<![CDATA[Braver New Worlds]]>Braver New Worlds is a podcast for people navigating change, questioning inherited narratives, and trying to lead with intention and humanity even when the path forward is unclear. It’s about the stories we need to share–about ourselves, our work, and our vision–for the future want to create.

Each episode is a thoughtful human conversation with someone actively trying to change something, whether that’s through their work, their being, or their relationship with community. We discuss personal stories, public responsibility, and how identity, values, and lived experience shape the way we see and show up in the world.

]]>https://riverside.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Sat, 11 Apr 2026 09:18:36 GMTTue, 27 Jan 2026 17:06:52 GMT60Nathan Cody Young<p><i>Braver New Worlds</i> is a podcast for people navigating change, questioning inherited narratives, and trying to lead with intention and humanity even when the path forward is unclear. It’s about the stories we need to share–about ourselves, our work, and our vision–for the future want to create.</p><p></p><p>Each episode is a thoughtful human conversation with someone actively trying to change something, whether that’s through their work, their being, or their relationship with community. We discuss personal stories, public responsibility, and how identity, values, and lived experience shape the way we see and show up in the world.</p>episodicNathan Cody Youngnathan@nathancodyyoung.comyes<![CDATA[Power, Trust, and Building a More Just Economy with Shantel Suárez Ávila]]>What if the real problem in fundraising isn’t a lack of money, but how we think about it?

In this conversation, we sit down with Shantel Suárez Ávila, founder of Más Allá, a nonprofit fundraising consultancy; to explore a deeper, more human approach to fundraising, rooted in community, trust, and systemic change. 

Together, they unpack the philosophy behind community-centric fundraising and the tension between idealism and real-world constraints. 

Essentially, how do you practice abundance, collaboration, and justice in systems that reward scarcity, control, and competition?

Shantel shares her own journey from early questions about inequality from her experiences growing up in Chicago, to helping organizations raise over $53 million for BIPOC-led and women-led initiatives. The conversation moves beyond tactics into belief systems about money, trust in resource flows, and the cultural shift required to move from individualism to collective responsibility.

This episode is both a practical and philosophical look at how we fund change—and what it will take to build a more equitable and connected world.

ABOUT SHANTEL SUÁREZ ÁVILA

Shantel Suárez Ávila (she/ella) is a national nonprofit leader, a founding member and community organizer with San Diego Solidarity Network, member of the Community-Centric Fundraising North American Council, dog momma, yoga student, wife, and founder of Más Allá—an organization focused on reimagining how communities resource the work they believe in.

With experience across grassroots organizing, nonprofit leadership, and systems change work, Shantel helps organizations move beyond scarcity-driven fundraising models toward approaches rooted in trust, care, courage, abundance, relationships, and collective sustainability.

Through Más Allá, Shantel is co-developing the Collective Resourcing Cohort, a San Diego–based learning cohort where nonprofit leaders and community partners explore collaborative approaches to funding and sustaining community-driven work through a systems change approach. 

She regularly facilitates workshops and conversations on nonprofit sustainability, resource mobilization, and community power, helping leaders navigate uncertainty while staying grounded in their mission, values, and agency.

Since 2021, Shantel has helped raise more than $53 million for women-led and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)-led and serving organizations with Más Allá. She began her career at the headquarters of Obama for America in 2012, where she deepened her commitment to grassroots power-building and people-centered strategy.

Shantel is an alumna of DePaul University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy and a Next Economy MBA focused on building an equitable, inclusive, and regenerative economy.

🔗 LINKS

Nathan's upcoming event series: http://bigideanight.com/

]]>4172885e-4abe-461f-b5eb-807c60853491Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:45:00 GMT<p>What if the real problem in fundraising isn’t a lack of money, but how we think about it?</p><p></p><p>In this conversation, we sit down with Shantel Suárez Ávila, founder of Más Allá, a nonprofit fundraising consultancy; to explore a deeper, more human approach to fundraising, rooted in community, trust, and systemic change. </p><p></p><p>Together, they unpack the philosophy behind community-centric fundraising and the tension between idealism and real-world constraints. </p><p></p><p>Essentially, how do you practice abundance, collaboration, and justice in systems that reward scarcity, control, and competition?</p><p></p><p>Shantel shares her own journey from early questions about inequality from her experiences growing up in Chicago, to helping organizations raise over $53 million for BIPOC-led and women-led initiatives. The conversation moves beyond tactics into belief systems about money, trust in resource flows, and the cultural shift required to move from individualism to collective responsibility.</p><p></p><p>This episode is both a practical and philosophical look at how we fund change—and what it will take to build a more equitable and connected world.</p><p></p><hr /><p></p><h1><b>ABOUT SHANTEL SUÁREZ ÁVILA</b></h1><p>Shantel Suárez Ávila (she/ella) is a national nonprofit leader, a founding member and community organizer with San Diego Solidarity Network, member of the Community-Centric Fundraising North American Council, dog momma, yoga student, wife, and founder of Más Allá—an organization focused on reimagining how communities resource the work they believe in.</p><p></p><p>With experience across grassroots organizing, nonprofit leadership, and systems change work, Shantel helps organizations move beyond scarcity-driven fundraising models toward approaches rooted in trust, care, courage, abundance, relationships, and collective sustainability.</p><p></p><p>Through Más Allá, Shantel is co-developing the Collective Resourcing Cohort, a San Diego–based learning cohort where nonprofit leaders and community partners explore collaborative approaches to funding and sustaining community-driven work through a systems change approach. </p><p></p><p>She regularly facilitates workshops and conversations on nonprofit sustainability, resource mobilization, and community power, helping leaders navigate uncertainty while staying grounded in their mission, values, and agency.</p><p></p><p>Since 2021, Shantel has helped raise more than $53 million for women-led and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)-led and serving organizations with Más Allá. She began her career at the headquarters of Obama for America in 2012, where she deepened her commitment to grassroots power-building and people-centered strategy.</p><p></p><p>Shantel is an alumna of DePaul University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy and a Next Economy MBA focused on building an equitable, inclusive, and regenerative economy.</p><p></p><hr /><p></p><h1><b>🔗 LINKS</b></h1><ul><li>Más Allá:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.masallaconsulting.com/" target="_blank"> https://www.masallaconsulting.com/</a></li><li>Shantel on LinkedIn:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/shantel-su%C3%A1rez-%C3%A1vila/" target="_blank"> https://www.linkedin.com/in/shantel-su%C3%A1rez-%C3%A1vila/</a><p></p></li><li>Community Centric Fundraising: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://communitycentricfundraising.org/" target="_blank">https://communitycentricfundraising.org/</a></li><li>San Diego Solidarity Network: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.sdsolidarity.com" target="_blank">https://www.sdsolidarity.com</a> </li></ul><p></p><hr /><p></p><p>Nathan's upcoming event series: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://bigideanight.com/" target="_blank">http://bigideanight.com/</a><br /></p>no00:55:139Power, Trust, and Building a More Just Economy with Shantel Suárez Ávilafull<![CDATA[What We Get Wrong About Environmentalism with Anne Middleton of WILDCOAST]]>What if the environment isn’t just one issue among many, but the foundation that everything else depends on?

