures is currently developing programs that will serve as inroads for young people into the gaming industry - especially for kids in marginalized communities. Krysten is a serial entrepreneur, loves cooking, gardening, photography, interior decorating, nerd topics and whiskey.  ///   Topics we discuss: Home schooling resources Mastermind AdventuresWhat is Live Action Role Play (L.A.R.P.) Who is Percy Jackson B.L.E.E.D.Sara Lynn Bowman More In Common Website   References: Home schooling resources Mastermind AdventuresLive Action Role Play (L.A.R.P.) Who is Percy Jackson More In Common Website   Credits: Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

Developing a child is one of the most challenging responsibilities any parent will have in a lifetime. One of the biggest challenges is removing your ego to focus on what the child needs, not what you would need if you were the child. We all struggle to separate these two realities. However, when we can, we will deliver the promise to our children that set them up to live the life they want to live. We talk a lot in this part 2 with Lisa Davis, MPH, about instilling values in children through the perspective of their personalities and giving them space to be who they need to be.   ///   Today we are with Lisa Davis, MPH. Lisa has two decades of experience as a health educator and a broadcaster. She has a Master's Degree in Public Health, is creator, host, and producer of the syndicated "It's Your Health" radio heard on regional NPR as well as host/producer of "Talk Healthy Today" brought to you by Pocket Media (of Clean Eating, Vegetarian Times, Better Nutrition. Muscle & Performance, Yoga Journal magazines).   She is host/producer of Naturally Savvy Radio heard online on RadioMD, iHeart Radio Talk, TuneIn, Stitcher, iTunes, UberRadio, and TalkStreamLive. Lisa is also the co-creator and co-host of the podcast "Active Allyship...it's more than a #hashtag!"   In addition to developing radio shows, if it doesn't seem like enough, Lisa has created, produced, and hosted health television shows. Her first show, Health Power, was seen on KRUZ-TV in California. She was also a regular contributor to Carol Alt's national health TV show on FOX News Channel, A Healthy You.   She also authored her books, Clean Eating, Dirty Sex: Sensual Superfoods and Aphrodisiac Practices for Ultimate Sexual Health and Easy to Love but Hard to Live with: Real People, Invisible Disabilities, True Stories.     Her core passion is helping people find they're why to enable them to live their healthiest life.   /// Topics we discuss:   Daughter with NVLDHelping kids through their challenges Letting people speak for themselves Instilling values in kids Understanding how kids learn Being sex positive with her kidsPromoting positive relationships with Sex   References: Lisadavismph.comActive Allyship is more than just a Hashtag Talk Healthy Today Naturally Savvy Podcast Clean Eating / Dirty Sex - Her Book Naturallysavvy.com Dr. David Campt September 18th Rally Non Verbal Learning Disorder Autism Spectrum Disorder Authoritarian vs. Authoritative parenting   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

Everyone goes through a journey from the beginning to the end. It's easy to look at our stories and think about our limitations and how they will prevent us from doing more. That voice inside tells you one thing that reality doesn't seem to support. Then we focus so much on "what is" because we can't see "what could be." Lisa is an excellent example of looking at life through the lens of what is possible while working through all the early challenges to living a life that feels like she is the best version of herself and still getting better.    /// Today we are with Lisa Davis, MPH. Lisa has two decades of experience as a health educator and a broadcaster. She has a Master's Degree in Public Health, is creator, host, and producer of the syndicated "It's Your Health" radio heard on regional NPR as well as host/producer of "Talk Healthy Today" brought to you by Pocket Media (of Clean Eating, Vegetarian Times, Better Nutrition. Muscle & Performance, Yoga Journal magazines).   She is host/producer of Naturally Savvy Radio heard online on RadioMD, iHeart Radio Talk, TuneIn, Stitcher, iTunes, UberRadio, and TalkStreamLive. Lisa is also the co-creator and co-host of the podcast "Active Allyship...it's more than a #hashtag!"   In addition to developing radio shows, Lisa has created, produced, and hosted health television shows if it doesn't seem like enough. Her first show, Health Power, was seen on KRUZ-TV in California. She was also a regular contributor to Carol Alt's national health TV show on FOX News Channel, A Healthy You.   She also authored her books, Clean Eating, Dirty Sex: Sensual Superfoods and Aphrodisiac Practices for Ultimate Sexual Health and Easy to Love but Hard to Live with: Real People, Invisible Disabilities, True Stories.     Her core passion is helping people find they're why to enable them to live their healthiest life. /// Topics we discuss:   Active ListeningHow she employs it with her daughter Navigating our boundaries with othersOthering Growing up with an Anti-Racist environmentSpeaking up no matter what What it was like growing up Gaining confidenceBeing herself after many years of being shy   References:   Lisadavismph.comActive Allyship is more than just a Hashtag Talk Healthy Today Naturally Savvy Podcast Clean Eating / Dirty Sex - Her Book Naturallysavvy.com Dr. David Campt September 18th Rally Non Verbal Learning Disorder Autism Spectrum Disorder Authoritarian vs. Authoritative parenting   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

No matter how much effort you put into something, it's never done alone. This applies to everyone, including the smartest or most athletic. A genius doesn't create without supplies, funding, or assistance to contribute to their field of study. Like an athlete doesn't get to show their skills if the structure of sport doesn't exist.  This is highlighted by Ben and Fitz in this Part 2 episode of their conversation. They talk about the Genius Myth and the importance of recognizing it when building highly collaborative and effective teams.   ///   Brian (Fitz) is the Founder and CTO of Tock, and he started Google's Chicago engineering office in 2005. An open-source contributor for over 13 years, Brian was the engineering manager for several Google products, and is a member of the Apache Software Foundation, a former engineer at Apple and CollabNet, and a Subversion developer,   Ben is a co-founder & author of Subversion, a popular version-control tool to help programmers collaborate. He also co-authored the main O'Reilly manual for the software. He is currently the engineering Site Lead for Google's Chicago office, having joined Google in 2005 as one of the first two engineers in Chicago. He manages multiple teams working on Google's Search-serving infrastructure.   Together they have collaborated on multiple talks and books regarding the social challenges of software development. They have given dozens of talks at conferences (many viewable on youtube), and authored a popular O'Reilly book on the subject: Debugging Teams: Better Productivity through Collaboration.   /// Topics we discuss:   PrivilegeThe relative nature of privilege Seeing privilege Their Book - Debugging TeamsGenius Myth Working together in a creative space Peter Principle Understanding others Pursue what makes sense for each   References: ORD Camp Crucial Conversations H.A.L.T. - Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired Free Book - Debugging Teams Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison Peter Principle   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

  Culture is an agreed-upon set of values and norms that we accept and embrace. In organizations, if these aren't intentional and established, the company is not likely to operate at its best. Ben and Fitz came to some remarkable conclusions about Culture in the collective time at Google causing them to write their book, Debugging Teams. Their goal is to ensure teams operate at their best by being intentional about how they work together and for each other.    ///   Brian (Fitz) is the Founder and CTO of Tock, and he started Google's Chicago engineering office in 2005. An open-source contributor for over 13 years, Brian was the engineering manager for several Google products, and is a member of the Apache Software Foundation, a former engineer at Apple and CollabNet, and a Subversion developer,   Ben is a co-founder & author of Subversion, a popular version-control tool to help programmers collaborate. He also co-authored the central O'Reilly manual for the software. He is currently the engineering Site Lead for Google's Chicago office, having joined Google in 2005 as one of the first two engineers in Chicago. He manages multiple teams working on Google's Search-serving infrastructure.   Together they have collaborated on multiple talks and books regarding the social challenges of software development. They have given dozens of talks at conferences (many viewable on youtube), and authored a popular O'Reilly book on the subject: Debugging Teams: Better Productivity through Collaboration. /// Topics we discuss:   Learning when to speakUsing a 20 sided die as a tool Learning to listen Finding Common Ground Taking a breakH.A.L.T. When it's not possible Ending Phone Notifications Moral Imperative of fixing CultureTheir growth to seeing the importance Observations of the pandemic Earn Trust   References:   ORD Camp Crucial Conversations H.A.L.T. - Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired Free Book - Debugging Teams Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison Peter Principle   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

History is always 20/20 if we decide to look.  Looking at history from the present perspective is a flawed exercise loaded with past judgment. Too often, we don't look at history from the present it once represented.  As a result, we don't see the perspectives of those that came before us and what they did to give us what we have today. Paula beautifully discusses this phenomenon relative to those who had to stay silent for us to be able to speak today.    ///   We are with award-winning book author, TV writer/producer, and feature screenwriter Paula Yoo.  Hailing from Los Angeles, CA, she loves to spend time hanging with her family and cats.                  Her latest Young Adult narrative non-fiction book, FROM A WHISPER TO A RALLYING CRY: The Killing of Vincent Chin and the Trial that Galvanized the Asian American Movement, is from Norton Young Readers (W.W. Norton & Company). Her books have won many awards, including IRA Notables, Junior Guild Library Selections, and starred reviews from Kirkus.                 Paula's TV credits include Freeform's Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists, The CW's Supergirl, SyFy's Defiance, Eureka, Amazon's Mozart in the Jungle, and NBC's The West Wing. She has also sold TV pilots and feature scripts.                 Paula is also a professional violinist, but not just as a hobby…she has played with the Southeast Symphony, Vicente Chamber Orchestra, Torrance Symphony, Glendale Philharmonic and Detroit Civic Symphony Orchestra, toured and recorded with bands including Il Divo, No Doubt, Fun, Arthur Lee, Love Revisited and Spiritualized, and appeared on national TV shows and commercial spots, including A&E's The Two Coreys reality show and a United Airlines commercial.   /// Topics we discuss:   AAPI experienceCoverage variability What's still happening History of AAPI Hate Vincent Chin and her Book COVID experience as an Asian Woman What framed and influenced her perspective Prejudice within the Diaspora    References: Paulayoo.com Texas Abortion decision AAPI history in Illinois mandate Vincent Chin From a Whisper to a Rallying Cry - Her Book Atlanta Spa Shootings Sundown Towns   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

We are with award-winning book author, TV writer/producer, and feature screenwriter Paula Yoo.  Hailing from Los Angeles, CA, she loves to spend time hanging with her family and cats.                  Her latest Young Adult narrative non-fiction book, FROM A WHISPER TO A RALLYING CRY: The Killing of Vincent Chin and the Trial that Galvanized the Asian American Movement, is from Norton Young Readers (W.W. Norton & Company). Her books have won many awards, including IRA Notables, Junior Guild Library Selections, and starred reviews from Kirkus.                 Paula's TV credits include Freeform's Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists, The CW's Supergirl, SyFy's Defiance, and Eureka, Amazon's Mozart in the Jungle, and NBC's The West Wing. She has also sold TV pilots and feature scripts.                 Paula is also a professional violinist, but not just as a hobby…she has played with the Southeast Symphony, Vicente Chamber Orchestra, Torrance Symphony, Glendale Philharmonic, and Detroit Civic Symphony Orchestra, toured and recorded with bands including Il Divo, No Doubt, Fun, Arthur Lee, Love Revisited and Spiritualized, and appeared on national TV shows and commercial spots, including A&E's The Two Coreys reality show and a United Airlines commercial. /// Topics we discuss:   Understanding what holds others backEveryone has a pattern Ask questions Walking away when necessary Her processHow she does all she does What she focuses on Identity ProcrastinationProductively and unproductively   References:   Paulayoo.com Texas Abortion decision AAPI history in Illinois mandate Vincent Chin From a Whisper to a Rallying Cry - Her Book Atlanta Spa Shootings Sundown Towns   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

  It's rare these days to get into the field you study in college, especially if you don't go onto a master's or Ph.D. program.  The rising costs of education make it more and more challenging to pursue a field that doesn't set you back financially for a lifetime and aligns with how you want to live your life. Brandon Stover is reimaging how to deliver education.   He envisions a practical approach that provides experiences, not just knowledge.  His ultimate goal is to educate people about the desire while improving the quality of education brought to an employer.    ///   Brandon Stover believes that the evolution of the world requires the development of the individual. His work strives to evolve the individual by liberating and educating others to have the belief, willpower, & skills to change their lives and discover a fulfilling purpose to change the lives of others.   As a founder, Brandon is launching a personalized, online university that combines a student's passions with skill building to solve the world's most significant challenges. Constantly evolving himself through learning, he is obsessed with delivering this power to others and scaling its impact.   As a podcaster, Brandon is also the host and producer of the Evolve Podcast, a show about how social innovators and founders can change the world. From climate change to education to mental health, he mines the wisdom of visionaries and experts for the tools and tactics to solve these global issues. He also created the Power To Podcast 90 day audio course, which teaches podcasting in just 10 minutes a day and has over 75K downloads to date.   Before these ventures, Brandon has half a decade of experience as a designer, marketer, and educator. His portfolio and body of work can be found at brandonstover.com.   /// Topics we discuss:   The role fear playedIt being energy for movement The Higher Education PlatformWhat he is building How it works What's the plan? What value you will get. Impact on hiring Education to Job Pipeline   References: Brandon - LinkedIn Brandonstover.com Benjamin Mathes - WebsiteEpisode with MIC Impact theory - Tom Billieu Evolvethe.world Power To Podcast Victor Frankel's - a man's search for meaning Our conversation on his podcast Conversation with Pete Mulroy Conversation with Jamil Smith   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

  Time continually evolves our needs and how we access those needs.  We have a thirst for knowledge and education, yet, it is increasingly less accessible to us.  Especially education that captures what we want out of life.  Giving us the practical experience to pursue what we know we are good at, but it falls outside the parameters of traditional education. We now can re-envision what education looks like for people and how it can be accessible and practical.  Brandon is thinking differently about giving access to continued education in a way that challenges the status quo.    ///   Brandon Stover believes that the evolution of the world requires the development of the individual. His work strives to evolve the individual by liberating and educating others to have the belief, willpower, & skills to change their lives and discover a fulfilling purpose to change the lives of others.   As a founder, Brandon is launching a personalized, online university that combines a student's passions with skill building to solve the world's most significant challenges. Constantly evolving himself through learning, he is obsessed with delivering this power to others and scaling its impact.   As a podcaster, Brandon is also the host and producer of the Evolve Podcast, a show about how social innovators and founders can change the world. From climate change to education to mental health, he mines the wisdom of visionaries and experts for the tools and tactics to solve these global issues. He also created the Power To Podcast 90 day audio course, which teaches podcasting in just 10 minutes a day and has over 75K downloads to date.   Before these ventures, Brandon has half a decade of experience as a designer, marketer, and educator. His portfolio and body of work can be found at brandonstover.com. /// Topics we discuss:   - Listening to Understand                 ○ Seek clarity                 ○ Validate another's emotions                 ○ Impact of Podcasting - Higher Education                 ○ Evolution of value                 ○ Is it the golden ticket? - Growing up                 ○ How it led to his awareness The challenges he faced References:   Brandon - LinkedIn Brandonstover.com Benjamin Mathes - WebsiteEpisode with MIC Impact theory - Tom Billieu Evolvethe.world Power To Podcast Victor Frankel's - a man's search for meaning Our conversation on his podcast Conversation with Pete Mulroy Conversation with Jamil Smith   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

Pursuing our dreams is not easy, and we want it to be, but it is a grind with daily effort to make our reality what we envision it. Jeremiah Smart is an excellent example of someone living that before his dream is fulfilled.  It is never easy, but it becomes easier when we achieve what we set out to do. However, in the early days, belief and a vision have to drive the perseverance to get where you want to be.  Jeremiah embodies that effort, and we are excited to be a part of his early journey.   ///   Today we are with Jeremiah Smart.  23 and from Baton Rouge, Louisiana.  Through his dreams, belief in self, hope, and faith, he fulfilled his life dreams.  Currently living in Los Angeles, he produces the Smartway Podcast, where he drops short, weekly pearls of hope and inspiration for anyone who needs a positive boost to their day.   He is an aspiring author and sets out every day to make just one person's life better.    /// Topics we discuss:   Being betterBetter than self Better off than parents What he has seen in lifeMaintaining Optimism ImpatienceComparing others Managing Patience What next year looks like for him   References: His Podcast - Smartway Podcast The Jen Ratio Addison Rae Tik Tok NBA Young Boy   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

So often, we look in the past to see how people have arrived at the present. It's easy to do because we can pick those we see as a "success" and wonder how they got there. What is impressive about this conversation with Jeremiah Smart is that we get to initially see someone with the dreams and vision for their future that has yet to pan out. We don't know where he will end up, but he does, and he will do what it takes to make a difference in this world.  This conversation is the beginning of his journey, and we are thrilled to bring that to you.    ///   Today we are with Jeremiah Smart.  23 and from Baton Rouge, Louisiana.  Through his dreams, belief in self, hope, and faith, he fulfilled his life dreams.  Currently living in Los Angeles, he produces the Smartway Podcast, where he drops short, weekly pearls of hope and inspiration for anyone who needs a positive boost to their day.   He is an aspiring author and sets out every day to make just one person's life better.  /// Topics we discuss:   Reading Body language What is a lie? Necessity of lying Fib vs. a lie Boundaries around lying Moving to CaliforniaWhat impact it has had Seeing other's purpose Seeing the best in others.Traveling to get perspective Leaving and pursuingKnowing self   References:   His Podcast - Smartway Podcast The Jen Ratio Addison Rae Tik Tok NBA Young Boy   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

  We all have a journey.  On our journey's we take many steps in every direction.  Sometimes, those steps have us walking in a circle, and it seems as if there is no way out. As we talk about Elizabeth's philosophy on taking small pivots, we learn about her story.  We learn about what her first Pivot was that sent her life in a direction she never thought possible. After 20 years in an abusive relationship, she took her first Pivot.  That led to many more, giving her the confidence to make big jumps that changed her life.  It's not always easy, but listening to Elizabeth's story may give you just enough inspiration to take that Pivot you need in your life.   /// Elizabeth A. Miles is an author, a certified life and business coach, a podcaster, and an entrepreneur. As the founder of March Forth Media Company, she is on a mission to help creatives find their unique style and voice and share their message with the world. Elizabeth is committed to assisting others in gaining the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to build a brand and business (and life) they love.   Elizabeth is the author of This Is Where You Pivot: The Shift from Fear to Freedom, The Journey to Healing: Love, Yourself, and Connect You: A Guide to Your Authentic Life. She is also the host of The Power to Pivot Podcast (available on Anchor, Apple, Spotify, and Amazon), where she interviews others who have chosen Pivot in their lives. Her blog features other creatives trying to spread their story and offers tools, tips, and resources for marketing and brand development.   Elizabeth is a Philadelphia native who loves baking and cooking, music, and spending time in nature. /// Topics we discuss:   What it was like before her choice to PivotHer pivot moment and what changed The damaging relationship The journey to getting to her first Pivot Growing up and her early influencesBeing bullied Finding her place What life is like todayListening to Intuition   References:   Big (The Movie)Zoltar Funko Pops Power to PivotWebsite Podcast Books Friends - Pivot segment   Credits:   Music: Central Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.   All music created by DJ Rufbeats

  In life, there are significant moments that change the direction we go.  There are also big moments we choose not to take for fear of the unknown and the amount of change all at once.  Many people say it is these moments that are necessary to pursue what you want out of life.  And, there is some truth to that. However, there are so many opportunities to take small steps toward what you want.  Little pivots that add up over time show what you can make that big moment easier. This perspective is shared fervently by Elizabeth Miles.  Her platform, Power to Pivot, helps us take those little pivots and appreciate the value that gives us on our path to the lives we want to live. /// Elizabeth A. Miles is an author, a certified life and business coach, a podcaster, and an entrepreneur. As the founder of March Forth Media Company, she is on a mission to help creatives find their unique style and voice and share their message with the world. Elizabeth is committed to assisting others to gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to build a brand and business (and life) they love.   Elizabeth is the author of This Is Where You Pivot: The Shift from Fear to Freedom, The Journey to Healing: Love, Yourself, and Connect You: A Guide to Your Authentic Life. She is also the host of The Power to Pivot Podcast (available on Anchor, Apple, Spotify, and Amazon), where she interviews others who have chosen Pivot in their lives. Her blog features other creatives trying to spread their story and offers tools, tips, and resources for marketing and brand development.   Elizabeth is a Philadelphia native who loves baking and cooking, music, and spending time in nature. /// Topics we discuss:   Understanding boundaries Taking small pivots vs. big leapsProving yourself you can make the change When to make big leaps How she learned to Pivot What is being an overnight success?Overnight stardom What is success?   References:   Big (The Movie)Zoltar Funko Pops Power to PivotWebsite Podcast Books Friends - Pivot segment   Credits:   Music: Central Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.   All music created by DJ Rufbeats

  When we pursue passions, especially in a group, a decision needs to be made that the pursuit of the thing will be a way to make money.  Making sure everyone is aligned to the goal while still maintaining the love for the thing is a challenge many people face.  How do we do this without selling ourselves out? Banana Chant has an amazing outlook on this balance, and as a group, they find that balance seamlessly. It's not easy, but they talk about it openly in an effort to make sure that it is the thing that drives them, not the money.    ///   Today is a More In Common first…a full band…Banana Chant.  They are an up-and-coming Alternative Rock Band located in Miami, Florida. With influences such as The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Young The Giant, Jimi Hendrix, and The Beatles, Banana Chant's music is deeply rooted in an authentic appreciation for good old-fashioned rock and roll.   A 4 piece band made up of Gilexson (Singer/Songwriter), Tanis Perez (Guitarist), Vanessa Faith (Bassist), and Doof (Drummer), Banana Chant strives to make music that they personally like to hear. It is not for monetary gain but for the love of music that keeps Banana Chant going. They have one EP released, "The Balloon Room," and an album, "Paying off Student Loans," which was released on March 20, 2021.   Their most recent video, "Floating," is the bands' self-proclaimed magnum opus.  A song about isolation and addition, providing a haunting ghostlike quality with relaxed drums and a colorful bassline. The chorus is euphoric as Gilexson's falsetto and Vanessa's harmonies drift directly into your heart.   /// Topics we discuss:   Balancing monetary goals and the purity of the music Understanding roles and strengths in a groupDivision of labor Their process of music creationBreaking news from Vanessa What 'Can't Believe' means from Gio himself   References: Banana Chant WebsiteAlbum - Paying off Student Loans Song - Floating Song - Milky Way Jason Derulo – Take You Dancing Miami Beach Condo Collapse   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

We all work with people with who we don't always see eye to eye.  Sometimes it's our closest relationships that challenge us the most.  Put those two together, and it can be a challenge to accomplish what you set out to. Banana Chant embodies the struggles and the way to resolve those struggles in order to accomplish the common goal.  A group that produces amazing music has to navigate the nuances of relationships, responsibilities, and the dynamics of a team environment.  Banana Chant gracefully navigates those challenges and tells us about it in Part 1 of this conversation.   ///   Today is a More In Common first…a full band…Banana Chant.  They are an up-and-coming Alternative Rock Band located in Miami, Florida. With influences such as The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Young The Giant, Jimi Hendrix, and The Beatles, Banana Chant's music is deeply rooted in an authentic appreciation for good old-fashioned rock and roll.   A 4 piece band made up of Gilexson (Singer/Songwriter), Tanis Perez (Guitarist), Vanessa Faith (Bassist), and Doof (Drummer), Banana Chant strives to make music that they personally like to hear. It is not for monetary gain but for the love of music that keeps Banana Chant going. They have one EP released, "The Balloon Room," and an album, "Paying off Student Loans," which was released on March 20, 2021.   Their most recent video, "Floating," is the bands' self-proclaimed magnum opus.  A song about isolation and addition, providing a haunting ghostlike quality with relaxed drums and a colorful bassline. The chorus is euphoric as Gilexson's falsetto, and Vanessa's harmonies drift directly into your heart. /// Topics we discuss:   Understanding the goals of a ConversationManaging emotions Listening as a mode of creation Managing the differences within the bandIndividual vs. band goals Finding the balance with Band and other priorities Managing Resent Their Origin story and what keeps them together   References:   Banana Chant WebsiteAlbum - Paying off Student Loans Song - Floating Song - Milky Way Jason Derulo – Take You Dancing Miami Beach Condo Collapse   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

So many things try to dictate how we act. It's easy to follow when we don't know who we really are.  In Part 2 of this conversation with Jessica, we really get into what it looks like to navigate acting most aligned to who you are and not what you are told. The navigation of self within the social structures of our social ecosystems is a balance many do not achieve.  Jessica gets into what this looks like for her as she is an example of what is truly possible to live a happy life.    ///   Today we are with Jessica Frew, co-host of the "Husband in Law" Podcast.  A podcast for those who are open-minded enough to let go of the religious and social norms they have been taught we should all fit into.                 Steve, Jessica, and Matt walk through the science of making a relationship successful.  Steve and Jessica were happily married for seven years until Steve came out as being gay, which inevitably ended in divorce. Now, Matt and Jessica have been happily married for six years.                 Matt, Jessica, and Steve have a relationship that, by most standards, would be considered atypical.                 Sharing stories of love, marriage, children, divorce, the struggles of religious norms, homosexuality, and trying to be our best selves, this podcast holds nothing back and shares what most people are scared to talk about.                 Jessica is really passionate about Living a BOLD life and how it not only impacts us personally but also in the way we show up in our relationships.   /// Topics we discuss:   Managing judgementBeing divorced in the Mormon Church Accepting her ex husband Accepting a "Different" life Religious identityWhat being Mormon means to her Loving and not loving it at the same time Questioning Her journey of self-discoveryJournaling Helping others on their journey Parenting her child to be herself   References: Husband in Law Podcast Brene Brown Church of Jesus Christ Identity Covering   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

Life can be complex, with so many different influences on how we see ourselves.  Our identity is wrapped up in so many things that we can easily lose sight of who we really are. Jessica is a shining example of understanding yourself.  She carries many labels.  Those labels could easily cause her to act in a way that is expected by others. Yet, it doesn't change who she is.  She wears her labels with pride and still is able to maintain grace and acceptance of others.  Her compassion emanates from her, and her ability to be who she is with confidence gives her the greatest opportunity to leave a positive impact on this world.   ///   Today we are with Jessica Frew, co-host of the "Husband in Law" Podcast.  A podcast for those who are open-minded enough to let go of the religious and social norms they have been taught we should all fit into.                 Steve, Jessica, and Matt walk through the science of making a relationship successful.  Steve and Jessica were happily married for seven years until Steve came out as being gay, which inevitably ended in divorce. Now, Matt and Jessica have been happily married for six years.                 Matt, Jessica, and Steve have a relationship that, by most standards, would be considered atypical.                 Sharing stories of love, marriage, children, divorce, the struggles of religious norms, homosexuality, and trying to be our best selves, this podcast holds nothing back and shares what most people are scared to talk about.                 Jessica is really passionate about Living a BOLD life and how it not only impacts us personally but also in the way we show up in our relationships. /// Topics we discuss:   - Planning out difficult conversations Exploring the emotions Holding more than one emotions Taking space and time - Living a bold life Doing what feels right to you Showing up as yourself - Setting personal boundaries   References:   Husband in Law Podcast Brene Brown Church of Jesus Christ Identity Covering   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

