Episodios

  • Why Are Low-Income Communities Disproportionately Burdened by Waste? with Rebecca Bratspies
    May 22 2025

    Welcome to Compassiviste Dialogues. I'm Ali, your host, and my mission with this podcast is to shed light on critical social and environmental issues worldwide, exploring avenues for positive change.

    ABOUT GUEST:

    Rebecca Bratspies is a professor at CUNY Law and the founding director of the Center for Urban Environmental Reform. A scholar in environmental justice and human rights, she has published extensively in academic journals and public forums.

    Her award-winning book, Naming Gotham: The Villains, Rogues, and Heroes Behind New York Place Names, received the NY Public Historians’ 2023 Excellence in Local History Award, the NYC Big Book Award for History, and the 2024 American Legacy Book Award for US History. Her co-authored textbook, Environmental Justice: Law, Policy, and Regulation, is used in classrooms nationwide.

    Rebecca also co-created (with artist Charlie LaGreca-Velasco) the EPA-award-winning graphic novel series The Environmental Justice Chronicles, which engages young readers in civic education through storytelling and visual art.

    KEY NOTES:

    The Intersection of Creativity and Academia: How Rebecca Bridges Both Worlds Understanding the Importance of Census Data in Shaping Policy The Role of FOIA in Promoting Government Transparency What Happens When Policy Fails the People? Closing the Gap: Can Policy Truly Amplify Marginalized Voices? Defining a Healthy Environment: What Does It Really Mean?

    TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00 – Episode Trailer 01:30 – Intro 02:44 – What Sparked Rebecca’s Passion for Justice? 11:20 – Bridging Creativity and Academia 16:48 – What Is the Census and Why Does It Matter? 19:45 – Demystifying Census Data 22:38 – Can FOIA Ensure Government Transparency? 27:42 – What Can the Public Do When Policy Fails? 32:03 – Can Policy Truly Amplify Marginalized Voices? 36:53 – What Defines a Healthy Environment? 40:49 – Solving the Environmental Justice Placement Challenge 50:05 – From Privilege to Social Responsibility 58:17 – How Can We Spark Global Change? 01:02:59 – Why Do We Overconsume as a Society? 01:07:35 – Naming Gotham: The Stories Behind New York’s Neighborhoods 01:16:14 – Today’s Challenges in Justice and Environmental Law 01:19:51 – The Social and Environmental Crisis We Must Face 01:25:30 – Outro & Rebecca’s Book

    THINGS MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-bratspies-56b4078/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rbratspies/ Website: https://www.rebeccabratspies.com/environmental-justice-chronicles

    TO LEARN MORE AND STAY CONNECTED:

    🌐 Visit our website: https://compassivistedialogues.com/ 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qt8cYHeIcDmDV8zPKNxMw 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/compassiviste-dialogues/id1735926709

    CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Compassiviste/61555898333856/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compassiviste/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@compassiviste Twitter: https://twitter.com/compassiviste LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/compassiviste/

    Tune in, follow, and embark on this insightful journey with us. Your vision's transformation begins now. 🚀🌟

    #podcast #environmentalism #socialchange #civilrights #sustainability #technology #compassiviste #humanitarian #charity #nonprofit #podcasts #compassivistepublishing #compassivistedialogues #nonprofitstories #thelastofus #nationalgeographic #science #earth #climatechange #biology #education #humanrights #RebeccaBratspies #waste #wastemanagement #zerowasteriseandfall #plasticwaste #cleaning #planetearth #globalwarming #environment #ecosystem #greenenergy #pollution #climate

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    1 h y 28 m
  • Letting Go of Deep Shame and Rebuilding Confidence w/Dr. Tina Schermer Sellers
    May 14 2025

    Welcome to Compassiviste Dialogues. I'm Ali, your host, and my mission with this podcast is to shed light on critical social and environmental issues worldwide, exploring avenues for positive change.

