Episodes

  • "You Only Live Once, But If You Do It Right, Once Is Enough"

    "You Only Live Once, But If You Do It Right, Once Is Enough"
    Dec 21 2024





    Episode Title: "You Only Live Once, But If You Do It Right, Once Is Enough"

    Season 3, Episode 37

    In this inspiring episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas sits down with the multifaceted Chianté Lymon-Hamilton, a trailblazer and advocate for justice and equity. As the Executive Director of the Society for History and Racial Equity (SHARE), Chianté shares her life’s journey of resilience, passion, and leadership.

    Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Chianté reflects on her upbringing in a single-parent household in a low-income community and how her educational experiences at Cass Tech and Western Michigan University shaped her commitment to justice. From her early days interning at the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office to becoming a change agent and business owner, Chianté takes us through her transformative journey.

    Chianté opens up about the challenges of being a young leader, navigating imposter syndrome, and the mental toll of advocating for racial equity in today’s climate. Together, Michael and Chianté explore the importance of mentorship, fostering inclusivity, addressing systemic inequities, and prioritizing self-care as leaders.

    Listeners will gain valuable insights from Chianté’s expertise in addressing historical injustices and promoting racial equity through her work at SHARE. Learn about her innovative initiatives, like collecting oral histories, setting law enforcement standards, and building wellness programs for her team.

    This conversation is a powerful reminder that resilience, intentionality, and connection can create lasting change. Whether you’re an aspiring advocate, leader, or someone looking for inspiration, this episode offers a wealth of wisdom on living a life of purpose and impact.

    Ways to Connect with Chianté Lymon-Hamilton:
    • LinkedIn
    • Instagram
    • Facebook
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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • "Practice Makes Progress, Not Perfect"

    "Practice Makes Progress, Not Perfect"
    Dec 14 2024
    🎙️ Episode 36: Practice Makes Progress, Not Perfect
    🌟 Featuring Guest: Stephanie M.V. Popper
    🔗 Guest Professional Titles: Farm Social Worker | MSW Student | Foster Youth Advocate

    In this inspiring episode of the Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, Michael D. Davis-Thomas sits down with the dynamic and compassionate Stephanie M.V. Popper to explore the profound resilience required to turn life’s adversities into opportunities for growth. Stephanie shares her deeply personal journey, transitioning from a challenging childhood into becoming a powerful advocate and a future clinical social worker. Her work as the Community Program Coordinator at Allaire Community Farm highlights how unique, therapeutic environments—like those involving rescued animals—can foster healing and hope for at-risk youth, veterans with PTSD, and families battling cancer.

    Throughout their heartfelt conversation, Stephanie and Michael discuss pivotal themes, including:

    ✅ Overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing your true value
    ✅ The role of self-care and mental health in building resilience
    ✅ Breaking cycles of adversity through faith, community, and advocacy
    ✅ The therapeutic power of individualized support and positive reinforcement

    Stephanie also sheds light on her advocacy work shaping child welfare policies at both the state and federal levels, emphasizing the importance of incorporating lived experience into systemic reform. Michael reflects on his own journey, from homelessness to authoring the inspiring book "Resilient Faith", as well as his ongoing mission to uplift underserved communities. Together, they explore how progress—not perfection—fuels the path to resilience and empowerment.

    🔑 Key Highlights:

    • Stephanie’s experiences with EMDR therapy and the significance of allowing the body to process trauma
    • Michael’s practical tips on self-publishing and writing as a form of healing
    • The transformative impact of supportive communities in advocacy and personal growth
    • Actionable insights for finding small moments of peace and self-care in daily life

    🌟 Quote from the Episode: "Resilience isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up for yourself every day and trusting the process."

    📚 Ways to Connect with Stephanie:

    👉 LinkedIn
    👉 Social Media: Facebook, Instagram @stephaniepopper

    Listen Now: Be inspired by Stephanie and Michael as they share their hard-won wisdom and actionable advice for embracing progress over perfection.
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    52 mins
  • “More stories = more connection and more connection = more healing.- Dr. Liz”

    “More stories = more connection and more connection = more healing.- Dr. Liz”
    Dec 7 2024
    🎙️ Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast: Season 3, Episode 35

    Title: "More Stories = More Connection, and More Connection = More Healing"

    In this profound and heartfelt episode, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas dives into the transformative power of storytelling and resilience with the remarkable Dr. Liz DeBetta. Together, they explore the pivotal moments that have shaped their journeys of healing and advocacy.

    Dr. DeBetta, an adoptee and renowned author of Adult Adoptees & Writing to Heal: Migrating Toward Wholeness, shares her inspiring story of uncovering and confronting the trauma of maternal separation. Her breakthrough moment in 2015, when she began to write about her adoption experience, opened the door to profound healing and personal growth.

    The conversation delves into Dr. DeBetta's groundbreaking approach, Migrating Toward Wholeness©, a trauma-informed expressive writing process designed to help adoptees and others reconnect with their stories and find healing. She discusses the impact of her award-winning solo show, Un-M-Othered: A Story of Adoption & Patriarchy, and how it fosters connection and validation for adoptees and their loved ones.