For this episode we sit down with Anne Middleton, Associate Director at WILDCOAST, to explore the deeper reality of conservation, restoration ecology, and the systems shaping our relationship with the natural world. 

Anne shares why environmental work is often misunderstood as a “luxury issue,” and makes a case for why clean air, water, and functioning ecosystems underpin everything from housing to public health to economic stability.

This episode also ventures into more philosophical territory—examining how culture has shaped the narrative that nature exists “outside” of us, and what it might look like to reimagine a more integrated, sustainable way of living. We also dive into the tension between individual responsibility and systemic change, asking: if we all “care about the environment,” why don’t our policies and behaviors reflect it?

ABOUT ANNE MIDDLETON

Anne Middleton is a conservation leader and operational strategist who has spent two decades at the intersection of private-sector innovation and global environmental advocacy. She currently serves as Associate Director at WILDCOAST, where she bridges policy, operations, and on-the-ground conservation efforts to scale natural climate solutions.

Anne’s career spans high-impact international work, including her time in Yaoundé, Cameroon, where she managed sustainable ebony sourcing and supply chain transparency for Taylor Guitars. She has also worked with the Environmental Investigation Agency in Washington, D.C., contributing to landmark wildlife crime investigations tied to the U.S. Lacey Act.

She holds a B.A. in Biology from Oberlin College and a Master of Environmental Science and Management from UC Santa Barbara’s Bren School.

Outside of her conservation work, Anne is a musician, performing in San Diego-based bands, and serves on nonprofit boards including the Escondido Creek Conservancy.

LINKS

Connect with Anne:

Follow & support WILDCOAST:

Watch Anne’s TEDx Talk

Other:

]]>c7a31dc1-0881-48e2-8e28-521c56edbed9Tue, 31 Mar 2026 10:45:00 GMT<p>What if the environment isn’t just one issue among many, but the foundation that everything else depends on?</p><p></p><p>For this episode we sit down with Anne Middleton, Associate Director at WILDCOAST, to explore the deeper reality of conservation, restoration ecology, and the systems shaping our relationship with the natural world. </p><p></p><p>Anne shares why environmental work is often misunderstood as a “luxury issue,” and makes a case for why clean air, water, and functioning ecosystems underpin everything from housing to public health to economic stability.</p><p></p><p>This episode also ventures into more philosophical territory—examining how culture has shaped the narrative that nature exists “outside” of us, and what it might look like to reimagine a more integrated, sustainable way of living. We also dive into the tension between individual responsibility and systemic change, asking: if we all “care about the environment,” why don’t our policies and behaviors reflect it?</p><p></p><hr /><p></p><h1><b>ABOUT ANNE MIDDLETON</b></h1><p>Anne Middleton is a conservation leader and operational strategist who has spent two decades at the intersection of private-sector innovation and global environmental advocacy. She currently serves as Associate Director at WILDCOAST, where she bridges policy, operations, and on-the-ground conservation efforts to scale natural climate solutions.</p><p></p><p>Anne’s career spans high-impact international work, including her time in Yaoundé, Cameroon, where she managed sustainable ebony sourcing and supply chain transparency for Taylor Guitars. She has also worked with the Environmental Investigation Agency in Washington, D.C., contributing to landmark wildlife crime investigations tied to the U.S. Lacey Act.</p><p></p><p>She holds a B.A. in Biology from Oberlin College and a Master of Environmental Science and Management from UC Santa Barbara’s Bren School.</p><p></p><p>Outside of her conservation work, Anne is a musician, performing in San Diego-based bands, and serves on nonprofit boards including the Escondido Creek Conservancy.</p><p></p><hr /><p></p><h1><b>LINKS</b></h1><p><b>Connect with Anne:</b></p><ul><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/aemiddleton/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a></li><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/amiddlet" target="_blank">Instagram</a></li><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/anne.middleton.31" target="_blank">Facebook</a><p></p></li></ul><p><b>Follow &amp; support WILDCOAST:</b></p><ul><li>Website:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://wildcoast.org/" target="_blank"> </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://wildcoast.org" target="_blank">https://wildcoast.org</a></li><li>Instagram: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/wildcoastcostasalvaje" target="_blank">@wildcoastcostasalvaje</a></li><li>Newsletter: Available via WILDCOAST website</li></ul><p></p><p><b>Watch </b><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ai1vaf4pRJ4" target="_blank"><b>Anne’s TEDx Talk</b></a></p><p></p><p><b>Other:</b></p><ul><li>Anne’s band: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/thegoodgoodmusic" target="_blank">@thegoodgoodmusic</a> (Instagram)</li></ul><p></p>yes01:03:088What We Get Wrong About Environmentalism with Anne Middleton of WILDCOASTfull<![CDATA[Helping the Helpers: Burnout, Nonprofit Culture, and Rethinking Philanthropy with Loretta Turner]]>What does it really take to sustain the people who are trying to do good and enact justice in the world?