    ABOUT GUEST:

    Dr. Tina Schermer Sellers is a licensed psychotherapist, best-selling author, researcher, and professor emerita whose work explores the intersection of relational health, parenting, spiritual intimacy, and social justice. Her perspectives have been featured in Spirituality & Health, Refinery 29, Medium, and numerous media outlets including podcasts, radio, and television.

    She is known for addressing how shame and cultural narratives can affect relationships, parenting, and personal confidence. Her latest release, Shameless Parenting, became a bestseller in eight categories and offers guidance on raising confident, shame-resilient children.

    Dr. Sellers is the founder of the Northwest Institute on Intimacy, which trains professionals in healthy relational and emotional frameworks. She also launched InannaRising.org — a support and training network for therapists integrating advanced therapeutic approaches and equity initiatives in mental health care.

    Follow Dr. Tina on Instagram @DrTinaShameless.

    KEY NOTES:

    Healing from Shame and Moral Wounds Healing from Shame Rooted in Belief Systems Why Healing Should Be Accessible to All Rediscovering Personal Identity and Wholeness How Marketing Taps Into Our Emotional Triggers

    TIMESTAMPS:

    01:30 – Intro 02:56 – Who Is Dr. Tina Schermer Sellers? 10:32 – Beyond Biology: Rethinking Intimacy and Identity 22:04 – How Belief Systems and Media Shape Relationships and Self-Image 36:21 – From Harm to Healing: Seeking Clarity in a Culture of Silence 42:04 – Capitalism, Influence, and the Beauty Myth 52:21 – How Body Ideals Are Marketed as Empowerment 54:20 – How Religious Views on Intimacy Have Evolved Over Time 59:30 – Eight Principles for Respectful and Healthy Connection 01:08:07 – Ancient Traditions Celebrating Love and Connection 01:15:26 – Breaking the Cycle of Shame, Power, and Silence 01:28:27 – Making Emotional Healing More Accessible 01:30:17 – Redefining Returns: Viewing Healing as an Investment 01:36:22 – What Healing Really Means 01:43:40 – When Would Tina Invest in Gold? 01:50:57 – One Piece of Advice for Listeners 01:57:03 – Outro

    THINGS MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST:

    https://www.tinaschermersellers.com/

    TO LEARN MORE AND STAY CONNECTED:

    🌐 Visit our website: https://compassivistedialogues.com/ 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qt8cYHeIcDmDV8zPKNxMw 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/compassiviste-dialogues/id1735926709

    CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Compassiviste/61555898333856/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compassiviste/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@compassiviste Twitter: https://twitter.com/compassiviste LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/compassiviste/

    Tune in, follow, and embark on this insightful journey with us. Your vision's transformation begins now. 🚀🌟

    Disclaimer: This content is intended for discussion and reflection. It does not promote political, religious, or election-related agendas.

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    1 h y 59 m
  • Finding Peace in the Modern World: Technology vs. Spirituality with Francis Xavier IV
    May 8 2025

    Welcome to Compassiviste Dialogues. I'm Ali, your host, and my mission with this podcast is to shed light on critical social and environmental issues worldwide, exploring avenues for positive change.

    In this conversation, Francis Xavier shares his profound journey—from a privileged upbringing through crisis and into a life of spiritual exploration. Along the way, we reflect on family legacy, identity in the digital age, and the inner work required for lasting peace

    Through adversity, he discovers the essence of true success and the frameworks necessary for personal development and acceptance. In this conversation, the speakers explore the nature of truth, the importance of spiritual practices, and the role of doubt and certainty in faith.

    They discuss how personal pain can shape one's purpose and the significance of self-reflection in personal growth. The dialogue also touches on the impact of ego on purpose and the collective good, emphasizing the need for a centered existence to achieve true success and peace. In this conversation, the speakers explore the importance of balance and tolerance in spiritual practice.

    They discuss the quest for inner peace and the role of personal responsibility in spiritual growth, emphasizing that true understanding and enlightenment come from within. The dialogue highlights the significance of faith, the interplay of free will and destiny, and the need for individuals to seek their own path to purpose and guidance.