  Our perspective is dramatically shaped by our personal experiences.  Hearing how other people perceive based on their lived experience is a great way to expand your perspective.   In America, we see change as slow and rarely accomplished.  However, when you talk to someone from another country, their perspective of slowness is very different because it truly does take a lifetime for change to occur.   Carlos provides a great perspective on cultural change in this part of the conversation.  Maybe it will help you see a different point of view.    ///   Today we are with Carlos "Lonelez" Rosario Gonzalez.  Lonelez began his journey in the music industry as a graphic designer. Having designed for names such as Ozuna, Mozart La Para, J Alvarez, and Natti Natasha, he discovered that his true passion was in music production. Soon, Lonelez began to remix popular songs and it wasn't long until his remixes began to garner favorable attention.                   His trap remix of Daddy Yankee's Shaky Shaky became an internet sensation, and his bachata remix of Plan B's Fanatica Sensual was danced all over the world. In 2021, his reggaeton remix of Taylor Swift's Willow became a viral sound on TikTok.                 He is now putting lyrics to his beats and, after releasing his first independent album Atraccion in 2018, and recently released his EP LaRomcom. His songs are those of love, adventure, party-going, and fun, with a bilingual touch that's purely unique to Lonelez.                 Carlos also has written the romance novel series "The Bohemians".   /// Topics we discuss:   Machismo and his mindset about it Speed of cultural change U.S. vs Dominican The influence of his art on others Vulnerability Falling in love Transforming who he is Trusting yourself and what is Reluctance moving to New York Music as his future The story behind LoneLez   References: Carlos' Books Carlos' Music Hinduism's definitions of Gender F.E.A.R - Face Everything and Rise Shaky Shaky Remix   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

  We create labels to simplify how we see the world. It's an important part of how our brain works.   However, those labels can, and often do, cheat us out of really getting to know someone.   Carlos is a musician. It's easy to come to this conversation with a lot of biases and assumptions based on that one label alone.   What you learn about Carlos in this episode though will change how you look at him as a musician.  This conversation is a great example of how our assumptions can limit our ability to truly know what someone wants from life and who they are.   ///   Today we are with Carlos "Lonelez" Rosario Gonzalez.  Lonelez began his journey in the music industry as a graphic designer. Having designed for names such as Ozuna, Mozart La Para, J Alvarez, and Natti Natasha, he discovered that his true passion was in music production. Soon, Lonelez began to remix popular songs, and it wasn't long until his remixes began to garner favorable attention.                   His trap remix of Daddy Yankee's Shaky Shaky became an internet sensation, and his bachata remix of Plan B's Fanatica Sensual was danced all over the world. In 2021, his reggaeton remix of Taylor Swift's Willow became a viral sound on TikTok.                 He is now putting lyrics to his beats and after releasing his first independent album Atraccion in 2018, and recently released his EP LaRomcom. His songs are those of love, adventure, party-going, and fun, with a bilingual touch that's purely unique to Lonelez.                 Carlos also has written the romance novel series "The Bohemians."   /// Topics we discuss:   Smile to defuse                 ○ Authentically Smiling                 ○ Finding the best in others Masculinity as a Social Construct                 ○ His novels                 ○ Being ourself                 ○ What it's like in the Dominican Republic Influence of his childhood on his decisions                 ○ Self-Identity Fear and how he shows up through it and with it References: Carlos' Books Carlos' Music Hinduism's definitions of Gender F.E.A.R - Face Everything and Rise Shaky Shaky Remix   Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

Meditation is amazing.  It helps us focus, learn calm, train being present, and can help us rewire how we think about the world. What if you can't meditate? Is it not for you?     So many actually have a hard time meditating. It's a learned skill, and not everyone can access it.  The truth is, many feel like they are broken because they can't do it.  They are missing out on something people swear by and are left out of a cultural movement. Do you feel that way?  This conversation presents another option.  The key isn't meditation.  Rather, it's about finding the opportunity to train to be present, learning calm, and being focused on what is in front of you. ///   Today we are with Lincoln Hoppe. Crazy fact, he is actually related to Abraham Lincoln and was named after him.   Lincoln is a film actor in Los Angles and is the lead in a feature called Witnesses that hit theaters on June 4th.  It was top 10 for box office sales and made it up to the top 6. It was the #1 faith-based film.   He is also a produced feature screenwriter and multi-award winner audiobook narrator and voice actor.  And, if not enough, is an acting and improvisation teacher at Playhouse west and Meisner school in North Hollywood.   He is passionate about improvisation. He believes strongly that improv is not just for improv shows and auditions, but it's healthy for the brain, as it skyrockets skills of creativity, spontaneity, and confidence. He has a complete video on demand course called improv wizards…   He loves to hike, play stringed instruments such as Guitar, mandolin, bass, dulcimer, Bouziki… loves board games, and dungeons and dragons.   Oh, and he has 5 kids. /// Topics we discuss: Learning to take a breath Improv as a value to lifePlay Listening Creativity and presence Online Improv courses and their value Being an adult at play How he found his path to ActingThe story of how he found Improv The community of Improv and non-judgment References: Lincoln's Website @lincolnhoppe Facebook - Lincoln Actor Their Online Course - Improv Wizards Wayne Brady and Marc Rebillet - YouTube collaboration The Last Good War - Student Film Saints and Soldiers, Airborne Creed - Film Witnesses Martin Harris – Played by Lincoln in Witnesses Credits:   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

Meditation is amazing.  It helps us focus, learn calm, train being present, and can help us rewire how we think about the world. What if you can't meditate? Is it not for you?     So many actually have a hard time meditating. It's a learned skill, and not everyone can access it.  The truth is, many feel like they are broken because they can't do it.  They are missing out on something people swear by and are left out of a cultural movement. Do you feel that way?  This conversation presents another option.  The key isn't meditation.  Rather, it's about finding the opportunity to train to be present, learning calm, and being focused on what is in front of you.   ///   Today we are with Lincoln Hoppe. Crazy fact, he is actually related to Abraham Lincoln and was named after him. Lincoln is a film actor in Los Angles and is the lead in a feature called Witnesses that hit theaters on June 4th.  It was top 10 for box office sales and made it up to the top 6. It was the #1 faith-based film. He is also a produced feature screenwriter and multi-award winner audiobook narrator and voice actor.  And, if not enough, is an acting and improvisation teacher at Playhouse west and Meisner school in North Hollywood. He is passionate about improvisation. He believes strongly that improv is not just for improv shows and auditions, but it's healthy for the brain, as it skyrockets skills of creativity, spontaneity, and confidence. He has a complete video on demand course called improv wizards… He loves to hike, play stringed instruments such as Guitar, mandolin, bass, dulcimer, Bouziki… loves board games, and dungeons and dragons. Oh, and he has 5 kids. ///   Topics we discuss: Learning to take a breath Improv as a value to life Play Listening Creativity and presence Online Improv courses and their value Being an adult at play How he found his path to Acting The story of how he found Improv The community of Improv and non-judgment References: Lincoln's Website @lincolnhoppe Facebook - Lincoln Actor Their Online Course - Improv Wizards Wayne Brady and Marc Rebillet - YouTube collaboration The Last Good War - Student Film Saints and Soldiers, Airborne Creed - Film Witnesses Martin Harris – Played by Lincoln in Witnesses   Credits: Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

What stands in your way of feeling accomplished?   Is it your habits or behaviors?    Our guest Melissa Stecher is a mom, owner, creator, and a master of taking control of her life. She's walked the long road of changing habits, behaviors, and her mindset to bring hope into her life. Her inspiring conversation provides hope to others that they to can do the same.   ///   Today we are with Melissa Stecher.  She is the owner & creator of Hopeful Simplicity. In 2017 she reached her snapping point. As a mom, full-time employee, co-parent, blending families, some personal health issues and still being asked all those 'at-home' questions like 'what's for dinner?' she broke.   She was angry and tired all the time and knew that wasn't the person she wanted to be. This is when she started swapping. Swapping bad habits for better ones, like making her bed each morning just to feel like she was accomplishing something each day.   They swapped harsh chemical products for natural options and the whole home team started cleaning. They even swapped unsuccessful organizing systems for compromised successes. In 2018 she took a leap of faith in herself and got certified as a professional organizer. Now, not only does she get to save time, save money and live less stressed but she gets to help others find Hope in their chaos & clutter. ///   Topics we discuss: Just shutting up What it means to pull too hard-to-get information Introversion and extroversion Collaborating with different personalities Managing energy when working with others Being a Nerd Gender Roles within Family Making a collaborative household of responsibility   References:   Chris Hemsworth Chris Evans - Body Image issues Reference to Ashwin's Episode Gen Con Harley Quinn Funko Pops Hopeful Simplicity   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

What stands in your way of feeling accomplished?   Is it your habits or behaviors?    Our guest Melissa Stecher is a mom, owner, creator, and a master of taking control of her life. She's walked the long road of changing habits, behaviors, and her mindset to bring hope into her life. Her inspiring conversation provides hope to others that they to can do the same.   ///   Today we are with Melissa Stecher.  She is the owner & creator of Hopeful Simplicity. In 2017 she reached her snapping point. As a mom, full-time employee, co-parent, blending families, some personal health issues and still being asked all those 'at-home' questions like 'what's for dinner?' she broke.   She was angry and tired all the time and knew that wasn't the person she wanted to be. This is when she started swapping. Swapping bad habits for better ones, like making her bed each morning just to feel like she was accomplishing something each day.   They swapped harsh chemical products for natural options and the whole home team started cleaning. They even swapped unsuccessful organizing systems for compromised successes. In 2018 she took a leap of faith in herself and got certified as a professional organizer. Now, not only does she get to save time, save money and live less stressed but she gets to help others find Hope in their chaos & clutter. ///   Topics we discuss: Just shutting up What it means to pull too hard-to-get information Introversion and extroversion Collaborating with different personalities Managing energy when working with others Being a Nerd Gender Roles within Family Making a collaborative household of responsibility References: Chris Hemsworth Chris Evans - Body Image issues Reference to Ashwin's Episode Gen Con Harley Quinn Funko Pops Hopeful Simplicity Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

What is culture?  Do you think we have a common, national culture?   It’s complicated…   Culture is an amalgamation of ideas, histories, life experiences and many other things.  Every culture has subcultures, and the more connected we become the more culture becomes dispersed. This is a challenge for many as we look to define what our common culture is and could be.  In this conversation with Ashwin, we talk deeply about what that looks like.  And we dig in on some ideas that could easily be chalked up to biases and prejudices.  But, with listening and deep questioning, we really understand where the ideas come from. Not just base them on the comments made.    ///   Today we are with Ashwin Chacko.  Ashwin is a multi-disciplined illustrator, designer & hand-letterer, working and living in Dublin. He develops and designs conceptual illustrations for advertising campaigns, products, packaging, editorials, children’s books and one off commissions from around the world. He has published 3 books, "Little Optimist", "Keep At It", and the Children's book "What wondrous Shapes We Are".  His style is influenced by contemporary culture and is rooted in his love for music, comics, tattoos and street art. He loves telling stories, and is interested in uncovering the social interactions that drive culture.   He seeks to capture these moments in bold lines & shapes.  His compositions focuses on a strong use of characters intermingled with typography and patterns. He aims to help brands bring people together through the stories embedded in his illustrations. ///   Topics we discuss: Listening and Asking questions as key to navigating conversation Culture and what shapes culture Current cultural norms and changes Representation in the arts Telling Stories Making choices   References: Ashwin's Books Ashwin's Website Culture Mores Jordan Peterson (YouTube) Ethos   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

What is culture?  Do you think we have a common, national culture?   It’s complicated…   Culture is an amalgamation of ideas, histories, life experiences and many other things.  Every culture has subcultures, and the more connected we become the more culture becomes dispersed. This is a challenge for many as we look to define what our common culture is and could be.  In this conversation with Ashwin, we talk deeply about what that looks like.  And we dig in on some ideas that could easily be chalked up to biases and prejudices.  But, with listening and deep questioning, we really understand where the ideas come from. Not just base them on the comments made.    ///   Today we are with Ashwin Chacko.  Ashwin is a multi-disciplined illustrator, designer & hand-letterer, working and living in Dublin. He develops and designs conceptual illustrations for advertising campaigns, products, packaging, editorials, children’s books and one off commissions from around the world. He has published 3 books, "Little Optimist", "Keep At It", and the Children's book "What wondrous Shapes We Are".  His style is influenced by contemporary culture and is rooted in his love for music, comics, tattoos and street art. He loves telling stories, and is interested in uncovering the social interactions that drive culture.   He seeks to capture these moments in bold lines & shapes.  His compositions focuses on a strong use of characters intermingled with typography and patterns. He aims to help brands bring people together through the stories embedded in his illustrations. ///   Topics we discuss: Listening and Asking questions as key to navigating conversation Culture and what shapes culture Current cultural norms and changes Representation in the arts Telling Stories Making choices   References: Ashwin's Books Ashwin's Website Culture Mores Jordan Peterson (YouTube) Ethos   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

“My goal is not to feel like a good person, my goal is to make sure they're okay right now.” - Natalie Christensen   The power of investing in yourself and your identity is truly powerful.   But do you know how powerful it can be?   Our guest Natalie Christensen demonstrates this power in her chosen domain of film. As a film creator she reimagines ways in which she can implement characters of diversity not typical of their common stereotyped characters. But rather give them a role that redefines the way we previously viewed them. As a woman of mixed ethnicity, Natalie demonstrates the power of identity through her compassion and desire to share her love of film. As for the wider audience, the call for change and creativity to be brought in the world is something that calls for a listen. Today we are with Natalie Christensen.  Natalie is a second-year film production student in the School of Film and Television at Loyola Marymount University.   Her films and screenplays have won and been selected in festivals and screenplay competitions across the United States.   Along with her film, she has been a pianist for fourteen years, and produces music scores as well as solo work. In 2020 she released her sophomore album "Accidental Wine" under the artist name Renaissance Woman.   She is also an activist who organized and created a protest group in 2020 called Henrico Justice in her county in Virginia, which held three successful protests until she returned to school. More recently, she planned a Black-Asian Solidarity March in Los Angeles and formed an API Student Coalition at her university.   Her art focuses around pressing issues in the world today, and stories she believes can change the world for the better. ///   Topics we discuss: Compassion Defining difficult conversations "Making others feel a certain way" Emotional IQ Directing Being a leader and being vulnerable Vulnerability Racism…not just teaching white people Mixed Race Internalized Racism Her experience with racism Dynamics of API and the monolith of API   References: Her Movie Non-Violent Communication (Book) Takada Rooks' episode with M.I.C. Episode with Dr. Grant Green Book (Movie) Perspective Readers Model Minority

“My goal is not to feel like a good person, my goal is to make sure they're okay right now.” - Natalie Christensen   The power of investing in yourself and your identity is truly powerful.   But do you know how powerful it can be?   Our guest Natalie Christensen demonstrates this power in her chosen domain of film. As a film creator she reimagines ways in which she can implement characters of diversity not typical of their common stereotyped characters. But rather give them a role that redefines the way we previously viewed them. As a woman of mixed ethnicity, Natalie demonstrates the power of identity through her compassion and desire to share her love of film. As for the wider audience, the call for change and creativity to be brought in the world is something that calls for a listen. Today we are with Natalie Christensen.  Natalie is a second-year film production student in the School of Film and Television at Loyola Marymount University.   Her films and screenplays have won and been selected in festivals and screenplay competitions across the United States.   Along with her film, she has been a pianist for fourteen years, and produces music scores as well as solo work. In 2020 she released her sophomore album "Accidental Wine" under the artist name Renaissance Woman.   She is also an activist who organized and created a protest group in 2020 called Henrico Justice in her county in Virginia, which held three successful protests until she returned to school. More recently, she planned a Black-Asian Solidarity March in Los Angeles and formed an API Student Coalition at her university.   Her art focuses around pressing issues in the world today, and stories she believes can change the world for the better. ///   Topics we discuss: Compassion Defining difficult conversations "Making others feel a certain way" Emotional IQ Directing Being a leader and being vulnerable Vulnerability Racism…not just teaching white people Mixed Race Internalized Racism Her experience with racism Dynamics of API and the monolith of API   References: Her Movie Non-Violent Communication (Book) Takada Rooks' episode with M.I.C. Episode with Dr. Grant Green Book (Movie) Perspective Readers Model Minority

“No wonder I felt awful, because I was saying awful things to myself” - Yvonne Marchese   What helps you answer and explore the question, who are you?   Answers will vary.   At the most simplistic level, responses to this question can be found in aspects of our life such as passions and self-reflection.   In addition, this question can be reflected in how we respond and treat others, or better yet how we treat ourselves.   Since August is dedicated to the pursuit of happiness, a conversation of becoming one with yourself couldn’t be better timing.   How you can learn to answer the question of who we are, introduces our guest this week, Yvonne Marchese. She joins us in conversation to share her life journey and passions with us. She removes the boundaries placed on her, by her ability to be one with herself which she has found to make the presence of a new day and the present an exciting journey.   Yvonne Marchese is the host of the Late Bloomer Living Podcast, a professional photographer, mom, wife and serial pivoter.   She grew up in El Paso, Texas. In her twenties she sold everything she owned to follow a lifelong dream... moving to New York City where she worked as an actress for 10 years.   She now lives in Norwalk, CT, telling people's stories with her camera and a microphone. Yvonne is of the opinion that stories can change lives… maybe not in an instant, but in laying the seeds of possibility. She's someone who works every day to embrace big, scary, beautiful change and believes it’s never too late to pursue a dream.   It's that belief that led her to start a photography business in her 40s and a podcast in her 50s. She is on a mission to redefine society's ideas on aging and exploring how to live a life by design. ///   Topics we discuss: Staying curious My reaction to situations. Focusing on yourself Ask about experience not opinion Negative self-talk Negative self-talk is a bad habit. You learn to place limits on yourself. Mediating and exercises 30-day experiment Getting energy from telling stories Helped create excitement in her life. The limit is yourself Found peace in mediation and exercise. How we determine the outcome of our life. Learning to love the process. Raising kids Independence takes over. The joy they provide. How perspectives change.   References: Mel Robbins Book (5 second rule) Simone Knego's Episode Psychology of Belief (Book) Plotzing - Definition Podcast: The Longest Shortest time   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

“No wonder I felt awful, because I was saying awful things to myself” - Yvonne Marchese   What helps you answer and explore the question, who are you?   Answers will vary.   At the most simplistic level, responses to this question can be found in aspects of our life such as passions and self-reflection.   In addition, this question can be reflected in how we respond and treat others, or better yet how we treat ourselves.   Since August is dedicated to the pursuit of happiness, a conversation of becoming one with yourself couldn’t be better timing.   How you can learn to answer the question of who we are, introduces our guest this week, Yvonne Marchese. She joins us in conversation to share her life journey and passions with us. She removes the boundaries placed on her, by her ability to be one with herself which she has found to make the presence of a new day and the present an exciting journey.   Yvonne Marchese is the host of the Late Bloomer Living Podcast, a professional photographer, mom, wife and serial pivoter.   She grew up in El Paso, Texas. In her twenties she sold everything she owned to follow a lifelong dream... moving to New York City where she worked as an actress for 10 years.   She now lives in Norwalk, CT, telling people's stories with her camera and a microphone. Yvonne is of the opinion that stories can change lives… maybe not in an instant, but in laying the seeds of possibility. She's someone who works every day to embrace big, scary, beautiful change and believes it’s never too late to pursue a dream.   It's that belief that led her to start a photography business in her 40s and a podcast in her 50s. She is on a mission to redefine society's ideas on aging and exploring how to live a life by design. ///   Topics we discuss: Staying curious My reaction to situations. Focusing on yourself Ask about experience not opinion Negative self-talk Negative self-talk is a bad habit. You learn to place limits on yourself. Mediating and exercises 30-day experiment Getting energy from telling stories Helped create excitement in her life. The limit is yourself Found peace in mediation and exercise. How we determine the outcome of our life. Learning to love the process. Raising kids Independence takes over. The joy they provide. How perspectives change.   References: Mel Robbins Book (5 second rule) Simone Knego's Episode Psychology of Belief (Book) Plotzing - Definition Podcast: The Longest Shortest time   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

  “Prioritize the relationship over being right.” - Benjamin Mathes    How much power do you give your ego?    Our minds are constantly at war with our ego. This war can stunt growth and the ability to reach our true potential because, with ego there is pride.    Our Guest Benjamin Mathes encourages us to unravel the layers we have built protecting our ego. Once we allow those layers to unravel, we can then find the importance of creating a “Healthy ego”. But first, we must witness our ego without passing judgment.    Today we are with Benjamin Mathes.  Benjamin has been an actor for over 20 years. On film, television, and stage he has worked with artists such as Clint Eastwood,  Alan Arkin, Sam Raimi, Bradley Cooper, Andy Garcia, Chris Rock, and Brian Grazer.   He has served as an acting coach for Warner Brothers, HBO, and currently for Netflix. Internationally, he runs acting retreats in Ireland, and his career workshops have been held around the world. He is a certified Associate Teacher of Fitzmaurice Voicework®, and has served as vocal and dialect coach for major motion pictures, network television, and theatres around the country.   He is the author of four books: Thought Lozenges for Artists; a daringly optimistic, “open-where-you-want” look into the creative process. “CRASH: Unstuck Yourself”, a guided journal designed to directly combat the blocks holding us from our creative potential.  “You, the Career” offers a holistic approach to life and art that allows you to have the career you want without losing the person you are.  His most recent book, “Short Paragraphs on Listening”, draws from his experience Free Listening on the streets and is an open-where-you-want book about the power of listening.   Lastly, if that's not enough, Benjamin is the founder of Urban Confessional: A Free Listening Movement. Started as a way to challenge conventional actor training, Urban Confessional is a community of artists who believe people should be heard. They stand on street corners all over the world with signs that say "Free Listening" — and you can imagine what happens next. Their work has been featured in magazines, academic publications, and blogs, and on radio and television.  And is now in over 70 countries with thousands of volunteers. ///   Topics we discuss: Shutting up Keeps the ego in check. Prioritize relationships over being right. Cooling down the need to dominate. Is there anything you have left to say? Allows you to fully hear the person. How you can close a conversation. Prioritizes well -being. Understanding your own ego He learned from religious and artistic practices. Helping people develop a healthy version of the ego. Divorce helped investigate his ego. Practical explanation of ego Ego is not the problem, our relationship with ego is the problem. We can over define ourselves. If we ignore our differences, it hurts the healthy ego. Kids vs. Adults Younger kids have a healthier ego. As you grow you create an unhealthier sense of ego. References: Bluey on Disney+ Urban Confessional Free Listening Tristan Coopersmith Episode

  “Prioritize the relationship over being right.” - Benjamin Mathes    How much power do you give your ego?    Our minds are constantly at war with our ego. This war can stunt growth and the ability to reach our true potential because, with ego there is pride.    Our Guest Benjamin Mathes encourages us to unravel the layers we have built protecting our ego. Once we allow those layers to unravel, we can then find the importance of creating a “Healthy ego”. But first, we must witness our ego without passing judgment.    Today we are with Benjamin Mathes.  Benjamin has been an actor for over 20 years. On film, television, and stage he has worked with artists such as Clint Eastwood,  Alan Arkin, Sam Raimi, Bradley Cooper, Andy Garcia, Chris Rock, and Brian Grazer.   He has served as an acting coach for Warner Brothers, HBO, and currently for Netflix. Internationally, he runs acting retreats in Ireland, and his career workshops have been held around the world. He is a certified Associate Teacher of Fitzmaurice Voicework®, and has served as vocal and dialect coach for major motion pictures, network television, and theatres around the country.   He is the author of four books: Thought Lozenges for Artists; a daringly optimistic, “open-where-you-want” look into the creative process. “CRASH: Unstuck Yourself”, a guided journal designed to directly combat the blocks holding us from our creative potential.  “You, the Career” offers a holistic approach to life and art that allows you to have the career you want without losing the person you are.  His most recent book, “Short Paragraphs on Listening”, draws from his experience Free Listening on the streets and is an open-where-you-want book about the power of listening.   Lastly, if that's not enough, Benjamin is the founder of Urban Confessional: A Free Listening Movement. Started as a way to challenge conventional actor training, Urban Confessional is a community of artists who believe people should be heard. They stand on street corners all over the world with signs that say "Free Listening" — and you can imagine what happens next. Their work has been featured in magazines, academic publications, and blogs, and on radio and television.  And is now in over 70 countries with thousands of volunteers. ///   Topics we discuss: Shutting up Keeps the ego in check. Prioritize relationships over being right. Cooling down the need to dominate. Is there anything you have left to say? Allows you to fully hear the person. How you can close a conversation. Prioritizes well -being. Understanding your own ego He learned from religious and artistic practices. Helping people develop a healthy version of the ego. Divorce helped investigate his ego. Practical explanation of ego Ego is not the problem, our relationship with ego is the problem. We can over define ourselves. If we ignore our differences, it hurts the healthy ego. Kids vs. Adults Younger kids have a healthier ego. As you grow you create an unhealthier sense of ego. References: Bluey on Disney+ Urban Confessional Free Listening Tristan Coopersmith Episode

Learn from whomever you meet and connect with” – Devin Larkins   How well do you listen?  How do you increase your capacity to listen? How do you define laziness?   Devin shares some really helpful functional tips for listening.  He is a good soul and feels like the friend and family member we all need.   Devin practices compassion often and shares how he does it.  He is a remind of the fact that we get both and good from our parents and those that come before us.  We also get to chose what we keep and how we then raise our own children.  This conversation is a meandering exploration of listening, parenting, compassion, and even the concept of laziness.   “Get 1% better each day” – Devin Larkins ///   Topics we discuss: Compassion Parenting Listening to children Allowing questioning What does it mean to be lazy Listening Justice and progress made   References:   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

Learn from whomever you meet and connect with” – Devin Larkins   How well do you listen?  How do you increase your capacity to listen? How do you define laziness?   Devin shares some really helpful functional tips for listening.  He is a good soul and feels like the friend and family member we all need.   Devin practices compassion often and shares how he does it.  He is a remind of the fact that we get both and good from our parents and those that come before us.  We also get to chose what we keep and how we then raise our own children.  This conversation is a meandering exploration of listening, parenting, compassion, and even the concept of laziness.   “Get 1% better each day” – Devin Larkins ///   Topics we discuss: Compassion Parenting Listening to children Allowing questioning What does it mean to be lazy Listening Justice and progress made   References:   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats  

Who’s a free thinker in your life?   True free thinkers are few and far between. At More In Common Podcast, the importance of hiring people who challenge what you're doing and thinking is what our guest, and former producer, Ruf Holmes reflected on. But he's much more than a producer; he's an individual filled with talent and creativity who never fails to offer great insight.   Now it’s his turn to take the mic as he reflects on his time as our producer, discusses his personal life and important current issues. Although it's the end of an era for our talented producer we thank him for the impact and dedication he displayed, we honor you! “Compassion most of all is listening and hearing”- Ruff Holmes.   Today we are with Felipe Blue.  He is More Than Therapy’s Founder, Lead Therapist, and Award-Winning Author Felipe helps families, couples, and individuals navigate the stages of their life by providing necessary coping skills for their emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.   He provides mental health and addictions therapy, family therapy, individual therapy, life coaching, peer support, supervision and consultations. When he is not attending to his or other’s mental health, he is a writer, producer and songwriter, poet, photographer, videographer, graphic artist, and more.   Topics we discuss: Growth over the two years with More in Common Clear and constant communication. Fear of the follow up got better. Learned how to understand people's personalities better. Editing and listening to conversations of guests Found many lessons in ways people view life. Offered a multitude of perspectives. False interpretation of the “Black agenda” The real agenda is to live and survive in this world. Misconception on what the meaning is, people view it in a negative light. It’s a way to live and think freely. Systems that are in place holding back groups Systematic racism simplified. All systems have a dramatic impact on success. References: His Website Jim Crow South Sharecropping Rainbow Row? "Sundownish" Forming of Australia   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