In this episode, we speak with Loretta Turner, Founder and Organizational Wellbeing Strategist at Do Good Leadership Collective. Loretta’s work focuses on helping “the helpers”—leaders who are deeply committed to social impact but often operate within systems that normalize burnout, self-sacrifice, and chronic under-resourcing.

The conversation explores the realities of social impact work, including the cultural expectations placed on nonprofit leaders, the emotional toll of working in a “VUCA world” (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity), and why traditional ideas about self-care often fail to address deeper systemic challenges. Loretta shares insights from her own experience transitioning from nonprofit fundraising to entrepreneurship, and how redefining profit, sustainability, and wellbeing can create healthier organizations and stronger communities.

We also dive into the evolving relationship between nonprofits and philanthropy, the importance of trust-based funding models, and how leaders can build authentic relationships rather than operating from scarcity or urgency. It all leads to a larger cultural question: if we truly want social impact work to last for generations, how do we create systems where the people doing that work can actually thrive?

ABOUT LORETTA TURNER

Loretta Turner is an exceptional social entrepreneur, leadership coach, and advocate for talent justice and workplace wellbeing. As the Founder of Do Good Leadership Collective, Loretta’s work focuses on caring for the social impact sector through workforce wellbeing strategy.

She believes that prioritizing the healing, endurance, and wellbeing of nonprofit and philanthropic leaders is key to organizational effectiveness and resilience. Loretta brings nearly 15 years of experience to her work as strategist, coach, wellness practitioner—and importantly—as a former nonprofit leader who experienced burnout firsthand.

LINKS

Connect with Loretta:

LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorettaleads/

Instagram
https://instagram.com/loretta.leads

Threads
https://www.threads.com/@loretta.leads

TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@loretta.leads

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvvzT7SfRbj4dl69z-5_RRQ

Loretta’s Blog
https://www.lorettaturner.com/blogs

Newsletter (Do Good Leadership Collective)
https://www.lorettaturner.com/dglcnewsletter

]]>c126920b-a5ae-4cc8-ac23-9857061657d8Wed, 25 Mar 2026 01:46:50 GMT<p>What does it really take to sustain the people who are trying to do good and enact justice in the world?</p><p></p><p>In this episode, we speak with <b>Loretta Turner</b>, Founder and Organizational Wellbeing Strategist at <b>Do Good Leadership Collective</b>. Loretta’s work focuses on helping “the helpers”—leaders who are deeply committed to social impact but often operate within systems that normalize burnout, self-sacrifice, and chronic under-resourcing.</p><p></p><p>The conversation explores the realities of social impact work, including the cultural expectations placed on nonprofit leaders, the emotional toll of working in a “VUCA world” (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity), and why traditional ideas about self-care often fail to address deeper systemic challenges. Loretta shares insights from her own experience transitioning from nonprofit fundraising to entrepreneurship, and how redefining profit, sustainability, and wellbeing can create healthier organizations and stronger communities.</p><p></p><p>We also dive into the evolving relationship between nonprofits and philanthropy, the importance of trust-based funding models, and how leaders can build authentic relationships rather than operating from scarcity or urgency. It all leads to a larger cultural question: if we truly want social impact work to last for generations, how do we create systems where the people doing that work can actually thrive?</p><p></p><hr /><p></p><h1><b>ABOUT LORETTA TURNER</b></h1><p>Loretta Turner is an exceptional social entrepreneur, leadership coach, and advocate for talent justice and workplace wellbeing. As the Founder of <b>Do Good Leadership Collective</b>, Loretta’s work focuses on caring for the social impact sector through workforce wellbeing strategy.</p><p></p><p>She believes that prioritizing the healing, endurance, and wellbeing of nonprofit and philanthropic leaders is key to organizational effectiveness and resilience. Loretta brings nearly 15 years of experience to her work as strategist, coach, wellness practitioner—and importantly—as a former nonprofit leader who experienced burnout firsthand.</p><p></p><hr /><p></p><h1><b>LINKS</b></h1><p>Connect with Loretta:</p><p></p><p>LinkedIn<br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorettaleads/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorettaleads/</a></p><p></p><p>Instagram<br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://instagram.com/loretta.leads" target="_blank">https://instagram.com/loretta.leads</a></p><p></p><p>Threads<br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.threads.com/@loretta.leads" target="_blank">https://www.threads.com/@loretta.leads</a></p><p></p><p>TikTok<br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@loretta.leads" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/@loretta.leads</a></p><p></p><p>YouTube<br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvvzT7SfRbj4dl69z-5_RRQ" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvvzT7SfRbj4dl69z-5_RRQ</a></p><p></p><p>Loretta’s Blog<br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.lorettaturner.com/blogs" target="_blank">https://www.lorettaturner.com/blogs</a></p><p></p><p>Newsletter (Do Good Leadership Collective)<br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.lorettaturner.com/dglcnewsletter" target="_blank">https://www.lorettaturner.com/dglcnewsletter</a></p>no01:14:187Helping the Helpers: Burnout, Nonprofit Culture, and Rethinking Philanthropy with Loretta Turnerfull<![CDATA[Intimacy, the Inner Critic & Discovering Your True Self with Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus ]]>📄 Episode Description:

This week we’re joined by sociologist, sex and intimacy expert, and TEDx speaker Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus for a conversation that starts with sex and goes straight into the heart of self-worth, storytelling, and how to build a life and business that honors your wise and vulnerable self.

We talk about the evolution of her work from sexual health to emotional intimacy, what it means to truly feel safe in your body and your relationships, and how trauma, mindfulness, and modern disconnection all shape the stories we carry.