    ABOUT GUEST:

    Francis Xavier IV is a writer, web developer and public speaker driven by a deep curiosity about the intersections of spirituality, technology and the human condition. He operates an independent web development agency, is a core contributor to WordPress, author of the Digital Mastery column for Inc.com and as a public speaker speaks on spirituality, storytelling and understanding tech. Currently preparing for an Appalachian Trail pilgrimage, Francis continues his lifelong pursuit of knowledge, meaning, and exploration.

    KEY NOTES:

    One of the key challenges in modern life may be a spiritual void. Adversity can lead to profound personal transformation. Spiritual awakening often follows a period of deep crisis. Rebuilding the self requires acceptance and forgiveness. Life's purpose is centered around building your soul. Self-reflection helps in recognizing and correcting small daily mistakes. Meditation is a powerful tool for personal growth and understanding. Prayer and meditation serve different but complementary purposes.

    TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00 The Shattering of Illusions 02:56 From Wealth to Crisis: A Childhood Revisited 05:52 The Impact of Family Legacy 09:12 Finding Identity in the Digital Age 12:03 The Journey Through Adversity 14:50 The Path to Spiritual Awakening 18:11 The Aftermath of Transformation 20:54 Rebuilding the Self 23:57 The Purpose of Life: Building Your Soul 26:46 Practical Spirituality in Modern Life 30:08 Frameworks for Personal Growth 33:21 The Nature of Truth and Subjectivity 36:32 Spiritual Practices and Their Importance 39:55 The Role of Doubt and Certainty in Faith 44:20 Pain, Purpose, and the Soul's Journey 49:47 Self-Reflection and Personal Growth 55:36 Ego, Purpose, and the Collective Good 01:07:33 The Unifying Story of Islam 01:08:03 The Quest for Inner Peace 01:10:05 The Importance of Spiritual Retreats 01:12:03 The Role of Meditation in Spiritual Growth 01:14:55 Navigating Certainty and Doubt in Faith 01:17:00 The Essence of Prayer and Meditation 01:19:57 The Dangers of Extremism in Religion 01:20:27 The Common Threads in Major Religions 01:22:18 The Significance of Jesus and Faith 01:27:32 The Role of Personal Responsibility in Spirituality 01:30:52 The Interplay of Free Will and Destiny 01:37:30 Finding Purpose and Guidance in Life

    THINGS MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST:

    FB: https://www.facebook.com/fwazeter/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@francis-xavier-4 LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wazeter/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/francis.xavier4/

    TO LEARN MORE AND STAY CONNECTED:

    🌐 Visit our website: https://compassivistedialogues.com/ 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qt8cYHeIcDmDV8zPKNxMw 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/compassiviste-dialogues/id1735926709

    CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Compassiviste/61555898333856/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compassiviste/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@compassiviste Twitter: https://twitter.com/compassiviste LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/compassiviste/

    Tune in, follow, and embark on this insightful journey with us. Your vision's transformation begins now. 🚀🌟

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    1 h y 39 m
  • A Survivor’s Journey from Exploitation to Freedom – Cults Exposed w/Daniella Mestyanek Young
    May 1 2025

    Welcome to Compassiviste Dialogues. I'm Ali, your host, and my mission with this podcast is to shed light on critical social and environmental issues worldwide, exploring avenues for positive change.

    And today, we’re honored to share the incredible journey of Daniella Mestyanek Young.

    Raised in the notorious Children of God cult, Daniella escaped and transformed her life, ultimately becoming a U.S. Army captain and intelligence officer on the frontlines in Afghanistan. Her bestselling memoir, praised for its powerful storytelling, has been compared to Educated and The Glass Castle.

    In this episode, we’ll dive into Daniella’s path to success, her insights into the complexities of group behavior, and her work in leadership and organizational psychology. Daniella now shares her expertise as a TEDx speaker and Harvard graduate, exploring the fine line between culture and cults and the impact of powerful leaders on society.

    Stay tuned as we discuss Daniella’s mission to educate, her work on breaking free from the past, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Let’s get started!