    Michael and Dr. DeBetta emphasize the importance of community and connection in overcoming isolation and healing from trauma. Through writing, storytelling, and shared experiences, they explore how telling our stories can lead to deeper connections and lasting transformation.

    Key Topics Discussed:
    • The healing power of writing and storytelling
    • The seven parts of trauma healing within Migrating Toward Wholeness©
    • Overcoming isolation through community and connection
    • The universal application of expressive writing for healing
    • Balancing personal storytelling with helping others
    Guest Bio:

    Dr. Liz DeBetta is a writer, performer, and trauma-informed coach who has dedicated her life to helping others heal through expressive writing. She is the creator of Migrating Toward Wholeness© and the author of Adult Adoptees & Writing to Heal. Dr. DeBetta is a member of Actor's Equity, SAG-AFTRA, and serves as an Affiliate Faculty member at the University of Michigan's Institute for Research on Women and Gender.

    Connect with Dr. Liz DeBetta:

    🌐 Website: lizdebetta.com
    📘 Book: Adult Adoptees & Writing to Heal: Migrating Toward Wholeness
    📱 Facebook: @Dr.LizDeBetta
    📸 Instagram: @dr.liz.debetta
    💼 LinkedIn: Dr. Liz DeBetta

    Takeaways for Listeners:
    • The power of storytelling in fostering connection and healing
    • Practical writing prompts to explore your own story
    • Resources and community for those feeling isolated or struggling with their journey
    Join us for this empowering episode as we celebrate resilience, connection, and the journey toward wholeness.
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • " The most dangerous phrase in the language is, 'We've always done it this way "

    " The most dangerous phrase in the language is, 'We've always done it this way "
    Nov 22 2024
    In this enlightening episode of the "Resilient Voices & Beyond" podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas engages with Commissioner Rebecca Jones Gaston, the visionary leader of the Administration for Children, Youth, and Families (ACYF). Commissioner Gaston shares her compelling journey from her brief experience in foster care to spearheading significant reforms in the U.S. child welfare system. Throughout the discussion, she underscores the pivotal policies she's championed, such as the final kinship role, independent legal representation, and designated placement rules for LGBTQIA+ youth. Rebecca's strategic focus on community engagement, addressing workforce challenges, and prioritizing preventive over reactive measures illuminates her approach to systemic change. The episode delves into her advocacy for multi-system collaboration, the critical role of foster parents, and the necessity of listening to and respecting the voices of those impacted by the system. Join us for a deep dive into how Rebecca Jones Gaston is reshaping child welfare for a more inclusive and supportive future.

    Guest Bio: Rebecca Jones Gaston, Commissioner of the Administration on Children, Youth, and Families, has dedicated over 25 years to human services, focusing on child welfare reforms that encompass kinship care, legal protections for families, and rights for LGBTQIA2S+ youth in foster care. Her leadership is marked by a commitment to trauma-informed, culturally responsive practices that have positioned her as a key figure in national child welfare policy.Key Takeaways:
    • Insights into the transformative policies impacting child welfare nationally.
    • The importance of community involvement and the integration of lived experiences in policy-making.
    • Challenges and strategies in navigating federal and state policies to advocate for systemic change.
    • The role of foster parents and community organizations in creating supportive environments for children and families.
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • All Things Work Together

    All Things Work Together
    Nov 11 2024
    Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast

    Season 3, Episode 33

    🎙️ Title: “All Things Work Together”

    In this episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond, we are honored to feature Aytia Tarpley—a remarkable Lived Experience Expert, Survivor Leader, Consultant, Keynote Speaker, and Peer Support Specialist. Aytia’s story of resilience is nothing short of incredible, as she has transformed her experiences with foster care, abuse, homelessness, and human trafficking into powerful advocacy and leadership for those facing similar struggles.

    Born Shelquandra Poitier in Miami, Florida, Aytia faced unimaginable adversity early in life. At just two years old, she was hospitalized for second-degree burns and later placed in foster care, where the abuse only continued. Despite these challenges, Aytia has risen to become a steadfast advocate, fighting for systemic change in child welfare and human trafficking awareness. Through her tireless efforts, Aytia has collaborated with government agencies, worked as a lobbyist to pass critical legislation, and provided support to countless individuals as a social worker and peer mentor.

    Join us as Aytia shares her deeply personal journey of faith, resilience, and purpose. From her dedication to Christ at 19 to her advocacy on a national stage, her life is a testament to the strength it takes to overcome life’s darkest moments and use those experiences to uplift others.

    Tune in to this inspiring episode as we discuss the power of faith, finding purpose in pain, and the resilience it takes to transform trauma into triumph.