This conversation moves between personal reflection, social insight, and shared struggle — from religious shame and delayed sexual initiation, to healing complex trauma and navigating avoidant attachment. 

We also unpack how digital life is interrupting connection, why vulnerability is the hardest and most beautiful thing we can offer, and how to know when your inner critic is holding you back.

If you’ve ever struggled to feel fully seen, or wondered why intimacy sometimes feels unsafe or unavailable, this one is for you.

🧠 Topics We Cover:

  • What intimacy really means (and how it goes beyond the bedroom)
  • Why emotional literacy is essential for connection
  • The loudness of the inner critic—and how to meet it with compassion
  • Aging, dating, and desire in your 40s and beyond
  • How to stop hiding and start being seen—even if it feels messy

👤 About Dr. Jenn:

Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus, PhD, is a sociologist, international intimacy speaker, and relationship & communication coach. She’s the author of From Madness to Mindfulness: Reinventing Sex for Women and the creator of the long-running YouTube series In the Den with Dr. Jenn, with over 1.8 million views. She’s given two TEDx Talks (1) (2), worked with organizations like Planned Parenthood and the YPO Global Network, and has been featured in Forbes, Cosmo, Oprah Daily, and more.

She’s also a black belt in karate, a ukulele strummer, a women’s philanthropist, and a beach volleyball player based in San Diego.

🔗 Learn more: www.DrJennsDen.com
📲 Follow her on social media: @DrJennsDen

Dr Jenn’s Socials:

Linkedin | Instagram | Threads | Facebook | TikTok | YouTube


]]>6baf7b63-844b-4507-adfd-50d805863161Tue, 17 Mar 2026 19:53:50 GMT<h2><b>📄 Episode Description:</b></h2><p>This week we’re joined by sociologist, sex and intimacy expert, and TEDx speaker <b>Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus</b> for a conversation that starts with sex and goes straight into the heart of self-worth, storytelling, and how to build a life and business that honors your wise and vulnerable self.</p><p></p><p>We talk about the evolution of her work from sexual health to emotional intimacy, what it means to truly feel safe in your body and your relationships, and how trauma, mindfulness, and modern disconnection all shape the stories we carry.</p><p></p><p>This conversation moves between personal reflection, social insight, and shared struggle — from religious shame and delayed sexual initiation, to healing complex trauma and navigating avoidant attachment. </p><p></p><p>We also unpack how digital life is interrupting connection, why vulnerability is the hardest and most beautiful thing we can offer, and how to know when your inner critic is holding you back.</p><p></p><p>If you’ve ever struggled to feel fully seen, or wondered why intimacy sometimes feels unsafe or unavailable, this one is for you.</p><p></p><hr /><p></p><h2><b>🧠 Topics We Cover:</b></h2><ul><li>What intimacy really means (and how it goes beyond the bedroom)</li><li>Why emotional literacy is essential for connection</li><li>The loudness of the inner critic—and how to meet it with compassion</li><li>Aging, dating, and desire in your 40s and beyond</li><li>How to stop hiding and start being seen—even if it feels messy</li></ul><p></p><hr /><p></p><h2><b>👤 About Dr. Jenn:</b></h2><p><b>Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus, PhD</b>, is a sociologist, international intimacy speaker, and relationship &amp; communication coach. She’s the author of <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://a.co/d/0o38Lga" target="_blank"><i>From Madness to Mindfulness: Reinventing Sex for Women</i></a> and the creator of the long-running YouTube series <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/drjennsden" target="_blank"><i>In the Den with Dr. Jenn</i></a>, with over 1.8 million views. She’s given two TEDx Talks (<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40riTBK9Qjo" target="_blank">1</a>) (<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=neH09fTkNB4" target="_blank">2</a>), worked with organizations like Planned Parenthood and the YPO Global Network, and has been featured in <i>Forbes</i>, <i>Cosmo</i>, <i>Oprah Daily</i>, and more.</p><p></p><p>She’s also a black belt in karate, a ukulele strummer, a women’s philanthropist, and a beach volleyball player based in San Diego.</p><p></p><p>🔗 Learn more:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.drjennsden.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.DrJennsDen.com" target="_blank">www.DrJennsDen.com</a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.drjennsden.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"><br /></a>📲 Follow her on social media: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/drjennsden" target="_blank">@DrJennsDen</a></p><p></p><p>Dr Jenn’s Socials:</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjennsden/" target="_blank">Linkedin | </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/drjennsden" target="_blank">Instagram | </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.threads.net/@drjennsden" target="_blank">Threads | </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.gunsaullus" target="_blank">Facebook | </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@drjennsden" target="_blank">TikTok | </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/drjennsden" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><p><br /></p>no00:56:046Intimacy, the Inner Critic & Discovering Your True Self with Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus full<![CDATA[Purpose, Pilgrimage, and Healing the Soul of a Nation with Brandon Peele]]>What would it mean to heal the soul of a nation?

In this episode, we sit down with facilitator, author, and purpose expert Brandon Peele to explore a bold experiment in civic imagination: a National Pilgrimage across the United States culminating in a Mother’s Constitutional Convention. 

Brandon describes the inspiration behind a cross-country pilgrimage visiting historic sites connected to American freedom struggles—from civil rights landmarks in the South to Indigenous sites in the West. The journey will culminate in a gathering designed to imagine a renewed constitutional framework rooted in maternal wisdom and care for future generations.

OTHER TOPICS WE COVER

  • Why Brandon believes the United States has a beautiful purpose it has not yet fulfilled
  • How culture often precedes political change
  • How inherited life scripts shape our decisions about careers, marriage, and success
  • The role of spiritual and moral development in sustaining democracy
  • Brandon’s metaphor of the bison as a symbol of regenerative leadership

ABOUT BRANDON PEELE

Brandon Peele is a facilitator, ceremony leader, best-selling author, and expert in purpose, leadership, and culture change. He is trusted as a keynote speaker, facilitator, and program leader by organizations such as LinkedIn, Harvard Business School, Johnson & Johnson, Stanford University, and the U.S. Marine Corps.