    ABOUT GUEST:

    Daniella was born a third-generation member of the infamous Children of God religious cult, and grew up being trafficked around the world, before escaping that life and moving to America at age 15. She put herself through high school and graduated as college valedictorian before commissioning into the US Army as an intelligence officer. That’s where she really started to think about group behavior…and seeing it, well, everywhere.

    Daniella deployed twice to Afghanistan (2011, 2014) and became a member of one of the Army’s first Female Engagement teams (an experiment that put women into deliberate ground combat for the first time in Army history, and eventually led to the repeal of the sexist combat ban and the gender desegregation of the entire US military).

    She is a proud daughter of the 101st, (that's the unit in Band of Brothers), a recipient of the Presidential Volunteer Service Award (from Obama, y'all), and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Organizational Psychology at the Harvard Extension School (she focuses her research on group behavior, social norms, culture, extremism, leadership demagoguery and cults).

    KEY NOTES:

    The Cult of Work: Is it Exploitation or Empowerment? The Dream Sellers: How Manipulation Drives Modern Exploitation Exploitation as a Profitable Model: The Business of Control A System of Justice for the Wealthy and Punishment for the Poor From Religious Zeal to Celebrity Worship: Why We Keep Chasing Illusions

    TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00 - Episode Trailer 01:24 - Intro 03:16 - The Cult of Labor: Work or Exploitation? 11:55 - Selling the Dream: How Manipulation Fuels Modern Exploitation 17:14 - Exploitation as a Business Model 22:33 - Justice for the Rich, Punishment for the Poor: The Flawed System 28:39 - From Religion to Celebrity Culture: How We Keep Buying the Same Illusions 37:00 - How Societies Keep Women Fighting Each Other 43:47 - Why Instagram Is More Dangerous Than Nukes 47:47 - Feminism as a Path to a Sustainable Future 54:40 - Can the Publishing Industry Embrace Ethics Without Sacrificing Success? 01:04:20 - Healing or Hiding? The Truth Behind Overcoming Trauma 01:12:17 - Turning Pain Into Purpose: The Key to True Healing 01:19:56 - How to Turn Pain into Power 01:28:35 - The Dangers of Blind Faith: How to Avoid Cult Mentalities 01:37:23 - Rebuilding Life After Wealth 01:44:23 - Outro

    THINGS MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST:

    Daniella's Website: https://uncultureyourself.com/ Daniella's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DMestyanekYoung Daniella's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniellamyoung_/ Daniella's Youtube: @KnittingCultLady

    TO LEARN MORE AND STAY CONNECTED:

    🌐 Visit our website: https://compassivistedialogues.com/ 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qt8cYHeIcDmDV8zPKNxMw 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/compassiviste-dialogues/id1735926709

    CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Compassiviste/61555898333856/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compassiviste/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@compassiviste Twitter: https://twitter.com/compassiviste LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/compassiviste/

    Tune in, follow, and embark on this insightful journey with us. Your vision's transformation begins now. 🚀🌟

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    1 h y 48 m
  • 100-Word Writing Contest: Tadpole Press & Compassiviste Publishing with Amber Byers
    Apr 24 2025

    Welcome to Compassiviste Dialogues. I'm Ali, your host, and my mission with this podcast is to shed light on critical social and environmental issues worldwide, exploring avenues for positive change.

    Today we’re joined by the inspiring Amber Byers—award-winning author, editor, writing coach, and founder of Tadpole Press. Amber brings a unique perspective to the world of publishing and storytelling. In this episode, we’ll explore Amber’s journey as a writer and entrepreneur, the mission behind Tadpole Press, and the exciting collaboration with Compassiviste Publishing.

    ABOUT GUEST:

    Amber Byers is the founder and CEO of Tadpole Press, where she serves as head judge of the Tadpole Press 100-Word Writing Contest, an international writing contest celebrating creativity and community.