    🌐 Connect with Aytia Website: aytiaconsults.com
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    1 hr and 19 mins
  • “Love Yourself, The Rest Will Fall Into Place”

    “Love Yourself, The Rest Will Fall Into Place”
    Aug 2 2024
    In Season Three, Episode 32 of the Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, we are honored to host the inspirational Maryum K. Shadeed. Maryum's story is one of profound resilience and self-discovery, offering a beacon of hope and strength to all who listen.

    About Our Guest:

    Maryum K. Shadeed is an entrepreneur with a remarkable journey in the fashion design industry. As the CEO and founder of MKS, she is dedicated to boosting self-esteem through her innovative designs, one thread at a time. Beyond her professional achievements, Maryum is a staunch advocate for mental health and an empowering voice for survivors.

    Her passions are as diverse as her talents; she loves exploring the world, shopping for unique teas, capturing moments through photography, and cherishing moments with her little one. In this episode, Maryum opens up about her personal journey of forgiveness and healing, sharing the valuable lessons she has learned along the way.

    Ways to Connect with Maryum:
    • Follow her on all platforms: @MaryumKShadeed
    Tune in to hear:
    • Maryum’s inspiring life story and the challenges she overcame.
    • Insights into her mission to empower others through fashion and advocacy.
    • Her personal strategies for self-love and mental well-being.
    • How she balances her multifaceted life with grace and resilience.
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    33 mins
  • "...But God"

    "...But God"
    May 20 2024
    "...But God "

    In this empowering episode of "Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast," we are honored to host Rachel Worthy, a fervent advocate for social justice and a beacon of resilience. With a rich background in social work and a deeply rooted commitment to serving others, Rachel shares her poignant life story, underscoring the crucial moments of resilience that not only shaped her into the transformative figure she is today but also how she thrives and uplifts others in her community.Join us as Rachel delves into the intimate details of her journey, from her challenging upbringing in foster care to overcoming personal battles against domestic violence and injustices within the criminal justice system. Her educational journey has equipped her with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Wayne State University, a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and Sociology, and an Associate degree in Human Services, complemented by a Certificate in Alcohol and Substance Use Studies. Beyond her professional titles, Rachel cherishes her role as an aunt, which she regards as her favorite.Currently, Rachel serves as a Peer Navigator at Nation Outside, where she is dedicated to empowering justice-impacted individuals and advocating for systemic change. Through her work and personal experiences, Rachel embodies empathy, compassion, and an unyielding determination to foster environments where individuals are seen, heard, and valued.Don't miss this episode if you're interested in stories of profound personal growth and societal impact. Connect with Rachel Worthy to follow her continuing journey and advocacy work through her LinkedIn at Rachel Worthy or on Instagram at @rachelripmom.Tune in and be inspired by a story of survival, resilience, and transformation that reminds us all of the power of faith and perseverance.
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    1 hr and 16 mins
  • "Be the Difference for a Child: The Joan E. Ulsher Story"

    "Be the Difference for a Child: The Joan E. Ulsher Story"
    Feb 5 2024
    "Be the Difference for a Child: The Joan E. Ulsher Story"

    Episode Description:

    In this deeply inspiring episode of "Resilient Voices & Beyond," we sit down with Joan E. Ulsher, a figure of resilience, hope, and unwavering dedication to child advocacy. From surviving child abuse and navigating the challenges of foster care to serving as a beacon of light for countless children in the foster care system, Joan's life journey embodies the essence of making a significant difference in the lives of the most vulnerable.
    Join us as Joan shares her remarkable story, chronicled in her new memoir, "Misplaced Childhood: A True Story of Resiliency and Child Advocacy." This episode is not just a narrative of overcoming adversity but a call to action, urging each of us to explore how we can contribute to the well-being and future of children in foster care.

    Guest Bio:

    Joan Ulsher's life is a testament to the power of resilience and advocacy. A retired U.S. Army Major, award-winning child advocate, and a San Antonio-based writer and philanthropist, Joan has turned her harrowing experiences into a force for good. Through her work as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) in Bexar County, Texas, and her hands-on DIY projects for children entering foster homes, Joan is a living example of how one person can truly be the difference for a child.

    In This Episode, You'll Discover:
    • Joan's personal journey from a child abuse survivor to a champion for children in the foster care system.
    • The inspiration behind her memoir, "Misplaced Childhood," and how it aims to illuminate the crucial role of CASA volunteers.
    • Insights into Joan's multifaceted career, from her military service to her advocacy work, and how these experiences have shaped her mission.
    • Joan's unique approach to supporting foster children through her DIY projects, including the story behind her 40th custom-painted dresser.
    • How listeners can get involved and support children in foster care, inspired by Joan's example.
    Connect with Joan E. Ulsher:
    • Follow Joan on Instagram: @joan_ulsher
    • Discover Joan's DIY projects and advocacy work on Pinterest: @joanakitas
    • Learn more about Joan, her memoir, and how you can support Child Advocates San Antonio at www.joanulsher.com
    Tune in to this powerful episode of "Resilient Voices & Beyond" to hear Joan E. Ulsher's incredible story and learn how you, too, can make a meaningful impact in the lives of children in foster care.
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    1 hr and 6 mins