Who’s a free thinker in your life?   True free thinkers are few and far between. At More In Common Podcast, the importance of hiring people who challenge what you're doing and thinking is what our guest, and former producer, Ruf Holmes reflected on. But he's much more than a producer; he's an individual filled with talent and creativity who never fails to offer great insight.   Now it’s his turn to take the mic as he reflects on his time as our producer, discusses his personal life and important current issues. Although it's the end of an era for our talented producer we thank him for the impact and dedication he displayed, we honor you! “Compassion most of all is listening and hearing”- Ruff Holmes.   Today we are with Felipe Blue.  He is More Than Therapy’s Founder, Lead Therapist, and Award-Winning Author Felipe helps families, couples, and individuals navigate the stages of their life by providing necessary coping skills for their emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.   He provides mental health and addictions therapy, family therapy, individual therapy, life coaching, peer support, supervision and consultations. When he is not attending to his or other’s mental health, he is a writer, producer and songwriter, poet, photographer, videographer, graphic artist, and more.   Topics we discuss: Growth over the two years with More in Common Clear and constant communication. Fear of the follow up got better. Learned how to understand people's personalities better. Editing and listening to conversations of guests Found many lessons in ways people view life. Offered a multitude of perspectives. False interpretation of the “Black agenda” The real agenda is to live and survive in this world. Misconception on what the meaning is, people view it in a negative light. It’s a way to live and think freely. Systems that are in place holding back groups Systematic racism simplified. All systems have a dramatic impact on success. References: His Website Jim Crow South Sharecropping Rainbow Row? "Sundownish" Forming of Australia   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

Who’s a free thinker in your life?  True free thinkers are few and far between. At More In Common Podcast, the importance of hiring people who challenge what you're doing and thinking is what our guest, and former producer, Ruf Holmes reflected on. But he's much more than a producer; he's an individual filled with talent and creativity who never fails to offer great insight.   Now it’s his turn to take the mic as he reflects on his time as our producer, discusses his personal life and important current issues. Although it's the end of an era for our talented producer we thank him for the impact and dedication he displayed, we honor you!     “Compassion most of all is listening and hearing”- Ruff Holmes.  Today we are with our Producer who has done so much for this show.  Taking More In Common from once a month to once a week.  Challenging our ideas and making us better along the way.   Ruf Holmes is a jack of many trades.  He works in IT, edits and produces podcasts, and is an extremely talented artist.  In fact, he has produced all of the music you have heard for the past 2 years.      Topics we discuss:  Growth over the two years with More in Common  Clear and constant communication.  Fear of the follow up got better.  Learned how to understand people's personalities better.  Editing and listening to conversations of guests  Found many lessons in ways people view life.  Offered a multitude of perspectives.   False interpretation of the “Black agenda”  The real agenda is to live and survive in this world.  Misconception on what the meaning is, people view it in a negative light.  It’s a way to live and think freely.   Systems that are in place holding back groups   Systematic racism simplified.  All  systems have a dramatic impact on success.  References:   Patrick Furlong Episode  Dr. Grant's Episode  Legislation regulating Trans Rights  Jim Lowry's Episode  Chicago Shooting of 13 year old from March/April  Minnesota officer convicted   The Movie Get Out  The movie 10 years    Credits:  Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes     Music:  Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.  All music created by DJ Rufbeats 

What's your relationship with validation?   We often seek others' approval, in hopes that the external validation obtained will bring us something that we cannot provide for ourselves. However, this desire, not uncommon, only leaves us wanting more and feeling unfulfilled.   Once you change how you see yourself not only do you stop the need for validation, but you will change how you see the world entirely.  This journey is quite powerful.   Our guest Jason Primrose, found that embracing his desire for validation as something that is always present, gave him the awareness to work on it. This acknowledgment in his personal life, transferred into his life as a writer, by bringing and building a transformative world to his readers, that is authentic to who he is. “I think I can handle it is the thing you say when fear wants you to stop”- Jason Primrose.   Jason has been obsessed with conceptualizing alternate worlds and characters since childhood. Their origins were devised as allegorical and subconscious outlets that expressed both his trials and triumphs as an LGBTQ+ person of color and struggles with finding his voice, focus, and purpose as a multi-hyphenate creative. Out of this, the Lost Children of Andromeda universe was born.   Primrose does have a hopeful worldview, even in a current climate that does seem a work of apocalyptic fiction. It makes the nuances of his storytelling more thoughtful and relevant.   His creative gifts have powered a decade long career in creative strategy, digital and experiential. marketing, and influencer partnerships for key industries -- from beauty to tech, from fashion to entertainment.   Jason is still called on by agencies and brands alike to catapult products, messaging, and experiences to new-age consumers, championing diversity across all industries and campaigns.   Topics we discuss: Process of unlearning the need for validation. Belief that I need validation. Need for validation never goes away, you just become aware. You get to choose yourself. Childhood's impact As children we think everything is our fault. We then perceive the world from a different perspective. If needs are not meant, it shows up in patterns in our life. What happens when you listen to your ego? The ego is meant to protect. Have the ego sit next to you. What you resist, persists. Impact of writers Importance of independent publishing. Creating content to reach and inspire others. Overall vision for the universe A Universe to be a transformative experience that is global. All inclusive. The power of banding together. His upbringing Family allowed him to watch fantasia on repeat. Parents encouraged him to write. Spent a lot of time alone and creating.   References: No more mister nice guy (A book) Ontological Work His book - '205Z' Lost Children of Andromeda - His other book Jeremy Thatcher Dragon Hatcher (Book)   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

What's your relationship with validation?   We often seek others' approval, in hopes that the external validation obtained will bring us something that we cannot provide for ourselves. However, this desire, not uncommon, only leaves us wanting more and feeling unfulfilled.   Once you change how you see yourself not only do you stop the need for validation, but you will change how you see the world entirely.  This journey is quite powerful.   Our guest Jason Primrose, found that embracing his desire for validation as something that is always present, gave him the awareness to work on it. This acknowledgment in his personal life, transferred into his life as a writer, by bringing and building a transformative world to his readers, that is authentic to who he is. “I think I can handle it is the thing you say when fear wants you to stop”- Jason Primrose.   Jason has been obsessed with conceptualizing alternate worlds and characters since childhood. Their origins were devised as allegorical and subconscious outlets that expressed both his trials and triumphs as an LGBTQ+ person of color and struggles with finding his voice, focus, and purpose as a multi-hyphenate creative. Out of this, the Lost Children of Andromeda universe was born.   Primrose does have a hopeful worldview, even in a current climate that does seem a work of apocalyptic fiction. It makes the nuances of his storytelling more thoughtful and relevant.   His creative gifts have powered a decade long career in creative strategy, digital and experiential. marketing, and influencer partnerships for key industries -- from beauty to tech, from fashion to entertainment.   Jason is still called on by agencies and brands alike to catapult products, messaging, and experiences to new-age consumers, championing diversity across all industries and campaigns.   Topics we discuss: Process of unlearning the need for validation. Belief that I need validation. Need for validation never goes away, you just become aware. You get to choose yourself. Childhood's impact As children we think everything is our fault. We then perceive the world from a different perspective. If needs are not meant, it shows up in patterns in our life. What happens when you listen to your ego? The ego is meant to protect. Have the ego sit next to you. What you resist, persists. Impact of writers Importance of independent publishing. Creating content to reach and inspire others. Overall vision for the universe A Universe to be a transformative experience that is global. All inclusive. The power of banding together. His upbringing Family allowed him to watch fantasia on repeat. Parents encouraged him to write. Spent a lot of time alone and creating.   References: No more mister nice guy (A book) Ontological Work His book - '205Z' Lost Children of Andromeda - His other book Jeremy Thatcher Dragon Hatcher (Book)   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

Our daily lives revolve around communication.   When communication is ineffective, or lacking, the goals of companies and teams are on the line. Conversations take place numerous times throughout a day, and we can’t escape them.   Therefore, we must find a way to embrace them.   Our guests, Essential Partners, immerse us in the world of conversation and discuss how they create mission driven spaces structured on communication. They encourage our audience to lean into curiosity in hopes that engaging in conversations that help you learn a lot, not only about another person, but also yourself. “Taking time to focus on relationships creates better results” - Essential Partners   Today we are with Katie Hyten and John Sarrouf of Essential Partners.  They are Co-Executive Directors And John is the Director of Program development.   Founded in 1989, Essential Partners equips people to live and work better together in community by building trust and understanding across differences.   Katie joined the organization after completing her graduate studies at Tufts University's Fletcher School, where her research in religious conflicts focused on the need for effective communication in complex political issues.   Katie helped develop the first university-wide inter-religious institute at Pepperdine University. She has worked with Search for Common Ground in Lebanon, RESULTS Educational Fund in Washington, DC, and as a mediator in the Massachusetts District Courts.   John was first exposed to EP's work while studying in the master's program in dispute resolution at the University of Massachusetts in Boston. Since then, John has facilitated dialogues on issues such as sustainability, gender, Israel-Palestine, religious pluralism, and technology and sexuality.   John served as the Assistant Director of Difficult Dialogues at Clark University, where he taught dialogue to faculty and students. His private consulting work has focused on mediation and transforming conflict in small workgroups and non-profit boards.   Topics we discuss: Embracing your own curiosity Picking up on something someone said. How jobs intersect beliefs. Level of curiosity of self Why do we stay in conversations? “I” statements. Understanding that you know can step away. Relationships People feel justified that “I don't have to like you”. Build relationships through conversations. How people see things. Hope Hope more powerful than fear. It is the thing that brings you life. Tough conversions They are worth having. How do you have them? How do you view conflict? References: Their Website - Essential Partners Sophie Beren's Episode Synagaug shooting in Pittsburgh Shootings in GA spa Behave - Robert Sapolsky   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes

Our daily lives revolve around communication.   When communication is ineffective, or lacking, the goals of companies and teams are on the line. Conversations take place numerous times throughout a day, and we can’t escape them.   Therefore, we must find a way to embrace them.   Our guests, Essential Partners, immerse us in the world of conversation and discuss how they create mission driven spaces structured on communication. They encourage our audience to lean into curiosity in hopes that engaging in conversations that help you learn a lot, not only about another person, but also yourself. “Taking time to focus on relationships creates better results” - Essential Partners   Today we are with Katie Hyten and John Sarrouf of Essential Partners.  They are Co-Executive Directors And John is the Director of Program development.   Founded in 1989, Essential Partners equips people to live and work better together in community by building trust and understanding across differences.   Katie joined the organization after completing her graduate studies at Tufts University's Fletcher School, where her research in religious conflicts focused on the need for effective communication in complex political issues.   Katie helped develop the first university-wide inter-religious institute at Pepperdine University. She has worked with Search for Common Ground in Lebanon, RESULTS Educational Fund in Washington, DC, and as a mediator in the Massachusetts District Courts.   John was first exposed to EP's work while studying in the master's program in dispute resolution at the University of Massachusetts in Boston. Since then, John has facilitated dialogues on issues such as sustainability, gender, Israel-Palestine, religious pluralism, and technology and sexuality.   John served as the Assistant Director of Difficult Dialogues at Clark University, where he taught dialogue to faculty and students. His private consulting work has focused on mediation and transforming conflict in small workgroups and non-profit boards.   Topics we discuss: Embracing your own curiosity Picking up on something someone said. How jobs intersect beliefs. Level of curiosity of self Why do we stay in conversations? “I” statements. Understanding that you know can step away. Relationships People feel justified that “I don't have to like you”. Build relationships through conversations. How people see things. Hope Hope more powerful than fear. It is the thing that brings you life. Tough conversions They are worth having. How do you have them? How do you view conflict? References: Their Website - Essential Partners Sophie Beren's Episode Synagaug shooting in Pittsburgh Shootings in GA spa Behave - Robert Sapolsky   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes

What does being genuine look like?   Genuine people are simply who they are, all the time.   A genuine person forges their own unique path not fearing the opinions of others. Simply, they are comfortable and confident with who they are.   Our guest, TJ Bonaventura, discusses his journey to becoming the version of himself that feels genuine. In the past, his struggles of having a harsh inner critic constantly led him to feel low-self-esteem and self-doubt. Often, he found himself feeling disingenuous and like he had sold his soul.   But this is far from the truth today. He is currently a successful entrepreneur and creator of StudioPod Media. Being genuine has taught him how to be a better leader, how to surround himself with loving people and the importance of being happy, not content.   “I never want to be content I want to be happy” - TJ Bonaventura   TJ Bonaventura is the co-founder of StudioPod Media. A full-service podcast media and production company helping organizations and individuals create their podcasts.   A product of Washington State University, he spent his childhood split between a suburb of Detroit and San Francisco.   Initially, he dreamed of being in the NBA before being sucked into the silicon valley tech life. While always dreaming of being an entrepreneur, he hesitated in making that jump until finally coming to the conclusion that was the life he needed.   Topics we discuss: Navigating difficult conversations “Ask why” Is it from a genuine standpoint? If you agree or not, it becomes a healthy conversation. Radar Bullsh*t radar Sensing people's authenticity. Reflective in people Hes surrounded with Entrepreneurship Rid yourself of doubt. Make your own path. Trust your gut. How he’s built Strong inner critic “I never want to be content I want to be happy.” Taking a chance on yourself When to jump by mike Lewis Leadership Duty to motivate company. You must be wholehearted. References: SaaS Technology Definition (Software as a Service) 'When to Jump' - Mike Lewis Studio Pod Julian's Bio Page Episode about knowing your audience on their website   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

What are your thoughts on being a Christian?   Our brains have a natural tendency to automatically judge and compare which often prevents us from listening and connecting to another's way of living.   When you first read the word “Christian” you instantly internalize your own biases and reflect those on the person that you are describing.   The reality is our identities come from many different places and not one thing defines who we are. This is the brilliance of hearing Erik’s story. His tumultuous upbringing plagued by unfortunate circumstances of debt, rejection, and hopelessness all changed when we open his heart to Jesus.   On his journey his relationship with God, this soon became the foundation for his approach to life and relationships. For him being a Christian allowed him to maintain positivity in the face of negative circumstances, and approach life with love.   Sharing his story and message of embracing and loving people where they are at, suggests that we might have more in common with someone who at first sight we might judge. “Love people wherever they are at” -Erik Allen   Erik is truly a man of integrity, work ethic and an over-comer. Growing up with a complicated childhood and broken home, to raising himself from the age of 14.   Once Erik gave his life to Christ, his life completely turned around. He met a beautiful woman and a new chapter was written.   Now, Erik and his wife of nearly 15 years and their two children live in Northern Idaho and live a humble and blessed life. Together they are breaking the cycles handed down to them of addictions, depression, abuse, and lies. They are leaving a new legacy for their next generation built on a biblical foundation.   Along with being the sole provider for his family, Erik is an entrepreneur and avid MMA fan. Which he has created the best MMA podcast of the northwest, Top Rated MMA.  With his companies Top Rated MMA and The Erik Allen Show he lifts others up and gives back to the community and veterans through great organizations like Hire Heroes USA.   Erik might have been dealt a rough hand, but with the help of his Heavenly Father and a humble heart, Erik is taking each day as it comes and making it count.   Topics we discuss: His core values. Love people where they are at. Don’t pass judgement on others. When he wakes up in the morning, he views that as a win. Have a kind soul and be a good person. How he experiences Christ In the morning he goes to his office to play worship music. During the time in the office, he reflects on what he's grateful for. Relationship with other men who are Christ followers. What life was like growing up Parents got divorced and met other partners at a young age. His mother's new man was physically abusive to his mother. Never felt like being at his house. From the ages of 18-21 he moved 21 times. Journey He realized he had to clean up his act, and only he could do that. One day woke up and went cold turkey on all bad habits. The struggle at times to Maintaining the positive in tough times Sharing His personal struggles and story to the world Notion of how to share your story. Sharing his personal struggles felt like a huge weight off his shoulders. Wife was supportive and insightful on possible implications.   References: His 8 Minute Video His Podcast(website) Tom Bileu Erick Thomas Pete Vargas   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

What do you fight for?      Movements, religion, and love are a few of the many things people spend their lives fighting for.   When you find a cause or life purpose that ignites a burning passion within you, you will forever be destined to fight all your life to keep it alive and known.   A successful businessman, author, and our guest Jim Lowry embodies what it means to fight for that passion. For Jim, the burning passion is the desire to boost economic development and create wealth in minority communities.   In his book, he uses his life story and experiences to convey the advancements that are achieved through the analysis of history and willingness to learn. His life's work is a blueprint for future generations who are willing to ignite that same fire.    So, what will you fight for?      “Be diplomatic but be honest”-  James H.  Lowry     James H. Lowry is a business icon, sought after speaker, strategic advisor and nationally recognized workforce and supplier diversity expert and pioneer. Lowry was the first African American consultant for global consulting firm McKinsey & Company in 1968. Later, he became the first African American senior partner at the prestigious Boston Consulting Group, where he led the firm’s workforce diversity, ethnic marketing and minority business development consulting practice. Lowry continues to serve as a senior advisor to BCG, while heading his own private consulting firm, James H. Lowry & Associates.   In early 1960’s, Lowry was an associate director with the US Peace Corps, stationed in Lima, Peru, where he met Senator Robert F. Kennedy who recruited him to be a staffer at the new Bedford-Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation in Brooklyn. While there, he, along with Bed-Stuy resident and actress Roxie Roker, co-hosted the pioneering television show Inside Bedford-Stuyvesant, New York City’s first program written, produced and presented by blacks at a time when blacks were largely invisible on television, or seen only in news footage about riots, protests or crime. In 1985, Lowry also co-hosted the groundbreaking television show MBR: The Minority Business Report.   In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Lowry is a teacher, mentor and leader across sectors.   Lowry encapsulated his 30 plus years of experience in the field of minority business development in the book he co-authored in 2011, Minority Business Success: Refocusing on the American Dream. His new book, Change Agent: A Life Dedicated to Creating Wealth for Minorities, is an intimate memoir that demonstrates the power of iconic mentors and pivotal opportunities leveraged across the globe, and offers solutions to the ever-widening wealth gap that plagues black and brown communities today.    Topics we discuss:   Characterize success  Relationship with money   History of the Black community   Capitalism seems to perpetuate a scarcity mindset.  Big billionaires should flood money into black communities to help.    Importance of building a black partner ecosystem.  Reliance on the government.   Compassion  References:  Think and Grow Rich - Napoleon Hill  Change Agent - His Book  Francis Parker School - outside Chicago   Embryonic Democracy   PBS Documentary on the black church Produced by John Legend  Crab in the Barrel analogy  Lincoln's history of ending Slavery.  Dr. Grant's Episode  Pel Grants   John Thompson - Board of IBM/Microsoft  LBJ Quote   Illinois Reparations  Approval of Reparations in Reconstructions   Kent "Lock West" Episode with M.I.C.     Credits:  Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes     Music:  Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.  All music created by DJ Rufbeats 

  Have you ever wondered what box you fit into?   Naturally, our mind creates metaphorical boxes where we categorize ourselves and others. Many of us tend to find comfort and safety within our box, despite its restrictive nature.   Only a handful of people dare to step or think outside the box. Quite a cliche, we know.   Our guest Sherwyn Cooper is reflective of the achievement obtained when you step outside the box. His refusal to categorize himself and others drives this creative and compassionate conversation. With a wide variety of topics discussed, you're guaranteed to receive insight for ways in which you too can step outside of the box. “Find somebody successful and steal their knowledge,” - Sherwyn Cooper.   Today we are with Sherwyn Cooper.  Sherwyn was born in Boston and is an Ex-Software engineer who decided to go out on his own.   After stumbling upon Turo, a car sharing platform, while on vacation, he decided to get plugged into it and bought his first car creating his first side hustle.  After a year, he had 22 cars and was an entrepreneur ready to leave his career as a software engineer.   He also created a basketball recruiting channel on YouTube called BallasTV and recently started his podcast, 6 Figure Side Hustle.   Topics we discuss: ·         Background o   Born in Boston. o   Created Turo ride sharing. o   Was a software engineer because he was good at it not because he liked it. ·         Football Players and political views o   Tom Brady o   Colin Kaepernick o   Drew Brees ·         Pressure choosing sides in politics. o   Need to be demographic. o   Forced in a box. o   Idea that skin color is an automatic vote for one side. ·         Success to him o   Success is relationships. o   You are the average of who you hang out with. o   Be honest to what is going on. o   Money allows you to have options. ·         How he created his business o   Coached basketball and would have to rent 3- 15 passenger vans. o   He wanted the ability to drive a compact car for simple errands. o   Saw the need for cheap easy to use cars.   References: ·   2015 TB MAGA HAT ·   Psychological Safety ·   Joe Biden on the Breakfast Club ·   His business ·   Turo ride sharing ·   Vlad TV - DJ   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats

Competitive stress culture: have you experienced it and if so at what cost?   The competitive stress culture’s narrative of success pushes the idea that you must be constantly busy and stressed out to achieve a great amount of success. And if you are not stressed or busy, you are not that successful. Redefining success through self-reflection and mindfulness can reshape the emphasis and associated stressors we tie to success. Ultimately if you have lost a connection to yourself but are super successful, what does that really mean?   From firsthand experience, our guest, Dr. Jannell MacAulay, a former U.S Air Force leader and combat pilot, understands the pressure of high stress situations and the importance of succeeding.   In her career she notes how often she placed too much emphasis on achievement which stripped the joy from life. Currently she is a mindfulness advocate and shares her tools on creating the balance between harmony and work.   It is undeniable what it takes to reshape our mindset around success. You can achieve success without the cost of losing yourself. “ We get tied up with the narratives of what we do, that we disconnect from who we are” - Dr. Jannell MacAulay   A U.S. Air Force veteran, Dr. Jannell MacAulay has managed human performance under high-stress situations for over two decades. As a military leader and combat pilot, she experienced the same stress, frustration, and fears that leaders and teams in corporate America face daily in their personal and professional lives. Her own personal journey led to earning her Ph.D. with work in the field of strategic health and human performance.   With her innovative leadership style, she was the first leader to introduce mindfulness as a proactive performance strategy within the US military.   Dr. MacAulay is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, has a master's degree in Kinesiology from The Pennsylvania State University, and a Ph.D. with work in the field of strategic health & human performance. She is a certified wellness educator, yoga instructor, and holds a certificate in plant-based nutrition.   Jannell is a TEDx speaker and mother of two, who is on a mission to help leaders and organizations excel in high-stress and rugged environments, by showing them how to lean into each moment.   Topics we discuss: Career Background Sole female in flight class. 13 years lived with her career in the hustle, which led to constant stress and a lack of joy. Found that she lost a connection to herself but was super successful. Important self-reflection questions What do I value? How do I define success? What you do is important, but who are we and what really gives us purpose. The 5 L’s as a self-reflection tool; Labor, Laugh, Lead, Love, Learn. Managing stress Sounds counterintuitive; but you have to go slow to go fast. We should all want to accelerate our success, but in pursuit of that we lose a lot. If you get command of your mind on the pathway to success you won't have to lose a lot; this is contrary to what society says today. Productivity Define what it means to you and understand what distractions you face. Distraction is the number one distractor to our productivity. We put too much emphasis on achievement and outcome, versus what we can control. We can be productive and happy if we find that harmony. Everyone at their own version of their best makes the best team. Mindfulness Bringing awareness to the moment The ability to disconnect from the noise. We often focus on what could happen instead of being present. Yerkes-Dodson law of stress Mindfulness tools and training “Mental pushups”; strengthening our attention system to focus in the moment. “Mindful minute” before grabbing your phone and being mindful of what you're doing. Focus your “flashlight” on what is important in the moment.   References: Her website Sympathetic vs. parasympathic nervous systems Warriors Edge Mindfulness Eustress vs. Destress Mike Gervais   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats  

  To all the women out there, how hot are you feeling?   And we don’t mean looks; we’re talking menopause.   To all the men out there, take notes, this applies to you too.   The stigma surrounding menopause prevents many women from feeling comfortable discussing the natural aging processes of the female body. It's important to create an open dialogue for women to share their experiences and have a support system through this transition, so they are not alone.   Who better to discuss this with than the creators of “Getting Hotter”, Falguni and Kruti. They discuss their personal experiences with perimenopause, and the lack of dialogue they experienced even within their friendship. This lack of dialogue became the catalyst for creating “Getting Hotter”. The idea behind “Getting Hotter” was to create a space where women could gather and feel comfortable discussing this new transition in their life. Their arsenal of tools help women find support through a community undergoing these same changes. It also is a platform to create open dialogues with others in their life such as their partners. Creating a compassionate and supportive environment that empowers women to embrace the transition is only a part of the successes of “Getting Hotter”. Tune in for an important conversation meant for every gender so you can learn a few ways on how to support those important women in your life. “You can just let them know you're getting hotter” -Falguni and Kruti (Getting Hotter)    Falguni is a writer, director & media executive for Vice TV. A certified mindfulness coach who is an enthusiastic albeit sometimes impatient mother of an eight-year-old girl and a ten-year-old boy.   Kruti is an architect, designer, filmmaker and an all-around entrepreneurial mother of seven-year-old twins and their nine year old sister.   Both went through perimenopause, and although they are best friends, they didn't talk about it even though they were on the journey at the same time.  Thus, they co-founded getting Hotter.    Let's reinforce the message that women are only "Getting Hotter"!   Topics we discuss: Menopause journey You start to heat up and feel more irritable. Burning sensation running up to your head. You experience anger without realizing it. Depth breaths are used as a tool to become more aware. What is menopause? Technically the sensation of menstruation, without the cycle. After 12 months of the onset of symptoms you have no period anymore. Perimenopause: giant gray area that affects daily life. Does not only affect women, it affects their partners too. Most women are unaware there going through it. Cultural differences Some religions won’t let you go to the temple on your period, because your “unclean”. In India women were frowned upon when on their period. Considered it “dirty.” Menopause still told less than now, stigma. So much of this social stigma around the uncleanliness is handed down from cultures. Open conversations around Menopause: bringing it into the vernacular. How to have the conversation with men in your life. This affects partners and family members not only the woman. How to make the conversation normal. Understanding that women are programmed to think we're losing something when going through menopause. “Getting Hotter” as a means for menopause resources. Natural medicine. Provides a toolbox for dealing with Menopause. Facebook group chats.   References: Perimenopause Menopause Getting Hotter Web Site Hot Flash Their Facebook Group Chrissy Teigen Megan Thee Stallion Postpartum depression   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats  