    She blogs regularly at Living a Life Imagined, which is dedicated to positivity and authenticity as a creative. Amber’s published works include The Magic Door Origin Story, which is a sci-fi story inspired by her childhood, and Sophie and Spot, which won a Gold Medal for Best First Book in the chapter book category from Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards in 2019.

    Above all, Amber is an artist and entrepreneur. She has a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Washington, a Juris Doctor in law from the University of Arizona, and a passion for diversifying literature.

    Amber’s work is informed by her identity as an agender and biracial person. She is proud to be a member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and would love to tell you the story of how she got her Indian name of Nijgan Bamsid Manidog (Friend Who Walks with Spirits).

    Amber started reading at the age of three and is still in love with the power and beauty of language. She especially relishes words that surprise, delight, and encourage us to support and inspire one another.​​

    Currently living in Colorado, USA, she has also lived in Mexico, China, London, and Thailand.

    KEY NOTES:

    - The Power of Concise Storytelling: The Tadpole Press 100-Word Writing Contest - Amplifying Diverse Voices: Why Authenticity in Publishing Matters - Bridging Communities: Encouraging Innovation through Diverse Ideas - The Power of Collective Action

    TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00 - Episode Trailer 02:15 - Intro 03:25 - What is The Tadpole Press 100 Word Writing Contest 11:12 - Ten Word Story Example 15:24 - How Can One Line Say it All 19:08 - What Inspired Amber? 22:59 - Reclaiming Creativity as a Collective Act of Connection and Care 28:07 - Why does Tadpole Matters? 34:44 - Tadpole’s Vision for Inclusive, Free, and Fearless Storytelling 41:45 - Beyond Personal Wealth: Using Resources for the Greater Good 52:41 - The Power of Collective Action Over Wealth 01:02:13 - How Compassiviste Publishing Selects Its Impactful Partners 01:12:50 - How to Encourage Innovation through Diverse Ideas 01:17:15 - Embracing the Creative Flow and Letting Go of Efficiency 01:27:12 - Outro

    THINGS MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST:

    100-Word Writing Contest: https://www.tadpolepress.com/100-word-writing-contest TadPole Press Website: https://www.tadpolepress.com/ Amber's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-byers-tadpole-press/ Amber's Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B07L4B5YJ7

    TO LEARN MORE AND STAY CONNECTED:

    🌐 Visit our website: https://compassivistedialogues.com/ 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qt8cYHeIcDmDV8zPKNxMw 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/compassiviste-dialogues/id1735926709

    CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Compassiviste/61555898333856/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compassiviste/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@compassiviste Twitter: https://twitter.com/compassiviste LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/compassiviste/

    Tune in, follow, and embark on this insightful journey with us. Your vision's transformation begins now. 🚀🌟

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    1 h y 29 m
  • How Can Jupiter's Ghosts HELP Kids Who Struggle With Reading? w/ Tani,Milan & Kristen
    Apr 17 2025

    Welcome to Compassiviste Dialogues. I'm Ali, your host, and my mission with this podcast is to shed light on critical social and environmental issues worldwide, exploring avenues for positive change.

    Today we're joined by an exceptional panel of creators behind the graphic novel Jupiter's Ghost. We have Tani Gill, choreographer, producer, and founder of Tentacle Dancing; Milan Medvec, lead animator and concept artist; and Kristen Kortright, talented designer and illustrator.

    In this episode, we explore how Jupiter's Ghost was born from a desire to help kids struggling with reading and how art can be a powerful tool for education. From personal challenges to creative breakthroughs, our guests share their unique journeys and the vision behind the graphic novel that aims to inspire and empower the next generation.

    ABOUT JUPITER'S GHOST:

    June 2124.

    Earth is uninhabitable, ravaged by climate change and turned to rubble. In a world ruled by artificial intelligence, the line between human and machine has begun to blur.

    On board a space vessel orbiting Jupiter’s moon, Europa, hybrid humanoid Dr Elias Crete is racing against time to save his son Jove. Working obsessively in his lab, he brings to life Jupiter 101, a genetically engineered human clone.