He is the author of Planet on Purpose (2018), Purpose Work Nation (2022), and Bison Medicine (2025). Brandon’s work has been featured by outlets including USA Today, U.S. News & World Report, the US Business Journal, and Forbes.

LINKS

Learn more about the National Pilgrimage

Brandon Peele’s book Bison Medicine

Find Brandon on Social Media:

LinkedIn

Instagram

Facebook

Substack

Future updates about supporting the National Pilgrimage and Mother’s Constitutional Convention will be available through the project website and upcoming crowdfunding campaign.

SUPPORT THE PODCAST

If this conversation resonates, consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing the episode with someone navigating their own brave new world.

Follow the podcast on social media

Instagram | YouTube  | TikTok

🎙 Connect with host Nathan Young

Instagram |Linkedin | TikTok

]]>1bd2d52b-d33e-4ba2-b055-66692b509351Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:15:00 GMT<p>What would it mean to <b>heal the soul of a nation</b>?</p><p></p><p>In this episode, we sit down with facilitator, author, and purpose expert <b>Brandon Peele</b> to explore a bold experiment in civic imagination: a <b>National Pilgrimage across the United States culminating in a Mother’s Constitutional Convention</b>. </p><p></p><p>Brandon describes the inspiration behind a cross-country pilgrimage visiting historic sites connected to American freedom struggles—from civil rights landmarks in the South to Indigenous sites in the West. The journey will culminate in a gathering designed to imagine a renewed constitutional framework rooted in maternal wisdom and care for future generations.</p><p></p><hr /><p></p><h1><b>OTHER TOPICS WE COVER</b></h1><ul><li>Why Brandon believes the United States has a <b>beautiful purpose it has not yet fulfilled</b></li><li>How <b>culture often precedes political change</b></li><li>How inherited life scripts shape our decisions about careers, marriage, and success</li><li>The role of <b>spiritual and moral development in sustaining democracy</b></li><li>Brandon’s metaphor of the <b>bison as a symbol of regenerative leadership</b></li></ul><p></p><hr /><p></p><h1><b>ABOUT BRANDON PEELE</b></h1><p>Brandon Peele is a facilitator, ceremony leader, best-selling author, and expert in purpose, leadership, and culture change. He is trusted as a keynote speaker, facilitator, and program leader by organizations such as LinkedIn, Harvard Business School, Johnson &amp; Johnson, Stanford University, and the U.S. Marine Corps.</p><p></p><p>He is the author of <b>Planet on Purpose (2018)</b>, <b>Purpose Work Nation (2022)</b>, and <b>Bison Medicine (2025)</b>. Brandon’s work has been featured by outlets including <b>USA Today, U.S. News &amp; World Report, the US Business Journal, and Forbes</b>.</p><p></p><hr /><p></p><h1><b>LINKS</b></h1><p>Learn more about the<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://nationalpilgrimage.us" target="_blank"> <b>National Pilgrimage</b></a></p><p>Brandon Peele’s book<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://bisonmedicine.com" target="_blank"> <b>Bison Medicine</b></a></p><p></p><p>Find Brandon on Social Media:<br /><br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bpeele/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://instagram.com/brandonpeele" target="_blank">Instagram</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://facebook.com/peele" target="_blank">Facebook</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://open.substack.com/pub/bisonmedicine/" target="_blank">Substack</a></p><p></p><p>Future updates about supporting the National Pilgrimage and Mother’s Constitutional Convention will be available through the project website and upcoming crowdfunding campaign.</p><h2><b>SUPPORT THE PODCAST</b></h2><p>If this conversation resonates, consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing the episode with someone navigating their own brave new world.</p><p></p><p>Follow the podcast on social media</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://instagram.com/bravernewworlds" target="_blank">Instagram</a> |<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@bravernewworlds/" target="_blank"> YouTube</a>  |<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@bravernewworlds" target="_blank"> TikTok</a></p><p></p><p>🎙 Connect with host Nathan Young</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/nathancodyyoung/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> |<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathancodyyoung/" target="_blank">Linkedin</a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@nathancodyyoung" target="_blank">TikTok</a> </p>yes00:47:155Purpose, Pilgrimage, and Healing the Soul of a Nation with Brandon Peelefull<![CDATA[Rehumanizing Work and Life in a Hyperconnected Era with Dr. Arezou Ghane]]>In this episode of Braver New Worlds, we sit down with Dr. Arezou Ghane, to explore what it means to stay human in an increasingly artificial world.

Arezou shares her vision for a more intentional, relational, and value-aligned future — one rooted in connection, civility, tenderness, and generativity. Together, we unpack the tension between personal well-being and professional necessity, especially in a culture shaped by hustle, hyperconnectivity, and algorithmic performance. What does it take to reclaim attention, preserve human-to-human connection, and navigate the blurred lines between authenticity and being seen?

Arezou reminds us that while we may not control the circumstances we inherit, we hold power in how we make meaning and choose to show up. Meaningful change is relational and does not occur in a vacuum.

OTHER TOPICS WE COVER

  • When we feel most — and least — human
  • The psychological cost of hustle culture
  • Authenticity vs. performance in public life
  • Purpose, capitalism, and the modern workforce
  • AI, creativity, and the standardization of thought

ABOUT DR AREZOU GHANE

Dr. Arezou Ghane is a Doctor of Health Psychology, an National Science Foundation fellow, a certified wellness coach, a college lecturer, and a yoga and meditation instructor. Her research has appeared in respected journals including Health Psychology Review, Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, and Frontiers in Human Neuroscience.

Through her coaching and consulting work, she helps leaders and individuals bridge the gap between the science of well-being and the lived experience of it. Her work centers on creating more intentional lives and workplaces — spaces that cultivate connection, mutual care, authenticity, and alignment with deeply held values.