“That could never be me.”   Have you ever heard or thought about this phrase before? Maybe when you were passing a homeless person on the street or discussing someone who’s political views differ from yours.   The ability to provide compassion to those who you dissociate from or disagree with, is the philosophy behind genuine compassion. Providing compassion to those who are likeminded is easy and comfortable.   Our guest Dane Flanigan emphasizes the importance of being comfortable when uncomfortable. This mindset and the entrepreneurial spirit, that he says is part of his DNA, have allowed him to embrace the fear of the unknown and chase his passions. All of which led him to where he is today-a successful CEO.   His self-reflective and positive outlook on past and present experiences reflects his affinity to always approach and see people with understanding eyes. He ultimately helps us recognize the interconnectedness of humanity and how positive life can be.  “In order to get to the positive place, we can’t be in the negative space”-Dane Flanigan   Dane Flanigan is originally from Cincinnati, Ohio. He graduated from Ohio State University with a major in Political Science and a minor in Economics. He attended school in Spain at the Spanish American Institute in Sevilla to study international business and the emergence of the European Union. He received his MBA in Los Angeles where he now lives.   Dane has an extensive experience in business management and team building. During his time as a consultant, he worked in corporate due diligence performing mergers and acquisitions.  His personal ventures include several real estate projects, starting Perfection Air Charter a private jet brokerage that was later sold to one of the large private jet operators in Texas and the DTLA speakeasy, Ebanos Crossing. He is now the CEO of ultraHealth Agency, a recruiting and staffing firm in Pasadena.  Dane believes in learning from everyone around him and equates his highest strength in life in his ability to listen.   Topics we discuss: Starting Businesses You cannot do everything at an elevated level. Picking up a new hobby of photography and starting at a low level. Creativity helps expand the brain. Believe in being consumed by the positive things in life. Professional Career Endeavors Became a corporate person when he graduated for a while. Got into real estate, allowed him to tap into his creative side. You must go with the market but with what interests you. Entrepreneurship was in his DNA. His parents provided with him with the importance of taking risks. Education was emphasized to him as the way to succeed. Lessons learned from getting into Health care. Who health care really is, and the people behind it. It's a 24-hour business, but health care professionals aren’t businesspeople. Different Hospitals have diverse cultures, with different goals and procedures. Ultra health takes a 180 approach, giving solutions to problems, but really listening to people. History and its importance We are the judge of choosing the things we like and don't. Learn what type of leader you do not want to be based on past leaders. Informs us how a society can be corrupted, Concluding remarks How can I be better? You do not have to be the same person as you were today. I want you to go out and being uncomfortable doing something for someone else. To get the positive, you must get away from the negative.   References: Balance Harmony Ultra Health Agency Wayne Gretzky Nikolai Tesla   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme: “Bad Soda” by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Inter-generational trauma is talked about a lot in the context of the oppressed.   Our guest, Dr. Donald Grant, has set out to discuss the full impacts of racism through the inter-generational trauma of the oppressor. Not as a matter of sympathy but a matter of completing the picture and truly breaking down the racist institutions and structures of this country.   We are all affected by the demons of our past, and Dr. Grant schools us with an in-depth conversation that is well worth the listen. “We have to be able to be honest and say, white people have been told throughout their generational history that they are better than other people” - Dr. Donald Grant     Dr. Donald E Grant Jr is an Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Impact practitioner and mental health expert who currently serves in two Executive Director roles: one with his boutique training and consulting firm Mindful Training Solutions and the other at Pacific Oaks College’s Center for Community and Social Impact (CCSI).   Dr Grant has a long history of direct mental health service delivery and administrative oversight for foster care systems, education systems and homeless mental wellness services. He is an international speaker and workshop facilitator, film and TV consultant and published author. His two books " A Moon for Us All" and “Black Men, Intergenerational Colonialism and Behavioral Health: A Noose Across Nations” are available now.    Topics we discuss: Overview of his research Research on children from family members in the Holocaust. Intergenerational experience with colonialism. How white generations have been impacted. Intergenerational lies of supremacy Oppressor's role is traumatic. Racism as an age bracket Inspiration for research and Occupation Looking at how this world is moving forward; we are constantly divided. Struggle within foster care; Darker skin children have a harder time getting adopted. White children don't have that comparable situation. Call to action Be honest how you experience “otherness”. Acknowledge your biases. Be willing to participate in the change that's occurring. References: “A Moon for Us All” “Black Men, Intergenerational Colonialism and Behavioral Health: A Noose Across Nations” Holocaust Black Lives Matter Defund the Police Merriam-Webster; Racism Hillbilly Elegy   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  “Grey to Color” by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

The experiences that come with aging are some of life's greatest lessons.  As we go about life creating new experiences, we are constantly guided by the past, influencing current decision making, perspective, and how we view ourselves. Our guest Simone Knego, discusses how her age and experiences have taught her important lessons which have changed her perspective of the world. Her experience of adopting three multicultural children has helped her acknowledge the importance of recognizing “we see color”.  This acknowledgment has taught her to honor diversity within her home, as not a means of disadvantage, but what makes us who we are.   Not only has she learned the power of acknowledging diversity, but the power of self-confidence. Looking back on her personal life experiences with self-confidence, she comments a noteworthy perspective, “Comparisons rob the joy out of life”.  Her past struggle with self-confidence encourages us to end comparisons and start embracing the person you are.    “You're not honoring that person if you don’t acknowledge who they are” -  Simone Knego   Simone Knego is a wife, a mother of 6 children and 3 dogs, a serial entrepreneur, a keynote speaker, and an author who is making major strides in the world. She began her professional life as a Certified Public Accountant in 1995 and in 2000, after settling in Sarasota, Florida, she went back to school to become a teacher, medical device sales, climbed Kilimanjaro. Being a teacher opened her eyes even further to the role schools can play in providing children with stability, especially those who may not experience the comfort of constancy at home.  She started getting involved with the Jewish Federation and after witnessing the difference that Jewish Federations can make locally across the globe, she was inspired to play a greater role and became a board member in 2016 of the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation.  This journey helped her realize that she had the ability to inspire others to dedicate time and resources to projects, both personal and charitable, that can make a difference in people's lives.  Finding a love for public speaking, and having written the book, "The Extraordinary, unordinary, You…She motivates others to see themselves differently so they can impact the world the way they were created to.   Topics we discuss: o   Embracing Diversity ·         Diversity within her family by adopting children; creating a multi-cultural family. ·         Embracing that “we see color.” ·         We’re all different in so many ways, and we need to embrace that. ·         It’s okay to ask questions and make mistakes, if your heart is true. o   Her family & Raising children.  ·         Six children, three adopted; one child from South Korea and two from Ethiopia ·         Raising her children to be good people ·         The importance of children knowing their loved. o   Not being hard on yourself ·         We look at life like what's the finish line not the journey. ·         We are our worst critic. ·         Alot of self-projections of what others would want. ·         Choose what you love and don't look back, these things change. o   Her experience with teaching ·         Valuable experiences ·         Ended up with a foster child for nine months. o   Self-confidence ·         You're not meant to be another person, therefore there should be no comparison. ·         Changing the way, you see yourself, not who you are. ·         Don't use the word “can’t” means you won't try. ·         Choosing to not put yourself down, for something that even isn't in the realm of your desire. ·         Don’t put limits on yourself; know your capable of all things.   References: ·   Simone Knego   ·   Her Book ·   James Baldwin Conversation Scooter Sent us ·   Adoption   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  “Lunch Notes and O’s” by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.  

Division is all around us. Division as we experience it today comes in the form of political affiliation, race and even religion. Conversations within these divided topics tend to become hostile and rarely conclude with understanding or peace; let alone a consensus.   Our guest Melissa Weintraub has dedicated her life to the facilitation of these conversations and deliberation amongst strong religious and political divides; specifically, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. These conflicts reflect the complicated creation of division that stems from our psychological perceptions and projections. Her commitment and dedication to peace gives hope for the prospect of peace throughout the world.   “These storylines, are what drives divide and societal chaos” - Melissa Weintraub   Melissa is the co-founding Executive Director of Resetting the Table, an organization dedicated to building dialogue and deliberation across political divides. Melissa was also the founding director of Encounter, an organization dedicated to strengthening the capacity of the Jewish people to be agents of change in resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Melissa was awarded the Grinnell Young Innovator for Social Justice Prize, which honors demonstrated leadership and extraordinary accomplishment in effecting positive social change. A noted speaker and educator, Melissa has lectured and taught in hundreds of public forums on four continents. She was ordained as a Conservative Rabbi at the Jewish Theological Seminary and graduated from Harvard University summa cum laude.   Topics we discuss:   Her upbringing influencing her career path. Gave her an ability to look for people who are excluded by circumstances. At an early age she found a passion for understanding all perspectives Curiosity for how people experience the world. Bridge building work in Israel and Palestine conflict Lack of mutual recognition is the heart of the conflict. Understanding each other's point of view would alleviate conflicts. How to get people to see each other's point of view Getting them to the table is the most difficult part. Suspicion and distrust are key struggles from all sides. Are you trying to make me betray my values and people behind? Fed up with dialogue without action. Anti-normalization All these dialogues can’t their pain and circumstances without action “Echo chamber” The Threat So much complexity and nuance to who I am, so don't put me in a box. Self-protection drives these self-destruction divides. More about losing themselves and betrayal. Outcome of her work Robust humanization I see you and you see me; An understanding that we are all human. Her work targets the differences not commonality amongst people. References:   Gift Pod Resetting the Table The West Bank Intifada Spirit of Anti Normalization Zach Metz Writing a book Hotel Corona- The Daily The Film Ted Talk from Nigerian Author   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Even Tables" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Women throughout history have demonstrated the power and strength to change the world, regardless of their circumstances.   Today those inspiring and empowering woman movements continue. Although these movements are positive, toxicity can still exist within.   As self-starter, entrepreneur, and a girl boss herself, Michelle Wintersteen offers a conversation that is motivating and honest. She comments on the power of these movements specifically, the toxic side of the Girl Boss culture. While sharing the notion that participating in a movement such as “Girl Boss” does not mean you can’t be critical of aspects within the movement.   There is no better way to celebrate Women in History month, then having a conversation full of positive success stories, honest conversation, and girl bosses.   “We can still be participants of a culture and be critical of them” - Michelle Wintersteen   Michelle aka MKW, is the Brand Designer and Creative Director behind MKW Creative Co. a freelance brand design firm helping to define, design, build and grow vibrant brands for social-media-minded entrepreneurs. The MKWCC brand is dedicated to designing original, unique & bold brands for today’s entrepreneurs and first-time business owners. Her style is bright, casual, honest, but also a little sassy, which reminds her to be thankful she has a job that aligns passion, purpose and personality every damn day.   She is passionate about creating communities around the themes of Branding, Marketing & Entrepreneurship. Whether it’s recording episodes for the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast, interviewing fellow entrepreneurs through desIGn Live, or co-hosting networking events with Level Community, she truly believes everyone benefits when businesses in our communities thrive.   Topics we discuss: Her upbringing and how it has impacted her entrepreneurship. Dad worked for a software company. Mom did interior design as a hobby. Started her first business endeavor as a junior/senior in college. Started off by creating logos for her art department. Girl boss culture The tendency for movements to be toxic. You can be critical of movement but still participate in it. Tendency at times to create a double standard. Censorship and terms and conditions You sign terms and conditions; A platform gets to decide regulation etc. How do we create a world people want to see? Age of curated information Issue of taking people at face value. Clubhouse, and the issues that come along with it; Becomes a liability to your brand. Branding Color theory Brag worthy brands The power of social media with branding Recognizability within brands Being intentional with design   References:   MKW Creative Brand Company James Baldwin and his quote about loving America but not loving everything about it. Brene Brown Girl Boss Club House Dumplin (The Movie) Space X   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Graphic Noted Dipped" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

It’s only human to question our purpose.    So often it seems impossible to pursue a life of purpose while we have bills piled up and food to eat. When we do pursue our purpose that choice doesn't always reflect our parent’s desire for our lives or societies life mold.   Isabelle Stillman represents a balance between having jobs she's passionate about while contributing to society in a way that gives back more than she could ever receive in return. And she still lives life with passion and joy.   Her pioneering mindset inspires us to do the same by redefining and challenging society's conceptual definition of success. Successively breaking the mold created for what life “should” be and instead being bold with our careers we feel passion toward.       " Artists perceive reality differently" - Isabelle Stillman      Isabelle Stillman, raised in Missouri, now living in L.A. as a guitarist, songwriter and singer began creating her album while working as a high school English teacher in Denver. Through a journey of self-realization, she would uproot herself to spend a year traveling on her first national tour, a momentum abruptly ended by the outbreak of the coronavirus. This massive change and the dismantling of her life as she knew it led Stillman to discover the beauty that comes from opening up, leading with heart, leaning into pain and confusion, and ultimately, letting go.   Stillman  often attributes her groundedness to her strong family life. She craved music from an early age, always singing and growing up with her parents’ music as the soundtrack. Stillman was a teenager when she first picked up guitar; but, school remained her primary focus. Systematic learning satiated her — the definition of “success” so clearly defined. Raised in a community that valued structure, Stillman embraced it. And yet her creativity continued to flow.  Her Latest album, Heartrender, speaks to the universal struggle of opening oneself to new possibilities and relationships — opening your heart to the full spectrum of life. It acknowledges the human condition as one of growth from tragedy, reinvention from discovery, and resilience from pain.   Abandoning the path of traditional genre and ignoring any guidelines, Heartrender is a celebration of self-awareness and the strength in surrendering control to the unexpected turns of a life less planned, cracked open, and more beautiful for it.     Topics we discuss:   Art and boundary's   artifact from creation   the journey- creative writing  the chateau, artist perceiving reality different, non-fiction  recreation of memory   creativity  creating amongst family   The journey   relationship with risk,    taking the risk   doing things big   Current space   talking to family   rethinking success     References:  Isabelle's website   Buy Her Album at Bandcamp  Ikigai  Gift Pod    Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes     Music:  Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.  Guest theme:  "Party Dress" by Isabelle Stillman 

Imagine checking a box asking you to define your ethnicity and yet there is no box that accurately represents you. Many people have experienced this issue when filling out forms of all kinds. It's the lack of versatility and accurate descriptions in those boxes that fail diverse individuals. Our guest Leona Maple discusses her personal life and the struggle of juggling all of her cultures and religions when moving to a place where it wasn't normal; like living a double life. She addresses the pressure to conform and mold into those around her.  She stands today embracing her diverse background. Her conversation of safe spaces, career, and explanations on intersectionality make for a conversation filled with passion and knowledge. Her ability to relate and articulate hard topics of conversation reflect her natural ability as a writer and embodies the mindset we all strive for.   “We can only do so much, so do what you can.” -  Leona Maple   Leona Maple (she/her) is a South Asian queer intersectional feminist and diversity consultant. She is all about making space for her fellow BIMPOC (Black, Indigenous, Mixed, and People of Color) folx and queer folx, through building communities and streamed shows aimed at growth in these marginalized communities, as well as through consulting work. Leona’s first brush with intersectional feminism was in a Facebook group, where other women of color educated each other on important concepts to reduce each other’s emotional labour. Since then, she has eagerly researched and read countless articles on intersectionality, including works by bell hooks, Kimberlé Crenshaw, and WEB DuBois. Leona’s passion for building safe spaces for BIMPOC and similarly marginalized communities stems from experiencing the healing effects of these spaces herself, in a BIMPOC only group that would meet in person in a private room. Having an opportunity to let your guard down as a woman of color is incredibly rare. Now, Leona actively seeks out people of color – and questions when this community is missing from a space. She is most proud of building a thriving BIMPOC community with Welcome To The Party, where Leona was a community discord moderator. She now runs Vibrant Legends with the Dicey Amazons. In addition to her experience in inclusion and diversity, Leona also has a communications background. She graduated from Simon Fraser University with a BA in Communications in 2019. Her degree gave her opportunities to examine the crossroads of intersectionality, feminism, and communications. She has worked with magazines, marketing teams, nonprofits, and small businesses on a wide array of things – press releases, marketing, event management, social media marketing, consulting, writing, and publishing. As a member of her local South Asian community, Leona is intimately familiar with South Asian diaspora’s cultural behaviors, Hinduism, Indian history and culture, and much more.   Topics we discuss: Emotional LaborConstantly explaining to others Cancel Culture Handling and managing Criticism From Family From others Juggling cultural identitiesManaging identity and what it means Intersectionality“Can't divorce your identities”.  Resistance to the idea Her Business Giving compassion especially when it is hard   References: W.E.B Dubois Dogpiling Doxing Model Minority D & D (Dungeons and Dragons) Desidirada   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Cheering crowds, blinding lights, and electric energies that run through arenas create an insatiable love for the game amongst all sports fans. This type of love is what our guest, Kwame Mason, holds for the game of Hockey. Kwame found this love, not only through playing the sport, but in researching the unfamiliar history of talented black athletes in the game of hockey.    His curious nature to learn more inspired the creation of his own documentary film, Soul On Ice: Past, Present & Future. He reveals the unfair past and lack of diversity in the hockey community regarding black athletes. This documentary creates a hope that one-day hockey can become a sport popularized among minorities just as basketball, football and baseball have been. His goal in spreading this insatiable love for hockey, and paying homage to those black hockey players, generate an episode full of engaging and passionate conversations    "It’s a movement not a moment" -  Kwame Mason    Kwame Damon Mason has been working in the Canadian entertainment industry since 1996. Kwame got his name out there thanks to popular radio stations like KISS 92.5 in Toronto where he hosted a 2 hour hip hop and R&B mix show Da Vibe and in 2001 Kwame became the weekend announcer on Toronto’s first urban radio station FLOW 93.5. He has used his experience and expertise to help launch countless radio stations across Canada.  Kwame recently completed his first feature documentary film Soul On Ice: Past, Present & Future, a documentary about the history and contribution of black athletes in hockey. The film won best picture at the 2015 Edmonton International Film Festival and recently had its American television debut on the NHL Network.   No stranger to hard work and perseverance, Kwame sacrificed everything he had to make his debut film, including selling his home and moving back from Alberta to Ontario. The time had come to invest in himself and pursue one of his biggest dreams.   Kwame hopes to continue to create culturally vital documentary projects, showcasing diversity, history and the untold stories of those who need to be heard.    Topics we discuss:  How he got into hockey  Introducing His Son to Hockey  Barriers in hockey  Lack of diversity amongst hockey players   Hard to find multicultural group that skates   His Documentary  The Negro Hockey League in the 1800s  What he wants it to accomplish  Prejudice in hockey  What he's doing in hockey  aside from still promoting the hockey film he's shooting content for the NHL   normalizing black voices and faces in hockey   podcast talking hockey from that perspective  continuing to spread the movement not a moment and help plant the seed.     References:  Soul on Ice   Black - White Wealth Gap  Prejudice Definition  Bigotry Definition  Racism Definition  Connor McDavid  P.K. Subban   Soul on Ice Podcast  Give a Gift Pod     Credits:    Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes    Music:  Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.  Guest theme:  "Black Skates" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. 

The effects of gentrification is profoundly harmful to the neighborhoods it consumes.     Most not personally impacted by gentrification view the process as positive and transformative. But for the longtime residents it is not a benign process. As money moves in, the original culture and demographics are forcefully changed.  Our guest Dawn Hicks does a wonderful job revealing the ugly truths gentrification. She provides a voice for those communities whose once familiar home  became wholly unrecognizable. This episode is one on gaining a more complete and intimate understanding of the effects of gentrification.     "Nothing about us, without us, is for us…" - Unattributed    Originally from Richmond, VA, Dawn holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Architectural Engineering from The North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.  She also holds a Masters in Architecture from the University of North Carolina-Charlotte where she focused on the social and economic impacts of Hip Hop on Architecture.  Dawn has a passion for enhancing urban environments through influences of social, economic, and cultural forces that help shape built environments and develop inclusive communities in affordable ways.  Her goal is to use her diverse love for music and design to enhance the future of architecture.     Dawn Hicks is an Enterprise Rose Fellow, currently working with Venice Community Housing in Venice, California as their Community Design Coordinator and Project Manager.  With VCH, Dawn serves as a key member of the housing development team as VCH initiates new construction projects focused on increasing affordable and permanent supportive housing options in Venice, as well as reinvest in several older properties.  She is also an integral part of their property management, resident services, YouthBuild and advocacy teams and engages a wide variety of other community members and stakeholders in an approach to community development and participatory design.    Topics we discuss:   Gentrification  Watch out for when a Starbucks is created   How it affects the members of a community   How neighborhoods are targeted   Drivers behind gentrifying neighborhoods  Communities and their history  Cultural identities   Getting into the field   Her personal experiences with communities.   Experience God   God's impact on her life and her view of the world.     References:  Definition of Gentrification Inglewood Arena building The Forum Clippers Broad Street in Richmond Crenshaw Line development Venice Community Housing Common - The Cornerr Cultural Appropriation B-Boy Enterprise Rose Fellowship North Carolina A&T School of Engineering History of Racial division with Interstates GiftPod (giveagiftpod.com)   Credits:    Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes    Music:  Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.  Guest theme:  "Windows Galore" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. 

The concept of understanding becomes complex when we don't quite relate to another's feelings. The wonderfully talented Kristen Bell discusses her life as an empath among other things. Her personal experiences and innate ability to empathize help drive this passionate conversation that explores her sense of self and those around her.  Bell's humorous and engaging nature brings light to a variety of deep conversations.    "Everyone is a mosaic of their own experiences" -  Kristen Bell    Kristen Bell has some serious acting chops.  She has a strong marriage and is an amazing and proud Mom.  She starred in the NBC series “The Good Place,” opposite Ted Danson, played the role of ‘Anna’ in "Frozen" and “Frozen2.” She has starred in "Bab Moms", "Bad Moms Christmas," and broke out in her role as THE "Veronica Mars".  Her list of Acting credentials is long and impressive!  Recently, she became the executive producer in a second season of "Encore" which you can find on Disney+.  She appears in it as well!    Beyond film, she recently co-wrote the children's book, "We all need more purple people". She and her husband, Dax Shephard, started an amazing baby product line called "Hello Bello" to get affordable, high end, baby products so no mom has to decide between a budget and diapers. And, has partnered with Lord Jones to create a CBD line of oils and lotions called "Happy dance", with the goal of accessibility beyond boutique shops.      Topics we discuss:  Codependency   Doing the Right thing   Her ability to walk in peoples shoes   How being stubborn contributes   Managing being an empath   Looking at the day for what your grateful    Us and them mentality   Different personalities are important for the world.   Her book, "The World Needs More Purple People"  Companies and her Philosophy   The "Death Bed" test  premium care products for babies -Hello Bello  CBD company- Happy Dance   Love Languages  How her and her husband differ  Why its important to understand   Closing with the permission to feel all things  Talks about how it can help make us do better in the world.   References:  CBD Line - Happy Dance   Hello Bello - Baby Product Line  Book - The World Needs More Purple People  Chris Voss…Never Split the Difference   This Saves Lives   Alone - The Show  5 Love Languages  Hit And Run - Movie  When In Rome - Movie  Credits:    Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes    Music:  Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.  Guest theme:  "Wooden Equations" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. 

It's a feeling only a select population in America will face in their lifetime that warrants a discussion amongst the overall population.   Our discussion is about the black experience in America and a self-reflection on the topic of race, racial relationships, both the advantages and disadvantages. B. Dave Walters provides excellent insight into those experiences, which deserves to be discussed with compassion now as much as ever. An episode worth listening to as it is full of great conversation and eye-opening perspectives. It acknowledges our humanity and shifts our hearts and perspectives to love and understanding.     "Hatred and tolerance require ignorance to flourish" -  B. Dave Walters    Dave Walters: is a Storyteller & proud Scoundrel American. He is best known as the writer and co-creator of Electropunk, Dungeons & Dragons: A Darkened Wish for IDW comics, and creator and DM of the Darkened Wish streaming show for Wizards of the Coast. He plays Baron Victor Temple on Vampire the Masquerade: LA by Night on World of Darkness Twitch and Freely on Silver & Steel on D&D Beyond Twitch.      And, we will add, he is a father, and someone who is everlastingly trying to make the world a better place for himself, his kids and all of us.      Topics we discuss:  Black Lives Matter   Rooted in history   Preventing loss    Systemic reform  Killing of black people by cops   Growing up in the 80s in Arkansas    Guilt   Dear America from a  black man  References:  Psychological Loss Aversion  Minneapolis Cop found Guilty  Horace Walters   Dear America, from a Black Guy  Follow B.Dave on YouTube    Credits:    Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes    Music:  Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.  Guest theme:  "Dice Games" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. 

 On occasions, the discussion of mental health arises. This conversation is especially pertinent during a world-wide global pandemic.   Our long term friend Jason Ferrari and a fellow podcaster of "The Not Your Parents' Basement Podcast,"  joined us for an in-depth discussion about struggles managing his mental health. Between finding the right therapist and faking normality, at times, life can be exhausting.  The idea that no one quite understands because you can't even understand yourself is a universal feeling. Breaking the stigma regarding mental health and making the new normal, "it's okay not to be okay," will help the world heal together. In times like these, we have to check up on everyone, even those who appear fine.   "But seriously, how are you getting through your day?" -  Jason Ferrari  Jason Ferrari has a combined 25 years of Sales and Marketing experience and currently works as a Social Media Strategist for significant technology and electronics brands.  He comes from a radio background, with a majority of his experience in the Chicago market.   He first embraced online radio in 2010, where he co-hosted the 'First and Long with Brendan McCaffrey and Jason Ferrari' morning show.  Since then, he has been the co-host of two very successful podcasts, the 'Abbatacola & Ferrari Discuss Everything Show' and the 'Sports Is Life Pod with Matt Abbatacola & Jason Ferrari.'    He recently launched his first solo podcast, the 'Not Your Parents' Basement Show with Jason Ferrari,' where he has a different guest each episode. They discuss the living, loving, laughing, and learning to promote more vibrant mental health.    Topics we discuss:  His podcast, "It's Not Your Parents Basement Podcast."  His focus on mental health  Having a support structure  The importance of therapy `Selecting a therapist  Going through a divorce Impact on mental health  His experience with mental health growing up How he looks at trauma   References:  psychologist / therapist / psychiatrist:  A therapist and psychologist may differ in the degrees they received in college. A therapist can be a psychologist, psychiatrist, or counselor, but a psychologist is an exclusive psychologist but can also counsel and do other responsibilities. A therapist who is a psychiatrist can administer medications, but a psychologist cannot.  Psychology today  5 Incredible Ways Repressed Memories Can Affect Your Life - Learning Mind (learning-mind.com) Credits:  Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes  Music:  Central Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.  Guest theme:  "Cup Holders" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. 

We all too often think of growing old as a bad thing. Perhaps we confuse diminished abilities with diminished value. Our life is too often considered as being “over” when we get old.    Music executive Adrian Miller, challenges this perception stating that “we calibrate over as gray and old.” His image of the passage of time is much different. He directs us to craft a perception of life that honors and supports growing old at every stage of one's life. He notes that without elders' wisdom present in his early life, his success would not be what it is today. Miller’s drive to honor the lives of the elderly, offers us an opportunity to rethink and recognize those who impacted our lives in so many ways. He offers that we can and should give back, whether it's financial support or simply our time. Showing how much you care and value our aged mentors is one of life’s greatest treasures.    "The writing is in front of you and on the wall.  Whether or not you look at it or evaluate the value of that is on you as an individual." -  Adrian L. Miller    Adrian L. Miller is an American music entertainment executive, manager, and executive producer, a notable manager of both Oscar and Grammy award nominated and winning artist Anderson Paak, Mereba and NxWorries. Miller has diversified his portfolio as a label owner, publisher, songwriter, A&R/talent scout, executive producer, and artist manager. Recently he has teamed up with Michael Ross (co-founder of the label Delicious Vinyl), together with Leslie Cooney, they started the label reboot now called Delicious Vinyl Island.    Currently, his work is in music supervision/music consulting for film and television projects include RZA's, Cut Throat City (Patriot Pictures) and the series Wu-Tang: An American Saga (Hulu) and F. Gary Gray's Men in Black: International (Sony). He has received the Cannes Lion Award for his work on the 2018 Apple Music Home Pod commercial with Spike Jones.    Adrian created the marketing research company, Xyion, that can trend forecast change in our marketplace.  Through previous relationships and having run several indie start-ups, Xyion provides top tier placement for the clients, offering over two decades of experience and endless creative opportunities.     Miller has received several RIAA certifications for gold and platinum sales success in music, and in 2019 the Grammy Award for best rap performance, "Bubblin" by Anderson .Paak.[1][2][3]    Topics we discuss:  Deep conversation on how we treat our elders  Ideas to show respect  Current cultural climate on elders  Treating others with dignity  How to assess wisdom  How to assess the value of self and others  Childhood in Leimert Park  The Museum of Black and it's influence   Meeting your heroes  His story about Anita Baker  Knowing we all won't be here forever  celebrating life  References:  Xyion   RIAA Certifications  Wu Tang American Saga  Steve Rifkind  Anita Baker  'The Bowl' in LA  Malcolm Casselle    Credits:    Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes    Music:  Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.  Guest theme:  "Soul Push" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. 