    Jupiter’s awakening sparks a deep love within the teenaged Jove, but it also forces Dr Crete to face the morality of bringing humanity back from extinction.

    Humankind destroyed the only home they ever knew.

    Do they deserve to be given a second chance?

    KEY NOTES:

    From Refugee to Lead Animator: Milan Medvec's Inspiring Journey Designing a Hero: Kristen Kortright’s Creative Process Behind Jupiter's Ghost Empowering Education: How Comics Are Shaping the Future of Learning Overcoming Life’s Challenges: The Making of Jupiter's Ghost Bringing Comics to Life: The Art of Combining Creativity with Education

    TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00 - Episode Trailer 02:17 - Intro 05:31 - The Vision Behind Jupiter’s Ghost - How Everyone Got Together and Started Working 10:43 - What Does It Take to Create a Character? 14:05 - Can You Empower an Audience Through Hidden Disabilities? 18:49 - Milan’s Journey of Resilience, Dreams, and Breaking Barriers 21:47 - How to Become a Valuable Member of Society? 24:55 - Will AI Take Over Creativity? 30:40 - Why Do Artists Say Yes? Choosing Projects with Purpose, Passion, and Integrity 36:52 - The Power of Self-Publishing and Finding Your People at Artist Alley 40:07 - Why Make a Comic with a Cause? 42:58 - Comics: Education or Entertainment? 45:03 - Why Schools Should Embrace Comics for Imagination and Learning 55:16 - Favorite Characters from Jupiter’s Ghost 58:04 - Outro

    THINGS MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST:

    Tani Gill's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tgdc26/ Milan Medvec's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kk_animator/ Kristen Kortright's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kk_animator/

    TO LEARN MORE AND STAY CONNECTED:

    🌐 Visit our website: https://compassivistedialogues.com/ 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qt8cYHeIcDmDV8zPKNxMw 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/compassiviste-dialogues/id1735926709

    BUY BOOK AT:

    Proceeds from the sale of Jupiter's Ghost support both Compassiviste Foundation's global sustainability and human rights projects, and Just One Tree's work to combat climate change through the replanting of forests around the world.

    https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DXG9LJZ5 https://amzn.eu/d/5Tn0dlo

    CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Compassiviste/61555898333856/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compassiviste/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@compassiviste Twitter: https://twitter.com/compassiviste LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/compassiviste/

    Tune in, follow, and embark on this insightful journey with us. Your vision's transformation begins now. 🚀🌟

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    1 h
  • The Truth About Trauma and Resilience with Allison Whittenberg
    Apr 10 2025

    Welcome to Compassiviste Dialogues. I'm Ali, your host, and my mission with this podcast is to shed light on critical social and environmental issues worldwide, exploring avenues for positive change.

    In this episode of Compassiviste Dialogues, host Ali Horriyat sits down with author and Army veteran Allison Wittenberg to discuss her newest novel Killing the Father of Our Country.

    Allison opens up about her military experience, family history, and how domestic violence and generational trauma shaped her writing. With deep reflection and candid storytelling, she explores what it means to truly heal through acceptance, community, and compassion.

    Tune in for an empowering conversation on resilience, identity, and the role of literature in social change.

    ABOUT GUEST:

    A Philadelphia native and a Virgo, Allison Whittenberg studied dance for years before switching her focus to writing. She has a masterrsquo's degree in English from the University of Wisconsin. Her middle-grade novels about Charmaine Upshaw, Sweet Thang and Hollywood and Maine, are available from Yearling, and her first novel for teen readers, Life Is Fine, is available from Delacorte Press. Alison enjoys traveling, and she loves to hear from her readers.