LINKS

Website: www.auteurhealthandwellness.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arezou-ghane-ph-d-333970111/
Instagram: @auteurhealthandwellness
Substack: @rehumanizing

SUPPORT THE PODCAST

If this conversation resonates, consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing the episode with someone navigating their own brave new world.

Follow the podcast on social media

Instagram | YouTube  | TikTok

🎙 Connect with host Nathan Young

Instagram | Linkedin | TikTok | Threads | Email | Website

]]>e4941c82-e505-40db-a5cd-5f2c47c703f6Tue, 03 Mar 2026 11:30:00 GMT<p>In this episode of <i>Braver New Worlds</i>, we sit down with Dr. Arezou Ghane, to explore what it means to stay human in an increasingly artificial world.</p><p></p><p>Arezou shares her vision for a more intentional, relational, and value-aligned future — one rooted in connection, civility, tenderness, and generativity. Together, we unpack the tension between personal well-being and professional necessity, especially in a culture shaped by hustle, hyperconnectivity, and algorithmic performance. What does it take to reclaim attention, preserve human-to-human connection, and navigate the blurred lines between authenticity and being seen?</p><p></p><p>Arezou reminds us that while we may not control the circumstances we inherit, we hold power in how we make meaning and choose to show up. Meaningful change is relational and does not occur in a vacuum.</p><p></p><hr /><h2><b>OTHER TOPICS WE COVER</b></h2><ul><li>When we feel most — and least — human</li><li>The psychological cost of hustle culture</li><li>Authenticity vs. performance in public life</li><li>Purpose, capitalism, and the modern workforce</li><li>AI, creativity, and the standardization of thought</li></ul><p></p><hr /><h2><b>ABOUT DR AREZOU GHANE</b></h2><p>Dr. Arezou Ghane is a Doctor of Health Psychology, an National Science Foundation fellow, a certified wellness coach, a college lecturer, and a yoga and meditation instructor. Her research has appeared in respected journals including <i>Health Psychology Review</i>, <i>Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin</i>, and <i>Frontiers in Human Neuroscience</i>.</p><p></p><p>Through her coaching and consulting work, she helps leaders and individuals bridge the gap between the science of well-being and the lived experience of it. Her work centers on creating more intentional lives and workplaces — spaces that cultivate connection, mutual care, authenticity, and alignment with deeply held values.</p><p></p><hr /><h2><b>LINKS</b></h2><p>Website:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.auteurhealthandwellness.com" target="_blank"> www.auteurhealthandwellness.com<br /></a>LinkedIn:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/arezou-ghane-ph-d-333970111/" target="_blank"> https://www.linkedin.com/in/arezou-ghane-ph-d-333970111/<br /></a>Instagram: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/auteurhealthandwellness" target="_blank">@auteurhealthandwellness<br /></a>Substack: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://substack.com/@rehumanizing" target="_blank">@rehumanizing</a></p><p></p><h2><b>SUPPORT THE PODCAST</b></h2><p>If this conversation resonates, consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing the episode with someone navigating their own brave new world.</p><p></p><p>Follow the podcast on social media</p><p></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://instagram.com/bravernewworlds" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@bravernewworlds/" target="_blank">YouTube </a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@bravernewworlds" target="_blank">TikTok</a></p><p></p><p>🎙 Connect with host Nathan Young</p><p></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/nathancodyyoung/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathancodyyoung/" target="_blank">Linkedin</a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@nathancodyyoung" target="_blank">TikTok</a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.threads.com/@nathancodyyoung" target="_blank">Threads</a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:nathan@bravernewworlds.com" target="_blank">Email</a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://storyculturecollective.com" target="_blank">Website</a></p>no00:39:524Rehumanizing Work and Life in a Hyperconnected Era with Dr. Arezou Ghanefull<![CDATA[Leveraging Privilege, Rewriting Systems, & Building What Comes Next with Sam Mazzeo]]>In this episode, we sit down with attorney, advocate, and entrepreneur, Sam Mazzeo for a wide-ranging conversation about privilege, power, and the systems we’re living in. 

Sam reflects on his own evolution from law school and “hunt for money and power” conditioning to a more values-driven approach to business, politics, and community leadership.

He shares how shame, growth, and unlearning shaped his perspective—and why he now sees privilege not as guilt, but as something to be leveraged in service of others.

The conversation moves from personal responsibility to generational change, and the idea that we may be living through a crisis chapter in American history (ya think??).

Rather than spiraling into cynicism, Sam argues that crisis is often the precursor to renewal and that what comes next depends on who shows up to build it.

ABOUT SAM MAZZEO

Most people like to think of Sam as an approachable renaissance man. Here are some things he can help you better understand: B Corp certification, trademark, business formation & securities, contracts, Halloween party planning, how to do a standing backflip, and the proper pronunciation of the word “GIF.”

When Sam isn’t providing legal advice and empowering his clients, he’s either outdoors adventuring or working on local policy and social justice initiatives, often through his volunteer positions with Business For Good San Diego, B Local San Diego, and the San Diego Made Factory. He leads with both heart and smarts.

Sam is the founder of Better APC, a law firm focused on impact-driven businesses, and also runs Fervor & Zeal, a giveback clothing company that matches artists with nonprofits and shares profits between them.

LINKS

Connect with Sam:

Businesses:

Communities:

SUPPORT THE PODCAST

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing the podcast. It helps more people discover conversations like this one.