Josh Adam offers a coaching/personal perspective behind his successes using the power of self-reflection, to answer the question; What does it mean to be human? ⁠  Leading a team is not an easy task, every coach has unique tactics and coaching techniques to maximize their teams successes. Josh Adam uses the power of self-reflection for his team's success stating that “success is a byproduct of us working on the best version of ourselves”. ⁠  Individual self-reflection transferred into a team setting creates individuals who are tied together by one goal and one sense of spirit, to be the best version of themselves as a whole. Which ultimately embodies what it means to be authentically human.⁠    " Faith is a hope in evidence of things that are unseen" -  Josh Adam    Josh is a Navy veteran, married with 4 children, including twins.  He Graduated with a bachelor's degree in history and  Christian education from Seattle Pacific in 2000, did his post-bachelor's research at Katholieke Universiteit-Leuven in Belgium and then received his master's in sports and exercise science from Minnesota.   He rowed for 4 years at Seattle Pacific and started coaching rowing in 2001.  That lead to a career in coaching.  He has coached at Seattle-Pacific, Indiana, Washington State, the US National Team and now at USC as the head coach.    " Faith is a hope in evidence of things that are unseen" -  Josh Adam    Topics we discuss:  Studying History of the Iberian Peninsula   Learning how to listen verses speaking  The essence of competition   The true definition of love  Sitting with a life coach to discuss it   Learning how to balance EGO among family, work and life   How to become authentically Human and   figuring out your purpose   Learning about leadership as a young coach to now divulging into potential recruits   The definition of success  how its perceived  How to coach   What does it mean to make it   Perfect flow state, and how it doesn’t have to equal success     References:  Martin Buber "I and Thou"  Aristotle De Anima / On The Soul  Self talk  Radiohead "Where I End and You begin"  Flow state   Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi    Credits:    Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes    Music:  Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.  Guest theme:  "Keel" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. 

Wendy Kim is a #1 International Best-Selling Author of the book, Beyond Blending In: An Immigrant Daughter's Guide to Overcoming Cultural Bonds For A Life of Authenticity and Abundance.   Wendy loves to read and is the mother of 2 amazing kids who she loves to surf with!   She is also a Professional Public Speaker and Empowerment Coach. Wendy is committed to empowering women of color to find their voice, stand up and step out to make a difference in the world. Wendy is also committed to diversity & inclusion in the workplace and in leadership.   What if you weren't meant to blend in? Wendy spent her whole life trying to blend in. Being bi-racial and living in a predominantly white community, she tried hard to be "white" and to blend in even though that wasn't possible. Later on, she moved to a primarily "Asian" community and didn't  fit in there either. This pattern continued into college and the corporate world until she finally broke through to live her best life. It is Wendy's deepest desire that you will find the inspiration and tools to go beyond and live the most authentic and abundant version of yourself.   "You don't have to try and be more Asian, or try and be more White, or try and be more Black. You are who you are and you're really blessed you can have the best of both worlds." - Wendy Kim   Topics we discuss: What it meant to her to be "White"Mixed Race as Korean and German Rejecting Korean Heritage Origin of "Whiteness" Her Reckoning with her identity through her coaching The guilt and shame of this journey The behavioral expectations of women of colorWhat the behavior looks like The psychological burden Privilege Coming to accept and embrace her Korean cultureUsing food to connect Cultural racism within racial groupsMinority privilege Growing up in PittsburghRaised by Single Dad until 11 Dad was German side of heritage Her parent's split and choosing how to raise her Where she is today on her identityBeing a bridge Teaching her kids Consulting women of color to get pursue what they wantAsking for a promotion References: Wendy's Book - Beyond Blending In Recipe for Kimchi Mandu (Korean Dumplings) Author Min Jin Lee - Pachinko Nav the Poet - More In Common Episode Alhambra in Spain AKA Beyond Blending In - The Podcast   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Iberian Shuffle" by Megan Nadin

Julian A Lewis II is a Marketing Practitioner, rocking a Salesperson’s Fedora. In constant pursuit of his Ikigai, a Japanese term meaning purpose, he maximizes his time seeking ways he can make an impact beyond himself. Currently retired from corporate, he’s focused on empowering others through audio as the CoFounder of StudioPod, a podcasting production and media company. Oh, and he’s an Adjunct Professor, elevating the next generation as he rises.   "I can say that I'm self-driven but I'm self-driven by the fact that I have a support system that is going to allow for me to do me…" - Julian Lewis   Topics we discuss:  Leaving stability to pursue his passionMaking the decision Building the financial muscle to make it happen Getting involved with Studio Pod Economic PrivilegeGetting help from others Relationship with MoneyHow his parents modeled the relationship Generational influence The impact of not Drinking Family dynamic growing upRelationship with Sister Support and belief from his parents Dad's influence Cultural dynamics with Diverse representationHis experience at Pinterest and what he brings Managing Mental Health Gift Pod   References: Ikigai Studio Pod Gift Pod Dave Ramsey - Total Money Makeover Podcast - Lessons from a Quitter Pinterest (Drink) Mezcal Negroni 'The Playbook' Masters of Scale Podcast   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Step on Chest" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Patrick is on a mission to inspire others to challenge the old models of life, igniting our free thought, creativity, knowledge, and inner truth through the practice of holistic conscious living. His journey to holistic wellness living started under the guidance of my father who through practices of nutrition, meditation, karate, tai chi and knowledge of ancient history and philosophy helped me lay a foundation of self-realization. Though hidden underneath, this foundation grounded me once revealed and pushed me towards transformation. He has built a method to help others find their true selves and purpose in their lives and we are thrilled to have him with us today.    "Sleep, to me, is at the forefront of every issue.  It's at the forefront of every illness." - Pat DeNicola   Topics we discuss: The Old models of lifeHow he defines them and how he looks at them. How they box us in. The Rat Race of Life Eastern vs. western philosophies His Growing up with native American philosophiesInfluence of his dad Rebelling against the lifestyle of his childhood Almost getting arrested Hitting Rock Bottom Emotional IntelligenceHow we learn it or don’t learn it Impact of knowing and not knowing Social Constructs and their impact Legality vs. Morality SLEEP and the importance of itThe difficulty for many in getting sleep How he got into it   References: Patrick's Website Heisenberg's uncertainty principle Quantum Entanglement 1918 Flu Pandemic Epstein Bar Virus   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Car Chase" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Megan Nadin is a singer-songwriter born and raised in Thunder Bay, Canada with a truly identifiable voice, both captivating and inspiring. Her mission? To be an honest and authentic voice to those in need. To provide hope through altruistic platforms, which she knows can and will change lives. While Megan’s vocal prowess and ability to emote is often interpreted as a seasoned professional, many are surprised to learn this emerging artist only began her musical journey in 2017. As a kid though, she looked for any excuse to perform her songs for her friends and family, at any chance she could get.  As much as Megan has loved music in her life, she prioritized early, getting her university education - continuing to use the art of writing and singing to express herself on a more personal level. While pursuing her teaching degree, Megan decided to take a trip to Cambodia to volunteer teaching English for the organization New Hope For Orphans. And now, that she is investing all her energy to pursue what she loves, she has released her debut album, 'This Was Then'… To learn more about Megan with the latest news and updates, visit megannadin.com, Instagram, Facebook, Spotify, SoundCloud, Twitter   "Every time I've stepped into my fear and did something that made me feel uncomfortable, it helped me grow…" - Megan Nadin   Topics we discuss: FearHow it manifests for Megan Impact of it Moving through it Her visit to CambodiaHow it changed her life Launching her professional singing career Mom's influence over time EgoPride vs. Ego Having GratitudeTaking notice of the little things Feeling connected Growing upMoving a lot Her vocal coach that impacted her trajectory Her insecurities Self-Love Self-CareYoga Eating with intention and enjoyment "This Was Then"The creation of the album How the songs were created   References: Megan's Website"This Was Then" - Album Kristen Bell Morning Pages Ego Book - You are A Badass   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Watermarks" by Megan Nadin

CJ Johnson is an acclaimed Speaker and Digital Marketing Consultant, servicing Fortune 50 clients worldwide and a prominent digital influencer with hundreds of thousands of online supporters. CJ is best known for creating successful influencer marketing campaigns as both an influencer and a consultant, helping content creators and companies maximize their ROI. As a successful influencer, CJ uses his voice for creative storytelling to provide inspiration, branding tips, and work/life balance advice in our modern era. As a consultant, CJ specializes in digital brand strategy, creative campaigns, influencer marketing, future of work, diversity & inclusion, and trend forecasting. His work specializes in the technology, fashion, lifestyle, political, travel, and entertainment industries. CJ first found success as an award-winning creative director, producer, and writer, working on countless music videos, commercials, film, and television projects. Since then he successfully co-founded one of the Top 50 Digital Agencies in Los Angeles, became the “on-demand branding guru” of Silicon Beach, revolutionizing growth-hacking, content creation, and influencer marketing, scaling marketing teams, and ambassador programs for on-demand apps. After finding much success, CJ evolved with the changing times showcasing his skills as a futurist and strategist, now serving as a GQ Insider, Google Next Gen Policy Leader, and a Branding Consultant to innovative companies. Currently, CJ Johnson is based in Los Angeles, California with his daughter, Fiona where they enjoy the ocean and father/daughter jam sessions.   Check out the episode on YouTube as well: https://youtu.be/7osIpsZbHow    "Every moment is yours for the taking…" - CJ Johnson   Topics we discuss: The mental exhaustion of the black cultural moment Impact of COVID-19 Emotional Impact of it all Being Checked In on Being the only black person The Ego Impact of Social Media Privilege Identity The challenge of Contradictions on Ego Self-Awareness Accepting Success and the Journey Growing up in the military Moving to L.A. Relationship with Father Defining success  Social media Balancing image and reality Living a life of passion and joy Managing Mental health  Processing success   References: Stoicism Ego Ego is the Enemy Micro Aggressions Marshall Island - Kwajalein Zack Morris Digital Revolution Social Dilemma   Sponsors: GiftPod; an audio memory that you can record and give as private podcast.  Giveagiftpod.com   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Keys in Hand" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Check this interview out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6olZ1FGf4Hc   ///   Brad Lambert was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA so there's no surprise why he got into the Sports Industry after graduating from North Carolina State University. Brad followed his passion for the Steelers and all things Pittsburgh and worked in that industry for almost 10 years. After working with his favorite athletes (Hines Ward, Lynn Swann, Willie Parker), top sports franchises (Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Jets) and global brands (Lagardère Unlimited, Hachette Filipacchi Media, Hershey, Barnes & Noble), he decided to follow his other passion, Film & Entertainment.  He moved to Los Angeles and hit the ground running with Robert Downey Jr. After about a year with the biggest name in Hollywood, he went to Warner Bros. and managed their Digital Marketing campaigns for 2 years, winning 3 CLIO Awards during his tenure (Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, The LEGO Batman Movie, KONG: SKULL ISLAND). For the last 3 years he has been an Independent Producer, Talent Manager and INTL. Speaker, working with the top Brands, Studios, Celebrities, Artists and Professionals in the Industry – Prominent collaboration partners include: Walt Disney Studios, Marvel Studios, Warner Bros. Pictures, Sony Pictures, Universal Pictures, Gary Vaynerchuk, Chris Hemsworth, The Russo Bros., The Pittsburgh Steelers and more.  In 2019 he worked on the Marketing Campaigns for 2 of the biggest movies of all-time, collaborating with Walt Disney Studios and Marvel Studios on their release of "Avengers: Endgame" and Sony Pictures and Marvel Studios for their release of "Spider-Man: Far From Home". ​ He is currently producing multiple film and TV projects, managing talent and speaking all over the world.    "Lead with kindness…do what you can for other people because a little bit of happiness goes a long way." - Brad Lambert   Topics we discuss: Where we were on 9/11 (Recorded on the 19th anniversary)  Accountability and how it was instilled in him Racial Inequality Privilege Servicing of others as a mentality Empathy Taking Risks and living his life Following Passions Being an Influencer vs. being a person of influence Living a life of service The Follower mentality Chadwick Bosman and the impact he had Providing value and being valuable Managing Depression Focusing on Relationships The trap of making money   References: Brad's Website Marvel Universe Chadwick Bosman Draft Day Gary Vaynerchuck Tom Bilyeu Scooter Braun Benjamin Wallfisch   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "All Right Now" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Pearce Godwin is described as the national voice for bridging divides—is Founder & CEO of Listen First Project, Executive Director of National Conversation Project, and leader of the #ListenFirst Coalition of 300 partner organizations. He catalyzes the #ListenFirst movement to mend the frayed social fabric of America by building relationships and bridging divides. His passion is combating the universally felt crisis of distance, division, and dehumanization across differences with conversations that prioritize understanding. Pearce graduated from Duke University and received an MBA from UNC-Chapel Hill. He spent five years working in Washington, DC—in the U.S. Senate and as a national political consultant for presidential and statewide campaigns. Before moving home to North Carolina in 2013, Pearce spent six months in Uganda, Africa where he wrote It’s Time to Listen. That message—printed in dozens of papers across the United States—launched Listen First Project and led thousands to sign the Listen First Pledge—“I will listen first to understand.”  In 2018, Pearce helped create the first National Week of Conversation and hosted the kickoff event, Listen First in Charlottesville. Pearce then launched the overarching, collaborative movement platform National Conversation Project, which scales the #ListenFirst movement by promoting annual National Weeks of Conversation, #ListenFirst Fridays, Rapid Response & Featured Conversations on Major Issues, Locally-Focused #ListenFirst Movements, and any conversation creating social connection. The #ListenFirst movement has been recognized by journalists at CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, USA Today, Associated Press, and The New York Times as Pearce has spoken about the mission on national television and to live audiences around the world.   "I don't think any of us, ultimately, want to live in a society that is defined by how we're different as opposed to common hopes and dreams.  Common values around freedom, equality and opportunity." - Pearce Godwin Topics we discuss: His Optimistic outlook on the futureThe nuance of this optimism Breaking the divisions in our country and what that looks like Perspective on how we started sliding into advent disagreementPoliticians Internet & Social Media News Media Human nature Social Echo Chambers Common threats as a unifier How he got to this place after years in politicsThe choice to go to Uganda That trip's impact on his journey Political AffiliationThe danger of our identities being tied to the tribe we identify with. Listen First Project and Weaving Community Listen First Project and Weaving Community References: The Listen First Project National Conversation Project The Pledge "It's time to listen" that started it all Definition of Pollyannish Definition of Optimism Asteroid Theory Graham Bodie's episode Infinite Game - Simon Sinek Brene Brown's Core Values Weaving Community with David Brooks His final thoughts in USA Today   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Lady in Bronze " by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Jason currently manages communications for a nonprofit in the entertainment industry but before that he was in DC, in the belly of the beast, handling communications and marketing for political organizations - a time he often looks back on simultaneously with discomfort and gratitude.  These days, outside of the office, Jason uses his communications background to assist community based organizations and activist groups with outreach and messaging as a way to stay involved in local issues and support progressive causes in his own community.  Jason is from Philadelphia, PA, home of the 1985 M.O.V.E. bombing where the Mayor of the city ordered a bomb dropped on a city block to evacuate a group of Black Liberation activists - an event that had a lasting impact on his world views and helped shape his political journey.    "You as an individual can make a difference.  You won't make THE difference…but you can be a ripple in a series of ripples." - Jason Sywak   Topics we discuss: How his Ideals have stayed the same but the way he thinks about them have changed.His prior political perspective Working with organizations he regrets Switch in political parties The registration system to support candidates Systems that don't allow for Meritocracy Growing up in public housing with Mom and then middle class with his dad Understanding that what can happen to them CAN happen to you Bootstrap Argument and depths to its fallacyHow his perspective was shaped based on the dichotomy of his youth Being a high school drop out School system inequalities The nuance of CapitalismCrony Capitalism Influence of his grandparents escaping concentration camps The role that Government should playServants vs. Rulers Campaign Finance and the alternatives to private donation.   References: MOVE Bombing Libertarian Philosophy Ron Paul Military industrial complex Progressivism   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Chipotle Spread" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Oleg is a Principle Scientist with a focus on Cancer research at a large pharmaceutical company.  He was born in Maldova, which lies between Ukraine and Romania.  At 12 his parent brought him to the States where he was raised in Los Angeles. Given the spirit of this Season "shared American ideals" and all that is going on, and will be going one, with COVID-19, we just had to have him on to discuss so many things.   "Before I speak I try to think and recognize that people may have a different opinion, belief" - Oleg Brodsky   Topics we discuss: His native country, Maldova His family's migration to the states Being an immigrant in the states Family history of persecution History of Jewish persecution in Russia Asia and the breadth of its reach What American ideals mean to him as generation 0 The American Dream Racial tension with Immigrants Talking COVID-19 to those who don't believe as a scientist General Infectious disease discussion Context on testing Education on virus mutation Simplified example of why masks are important Facts (as this season has gone)   References: Map of Maldova Ural Mountains Berlin Wall Russian Jewish persecution Hitler/Stalin Pact Armenian Genocide Herd Immunity Darwinism   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Frozen Pears" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Today we are with Dr. June Klees.  Dr. June is a Community college humanities & social-behavioral sciences instructor.  While she focuses on history, she has taught in the areas of cultural diversity, education, geography and the first-year experience.  Dr. June has also helped establish the Compassionate America Message.  What Compassionate America stands for is nothing less than what Compassionate Americans from all walks of life have done in their daily lives throughout our history.  It isn’t unique to America, but it acknowledges that the “Spirit of 1776” called for the fundamental rights and freedoms of humanity to be recognized, honored, and respected under the rule of law.  This value system has woven itself into the fabric of America in different ways and ONLY has ever been maintained from generation-to-generation by Compassionate Americans who love their country… The rest of this pledge can be found at compassionateamerica.org…it will be in the show notes.  In the spirit of our Season 4, 'Shared American Ideals', we just had to have June on and are excited to have you hear today.   "It isn't about getting stuck in the past it is about seeing the past as a vast laboratory and seeing what works and doesn't work in human behavior." - June   Topics we discuss: What Liberty and Justice for all means to herThe American Enlightenment The movement towards the idealsReconciling the truth of the past to move toward the vision of the past Impact of this conversation on Rodney Historical truths vs. how we feel about those truths.  Hindsight's role in the evaluation of historyThe false narrative of perfectionism The role of privilege in her life and the realization of that truth.The responsibility of knowing it The impact of childhood trauma on her life Generational influence on her journey and current place in life.The duty of her generation to pay it forward Compassionate America Mission The Grand Gesture   References: Compassionate America American Enlightenment history Definition of Pollyanna Western Civics Historical Empathy Monday Morning QB - Definition Mr. Rogers Dr. Spock Parenting   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Nation Step" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Today we are with Imagine and Motion from the Social Nuisance Podcast.  We were on their show back in December 2019 and we are excited to have them with us today. They met in 2011 at a community college and quickly hit it off as like-minded passionate artists and intellectuals. Motion was a dedicated Poet and Imagine, a Rapper. Both are inspired by the world around them and look to contribute their perspectives to any and every conversation. Dialog and Discussion are at the root of any development, evolution, and progressive movement. Imagine and Motion created the podcast in hopes of providing a sensible, humorous, and in your face conversation on the things that matter in the world, people and the social environments we find ourselves in. The world changes by way of Nuisances, willing to take that first step in rocking the boat, stirring the pot, and ruffling some feathers.    "Pretend we all agree.  We're all going to have a different perspective and motivation on what we're going to do with those facts anyways.  So I'm kinda all about just hearing it all out." - Motion   "Personal motto KMF, keep moving forward, all day, everyday." - Imagine   Topics we discuss: What are and what do we strive for regarding Shared American Ideals The idea of breaking a binary political system What voting local is all about and why it is important Gaining perspective from other's regardless of their thoughts and ideasHow this will break division Even when hate is involved Relationship between citizen's and policeThe Bad apple argument Ideas for improving policing relationships with citizens Them growing up and what lead them to each other.Understanding their identities Be accepted and alienated Accepting themselves and personal identities Facts, what they are and the difference with truth   References: Social Nuisance Podcast Our episode with them Joe Biden saying "shoot them in the leg" Officer Tipton says "I Don't Care" as man dies in his custody Black couple in Englewood shot while sleeping in car Lloyd Wilkey EpisodesPart 1 Part 2 Part 3 The thin blue line Dick Gregory on Policing - VIDEO IS FIRE!!   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "quick note" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Joanna Schwartz is Professor of Law at UCLA School of Law. She teaches Civil Procedure and a variety of courses on police accountability and public interest lawyering. She received UCLA's Distinguished Teaching Award in 2015, and served as Vice Dean for Faculty Development from 2017-2019. Professor Schwartz is one of the country's leading experts on police misconduct litigation. Professor Schwartz additionally studies the dynamics of modern civil litigation. She is co-author, with Stephen Yeazell, of a leading casebook, Civil Procedure (10th Edition), and her scholarship has appeared or is forthcoming in Columbia Law Review, New York University Law Review, Stanford Law Review, Texas Law Review, UCLA Law Review, and the Yale Law Journal, among others. Professor Schwartz is a graduate of Brown University and Yale Law School. After law school, Professor Schwartz clerked for Judge Denise Cote of the Southern District of New York and Judge Harry Pregerson of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. She was then associated with Emery Celli Brinckerhoff & Abady LLP, in New York City, where she specialized in police misconduct, prisoners' rights, and First Amendment litigation.   "The basic facts of any given case aren't in dispute, it's whether you see those facts as wrong doing or not" - Joanna Schwartz   Topics we discuss: How we have lost our perspective of Shared IdealsPerspective drives how we see the facts How this applies to the law Criminal standards of Police Prosecution How do we reduce incidence of police force The ethics of deadly force What is Justice and what is Social Justice How she got where she is. The journey being a bit backwards What keeps her going What recharges her Her Mindset and managing life to get everything that needs to be done Current research on assumptions used by Supreme Court in making judgements Social Media and the First Amendment   References: Joanna's Full Bio Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Definition of Deadly Force Philando Castile Men In Black Teddy Shapiro with More In Common First Amendment 5G networks causing COVID Mark Zuckerburg's original congressional hearing   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Binding Signatures" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Today we talk to Nav the Poet.  Nav the Poet is a spoken word artist who has been writing and performing since 2011. What initially began as an outlet for personal struggles has turned into a profession, where he travels the country and shares his stories, experiences, and art with his audiences to spread his message: break barriers, build bridges, and encourage a deeper understanding of one another so that we may work together to create a better world.      "…I don't over value what I say, I just believe it for myself, and if other people vide with it, other people enjoy it, then awesome, I also don't expect people to automatically agree with it…" - Nav the Poet   Topics we discuss: His poetry tying to Shared American Ideals Living up to them What it looks like to criticize America How he took the leap to pursue poetry What it's like to have to assimilate In broader culture And within Sikh culture While maintaining individualism Finding his individuality and being himself Connecting to his faith Becoming a poet Aligning to what he is meant to do Experiencing God and that influence over him. What success and accomplishment look like The struggle to not let follows and likes drive our behavior Staying true to his creative voice What it means to conform Male superiority and gender dynamics References: Nav's Tik Tok John McCain's quote living up to ideals Sikh Faith Zeitgeist   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Vebiage Veggies" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Today we are with Casey Moore and Marley Duchovnay who created the amazing organization, Project Divided.  Casey is from Delaware and Marley from Pennsylvania. Both grew up exposed to politics and each developed a passion for getting involved and doing something about the division our binary political system creates.  Thus, after graduating from the University of Delaware, they decided to take part in the action to begin building bridges across the political divide.  Hence the start of Project Divided.   They drove from the north east to begin their journey in the small town of Smithville, TX.  Project Divided is an initiative working to understand political division and facilitate conversations between problem solvers in our communities. Project Divided is all about understanding how we can work together to problem solve from the local level up. They believe the best way to start this is to bring lots of different perspectives and backgrounds together to first start the conversation and foster communication and understanding.   This is our season of "American Shared Ideals" and we couldn't be more excited to have this conversation with Marley and Casey.  What they built is exactly what we hope to represent with this season of conversations.    "What most Americans what are things that aren't too crazy." - Marley Duchovnay   "how do you balance having a conversation in order to understand that space versus having a conversation because you're an activist that wants to advocate for a specific issue?" Casey Moore   Topics we discuss: The observation of American shared valuesUnderstanding their values first Forming of morals and values The local levels unite, the national level divides What they observed in building Project DividedProductive conversations through agreement and disagreement What is a fact?How they manage this in the web series How we perceive truth Mixing them feelings Conversation vs. Debate and why have conversationHow to disagree The friendship origin story and what led them to create Project DividedMarley's Grandmother was a holocaust survivor and the impact on Marley What it means to hold space for other people Personal Identity and what it means to themPolitically Individually Compromising identity   References: Project Divided Moral Foundations Theory Definition of Fact The Things they Carried: Tim O'Brien Behave: Robert Sapolsky Political Tribe: Amy Chua The Big Sort: Bill Bishop   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Doozie Groove" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Noelle Silver is the founder of the AI Leadership Institute and Women in AI. She is the Head of Instruction for Data Science, Analytics and Full Stack development at HackerU, building education programs for universities. She is an ambassador for the responsible and ethical use of AI and she is passionate about Mindful Leadership, work-life harmony and empowering people achieve their potential through technology. She specializes in helping technical leaders successfully navigate cloud transformation and develop an AI and Voice Strategy by delivering keynotes, sessions and hackathons worldwide. She has spent decades as a trainer, architect, and evangelist for IBM, RedHat, EMC, Amazon and Microsoft. She has been listed as the"#1 Speaker to Have at Your AI Event by ReadWrite.com  and a “Top Influencer in Voice” By Voicebot.ai as well as received an award from VentureBeat for her work mentoring women in the field of AI and Emerging Technology.     "The best revenge is success." - Noelle Silver   Topics we discuss: Managing ethics of Artificial Intelligence What is Artificial Intelligence and how easy it is for ethics to be violatedCompany responsibility Checks and Accountability Solutions that could work Malevolent AI How AI is dependent on people and the makeup of those peopleDifferent types of AI Ethics of Facial Recognition technology Noelle's origin story with AIThe stories we are told Working harder as a minority Impact of lacking representation Impact of Race in corporate space   References: Hacker U Artificial Intelligence - Wiki Simon Sinek - Infinite Game - (Learn about ethical fading) Reboot representation Algorithmic fairness Manhattan Project Skynet Turing Test Black Mirror Y2K   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Keep Your Hands" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