    KEY NOTES:

    - Milestones That Shaped Allison: Key Moments in Her Personal and Professional Life - Addressing Domestic Violence: Understanding Its Roots and Impact - Breaking the Cycle: How to Overcome Harmful Patterns of Discipline - Finding Your Voice: Connecting with the World Through Authenticity - Living with Trauma: Embracing Acceptance for Healing and Growth

    TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00 - Episode Trailer 01:45 - Intro 03:07 - The Milestones That Shaped Allison 13:42 - Where Does The Topic of Domestic Violence Come From? 15:11 - Breaking the Cycle of Harmful Discipline 18:55 - How to Find the Voice That Resonates and Connects with the World 24:40 - Living with Trauma: The Power of Acceptance 29:46 - Love Beyond Romance: The Power of Community 34:08 - Community vs. Collection of People 39:03 - The Role of Charismatic Leaders in Building Community 45:24 - From Hero to Forgotten: The Hidden Battles of Veterans 52:17 - The Hypocrisy of Patriotism and Military Support 01:02:00 - Why Did Allison Join Compassiviste Publishing? 01:05:20 - Outro

    THINGS MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST:

    Allison Whittenberg Books: https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/674508.Allison_Whittenberg

    TO LEARN MORE AND STAY CONNECTED:

    🌐 Visit our website: https://compassivistedialogues.com/ 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qt8cYHeIcDmDV8zPKNxMw 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/compassiviste-dialogues/id1735926709

    CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Compassiviste/61555898333856/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compassiviste/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@compassiviste Twitter: https://twitter.com/compassiviste LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/compassiviste/

    Tune in, follow, and embark on this insightful journey with us. Your vision's transformation begins now. 🚀🌟

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    1 h y 7 m
  • Unbreakable Spirit: Gregory Smith's Journey with Osteogenesis Imperfecta
    Apr 4 2025

    Welcome to Compassiviste Dialogues. I'm Ali, your host, and my mission with this podcast is to shed light on critical social and environmental issues worldwide, exploring avenues for positive change.

    In this conversation, Gregory Smith shares his inspiring journey as one of the oldest survivors of type 3 osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). He discusses the challenges he faced growing up with a rare genetic condition, the importance of family support, and his career as a social worker.

    Gregory emphasizes the need for awareness and understanding of OI, highlighting the resilience required to navigate life with such a condition.

    ABOUT GUEST:

    At 68, Greg Smith is one of the oldest survivors of Type 3 Osteogeneses Imperfecta in the world. Greg is a retired medical social worker who worked in local hospitals & nursing homes for more than 30 years. He lives in Pennsylvania with his wife Holly, and two dogs, Katie & Cocoa. Greg is the author of the memoir An Unbreakable Spirit, and a new short story collection, Crossing Abbey Road. He is a Beatles fan and and avid reader who enjoys sports, music, and movies. He runs the YouTube channel “Unbreakable Spirits” and the “Unbreakable” podcast.

    KEY NOTES:

    Gregory Smith is one of the oldest survivors of type 3 OI Family support played a crucial role in his resilience He emphasizes the importance of positivity in difficult times Marriage is built on love and equality, not pity Animals possess a unique empathy towards humans Storytelling can convey deep emotions and experiences

    TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00 Intro 05:17 Overcoming Challenges: A Life with Osteogenesis Imperfecta 12:05 The Role of Family Support in Resilience 22:10 Understanding Osteogenesis Imperfecta: Medical Insights 30:01 The Importance of Awareness and Acceptance 35:01 Facing Mortality in Childhood 37:29 Innovative Education: Learning from Home 40:08 The Shared Experience of Disability 44:45 Finding Common Ground in Challenges 46:42 Overcoming Societal Barriers 52:07 The Journey to Becoming a Social Worker 56:06 The Importance of Community Support 01:01:18 Finding Love and Connection 01:07:00 A Positive Perspective on Life's Challenges 01:08:31 The Blessings of Love and Marriage 01:10:31 Finding Happiness in Later Life 01:11:57 The Companionship of Pets 01:14:37 The Empathy of Animals 01:17:45 Connecting Through Sports and Music 01:20:00 The Power of Storytelling 01:29:01 Resilience Against All Odds 01:31:15 The Importance of Medical Genetics Counseling 01:32:35 Leaving a Legacy of Awareness and Compassion

    THINGS MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST:

    TO LEARN MORE AND STAY CONNECTED:

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