Follow the podcast on Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | RSS 

]]>b4471d4d-3b13-44c8-b4d2-b114f43b48e8Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:15:00 GMT<p>In this episode, we sit down with <b>attorney, advocate, and entrepreneur, Sam Mazzeo</b> for a wide-ranging conversation about privilege, power, and the systems we’re living in. </p><p></p><p>Sam reflects on his own evolution from law school and “hunt for money and power” conditioning to a more values-driven approach to business, politics, and community leadership.</p><p></p><p>He shares how shame, growth, and unlearning shaped his perspective—and why he now sees privilege not as guilt, but as something to be leveraged in service of others.</p><p></p><p>The conversation moves from personal responsibility to generational change, and the idea that we may be living through a crisis chapter in American history (ya think??).</p><p></p><p>Rather than spiraling into cynicism, Sam argues that crisis is often the precursor to renewal and that what comes next depends on who shows up to build it.</p><p></p><hr /><p></p><h2><b>ABOUT SAM MAZZEO</b></h2><p>Most people like to think of Sam as an approachable renaissance man. Here are some things he can help you better understand: B Corp certification, trademark, business formation &amp; securities, contracts, Halloween party planning, how to do a standing backflip, and the proper pronunciation of the word “GIF.”</p><p></p><p>When Sam isn’t providing legal advice and empowering his clients, he’s either outdoors adventuring or working on local policy and social justice initiatives, often through his volunteer positions with Business For Good San Diego, B Local San Diego, and the San Diego Made Factory. He leads with both heart and smarts.</p><p></p><p>Sam is the founder of <b>Better APC</b>, a law firm focused on impact-driven businesses, and also runs <b>Fervor &amp; Zeal</b>, a giveback clothing company that matches artists with nonprofits and shares profits between them.</p><p></p><hr /><p></p><h2><b>LINKS</b></h2><p>Connect with Sam:</p><ul><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-mazzeo/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a></li><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/the_monster_mazz/" target="_blank">Instagram</a></li><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@inbetterwetrust/featured" target="_blank">YouTube</a> (Better APC)<p></p></li></ul><p>Businesses:</p><ul><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.inbetterwetrust.com" target="_blank">Better APC</a></li><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://fervorandzeal.com/" target="_blank">Fervor &amp; Zeal</a><br /></li></ul><p>Communities:</p><ul><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://businessforgoodsd.org/" target="_blank">Business For Good San Diego</a></li><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://blocalsandiego.org/" target="_blank">B Local San Diego</a></li><li>The <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://businessforgoodsd.org/annual-summit/" target="_blank">(Doing) Business For Good Summit</a></li></ul><p></p><hr /><p></p><p>SUPPORT THE PODCAST<br /></p><p>If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing the podcast. It helps more people discover conversations like this one.</p><p></p><p>Follow the podcast on <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/bravernewworlds" target="_blank"><b>Instagram</b></a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@bravernewworlds/" target="_blank"><b>TikTok</b></a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@bravernewworlds/" target="_blank"><b>YouTube</b></a> | RSS </p>no00:49:483Leveraging Privilege, Rewriting Systems, & Building What Comes Next with Sam Mazzeofull<![CDATA[The Stories We Tell About Touch with Michelle Renee of Cuddlist ]]>In this episode we’re talking about something most of us need more of yet don’t know how to ask for: safe, platonic touch.

My guest is Michelle Renee, a human connection coach, certified cuddle therapist, and co-owner and Director of Training at Cuddlist.com. She helps individuals reconnect with their bodies and rewire the stories they’ve been told about intimacy, touch, and self-worth.

This conversation is honest, tender, funny, and deeply human. If you’ve ever struggled with touch, consent, vulnerability, or connection — this one’s for you.

👤 About Michelle Renee

Michelle Renee (she/her) is a human connection coach based in San Diego. Through cuddle therapy and consent-based coaching, she helps individuals — especially trauma survivors — build emotional safety, reconnect with their bodies, and explore new ways of being in relationship. She’s the co-owner of Cuddlist, host of The Intimacy Lab podcast, and founder of Soft Cock Appreciation Week, a virtual event redefining narratives around male sexuality and pleasure.

🌐 Connect with Michelle

Other Social Media

Linkedin

Facebook

TikTok

YouTube

Medium

Blue Sky

]]>1b4e08c3-82f6-40e5-9443-241af8b5a81cTue, 17 Feb 2026 11:30:00 GMT<p><b>In this episode we’re talking about something most of us need more of yet don’t know how to ask for: safe, platonic touch.</b></p><p></p><p>My guest is <b>Michelle Renee</b>, a human connection coach, certified cuddle therapist, and co-owner and Director of Training at<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.cuddlist.com/" target="_blank"> </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://Cuddlist.com" target="_blank">Cuddlist.com</a>. She helps individuals reconnect with their bodies and rewire the stories they’ve been told about intimacy, touch, and self-worth.</p><p></p><p>This conversation is honest, tender, funny, and deeply human. If you’ve ever struggled with touch, consent, vulnerability, or connection — this one’s for you.</p><p></p><hr /><p></p><h2><b>👤 About Michelle Renee</b></h2><p>Michelle Renee (she/her) is a human connection coach based in San Diego. Through cuddle therapy and consent-based coaching, she helps individuals — especially trauma survivors — build emotional safety, reconnect with their bodies, and explore new ways of being in relationship. She’s the co-owner of<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.cuddlist.com/" target="_blank"> Cuddlist</a>, host of <i>The Intimacy Lab</i> podcast, and founder of<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.softcockweek.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> Soft Cock Appreciation Week</a>, a virtual event redefining narratives around male sexuality and pleasure.</p><p></p><hr /><p></p><h2><b>🌐 Connect with Michelle</b></h2><ul><li>Website:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://meetmichellerenee.com" target="_blank"> https://meetmichellerenee.com</a></li><li>Newsletter:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://bit.ly/mmrnewsletter" target="_blank"> </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://bit.ly/mmrnewsletter" target="_blank">bit.ly/mmrnewsletter</a></li><li>Instagram: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://instagram.com/meetmichellerenee" target="_blank">@meetmichellerenee</a></li><li>Cuddlist Training Info:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.cuddlist.com/" target="_blank"> </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://Cuddlist.com" target="_blank">Cuddlist.com</a></li><li>Soft Cock Appreciation Week:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.softcockweek.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://softcockweek.com" target="_blank">softcockweek.com</a></li><li>The Intimacy Lab Podcast: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://intimacylabpodcast.com" target="_blank">intimacylabpodcast.com</a></li><li>Nathan’s episode on <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.meetmichellerenee.com/episode/nathan-young" target="_blank">Intimacy Labs</a></li></ul><h3><b>Other Social Media</b></h3><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/meetmichellerenee" target="_blank">Linkedin</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/cuddlemichellerenee/" target="_blank">Facebook</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@meetmichellerenee" target="_blank">TikTok</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@MeetMichelleRenee" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://meetmichellerenee.medium.com/" target="_blank">Medium</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://bsky.app/profile/meetmichellerenee.bsky.social" target="_blank">Blue Sky</a></p>no00:56:452The Stories We Tell About Touch with Michelle Renee of Cuddlist full<![CDATA[How Compassion Transforms Workplaces and the World with Sara Schairer of Compassion It]]>🎧 Episode Summary