A special episode release! Oge Egbuonu (E-boo-noh) is a filmmaker focused on disruptive inspirational storytelling. By creating compelling content that entertains, educates, and inspires, she aims to support the healing of the individual and the collective. Prior to becoming an independent filmmaker, Oge worked at the independent production company Raindog Films, where she produced films like LOVING and EYE IN THE SKY. Oge sat on the board of the Diversity Committee for the BRIT Awards, where she collaborated to revamp the voting academy, and tackling diversity within the music and film industries. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Houston. Aa of Juneteenth, June 19, 2020, after nearly three years in the making, her directorial debut, (IN)VISIBLE PORTRAITS came to life.  The documentary is a powerful celebration of Black women featuring interviews from scholars and authors sharing their stories of struggle, celebration, heartache and more. It shatters the too-often invisible otherizing of Black women in America and illuminates the history of how we got here, dismantles the false framework of the present-day reality, celebrates the extraordinary heritage of exceptional Black women, and ignites hope for the next generation. Oge spent eight months doing intensive research, and two months conducting these compelling interviews.   "We continue to heal our heart and souls every day in every way." - Oge Egbuonu   Topics we discuss: The Film (In)Visible PortraitsThe reaction she has received How she is in this moment with it The emotional Impact of directing this filmGoing back to Therapy How the stories keep her going Managing the emotional impact What healing looks like for her Finding her Therapist Generational Trauma on culture Sitting with ShameNot knowing about the history Processing it to move forward Michael Myer Approaching herUnderstanding his Why for this film Aunt Jamima's Name change How her childhood lead to personal beliefThe journey to figuring out who she is Social ConstructsReimagining what's possible Individual power to make change Queer TheoryUnveiling herself Watching police brutality videosThe impact of the social virality Giving permission Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome   References: (IN)VISIBLE PORTRAITS Juneteenth  Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome Abraham Maslow Mental Revolution Queer Theory Audrey Lorde Fannie Lou Hamer Judge Dredd Toyin Salau   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Grass Grains" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Today we are with the Father/Daughter duo, Harriet and Randy Berholtz of the "Now Hear Me Out" Podcast.  A podcast where they come together to have political and social conversations representing two sides of the argument.  Harriet graduated from the University of San Diego, is a sing/song writer, and has started and sold 2 different e-commerce stores that surpassed 7 figures in sales in under 18 Months.  Oh, and she is a registered Democrat. Randy is a Graduate of Yale Law, an Oxford Rhodes Scholar, a former Adjunct professor at Thomas Jefferson School of Law, for acting general counsel at Innovus Pharmaceuticals, Inc.  Among many things, he is also the Secretary of the California Republican Party.  Together they aim to demonstrate the possibility of having very differing viewpoints still coming together with love and understanding in an effort to spur change and action.   "Without love and respect in the communication you aren't really communicating" - Randy Berholtz   Topics we discuss: What is the role of government?Federal and local distinction The American Ideal Leadership of the country How do we pay for it? Current state of government relations. Difference in Democrat and Republican ideas.Talking party allegiance The breakdown of party principles Difference between Conservative and Liberal The dynamics of their relationship and how they put love and respect above their disagreementsAgreeing to disagree Facts and Truth  vs. Experience and Beliefs Impact of the rapid growth in technology and population   References: Now Hear Me Out Podcast Democratic Party  Republican Party Definition of Conservative Definition of Liberal ILGW Union Definition of Principle Definition of Belief Judge Dredd What is a Straw Man argument?   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Unfair Fruit" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Today we are with Dr. Curtis Takada Rooks. Born in Japan but grew up in many places spending his early childhood in Kansas, N.C. and Texas.  Then moving and spending his formative years in Okinawa before returning to Manhattan, Kansas where he graduated high school.  After attending college in N.H., as an adult he has lived in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Alaska and settled down in California. He is a husband of 21 years and has an amazing daughter who is studying at Yale. Dr. Rooks earned his B.A. in 1979 with a double major in Economics and Asian Studies (honors) from Dartmouth College. He received his M.A. in Public Policy from Trinity College in 1982 and his Ph.D. in Comparative Culture from the University of California, Irvine. Prior to his appointment at Loyola Marymount Univ., Dr. Rooks was a tenured assistant professor in Asian American Studies at San Jose State University and he previously served as Associate of Students and Dean of Residential Life at Pomona College. His research interests follow two overlapping trajectories.  The first employs engaged community-based research focusing on the intersections of culture and community health and wellness.. The second focuses on mixed-race and transnational identity.  These are reflected in two current projects one which examines civic engagement in Asian American communities and the second explores notions of transnational identity of people of Japanese ancestry worldwide – Global Nikkei Identity, along with continuing work with multiracial identity, particularly on the experiences of “double minority”.   "When you truly engage that makes someone else matter.  It's a transformative act." - Dr. Curtiss Takada Rooks   Topics we discuss: What it means to: be Of mixed Race be Alive Be oneself Navigating your multiple "identities" The importance of Engagement Growing up in Okinawa Military family during Vietnam Racism How Race matters The nature of Zero-Sum mentality Single Payer Healthcare Union Negotiation Social Capitalism Healthcare as a public good Social Distribution What he means by "Being a 'Lefty'"   References: Dr. Takada Rook in 2007 Dr. Takada Rooks - TedX  Kakehashi Project Eyes on the Prize   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Gold Cracks" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Rodney and Keith wrap season 3 with a conversation on how they are holding up 136 days into lock down.  At least the start of California lock down.  Talking about how things were for them at the beginning and how it has evolved.  And, of course they get into the politics of it a bit. They end the episode talking about what is to come with Season 4.  We are all excited about Season 4, so be sure to listen through the end!   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

What was your favorite listen from Season 3, "Process"?  What stood out most from that episode?   This season we had another amazing lineup with amazing people.  Today, we wrap Season 3, which was all about the Process.  We are in 2020, a Decade Possible, and are so glad you were able to join us to hear the stories of the amazing guest this season.   We are taking a page out of season 1 and 2 by stringing together some highlights from each guest and some new content sprinkled in.    This year has been amazing and looks to keep going with an outstanding lineup for Season 4 where we will discuss Shared American Ideals!!   "Trust is built with consistency." - Lincoln Chaffee   References:  PenClique Omar Albertto Teddy Shapiro Theresa G Greg DuPree Justin Caballero Dr. Deena Brown   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Dr. Brown's superpower helps #entrepreneurs, #start-ups, mid-large cap enterprises implement effective strategies that cover business process improvements, strategy and innovation insights, performance solutions for teams, and culture change interventions.   Dr. Brown is an internationally best-selling author and keynote speaker who has been featured on ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox as a highly sought business and leadership growth expert.   As an Executive Director of The John Maxwell Team, she is certified to facilitate, speak, train and coach individuals and groups in the areas of leadership development, professional skills and personal growth. Her sweet spot is helping Corporate Executives, Entrepreneurs, and Business Owners Lead with Confidence, Communicate with Influence, Connect with Authenticity, and Collaborate Strategically. Her mission is to Inspire Entrepreneurs, C-Level Executives, and Organizational Leaders to seek significance versus simple success.   Her passion is to Empower leaders to lead with intentionality and integrity.   In 2017, Dr. Brown founded The Leadhershift Movement™ providing a safe-space for professional women to get clear about their Why, confident about the What, and consistent about the How.     "It's not what people call you, it's what you answer to. And no one, NO ONE, can define you but you" - Deena Brown     Topics we discuss: Being a Mom to a young black manHer Son being privileged but still black The fear and how she chooses focus What's different about George Floyd's murder Starting her day with GratitudeUsing Gratitude to manage through the negative The three Ps (P3)PositivityThrough praise and gratitudfe Pro and prebiotics ProductivityJust Move What it is to speak up as a Black WomanRisking something to speak out What it looks like going forwardGenerational Change 3 Cs - Clarity, Confidence and consistency The long game One Mindset at a time History of Slavery in America Her background and her journeyBeing a product of bussing   References: John Maxwell Certification LeaderShift  Gut Health and the Vagus nerve The Black Tax Dave Chappelle (Killing them Softly) Racial Literacy Round Table Chattel Slavery John Punch "Terrible Transformation" Documentary "Warriors don't cry"   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Hands to Touch" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Theodore Shapiro was born Washington, DC and is a composer who has delivered memorable music for some of the funniest movies of the past 10 years from the upbeat, jazzy sounds of THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA to the jungle-adventure send-up of TROPIC THUNDER and the sentiment of last MARLEY & ME.   He has scored a long list of amazing movies covering the spectrum from his work on the 2003 hit Old School, to the 2019 motion picture 'Bombshell'.  He has created the music for other amazing films such as 'Destroyer' directed by our past guest Karyn Kusama, 'Last Christmas', and 'The Devil Wears Prada'.   And we can't skip mentioning his amazing work on the HBO T.V. show "Game Change" for which he was nominated for an Emmy!     His careful touch has made him a sought-after collaborator for some of Hollywood’s leading directors.   Shapiro is a classically trained composer with a bachelor’s degree from Brown and master’s from Juilliard who, despite commissions for classical works, decided he’d rather be working in film. “   "Ask yourself the question, are you being kind to yourself, and take up that struggle to do it as much as you can." - Teddy Shapiro   Topics we discuss: Asking young people "what are they listening to" Taking the leap to Movies Difficulty of making the decision Turning down a huge Opera opportunity Being better His view that his work isn't good enough Using the next project to get better Being a composer for Comedy Films His aspirations What Creation is to him His process The instillation of confidence and belief His dad The people he collaborates with Early childhood musical influence What support looked like for him Managing Family with Success Impact of having Children   References: Theodore-Shapiro.com Iconoclasm John Adams and Thomas Ades (composers) John Williams Daily Chronicle   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Light Keys" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Today we are with the hosts of the Pen Clique Podcast, Daniel Hees and Kuya [ˈko͞oyə] David Lazaro.  Pen Clique is the laboratory where poetry and pixels combine to produce lively podcasts, stunning visuals, hype fashion, and crackin live events. They're exploring the digital frontier to help carve the best paths for online poets to get seen, heard, and supported. David is a Dream chaser. Food taster. Tech major. Rhyme slayer. Graphic tailor. Picture taker. Magic maker.  He is Executive Creative Director of Pen Clique, a senior art director in the entertainment advertising industry, and a spoken word head of 10+ years. His goal is to use his professional skill set to make online-poetry engaging, fun & accessible for the modern audience. Daniel is A spoken word artist and producer working throughout LA’s poetry scene and Internationally via Radio, TV, and Internet. He hopes to expose new audiences to the power of poetry and art.   "You gotta find out what it aint before you find out what it is." - David Lazaro   Topics we discuss: Threads and Lines Discussing Daniel's Poem about Weight Danie's battle with weight The Accident that led to it The battle with Weight in society The PenClique Origin story Battle Rap and Poetry Slam Wanting to influence the Poetry Game The Vision and mission Spirituality and Religion Searching for personal alignment Daniel falling away from Christianity What is God Perceiving God Roots of all our perspectives Visual Poetry Accessibility of Poetry   References: Penclique Inland Empire - L.A. Myspace Alex Alpharoah da poetry lounge Poetry Foundation Podcast Danez Smith Eckhart Tolle CCD   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Jux Juice" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Today we are with Theresa Gabrielle of from The Good with Theresa G podcast.  Theresa is a mother, wife, activist, entrepreneur and lover of nature.  Her deepest love affair has always been with nature. She enjoys traveling and immersing herself in different cultures, and people.  She loves learning from other people.  As she says, Everyone on this planet is so unique but similar.  Theresa is an entrepreneur.  She has created and owned a few successful businesses (some not so successful too).  Her background is in Social Services, Environmental Education, and Design. She has spent the last ten years with a focus on designing spaces that support the health and wellbeing of people and our planet.  In 2017 she woke up and decided she needed to start a Podcast bringing all her passion for connection together into a platform with the goal of focusing on the good in the world.  The podcast inspires, rewires and educates. Exploring the opportunities that current global, societal, economic, planetary and health challenges have created.   "If you have a dream, dream it every day…" - Theresa G   Topics we discuss: How we all connected Making the jump to EntrepreneurshipHow she did it. What the process was for her Standing up for herselfIn Corporate world Being harassed Learning how to Processing Coming up in a Low Income familyBeing the minority Trying to Fit in Feeling like an outsider Her Mother's Influence Being AnorexicWhat led to it Getting help Working through it Being MixedHer experience in White groups Her experience in black groups Talking White/Black Nature's impact on her life Her Podcast and what led her to start   References: The Good with Theresa G Facebook Page Her Instagram Rich Dad/Poor Dad The Jason Project Epstein Barr Syndrome DNRS   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Water to Fire" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Justin born and raised in Baton Rouge, LA, and went on to graduate from Ole Miss with a bachelor’s degree in Real Estate and Finance. Since Graduating he has moved and is now a proud resident of Tampa, FL.    Justin is an entrepreneur passionate about real estate and entrepreneurship education. He is a Principal in Six Five Capital, LLC, a real estate investing firm focused on acquiring apartment complexes throughout Florida, implementing value-add strategies, and holding for long-term wealth creation.  And he serves as Founder and CEO of Social X, LLC, the #1 business education and networking mastermind for young entrepreneurs. Justin is transforming the entrepreneurial education and business networking landscape by empowering entrepreneurs to make a positive impact, grow their network, scale their business, and obtain financial freedom.    "Success is living in your personal alignment. What makes you happy, what are you good at, and can you impact the world positively…" - Justin Caballero   Topics we discuss: The Man he is Meant to BeWhat is Happiness What the targets are to get there How he manages getting there. His Why The Daily process for managing mindset7-10 Minutes a day Journaling Daily Not watching news Where the Mindset came fromMother's influence The Voice that drives him Dad Running a business as an example The Journey to Starting his BusinessThe examples he had Building business with his Dad Growing from Failures His process for personal analysis   References: Six Five Capital Social X LLC IkiGai Eckhart Tolle   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "No Swimming" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Omar, is, first and foremost a loving father who cares deeply about his son and being a dad. He is an avid hiker and loves swimming in 35 degree water. From there he is a Los Angeles-based agent for the fashion industry, who has specialized in representing ethnically diverse male models.   He currently owns and runs, JustOmar, a modeling agency and branding company in Southern California. Albertto is known for finding new talents and often credited with originally introducing real people into the U.S. fashion market. During the last three decades his Men have appeared in almost every prestigious international fashion magazine including; L’Uomo Vogue, GQ (magazine), Arena Magazine and Esquire (magazine) - and have appeared in campaigns for Ralph Lauren, Versace, Gucci, Armani and Dolce & Gabbana. Thru the years he has introduced to acting (via modeling) the actors Djimon Honsou (Academy Award Nominee), Antonio Sabàto Jr. and Tyrese Gibson - the star of the The Fast and the Furious franchise films. In recent years, Omar Albertto has also begun getting more involved in TV and film production. In 2013, he (and Brian Lewis) produced an independent romantic drama film entitled, Things Never Said, for Ohio Street Pictures.   "Hear the music of life…there's so many sounds of life. Hear the music and live it." - Omar Albertto   Topics we discuss: How he got started as a Male Modeling AgentChanging male modeling Starting his company Representing Men Being comfortable with his own identityThe journey of his Life Accepting others for who they areThe roots of this idea The expression Growing up in Panama His immigration story Celebrating life and living to the fullestLoving what he does His perspective on the Hollywood What making art is today   References:  Tiana from "The way you make me feel" Herb Ritt Tony Ward Omar in the L.A. Times Andy Warhol Tyrese Gibson Djimon Hounsou   Credits:  Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Ripe Bowls" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Do you self-care?  Self-care is reflection, setting boundaries, exercise, nutrition, honesty, and being true to self.   Greg Dupree is the barber to the stars.  He is insightful, thought provoking, and gives us one hell of a conversation. One thing that stands out is his path to being and how he has gone on this journey to being his true self.   "I can only be good to people if I am good with myself." - Greg DuPree   Topics we discuss:  Focus on Self-Care Being "Too Nice" Nice Guys Finishing Last Being True Self Getting rid of your "Character" Path to being Growing up in West L.A. Being Bussed in School Experiencing Racism Hating the English Language Starting a Race Riot Earning Credibility as a Black Man His life experience as a Black Man Making Assumptions of others Challenging Assumptions Engaging others   References: Daily Chronicle Eckart Tolle Will Smith on the Breakfast Club Sasha Fierce (Beyonce) 3/5ths Compromise Aaron Hernandez' Documentary Kibitz   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Flame'Em Up" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

This is a special episode where we bring a conversation we had on the Data Binge Podcast.  This was a fun conversation and are grateful for the opportunity to talk with Derek about a lot of things.  The Data Binge Podcast, is a library of discussions with technologists and business leaders focusing on the human relationship with technology. Hosted by Derek Russell, a Data & AI specialist at Microsoft, and an evangelist of how diverse and inclusive data driven cultures can create greater good across organizations, communities, and individuals, the podcast focuses on fairly deep discussions of technologies and approaches that bring modern business forward including broad topics from augmented reality and connected everything, to machine automation and AI. Most importantly, these discussions highlight the relationship of humans and tech, the consciousness which truly separates us as living beings from the always connected and wired world of machines - our daily struggles, our mental health, and our emotional freedom, all things that we CAN control, and that WILL play a part in how we successfully co-evolve with technology.  The human element, in this world of technology, is the richest component, in any past present or future tech.  Derek has also begun making these podcasts episodes available as LIVE productions via LinkedIn, Youtube, and Facebook, and invites all of you to engage in real time with guests on topics you care about, and to become a part of the discussion. The Data Binge podcast is available in all of your favorite places to stream podcasts, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can find links to all these assets and how to contact Derek, in the show notes of this episode, or you can simply type "the Data Binge Podcast" in the search bar of LinkedIn, to follow the company page. Learn more about the Data Binge Podcast at www.thedatabinge.com And you can find the Pod here:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-data-binge/id1355543236?mt=2 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/08cRE9lNqozViH54RFdL0W?si=l74zh2chRBWkmNd6_MT4eA Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9kZXJlay1ydXNzZWxsLXN0ZWQuc3F1YXJlc3BhY2UuY29tL3RoZWRhdGFiaW5nZWVwaXNvZGVzP2Zvcm1hdD1yc3M%3D Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/derek-russell-2/the-data-binge?refid=stpr   How Can you Connect with Derek: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekwesleyrussell/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN1c5mzapLZ55ciPgngqRMg/featured Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drussnetwork/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/derekwesleyrussell/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/drussnetwork Medium: https://medium.com/@derekwesleyrussell Email: derek@thedatabinge.com    Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Episode theme:  "Speaks Beat 3" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

What was your favorite listen from Season 2, Discovery?  What stood out most from that episode? This season we had another amazing lineup with amazing people.  Today, we wrap Season 2, which was all about Discovery.  We are in 2020, a Decade Possible, and are so glad you were able to join us to hear the stories of the amazing guest this season. We are taking a page out of season 1 by stringing together some highlights from each guest and some new content sprinkled in.   Season 2 has been a blast and Season 3 is only set to continue this momentum!!   "Trust is built with consistency." - Lincoln Chaffee   References:  Kathryn Hahn Sutto Twins Donnie Mygan Brenda Nova Jewel Love Tara Bixby Rob Reynolds Graham Bodie Keith Ferguson   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Keith Ferguson is an associate in the Financial Services Litigation group. He focuses his practice on representing financial institutions and mortgage servicers in real property actions. Prior to joining Eckert Seamans, Keith was an associate at a private firm with a focus on the mortgage banking industry in the mid-Atlantic region. He was the supervising attorney of the firm’s mediation practice and led a department of legal professionals responsible for the firm’s active residential foreclosure cases in the settlement and status conference stage. Keith previously served as a judicial law clerk to the Honorable Wanda Keyes Heard in the Circuit Court for Baltimore City and as a law clerk for the United States Agency for International Development in the Employee and Labor Relations Division in Washington, D.C.    "The sun is coming up tomorrow.  Get after it." - Keith Ferguson Jr   Topics we discuss: Perspective on Children's potentialUnderstanding your strengths Being a black attorney from povertyTransition from sports Gong to Cornell Having strong examples in his lifeHis Dad primarily raising him His Grandma being his mother figure Growing up without Mom The impact of Premarital CounselingOpenness to counseling in general The future of his family Taking a pause in ConversationManaging Hard Conversations Managing lines of relationship Getting into Cornell's Football Hall of Fame   References:  Key and Peele skit about doing anything you want Football Profile Marion Barry NCAA 1AA definition Ron Prince - Coach now at Howard Mike Carrillo's episode Christian Picciolini   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Theme On" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

How do you listen? Did you know there are at least 43 different ways people listen? The ways we listen affect how we ask questions, how we connect, how we solve problems, and impact everything we do daily. Graham has dedicated his life understanding and teaching how we all listen.  Listen in and you will learn about the patterns of listening and, perhaps, identify some of your own.   /// Today we are with Graham Bodie.  Graham got his Ph.D at our Alma Mater, Purdue University…Boiler up!  He study Interpersonal and Health Communications.  He is now a professor at the University of Mississippi and has contributed to many research publications and recently provided edits to The Sourcebook of Listening Research: Methodology and Measures He currently has a large-scale research study on how people listen to others who are experiencing some sort of personal problem.  Listening is a primary focus of Graham's life work and he is a contributor to The Listen First project.    "Relationships come first and Relationships do matter" - Graham   Topics we discuss: Teaching people to Listen Asking questions Definition of Listening ABCs of Listening Different patterns of Listening Listening Profiles How he got into studying Listening His Mentor Listen First Coalition Political Correctness What it means Defensiveness Tribe How to be informed Growing up privileged What Privilege is   References: Listen First Project Fundamental Attribution Error Listening concepts Inventory Echo Listening Profile Pantsuit Politics Dolly's Episode Jim McNamara - Organizational Listening Cristian Picciolini   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "A Light Breakfast" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Rob is an acclaimed artist with works in museums around the world.  He is a sculptor, Painter, mixed media and installation artist.  He has had acclaimed works at Bert Green Fine Art, Pergamon Museum in Berlin, CEBIKO World Ceramic Biennale in South Korea, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles and many more. He was born in Newton, MA and currently has his studio and residence in Los Angeles, CA.  He has a great perspective on many things and provides insights and perspectives that make for fun and insightful conversation. They had this conversation back in August 2019 and are thrilled to finally be getting into your ears.  In this conversation they talk about a lot of things.   "If you want to make the world a better place, Dig In." - Rob Reynolds   Topics we discuss: His Studio What Being an Artist is The Impact of the election on his work His start as an artist Parent's Influence Growing up west of Boston in 70s Classism Racism Homophobia The Liberal Fantasy Assumptions he had about our better nature Segregation Prejudice The impact he tries to have with his art His focus on Climate change Community Managing Optimism Guilt not doing enough What we all do to try We talk about a lot in a short about of time   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Course Dinner" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Today, we are with Tara Bixby.  Tara is a licensed Counselor who works in a Minimum security Male prison out in Idaho.  However, that is just her day job as she is on a mission to empower women to live their best life. She normalize life struggles through stories, provides tools for personal growth, and to help shine light on mental health. You can follow Tara on Instagram @courageously.u!!    "…I just try not to work with who they were then…I try to work with who they are now." - Tara Bixby   Topics we discuss: Working in male prisonsManaging mental illness The system Empathy and Compassion Her journey to get into counseling Brilliant business decision for mental health Starting courageously.uWhy she focuses on helping women What it was to start Being Vulnerable Vision for the future  Male and female experiences with mental health Wholistic approach to medication How she takes care of herself The bootstrap argument   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Solemn Keys" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Jewel Love is a licensed psychotherapist and the CEO of Black Executive Men. His company helps black men in Corporate America find inner peace. They do so through psychotherapy, medication management, and corporate wellness programs.  He cares deeply about helping others navigate the emotional, cultural and identity challenges for others.    "At the bottom of vulnerability is safety for someone to feel safe and have a level of trust in the person that they are sharing with isn't going to use it against them in some hurtful way." - Jewel Love   Topics we discuss: Managing Mental HealthSpecifically Black Men Mental Health in Black CommunitiesManaging Blackness Generational Trauma The Masculine agreementsWhat our maleness is Redefining black maleness The Evolution Healthy Masculinity Toxic Masculinity The nexus of his practice's focus Growing up:In "Hip Hop" Culture The influence of Masculinity How he got into Psycho-therapy In a Mixed Family Spirituality and its influence What his practice offers   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "A la Carte Lunch" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Brenda grew up a stout Jehovah's witness and through her experiences had to navigate depression through adolescence that led to attempts of suicide.   As a result, she has developed a passion for helping others find themselves.  As a musician, she looks to channel that through her music.  She writes her own music that aims to send a message about healing from issues with self-esteem, self-image and emotional trauma.  This is a soulful conversation that just makes us feel good.  Hopefully it makes you feel good too.   "No one person's story is worse or better than another's…it's up to you to let it defeat you or catapults you to continue to do better." - Brenda Nova   Topics we discuss: What a fluoride stare is Her value in helping others find themselvesSelf-awareness Authenticity Failing her way to successThe analysis of failure Her challenge of self-discovery Questioning institutions Her journey as a Jehovah's witnessGrowing Up Family Relationship dynamics Struggling with Depression Attempting Suicide Getting out The long term positive impact Learning from othersListening to elders   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Shadows' Silhouette" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Donnie went to High School with Keith in New Hampshire.  After 20 years, Donnie has experienced a lot of life.  After losing his mom, he has a family member begin struggling hard with mental illness.  This certainly teaches a lot to Donnie about how to help others manage through mental illness and mental well-being. He is also a bit of a world traveler as he built a career as a renowned Chef working at top notch restaurants around the world.  He has a tremendous story and is very vulnerable in sharing that story with us today.  Enjoy this conversation as much as we did.   "Be patient, and be careful of the words you use…and just let them know you are not alone." - Donnie Mygan   Topics we discuss: Being a Chef Culture of the Kitchen Restaurant Environment Sexual Harassment His Family Dynamics Female Strength Representation His Mother's Death What violence is Impact on relationships Mental health and Illness Depression Suicide Being family support Recognizing in others Impact Evolution of Perspective Hospitals   Credits:  Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Windshield Blues" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Today we are with the Sutto twins, Jen and Steph Sutto.  Jen and Steph grew up in a small town in California and one day, it hit them that they could do anything!  So, they left their small town and started taking over their world.  They made their name as the Glitter Twins who made a Glitter Gel marketed to the electric dance scene.  They have an amazing story and connection we each other that we are thrilled to explore with them. Now they are influencers on Tik Tok.  Both having their own channels with their own focuses which we highly recommend you checking them out.  They are social media savants who also consult with entrepreneurs on social media strategies.  You have to check out their new Tik Tok video series called Tik Talks about how to use the platform. Especially if you are trying to figure it out like we are.    In other words, they stay busy and keep knocking down doors to pursue their dreams. How to Find them: Tik Tok:@jennifersutto @stephaniesutto You TubeTik Talks Instagram@stephsutto @jennifersutto   "Disappointing people is actually a great feeling because now they don't have super high expectations for you and now YOU HAVE THE FREEDOM TO ACTUALLY DO WHAT YOU WANT" - Steph Sutto   Topics we discuss: Their epiphany they could do anythingHitting Rock Bottom Just quitting their Jobs Their Twin ConnectionTheir separate journeysSteph Dropping out of college Jen graduating How they balance each other Impact of other's thoughts Hitting Rock bottomReally comes out at the end How Glitter Twins started Parental Support Building a Video platformPersonal experience The growth Communicating with each other Their evolution to Tik TokWhat their videos are Steph Coming Out   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Miss You Gal" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Today we are with the amazing Kathryn Hahn.  Kathryn was born in Cleveland and started acting at an early age in the television show Hickory Hideout.  She graduated from Northwestern and got her Masters in Fine Arts from Yale.  If you don't know her from her role on Crossing Jordan she has played recognizable and leading roles in Anchorman, Step Brothers, Parks and Recreation, How to Lose a Guy in 10 days, We're the Millers, Afternoon Delight, the Bad Moms movies and more recently she has starred in the Amazon Original, "I Love Dick" and the outstanding HBO show "Mrs. Fletcher".  She is coming out with a lot of new work.  On April 27, 202 she has a new HBO Limited Series "I Know This Much Is True"…In Summer of 2020 she has another Series on Apple TV coming called "Central Park"… and in December 2020 she will be joining the Marvel Universe with a new Disney Series called "WandaVision". Kathryn is also a dedicated mom to her daughter and son and is married to our 2020 Season 1 guest Ethan Sandler.    "It was easier for me to tell the truth when I was acting than it was in real life." - Kathryn Hahn   Topics we discuss: Being a recovering Catholic Being born into religion Her struggle embracing the religion Her attachment to it Passing Judgement What it means for her kids Her childhood Telling the truth being and actor Safety of the theatre Pursuing Acting Taking out dept at Yale Just knowing it Her awareness Following the path and journey Payphones and Newspapers Parenting expectations The pressure of how to give birth Accepting the process as it is Deciding to have kids during Career   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes  Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. Guest theme:  "Miss You Gal" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

This is our first gap between seasons.  As prepare for season 2, which we have dubbed "Discovery", we want to be sure to keep the rhythm of the podcast going.    So, this week is Rodney and Keith riffing on some topics.  Sharing our perspectives and thoughts on a variety of topics presented to us by our main man and producer, Ruf.    In two weeks we will be kicking off our second season and are excited for the lineup of guests we have coming your way.  It's going to be another amazing season.   "Trust is built with consistency." - Lincoln Chaffee     Topics we discuss:   Hockey Kobe Bryant's Death Corona Virus Keith's old Phone Adjusting to a Cold Shoulder Cooking vs. Dining out     Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Today concludes our Season 1 guest lineup.  Season 1 was all about Pursuit.  We are in 2020, a Decade Possible, and are so glad you were able to join us to hear the stories of the amazing guests this first season.   So, for this episode, we have strung together some highlights from each guest and some new content sprinkled in.  Below are the timestamps and guest name if you want to go back to their episode in case you missed them.   Season 1 has been a lot of fun and so much more coming in Season 2!!   "Trust is built with consistency." - Lincoln Chaffee   Timestamps: 1:56  Erica Taylor Haskins 8:00 Nicole Davis 17:18   Yatish Joshi 24:44 Bryan Carroll 34:20 Athena Kavis 43:52 Nabie Fofanah 51:30 Ethan Sandler   References:   Erica Taylor Haskins Nicole Davis Yatish Joshi Bryan Carroll Athena Kavis Nabie Fofanah Ethan Sandler   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

We are so excited to start 2020 off with a season all about Pursuit!  We have amazing guests lined up and look forward to episode 1 starting 1/16/2020!   For today, we are bringing you some bonus content.  A little inside look into the extra content that never gets released.  A forward look at the guests coming in season 1.   And, we have been absolutely graced with the efforts by our former guest, Shye Eaze (Alex Harrell) and our amazing producer/editor, Ruf (DJ Rufbeats) Belhomme, who co-created our new theme song!    Guests this Season: Pursuit Ethan Sandler Nicole Davis Nabie Fofanah Athena Kavis Yatish Joshi Erica Taylor Haskins Bryan Carrol Heather Newman   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: by DJ Rufbeats and Shye Eaze co-created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

2019 was an amazing year for More In Common.  We released 24 episodes talking about many things such as Mental Health, Politics, Religion, and more.  We heard some amazing stories and got to know amazing people.   So, in this episode we keep it simple, having a lot of fun and closing up the year.  Our editor and producer, Ruf, joins us today to ask us questions.    Learn more about our process, our behind the scenes thoughts, and what's to come in 2020!     What we talk about: 2019 Review Our process The evolution of MIC 2020 Preview   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu

Today we are with Megan Sherer.  Megan is a Holistic Nutritionist and Wellness Expert. She is a graduate of Pepperdine University, and has a background in all things healthy living. She has extensively studied and been certified in Holistic & Sports Nutrition, Personal Training, Yoga, AcroYoga, meditation, breath-work, reiki, emotional transformation and eating psychology. She runs a private practice with 1:1 clients, a corporate wellness consulting program, and mental health focused wellness initiatives.  She also founded a non-profit organization called Be More, dedicated to creating conversations & curriculum about how social media impacts self-esteem and mental health in teenagers.    What we talk about: Breaking down the stigma of Mental health and other conversations that matter Her non Profit, Be More Managing conversations about sex and sexual health with adolescence Body Image Her personal Experience with Body Issues and Eating DisordersAnd how she navigated her way out of it Eating disorders in woman and in men   References: Be More Acro Yoga Post-Concussive Syndrome     Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme:  by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Today we are with Gina Choi.  Gina was born in Memphis, Tennessee, but considers Los Angeles her home. She attended Pepperdine University and is currently an Advertising Account Manager at Microsoft. Her favorite author is F. Scott Fitzgerald. He is the author that fanned the flame for her love of reading after she finished school.   In 2018, she spoke at a TEDx conference on the topic of being open to new passions in life. When she isn't sitting at a desk, she spends her time taking photos, in some new workout routine, studying (enjoying) wine, and planning international travel in Excel spreadsheets.     What we talk about: Reminding herself to live a childhood life How she feels connected as an Over Achiever How she managed through Anxiety and having Panic attacks Moving around a lot growing up Being a Korean American and what it means to her Her core values and how she has developed them over time Her Tedx and what passion is to her The balance of having a job vs. pursuing entrepreneurship rooted in passion   References: Gina's Tedx: Living as a Passionate Beginner     Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme: "Times a waiting" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Coach JJ was 65lbs + overweight, smoking 2 packs a day, and working 100+ hours per week.  He was drinking too much and did not have any balance in his life.   Then Coach JJ started working with Veteran Life Coach, Lori Anderson, and his entire perspective changed.  He lost over 70lbs in 8 months, started eating well, sleeping, and reducing stress - mostly thru MOVEment.  His favorite thing to do was RUN. That obviously had huge positive effects on every aspect of his life, changing how he approached life, career, family, and balance.   Currently he is a CLC (Certified Life Coach), pursuing his dream to grow the non-profit, Depression2Extinction, aimed to help those suffering from depression and anxiety disorders.  It offers anyone suffering from depression or anxiety a place to connect and begin the holistic approach to dealing with these debilitating disorders.    "I'm a big fan of giving no advice.  I share experiences…" Coach JJ   Topics we cover/// Depression 2 Extinction Check In Process How to manage situations when people do reach out with a Suicide Attempt His work through Substance abuse How we need to better connect with one another and change the way we communicate with each other The difference between empathy and Compassion How Toxic Masculinity plays into not being able to have Empathy How he actually approaches things empathetically Shame and what it means for him His Journey to his current space and where this all started for him His Dad and his dad having left early His contributions to challenges in marriages How D2E started SO MUCH SO MUCH   References: Ultra Marathons Social Anxiety Depression 2 Extinction Check In Process The Gillette Commercial David Goggins The Hawaii Ballistic Missile Threat   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music:   Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme: "Escape" by Scott Holmes freemusicarchive.org

Matt is a Technical Program Manager and Entrepreneur with over 18 years of experience in a number of technical fields as well as founding and growing businesses. He founded Ultimatum, but recently had to close up shop though, but there is a lot to learn from him in the endeavor.  So much of the conversation still discusses Ultimatum.   Matt has a M.S. degree in Computer Information Systems at St. Edward’s University. He also completed a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin and an M.A. in Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania.    ‘‘…You can make money and still be a good human being and help other people…” - Matt McCabe   What we talk about: Radical truth Building a company around values The origins of Your Ultimatum Building into the future for a platform people will use as they iterate and think about how they get people to buy in What has led him to feeling this call to get more and do more   References: Conscious Capitalism - John Mackey Schrodinger's Cat     Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music:   Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme: "Times a Waisting" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive.

Patrick works as a Case Manager of Community of Care in Student Affairs at Loyola Marymount University. Before returning to his alma mater, he worked at TOMS Shoes, designing and leading international immersion experiences around the world for employees to connect to the mission of the company.   Patrick has lived in four different countries and traveled to over fifty countries. He is a big supporter of the global learning initiatives.   As an undergraduate, Patrick founded Magis, a student service organization dedicated to service, diversity, and spirituality. He was also a leader in Alternative Breaks, and studied abroad in Ireland. He was awarded the Robert Graham, SJ award in 2006, which is presented to one outstanding graduating senior man and one woman who have excelled in service and leadership throughout their undergraduate careers.   A man of many experiences and an amazing story teller.  We are excited to have him here today!     "Hope is the active conviction that despair won't have the last word"  Cory Booker   Topics we cover/// Curiosity and helping people find it so we can all be heard Struggling with complexity and lack of binary choices Millennials, decision making and how he sees them Navigating appropriate action in the moment  Growing up in New Mexico and how impactful that was to him Running away from home due to his parents separating Empathy vs. Compassion References: Patrick's TedX Is it a 6 or a 9? Loyola Marymount University Friendship park J.K. Rowling - The Fringe Benefit of Failure Home Boy Industries   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music:   Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme: "Mellow Record" by DJ Rufbeats created as a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. 

Today we are with George Dover.  George comes to us as he is the father of one of our early guests, Brescia Dover.  If you remember Brescia, she was our first conversation about Mental Health/Illness and George has a significant role in Brescia's journey. He grew up Mormon, but has left the church and now claims himself as an Atheist.  All of this is relevant to the conversation.  He is a skeptic at heart with a very open mind.  He values family above all else and has incredible perspectives on what it means to have unconditional acceptance.    ‘‘If you don't really believe the person is sick then it is really difficult to act appropriately” George Dover (about mental illness)   Topics we cover/// Being a dad of a daughter managing through mental health issues What the evolution of her Anorexia looked like from his perspective. Managing the relationship with Brescia's siblings How they managed it without having exposure to it What it was like when she ate for the first time The use of the word Crazy Growing up in the Mormon church and ultimately leaving the church How it was with his family when he left the church Being Skeptical but being open to listen which he uses to encourage conversation His acceptance of others beliefs even though he wholeheartedly disagrees with them Specifically how he accepts his Son's choice to go into the church Unconditional Acceptance and how ultimate truths impact the ability to have unconditionality   References: Brescia's Episode - Episode 19 BYU Mormon Church Salt Lake Valley Jantzen Episode Skepticism   Credits: Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme: "One Day Prior"  DJ Rufbeats

Today we are with Phil Terrill.  Phil grew up in the city of Minneapolis, MN.  His upbringing was all about the pursuit of academic or athletic excellence.   While he hit some of those targets, his life took a different direction after college at Tuskegee, starting in Corporate America, Entrepreneurship, and on a journey to discover himself. Along the way, he did not realize that God had a very unique plan for his existence that would truly begin at an unexpected time after a life altering decision.   He wrote a book, Collision Course, about this unexpected turn as he drives full speed into the journey of how he turned his life's most challenging time into a massive, powerful breakthrough.     "Stay L.I.T. (Living In Triumph) and pour into your purpose"  Phil Terrill   Topics we cover/// The importance of God and Prayer in his life and how his dad was part of the Nation of Islam and his mom wasn't as religious but his grandparents were Baptist.  Sister converted to Islam in College His relationship with his dad and how his dad is the ultimate community man and that influence on him growing up and today His pull between being a corporate employee and desire to be an entrepreneur The impact of divorce on him and how it really impacted his relationship with his Sister How this all led him to consider suicide in 9th grade and how his sister saved him The accident that is the cornerstone to his book, collision Course, and how he blamed a lot of people early in recovery How the family dynamic was drastically affected by his choice to drive What it was like for him in the holding cell and the impact some conversations had on him   References: "Collision Course" Phil's book Nation of Islam Tithing A.M.E. Church (African, Methodist, Episcopal) Philando Castile Intrapreneur     Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music:   Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme: "High Life"-  DJ Rufbeats

This was recorded quite a few months ago so we are excited to finally bring it to you.  Today we are with JS…a fellow boilermaker (Purdue Grad) and all around interesting person.  JS comes to us with some very unique and thought provoking insights that make us want to record an entire year of episodes.   He is a musician and has been writing, recording and performing for 25 years.  After studying engineering, he went on to focus his energy in a band that would tour coast to coast.  Currently, his music career has him playing drums with Crisis Actor.  He also maintains his micro-label and collective called elle 2.0.    He loves buffalo wings and happens to be a member of a religious institution in Indiana, which leads to a very interesting discussion and better understanding of what the Satanic Temple is and how we all probably share many ideals with it.   ‘‘Try to be better tomorrow than you were today” JS   Topics we cover/// Religious freedom and how he sees religion and the belief in higher powers Growing up in Indiana and fully going through the Catholic Church The impact of traveling with the Punk band and how it impacted his perspective How he has effectively engaged on Facebook and managed the dialogue How John Wick could be the greatest trilogy of all time and a discussion about movies His Feminist Views and views on Allyship How he has developed a listen first approach   References: Crisis Actor - www.crisisactorhc.com Elle 2.0 - www.elle8778.net (micro label) Religious Plurality Agnosticism vs. Atheism Transubstantiation COS vs. Satanic Temple    Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music:   Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme: “Super Sloppy Space Junk” by Milkshake Daddy http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Milkshake_Daddy/Aquatic_Ape_Hypothesis/08_Super_Sloppy_Space_Junk

Known by audiences and fans as Mr. Persuasion, Jeff Tippett is a subject matter expert in persuasive communications. He helps people increase their effectiveness, gives them powerful tools for attaining goals and dreams, and helps them positively impact their organization—all as they learn techniques for communicating persuasively with others.   When results mattered most, renowned brands like Airbnb, The National Restaurant Association, The League of Women Voters, The League of Conservation have trusted Jeff to develop and implement communications plans to persuade elected officials, the media, and the general public. And as an expert on persuasive communications, Jeff continues to deliver results for influential clients.   Jeff has impacted thousands of lives through over 500 presentations including keynotes and seminars. Others feature Jeff’s expertise in persuasive communications through articles, podcasts, and blogs.   Jeff’s second book, Unleashing Your Superpower: Why Persuasive Communications is the Only Force You Will Ever Need, landed in Amazon’s #1 international best seller in multiple categories. It's definitely a recommended read.     ‘‘I don't have to change their mind and I don't even have to agree with them, but I can still love them and realize there is a reason they think the way that they think and feel the way they feel ” - Jeff Tippett     Topics we cover /// Authenticity and what it means to him How he worked through being abused as an adolescence to embrace himself Growing up and having a drill sergeant like dad and how it has led to his perspective now. Adoption of a Haitian baby and the impact it had on his direction regarding Persuasive communication What this experience has been like for him and for her since the adoption and coming home to the states What is Persuasion and many tips and details to more effectively communicate Persuasion vs. Manipulation   References: Haiti Wiki http://www.adoptionservices.org/ Jeff's Latest Book: Unleashing Your Superpower - Persuasive Communication     Credits:         Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music:   Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme: “Cinematic Trailer.” by scottholmesmusic.com freemusicarchive.org

Dolly Chugh is an award-winning, tenured professor at the New York University Stern School of Business. She studies the psychology of good people, or “bounded ethicality”.  Dolly teaches MBA courses in leadership, management, and negotiations.  Additionally, she has taught at a men’s prison through the NYU Prison Education Program at the Wallkill Correctional Facility, where she is currently running a book club. Dolly’s first book, The Person You Mean to Be: How Good People Fight Bias (HarperCollins, 2018) has received acclaim from Malcolm Gladwell, Adam Grant, Susan Cain, Daniel Pink, Billie Jean King, Carol Dweck, David Thomas, and Angela Duckworth.  Dolly’s research integrates the theories and methods of social psychology, behavioral economics, judgment and decision making, sociology, and education. Dolly has published more than 20 articles and book chapters on these topics in both top managerial and academic publications, such as the Harvard Business Review, Psychological Science, Administrative Science Quarterly, Academy of Management Journal, Journal of Applied Psychology, Research in Organizational Behavior, and The American Economic Review. Dolly does a small number of select speaking engagements, which have recently included Starbucks’ corporate headquarters, Google, the American Museum of Natural History, and the Hollywood Commission on Sexual Harassment and Diversity chaired by Anita Hill.  Dolly’s 2018 TED Talk has been viewed more than 3 million times and was named one of The 25 Most Popular TED Talks of 2018.  Until recently, Dolly also wrote a monthly column about race, gender, diversity, inclusion, and bias for Forbes.com. Dolly’s work has appeared in Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg, What Works by Iris Bohnet and Rage Becomes Her by Soraya Chemaly, as well as a recent White House Council of Economic Advisors Issue Brief. She has appeared on the Melissa Harris-Perry Show on MSNBC and Bloomberg News, as well as numerous podcasts, including Choiceology and 10% Happier.  Her research is regularly featured in numerous media outlets, including National Public Radio, NBC News, Quartz, goop, CNBC.com, Scientific American, Forbes, The Washington Post, CosmoGirl, The New York Times, The Economist, The Huffington Post, The Financial Times, and The Stanford Social Innovation Review. Her first-authored Sunday New York Times Op-Ed, titled “Professors Are Prejudiced, Too” (with Katherine Milkman and Modupe Akinola), was in that weekend’s Top 20 most-emailed/read/tweeted articles. Dolly has been named one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Business Ethics (a list that included Pope Francis, Angelina Jolie, and Bill Gates) by Ethisphere Magazine, a finalist for the Faculty Rising Star Pioneer Award by the Aspen Institute, and the recipient of the prestigious New York University Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Faculty Award (whose past recipients include Bryan Stevenson). As one of the most highly rated business school professors at New York University, she received the Stern School of Business Teaching Excellence Award in 2015. Prior to becoming an academic, Dolly worked at Morgan Stanley, Time Inc., Scholastic, and Merrill Lynch. Dolly received a B.A. from Cornell University, where she earned a double major in Psychology and Economics and served as a two-time co-captain of the Varsity Tennis Team (1990); an M.B.A. from the Harvard Business School (1994); and a Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior / Social Psychology from Harvard University (2006). In addition, Dolly has played a central role as a faculty member in the KIPP Charter School network's renowned School Leadership Programs since 2008. She also mentors several first-generation college students and their families.   “It’s OK to keep learning” — DOLLY CHUGH Topics we cover/// Forks Up vs. Forks down and other Dishwasher etiquette Her path from working as an investment banker to becoming a renowned researcher and professor Bounded Ethicality What it is How it came to be Her parents Their Influence A portion of their immigration story What it was like growing up for her as often the only Indian girl in school Headwinds and Tailwinds from Debbie Irving and how it impacts people culturally Discussing Unconscious bias, science that supports it and how it plays into be a Good-ish person   References: 10% Happier with Dan Harris - Dolly Chugh The Person You Mean to Be - Dolly's Book Mahzarin R. Banaji Max Bazerman Bounded Ethicality Bounded Rationality Availability Bias Debby Irving Beverly Tatum    Credits:  Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music:  Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme: "Palladian" by Blue Dot Sessions freemusicarchive.org

Pete Mulroy grew up outside of Detroit, MI.  After graduating with a degree in astrophysics and a stint with NASA, he returned to graduate school to study planetary atmospheres, to launch a sounding rocket and to work at JPL.  He has a deep passion for history and understanding what the past means for today.  He now lives in Italy as he has always been a dual citizen, gracing people with his knowledge of Roman history as a City Tour Guide.  Talking to Pete is always an opportunity to learn and have a great discussion.   Pet Mulroy "I'm a product of where I group up.  At NASA the people of color I knew were PhDs in Astrophysics."   Topics we cover/// 20 years in Italy and an interest in U.S. Politics What it's like in Italy discussing politics and difficult conversations His growing up… …path to working at the Jet propulsion lab … then off to Italy The Movie he created His philosophy on being able to learn to walk and talk as a motivator to accomplishment We talk about The American dream, the peak of it the nature of where it is now how he thinks the breaking of the Air Traffic control union impacted job availability The Relationship of business to its employees And More!!   References: 1972 - Equal Rights Amendment Jet Propulsion Lab 1936 - Flint Sit-Down Strikes Hughes Aircraft History More In Common with Lock West Monster Capuchin Crypts in Rome     Credits: Music:   Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme: Pointless Lullaby by septahelix (c) copyright 2019 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/septahelix/59625

Q has been working with human beings for over 30 years and loves almost every second of it.  Q studied Biblical Studies at Biola University and completed his AA at Fullerton College.  For the last eight years he has been able to pour his mind, body and soul into a frontline relational evangelism ministry in Hollywood called Broken Hearts, where he currently serves as the Executive Director.  Prior to Broken Hearts, he invested his time into various communities in the Los Angeles and Orange county areas.  From Planting Churches in Watts with World Impact, to soup kitchens in Costa Mesa with Rock Harbor Church, to leading sports camps youth groups with Fellowship of Christian Athletes Q has been able to love on the spectrum on faces and places.   In addition, he is a coach on the USA traveling Woman's Flag Football Network team and the coach of SHE Unit in the Woman's Flag Football Network.  He is a kind soul and great human being.  It is our pleasure to sit down with him and connect.  ‘‘If we approach people with gentleness in every scenario or a little bit of patience or a little bit of love then it would've erased the feeling of a stigma    ”  Q Topics we cover/// Coaching women's Flag Football and how he got there. Getting set up to coach the WFFN USA team His teams and all the athletes he coaches Men coaching females and what the culture is in WFFN about that The use of "Girl" when referring to women His non-profit's communication guidelines and how it is anchored on Grace and Truth Growing up to a single, young mom and how they grew up with her mom. Needing social assistance Being homeless Using food stamps His Non Profit, Broken Heart's Ministry   References: SHE Unit Women's Flag Football Network USA Team Adrenaline FF Team Michelle Roque - Highlight real Terrell Owens Sharpie video Broken Heart's Ministry

Nick is a multi-hyphenated African-American military veteran. He writes both dramatic character-driven sci-fi/action and is also a fantastic comedy writer who staffed on the final season of Hulu’s CASUAL. Nick was accepted into the highly esteemed Sundance Episodic Lab for his pilot, JONESIN. Nick wrote and directed the award winning short film, COLD CHOICES, starring Neil Brown Jr. After which he was the military advisor for Shia LaBeouf and Gary Oldman in the psychological thriller, MAN DOWN. Nick recently signed a feature deal with Paramount. He was later served as showrunner for the upcoming Japanese-anime Netflix series, YASUKE, based on the first black samurai, starring Lakeith Stanfield. Nick moved to Los Angeles after his final tour in the Marine Corps, during which he served our country for over a decade with honors.     ‘‘I never expected to be here. I always knew this journey was improbable. I’ve never been on a journey that wasn’t.” Barack Obama   Topics we cover/// As a black Marine, we discuss his opinion on Colin Kaepernick and what it means to fight for freedom His family history in the military and what drew him to the Marines Some of his experience in the marines and how he approached it Growing up in Alabama When you know it's profiling even if it disguised as otherwise Transitioning from the active duty to a career and how supportive people were How he stayed plugged in. The personal impact Obama had on him and the couple weeks he spent with him His experience as a writer in Hollywood and his process to write stories His project for Netflix, Yasuke   References: Nick Jones Jr. Bill Duke Museum in Montgomery and lynching exhibit Definition of Swole Obama's Show on Netflix YASUKE Flying Lotus 3 Below Phil Hay Episode     Credits:   Music:   Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme: Mauerspechte (the light) ditto ditto by ASHWAN (c) copyright 2014 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/ashwan/48192

Allie Lucchetti is the founder of AllRootsWellness, a healthy lifestyle blog that started as a safe space to share her journey of managing anxiety disorder through healthy living and 360 wellness. From healthified recipes and superfoods to mindfulness, movement and mind-hacking, Allie shares her honest approach to staying sane in today’s busy world.     Allie Lucchetti "When you say no to something you're actually saying yes to yourself "   Topics we cover/// Impact of words such as No and Should on managing mental health and her anxiety Having Anxiety at a young age and what that experience was like for her The way we process differently even if we experience the same thing How Anxiety manifests for her and ultimately how she manages it Coming off Anxiety medication and all the ways she manages with exercise, meditation, and nutrition   References: Allrootswellness /// Allie's blog "How to Say No" Tribe of Mentors - Tim Ferris Kane County Fare Internal Family Systems Dr. Gabor Maté Interview | The Tim Ferriss Show Core Power Yoga   Music:   Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme: Kalte Ohren (septahelix remix) by septahelix (c) copyright 2019 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/septahelix/59527 Ft: starfrosch

Thomas Knox is a native New Yorker.  He comes from a unique family and spent time in the foster system.  He's a fascinating young man that knows who he is and where he's going.  He created Date While You Wait and Be Great Bow Ties.  Date While You Wait is literally Thomas sat down with a table and two folding chairs, and a sign that said "Date While You Wait". Specifically, while New Yorker’s were waiting for the subway in Manhattan. Be Great Bowties  goal is to embody greatness, inspire, connect and empower those around us to harness their inner potential by allowing them to express the best aspects of themselves in a unique, seamless and stylish manner. Topics we cover/// Date while you wait, history and what it is His experience with it as a black man The journey of the business and future ideas What led to his desire to start something like Date While You Wait The family dynamics he grew up in Growing up in the foster care system His dad being a black militant His mom struggling with drugs The dynamics of his dad and how impactful he has been on Thomas How he thinks that leads him to do the things he does especially as a Black man   References: Date While you Wait Be Great Bowties Howard Wexler Gary Vaynerchuk (Gary Vee)    Credits:  Music:  Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme: Mr Sun by Robbero (c) copyright 2019 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/Robbero/59416

Tina McGuff is the critically acclaimed author of "Seconds to Snap", it is a memoir of the journey she went through as a teenager and early twenties with anorexia, complex mental illness to full recovery and a very healthy happy life.  In her own words/// "I have been in great physical and mental health now for many years and feel I’m in a confident position to be of huge value and show happiness, recovery, self-awareness and emotional intelligence is completely possible.  My years of lived in experience as well as working alongside psychologists, eating disorder, mental health charities and supporting families through the hell of these very complex illnesses has given me a huge amount of insight and practical information I bring to the people I'm engaging with.   A regular guest and contributor on National TV, Radio and Newspapers. therefore, starting those important conversations with people across the world in schools, universities, private hospitals and workplaces.   Topics we cover/// Stigma around Mental Illness and her mission to break it down The difference between mental Illness and mental Health Growing up in Scotland and South Africa Her parent's situation that lead to her living in poverty and how hard it was growing up Her life surviving anorexia for many years as a teenage and how it manifested for her How Psychosis manifested in her during this struggle and how she nearly committed suicide multiple times Becoming a pilot as a positive focus after getting healthy How the perfectionism of Anorexia led to how she parented, lived and managed everything for the longest time   References: Anorexia Psychosis Apartheid Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs ACEs - Adverse childhood experiences TED talk Dr. Nadine Burke Harris Darren Brown - mentalist, illusionist Kevin Briggs - San Francisco police officer, talked over 200 hundred people out of jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge

 Kimberly Fe’Lix, called Fe’Lix by her friends, is a wellness advocate with a passion for education and accessibility. Before creating her blog, Fe'Lix, Inside & Out, Fe'Lix worked within the health + wellness space both in traditional health care settings and within the non-profit board room setting. With a passion for advocacy, Fe'Lix has experience with both grassroots organizing and as a macro-scale strategist.   After stepping back from her career to focus on her family, Fe'Lix started her blog; which is a one-stop-shop for all things wellness, Both Inside & Out;  as a way to create a space where she could help people navigate the journey to a healthier lifestyle.  Whether talking about the science behind ingredients, clean beauty, or nutrition and supplements, one thing that remains at the center is motherhood. Fe'Lix, speaks regularly on self-care,  diversity, the importance of representation, and the delicate nature of raising mixed race, multi-cultural children in today's world. Kimberly Fe'Lix "Moms, I'm giving you permission to take care of yourself first and then take care of your children.  For non-moms if you're any type of care taker of other human beings whether they belong to you or not, you gotta take care of yourself.  Fill your cup with healthy nutritious things." Topics we cover/// Lack of Diverse representation in Health and Wellness Accessibility of Wellness International food comparison Her growing up with a highly accomplished Mom Preventative Health Being a Military kid and having a very successful Mother in the military Her identity struggle as a very successful professional and now being a stay at home Mom ultimately balancing the emotional struggle in this decision Male/Female cultural expectations Her experience growing interracial and how unaware she was How her boys are mixed race but white presenting and what that means   References: EWG Think Dirty Vani Hari - challenged Kraft to the ingredients in Mac & Cheese AKA Sorority School Daze Chlorella Credits:   Music:   Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme: In the clouds by Stefan Kartenberg (c) copyright 2019 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial  (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/JeffSpeed68/59123 Ft: Javolenus

Rachel Gorham is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with 6 years of clinical experience. She is double board certified and holds national certifications as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and in Advanced Genetics Nursing. Her specialty is in women’s health, gynecological oncology, cancer risk assessment, hereditary cancer syndromes, cancer genetics, managing and developing high-risk breast centers, and cancer prevention.  She has provided her expertise on two national position statements for NPWH which include Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Risk Assessment and Males with Breast Conditions: The Role of WHNPs Specializing in Breast Care. She recently contributed to Women’s Health in Primary Care: An Integrated Approach 1e, “Breast Health” chapter. Rachel is a National Key Note Speaker for Merck and Myriad Genetics.