In our inaugural episode, we sit down with Sara Schairer, compassion educator, speaker, and founder of the nonprofit Compassion It. 

We explore what compassion really means, how to practice it in everyday life, and what it takes to bring compassion into workplaces, systems, and even our political conversations.


Sara shares how her own personal crisis led her to launch a global movement, what she’s learned from training thousands of people, and how she builds connection even in rooms full of skeptics. 

🧭 Other Topics We Cover

  • The neuroscience and psychology of compassion as a practice
  • Systemic compassion: what it looks like when compassion is built into policies, HR, and culture
  • The limits of compassion under capitalism and inequality
  • Bridging political divides with curiosity instead of judgment
  • Practicing compassion toward public figures (even when it’s hard)
  • Self-compassion and community support as survival tools

🧑‍🎓 About Sara Schairer

Sara is a compassion educator, speaker, and founder of Compassion It, a nonprofit organization and global movement inspiring daily compassionate actions. She’s a Stanford-trained instructor of Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT) and the author of A Case for Compassion: What Happens When We Prioritize People and the Planet.


Sara has led workshops and trainings around the world for Fortune 500 companies, universities, nonprofits, and government agencies, helping people strengthen relationships, reduce burnout, and foster more humane organizations.


📚 Book: A Case for Compassion on Amazon
🌍 Website: https://compassionit.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Sara Schairer
🔗 Compassion It on Instagram & YouTube


Support the Podcast

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing the podcast. It helps more people discover conversations like this one.


Follow the podcast on Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | RSS 


🎙 Connect with host Nathan Young

Instagram | Linkedin | TikTok | Threads | Email | Website

]]>31d06071-a8ae-4591-ad42-a0bcec24dc26Tue, 10 Feb 2026 11:45:00 GMT<h3><b>🎧 Episode Summary</b></h3><p>In our inaugural episode, we sit down with <b>Sara Schairer</b>, compassion educator, speaker, and founder of the nonprofit <i>Compassion It</i>. <br /></p><p>We explore what compassion really means, how to practice it in everyday life, and what it takes to bring compassion into workplaces, systems, and even our political conversations.</p><p><br />Sara shares how her own personal crisis led her to launch a global movement, what she’s learned from training thousands of people, and how she builds connection even in rooms full of skeptics. </p><p></p><h3><b>🧭 Other Topics We Cover</b></h3><ul><li>The neuroscience and psychology of compassion as a practice</li><li>Systemic compassion: what it looks like when compassion is built into policies, HR, and culture</li><li>The limits of compassion under capitalism and inequality</li><li>Bridging political divides with curiosity instead of judgment</li><li>Practicing compassion toward public figures (even when it’s hard)</li><li>Self-compassion and community support as survival tools</li></ul><p></p><h3><b>🧑‍🎓 About <i>Sara Schairer</i></b></h3><p>Sara is a compassion educator, speaker, and founder of<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://compassionit.com" target="_blank"> <b>Compassion It</b></a>, a nonprofit organization and global movement inspiring daily compassionate actions. She’s a Stanford-trained instructor of Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT) and the author of <i>A Case for Compassion: What Happens When We Prioritize People and the Planet</i>.</p><p><br />Sara has led workshops and trainings around the world for Fortune 500 companies, universities, nonprofits, and government agencies, helping people strengthen relationships, reduce burnout, and foster more humane organizations.</p><p><br />📚 Book: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://compassionit.com/product/a-case-for-compassion/" target="_blank"><i>A Case for Compassion</i></a> on Amazon<br />🌍 Website:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://compassionit.com" target="_blank"> https://compassionit.com<br /></a>🔗 LinkedIn: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjschairer/" target="_blank">Sara Schairer<br /></a>🔗 Compassion It on <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/compassionit" target="_blank">Instagram</a> &amp; <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@compassionit1" target="_blank">YouTube</a></p><h3><br /><b>Support the Podcast</b></h3><p>If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing the podcast. It helps more people discover conversations like this one.</p><p><br />Follow the podcast on <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/bravernewworlds" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@bravernewworlds/" target="_blank">TikTok</a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@bravernewworlds/" target="_blank">YouTube</a> | RSS </p><p><br />🎙 Connect with host Nathan Young</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/nathancodyyoung/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathancodyyoung/" target="_blank">Linkedin</a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@nathancodyyoung" target="_blank">TikTok</a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.threads.com/@nathancodyyoung" target="_blank">Threads</a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:nathan@nathancodyyoung.com" target="_blank">Email</a> | <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://storyculturecollective.com" target="_blank">Website</a></p>no00:48:011How Compassion Transforms Workplaces and the World with Sara Schairer of Compassion Itfull<![CDATA[Welcome to Braver New Worlds]]>Our introductory episode.

]]>597020a5-e697-4ed2-a7ae-bb273e5f4656Fri, 30 Jan 2026 01:41:47 GMT<p>Our introductory episode.</p>no00:06:39Welcome to Braver New Worldsfull