Live Your Life Bravely Tristan’s entire life journey is a testament to trusting the voices in her head, especially when they didn’t make sense” to others. From going to four colleges in four years, to winning a job at Teen People Magazine off the radio, to convincing publishers she could pen a super-fun dating book as a non-writer, to ditching a wildly successful, albeit soul sucking career in pursuit of service, to coming out with her highly controversial #metoo story, and so much more in the lands of love, life and career, Tristan, to the core of her being, believes that to live life wholeheartedly, we have to dare to answer the call of our own wild. This is the foundation for her passion in helping women connect to their inner voice and project it out… loudly! But if you are looking for hardcore cred, know that Tristan holds a Masters in Psychology from Pepperdine University. She is a licensed psychotherapist (specializing in CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR and narrative therapies) but fancies herself more of a guide since she believes that her clients are the true gurus of their own lives. All that said, her credentials, knowledge and extensive experience getting to the ROOTS of what keep us stuck, definitely come in handy since to truly transform and step into your highest self and brightest light, you gotta heal and release past wounds, effectively. Then… you can be free to identify, explore and create life on your terms. Prior to becoming a coach/therapist, Tristan was a consumer Trend Forecaster serving in many senior level executive positions at companies including Teen People Magazine, People Magazine, Columbia Records and Creative Artists Agency. Tristan consulted for brands such as Nordstrom, Adidas, Target, Nike, L’Oréal and nearly all of the major motion picture studios and TV networks. She has spoken to thousands on stages globally and has been featured in publications such as Glamour, Cosmo, PopSugar, Brit & Co, Nylon, The Daily Love, Huff Po and Your Tango, as well as on TV/radio such as KTLA and Dr. Drew’s Loveline.

Karyn Kusama is an American film and television director. She made her feature film debut with the 2000 film Girlfight,[2] which she wrote, directed, and produced,[3]. She went on to direct the 2005 sci-fi action film Æon Flux, based on Peter Chung's animated series of the same name, and the 2009 cult horror comedy Jennifer's Body. She has recently worked as a television director.[4] In 2017 she directed a segment in the film XX, an all-female horror anthology. Her latest film is the 2018 crime thriller Destroyer, starring Nicole Kidman. Topics we cover: Family and career balance Family tragedy and how it shaped her life, her career trajectory and focus on what she needed to do The American Blind Spot on Race Her experience growing up as the "Japanese Family" and what a school transition did to her perspective Dynamics of power struggle in groups fighting power How defining demographics keeps the in group divides How words are not necessarily a reflection of our thoughts but our upbringing How we have empathy toward people with whom we disagree

Mel Jones is a multi-talented producer and director. A Howard University graduate, she earned her MFA at the American Film Institute in Producing. Jones worked in development at Participant Media under producer Jonathan King and marketing guru Ricky Strauss. A Project Involve Fellow, Jones assisted veteran producer and LA Film Festival director, Stephanie Allain – a gig which turned into a five-year stint as producer of Diversity Speaks, one of the festival’s signature programs. She served as Associate Producer on Justin Simien’s Sundance hit, Dear White People, as a Producer on Wade and Jesse Allain-Marcus’ French Dirty, Gerard McMurray’s Burning Sands and Clark Johnson’s Juanita a Netflix Original. She made her directorial debut with Leimert Park, an indie episodic that premiered at Sundance 2018. She is President of Production for Homegrown Pictures.

This week get to share a conversation with our guy Jantzen, here’s a bit about him - in his own words:  I was born born and "half-raised" in Montreal, later moving to the Toronto suburbs as a young teenager.  Was fortunate to have lived in two of the most diverse cities in Canada and in North America having learned from a lot of other cultures.  My open mindedness and dynamic perspective in life stems from my own anecdotes and also vicariously through the lives of others from around the world. I found myself "tight-rope-walking" the line separating the sides that would have landed me in jail or worse, and the side of prosperity which I continue to live and develop today.  It's through all of my experiences up until this point that have made me realize many things.  One of which is that the messages which we as a Black community/people have been washing our minds with have a false origin which is  perpetuated through various systemic mediums to keep us boxed in, unaware and blind.  It's by only knowing and loving oneself, as well as our true history, can we work towards a better future for our people and the broader society in which we live as a whole.  (this statement can be applied to anyone in this matter.)  I've also realized that as loving oneself and having self-pride is important, particularly in the context of race, it's not everything, as there is way more to gain with the love of all people, in the broader scheme that is more important for humanity as a whole.  It's with all this, a small glimpse of my perspective, that I've founded the WiseMen Collective, to be a person of action, to bring positivity, awareness, education, support and love to our Black people, to have my brothers, sisters and other future members be a part of this journey with me, while making a positive impact within the communities we serve.    My aim is for us to have control of our own narrative as a people, through displays of actions that will motivate people to do the same.    As we grow, our outreach we will continue to impact the marginalized members of our society including the youth, people with disabilities, the impoverished and others where we can make a difference, through our various  outreach programs.

 Kim Anenberg Cavallo is the founder and CEO of Lilspace, a company that enhances relationships in the digital age. Lilspace elevates real-life events through wellness lounges, a time-tracking app and the social impact incentive Unplug for a Cause™.    Growing up with a Mom who was a therapist, Kim experienced the incredible power of relationships and became concerned when technology was clearly interfering with our human to human connections. Her dedication to protecting relationships is Kim’s way to honor her mother, Jane, who died in 2012.    After graduating from UCLA in 1988, Kim discovered the mindy/body connection when she began practicing Iyengar Yoga. As technology has expanded its grip on all of our minds, it became painfully obvious to Kim that, specifically, mobile devices were disrupting our relationships. In 2016, between anxious impulses to check her phone, Kim jumped up to protect real-time relationships from the mesmerizing draw of digital devices. It was then that the idea for Lilspace was born.  With her 25 years experience raising money for NFPs, event planning, community building,  Kim is now focused on what motivates us to put away our phones and practice being present more often.    Kim "Don't Take It Personal"    Topics we cover: Relationship with Technology Her mother being a therapist and what that was growing up Learning to Connect from Mom and Importance of connection to her Managing and understanding emotional responses particularly in relationships Impact of Yoga in her life Starting Lil'Space The unique nature of Lil'Space and how it revolves around Community Next Gen Lil'Space Addiction to Devices and the design of it  References: Lilspace App JPL - Jet Propulsion Laboratory Stand Up Paddling Elevation society /// Brittany Chung Episode Pomodoro Technique Book by Adam Alter: Irresistible Real Girl "Let it Out" with Katie Dalebout Unplug for Wellness Al-Anon   Credits: Music – ccmixter.org Main Theme: "I dunno" by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Guest theme:Love Jones by @nop (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/Lancefield/50789

 Brittany is a Personal Trainer, Group Exercise Instructor, Kindergarten and 1st Grade Teacher.  She has managed through PTSD and Depression as she now tries to raise awareness to Mental Health and promote the impact of health and fitness on mental healing.   Join us in this episode as Brittany does an amazing job sharing her story.  Her trauma comes from a hard story to hear and I'm sure harder to tell.  She has managed through with such determination it is inspiring.  How she has come through is a great example of our resilience as people.  We can all learn a lot form Brittany.

Jamil Smith is a visionary by birth. By training, he is an acupuncturist, herbalist, photographer, writer and entrepreneur.  His life’s work is dedicated to creating viable solutions to social, political and economic challenges facing our societies today.  His path in life has led him from the conference tables of Wall Street through the veins of New York City and beyond.  He has chosen to search for meaning within every experience and show the world its own reflection. Born and raised in Richmond, Virginia, Jamil learned early on to embrace the lessons found in solitude.  He learned that before he could understand his surroundings, he first needed to find his own identity.  During his adolescent years, he found comfort in solitude. The loss of life and friendships opened the doors to universal companionship, allowing him to truly capture the moments spent with family, friends and strangers, alike. When words could not capture the meaning of the moment, it has been his distinct awareness that has enabled him to speak loudly with his expressions of art. As a photographer of 10 years, he brings his burgeoning style and form to lifestyle, documentary, photojournalism and fashion projects. In 2015, he began his journey towards deeper inner cultivation enrolling in New York’s premier Asian Medical Master’s program. Since attending Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, he has deepened his self-awareness as well as his knowledge of acupuncture, herbal medicine and eastern and western medicine. His work has evolved to preserve traditional healing wisdom across cultures while inspiring new ways of reminding people of our true magic within. Collectively, he seeks to build a foundation necessary for a renewed, sustainable world of true equity among all of its inhabitants.

Sophie Beren is the Founder and Executive Director of TableTalk Global. TableTalk Global envisions a world in which college and high school students and community members alike can naturally create an inclusive, vibrant campus community, through increased connection and conversation, outside of the classroom. Sophie believes that the TableTalk curriculum can transform the education space by increasing face-to-face conversations and leadership opportunities that allow every student to feel valued, heard, and understood.   In this conversation we explore Sophie's background as a Jewish student in a predominately Christian community and how that developed her framework of connecting with others.  She gives some amazing conversation tips and insights into how electronic communication is breaking down our abilities to connect with each other.   “Practice what we want the world to look like” Sophie Beren   Topics we cover: Growing up an Outsider Conversation Tips Ice Breakers Using "I" Statements  

  Today we are joined by Mike Carlito. Mike is a self-described Undercover Mexican. Born of Cuban and Mexican descent yet white presenting, he has had an interesting experience growing up. Mike is a local musician in Los Angeles and a man who studies philosophy in his own time.  He is insightful and brings a unique perspective to current events based on his life experience. "See what's the bigger picture" ~Mike C. Topics we cover: Simi Valley and Ventura County MLK's push for economic mobility Oxnard The Barrio Definition of Snowflake Niche - Resentment (with extra letter) John Rohls   References: Band: The Sword Jeff Thompson - LaCore track The Whiskey in L.A.   Credits: Editor: Anthony Michetti   Music – ccmixter.org Main Theme:I dunno by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusqu Cut n Bass Loop by Spuukz (c) copyright 2007 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/Spuukz/8704  

In Episode 31 we bring in Jeff .  We have known Jeff a long time.  Jeff grew up in Alabama and spent a lot of his early adult life traveling and gaining new experiences.  He now works as a supplier for the DoD and has developed a passion for politics.

This episode is heavy and contains graphic descriptions of abuses against Children.  Our guest, Mike Carrillo, is an attorney who tries civil cases against institutions that have allowed sexual abuses against Children. 

Rakhi Voria joins us today!  She is Chief of Staff to Microsoft CVP of Inside Sales, Co-Chair of Women@Microsoft and part of the Forbes Business Development Council.  Passionate about advancing Millennials and women in business.

As we conclude September, Suicide Prevention month, and we follow to our amazing conversation with the founder of a non-profit dedicated to preventing teen Suicide, this week we welcome Kwame.  A man who had personal struggles with suicide and found h...

"There is a reason why you are here.  Even if you don't see it now, you have meaning and there is a purpose in your life..."   Brittany Chung This conversation could not be more timely as September is National Suicide Prevention Month.

The Audacity of what's possible.  Today we go on a ride with our man David.  David is one-quarter native American and lives in Seattle.  He's a family man and successful executive at a large tech company.  You'll quickly notice that he's very aware of ...

There is fear or there is love...a poignant thought left with us when we met Alanna Airitam.  Alanna is a fine art portrait photographer best known for The Golden Age, a series of portraits shot with classic Rembrandt style lighting.

It is our pleasure to introduce Phil Hay and we do indeed cover writing, RPGs, baseball, and sitting with discomfort. - Phil is a screenwriter, producer, little league coach, and a pretty funny dude.  In this conversation,

Welcome back friends, today we're joined by The LockWest Monster. While the title is our favorite quote from the conversation our next favorite is "Dialogue is the breeding ground for all resolve".  This conversation moves all over the place and weÂ...

We have the extreme pleasure of introducing Alex aka Shye Eaze.  She is an artist, a doer, a creator.  She tells us to: Be Aware of Your Breath, Keep Your Chin Up, and Be Still. She plays at least 4 instruments, in fact,

Updates, Get your updates! In today's short episode we have June 2018 updates for the masses.  We've hit the middle of our year and want to share a few things with you all.  Chief among those, some of our learnings, challenges, and new release cycle. It's a short yet action packed 15 minutes that is geared to let you know where we're going.  Listen in. Suppot our endeavor and grab a tshirt, click ---> here Expose/Evaluate/Evolve/ Music credits: I Dunno (Grapes of Wrath Mix) by spinningmerkaba (c) copyright 2017 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/jlbrock44/56346 Ft: Jlang, 4nsic, grapes

In this brief follow up we talk about what we learned in "The Stigma Around Mental Illness" with Brescia. If you didnt get a chance to listen quite yet go back and check it out, it's Episode020.     Transcript: Keith: All right welcome back or welcome to more in common this is our social experiment here we find and create unity we're doing it by exposing people their stories their mindsets and the reasons for them.  It's our social experiment to find common ground and make this world a better place.  We try to do it by exposing so-called difficult topics such as race politics religion mental health and evaluating people's stories their thoughts and the reasons for having them Rodney: And we challenge our ability to evolve how we see and think of each other ultimately exposing that we have more in common than that which divides useven while rooted in differing points of view. I'm Rodney... Keith: and I'm Keith Rodney: We're more common so hey thank you for being here a couple of quick announcements you can catch us catch us and all of our content on our website moreincommonpod.com it's a mouthful moreincommonpod.com from there you can get to everything that we're doing our episodes our blogs our socials and our apparel we have shirts if you want to support us. Pick up a shirt, has a great message, they feel good. and with that we'll jump into today's follow-up episode of Brescia where we talked about her challenges with mental illness and mental health and just how awesome she is as a human being in general. Keith, what did you what are you taking away from our conversation with Brescia what are you been thinking about? Keith: Well I think one it's one of those things especially being a dad and you think about all of the possibilities of the life that that our daughters will experience and so, on the on the downside it's like man you know I want to do everything I can but I know I can't control everything. So really trying to find by parenting rhythm around that mentality and in just how awesome Brescia is and navigating that in her experience and her life.  You know she's what early 20s and she's certainly gone through a lot, more than I have right. I think the other thing that I've taken away from that conversation especially having listened to it a couple of times is… your interaction in that dialogue. I studied psychology, right. I've been diagnosed with a depression. I've you know, navigated this ecosystem in one fashion or another for a long time. So talking about mental illness is actually pretty normal for me if you will. But knowing it's not for you and having you know engaged so well in that conversation but I noticed it right and how you how you worked and navigated through it as someone who doesn't talk about it all that often.  So I thought that was it was a bit of a I don't want to call I mean I guess I'll call it a lightbulb moment of the difficulty of these conversations for most people not just myself right.  Like can you kind of take advantage of your own world that you live in so you know it's helping me frame the importance of having that conversation.  Because I would otherwise say yeah, of course, it's important we should do it right but it's not the easiest thing for everybody to navigate right. Rodney: Yeah like super uncomfortable for me I mean I don't, I don't like you said I haven't been diagnosed I don't I didn't study it I don't get it. From a very academic or I think logical standpoint like I understand the things that Brescia was telling us.  And in that mean that opened a lot of a lot of doors and a lot of things for me.  Like just to try and glimpse it more,

The stigma of mental illness is a real thing. Many struggles with admitting, accepting, or even talking about the challenges they face with mental illness because of this stigma. There are a lot of amazing organizations and individuals trying to change this culture. Giving people a safe place to open up about their experience. Today, we are graced with Brescia Dover who is one of these AMAZING individuals. Brescia has experienced more in the first quarter of her life than most. Join us in learning about her journey through anorexia and today managing Bi-Polar disorder. Brescia also produces her own videos to tell her story: End the Stigma: Mental Illness Awareness Film. In this episode we traverse: The stigma of mental illness Anorexia Bi-Polar Disorder Animal Therapy Grittiness It's not about food, it's about control Shirts!! We're selling "Be brave enough to start a conversation that matters" t-shirts. if you want one check out the apparel shop on our site. Expose.Evaluate.Evolve  Music Credits: * Main Theme: I dunno by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusque * Guest Theme: The Long Goodbye by John Pazdan (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/flatwound/14476

This follow up to our conversation with Vu about Fighting The Zombies Of Injustice is short and sweet.  We contemplate what we learned and what we took away from the conversation personally.  If you didn't have a chance go back to Episode017 and check out the original conversation with Vu.  You can find Vu's work with non-profits on his website nonprofitAF, he's doing some great work to help non-profits change the way they see themselves and work with funders.

Vu Le (“voo lay”) joins us today.  He is a writer, speaker, vegan, Pisces, and the Executive Director of Rainier Valley Corps, a nonprofit in Seattle that promotes social justice by developing leaders of color, strengthening organizations led by communities of color, and fostering collaboration between diverse communities. Yes, we do talk about fighting the zombies of injustice. Vu’s passion is to make the world better.  He believes that we should take the work seriously, but not ourselves.  Vu can be found at his featured blog NonprofitAF.com.  The NPR podcast "Invisibilia" is really good and the episode "The Pattern Problem" goes deeper into some concepts discussed in this episode. In this episode we traverse the following topics: The non-profit ecosystem Having leaders of color in the non-profit segment Poverty mindset The non-profit life Donor paradigm  "Hose to water ratio" "We have to remember our kids will marry other people's kids" "I did just buy a new used care" Statistics on giving nation-wide (2015) found here   Shirts!! We're selling "Be brave enough to start a conversation that matters" t-shirts.  if you want one check out the apparel shop on our site, by clicking here. Music Credits: * Main Theme: I dunno by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusque * Guest Theme: The Long Goodbye by John Pazdan (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/flatwound/14476

What'd We Learn: It's Fun to Be Nice and Face Blindness In typical fashion, we follow up with our last episode with a short talk about what we've been thinking about.  Specifically where our conversation with Ken forced us to consider new things.  If you didn't get to hear you can find it here:  It's Fun to Be Nice and Face Blindness.   it  This is the Evolve part of More In Common, in which we challenge what we think we know. Want to know more about face blindness?  Click here. Expose.Evaluate.Evolve

Prosopagnosia or face blindness: the inability to recognize faces. Face blindness is thought to be the result of abnormalities, damage, or impairment in the right fusiform gyrus, a fold in the brain that appears to coordinate the neural systems that control facial perception and memory. Remember kids, It's fun to be nice Today's conversation is with Ken, a Technical Sales Engineer, a good dude with a lot of interesting thoughts that will force you to think. He's got a charmingly sharp wit that will keep you on your toes. The challenge is to stay engaged past the initial thought. If you do, it's rewarding, we promise. The topics we cover: * some profanity * Prosopagnosia or face blindness * Team in Training * Evil * Nazis * TEDTalk of a reformed neo-nazi * Quotables from Ken: * "It is lazy to hate a group" * "A Year of bad blind dates" * "I'm going to figure out why I'm not popular" Remember: It's fun to be nice for no other reason than to just be nice. In other news, we're selling awesome t-shirts.  Fantastic tri-blend t-shirts. They're comfy, soft, and come with a message. They read:  "Be brave enough to start a conversation that matters" If you want one check out the apparel shop on our site. Music Credits: Main Theme: I dunno by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusque Paint the Sky by Hans Atom (c) copyright 2015 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/hansatom/50718 Ft: Miss Judged

Part 2 - A Sweet Remembrance. School to Prison Pipeline: The disproportionate tendency of minors and young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds to become incarcerated, because of increasingly harsh school and municipal policies. In an uncommon twist to our typical follow-ups, today we continue "A Sweet Remembrance" with Lloyd Wilkey.  We do add a follow-up to the conversation in the spirit of our evolution but do carry the episode concluding our discussion with Lloyd. Part 2 takes us deeper into Lloyds work to help eliminate the school to prison pipeline through his boxing program @LARiotboxing.  We explore different prison programs that do the opposite of rehabilitation despite desired good intent. We close up our time with Lloyd and greatly appreciate his work in the community, his willingness to share his story and his life journey to fight the injustices in the world while promoting equality.  He lives the mission many talk about and he is someone to be admired and heard.   Music credits: Main Theme:  I dunno by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusque

Moral Turpitude Noun   * Conduct that is believed to be contrary to community standards of honesty, good morals, or justice. Origin 15th century     Latin turpitudo (“vile” or “base”) A Sweet Remembrance. Today we are back with Lloyd Wilkey. Please go back to the first episode find it here, episode 4.  You can find Lloyd on twitter @mindfulpolicing. Lloyd is an activist, human relations trainer focusing on law enforcement, education, business, non-profit. He's a mediator, self-defense coach @ LA Riot Boxing, and he's a singer. We go deeper into the conversation we had with Lloyd previously. We cover: * Unconscious bias/Implicit bias * School to prison pipeline * Policing * Museum of Tolerance and the Sites of Conscience * Moral turpitude, and more Breaking from the norm of using a quote from the episode as a title, we named this episode "A Sweet Remembrance".  A nod to Lloyd as he and his family traverse rough waters and to serve as a reminder that he and his wife their progeny are a living legacy.  We really enjoyed recording this and think you'll enjoy listening.  Join us as we continue the social experiment to find connection and discussion that can lead to meaningful action. Expose.Evaluate.Evolve Music credits: Recovered Memory by Admiral Bob (c) copyright 2014 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/admiralbob77/48207 Ft: Doxent Zsigmond Main Theme:  I dunno by grapes (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license.http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/grapes/16626 Ft: J Lang, Morusque

Evolve In today's episode we take a moment to talk about what we learned from our conversation with Felicia.  What's been on our mind and what about the conversation has spurred growth and evolution for each of us. Expose.Evaluate.Evolve.

Well, here is the first guest episode of 2018!  Additionally, this is our first conversation under the new name, MORE IN COMMON! We are excited to bring this discussion to you.  In this episode, we have Felecia Killings.  Felecia is a devoted mother, educator, and entrepreneur. She is the Founder and CEO of FKMinistries, which seeks to help people walk in their calling. She is the Executive Director of LiyahAmore Publishing, which helps Christian Authors build their writing ministries. And she is committed to helping people discover that we have more in common with each, in spite of our political differences.  Today, we find ourselves with more in common than different. She can be found on her website at www.feleciakillings.com. We learn about her experiences helping drive change in her public system and have a great discussion about our differing views on politics and the nature of today's media as it influences the political narrative. This is a wonderful conversation that truly demonstrates the nature of civility and getting to know one another even if we come from opposite viewpoints on any topic.  We really have a lot in common with Felecia even though we disagree with a lot of things. The discussion was a lot of fun and was wonderful to have!  Enjoy listening as much as we did recording. Music (remix) credits: I Dunno (Grapes of Wrath Mix) by spinningmerkaba (c) copyright 2017 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/jlbrock44/56346 Ft: Jlang, 4nsic, grapes Reverie (small theme) by _ghost (c) copyright 2010 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/_ghost/25389 Ft: Pitx

Name Change & Guns Follow Up Happy New Year and welcome back to More In Common.  That's right, the  name change is official.  In this episode we talk about the change and what it means to us. We also include our "What'd we learn" segment regarding our last conversation about guns.  We talk about what we've been chewing on since that conversation and how (or if) we've evolved. Join us in this, our first episode of 2018, a short and easy way to start the year off.   Music (remix) credits: I Dunno (Grapes of Wrath Mix) by spinningmerkaba (c) copyright 2017 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/jlbrock44/56346 Ft: Jlang, 4nsic, grapes

Let's Talk About Guns Welcome back as we took a small respite to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday with our families and to build out a release docket for the next 6 months that we should all enjoy! Today, join us as we explore the topic of gun ownership, rights and use.  This is actually a topic we have never discussed before and given the nature of sensitivity we wanted to see where the conversation went. This is a great foray into how we have discussions were we sincerely reach a point of disagreement through the dialogue.  The goal of what we aim to demonstrate through all our episodes.  While we don't come from extreme differences we demonstrate the nuanced complexities of this discussion. Enjoy and at the end, take note of the call to action. Notes: Want to learn about HRV?  Good place to start (no we're not sponsored or affilaited in any way.  I just use their app): https://elitehrv.com/ Music (remix) credits: I Dunno (Grapes of Wrath Mix) by spinningmerkaba (c) copyright 2017 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/jlbrock44/56346 Ft: Jlang, 4nsic, grapes Drops of H2O ( The Filtered Water Treatment ) by J.Lang (c) copyright 2012 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/djlang59/37792 Ft: Airtone

This social experiment we've embarked upon as already taught us a lot.  We thank you for joining us and we look forward to bringing more and more as we continue to grow. - In today's episode we step back from interviewing guests and talk about where w...

Join us as we discuss our last episode with Lloyd.  If you've not listened to the episode with Lloyd yet, you're doing it wrong - do that first. - In these "What'd we learn" episodes we aim to both Evaluate out last conversation and discuss where we'v...

Oh, So I'm Black Now? I Wasn't Black During The War Today we learn about Lloyd.  Lloyd is gracious to share his story that led him to today where he lives in Los Angeles and is an Activist, a Human Relations Trainer doing work with Law Enforcement, businesses, non-profits, and educators.  He is a Mediator, Youth worker, boxing/self-defense coach, and singer. After living his developmental years in Boston during the Civil Rights movement of the 60s and surviving some intense trauma during those years, Lloyd has dedicated his life to improving the communities around him. It certainly hasn't always been easy, but he perseveres in his efforts to make the world he lives in a better place.  Lloyd's story is certainly interesting and his perspective is rooted in experiences many of us don't have. This episode doesn't have choice language but some of the subject matter is heavy.  Just know before listening depending who you listen with. Notes: * Claudette Colvin, the first "Rosa Parks" * Part 2 with Lloyd * Part 3 with Lloyd Music Credits: * eighteen pieces (soda) by Soda (c) copyright 2008 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/soda/16738 * I Dunno (Grapes of Wrath Mix) by spinningmerkaba (c) copyright 2017 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/jlbrock44/56346 Ft:Jlang , 4nsic, grapes  

Sit in as we explore our thoughts regarding the discussion with Speaks.  As is with each episode, we always seek to evaluate our thoughts after a conversation in an effort to evolve our thinking and our mindset. -