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Roots, Routes & Voices That Shape America

Roots, Routes & Voices That Shape America

De : Heartcast Media
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 Born from lived experience and deep curiosity, Roots, Routes & Voices explores what it means to leave, to arrive, to adapt, and to thrive. From boardrooms to grocery store aisles, from mother tongues to second homes, the podcast delves into the layers of identity, integration, and belonging. It’s about the beauty and bravery of becoming, the messiness of culture, and the stories of people not just surviving immigration — but reshaping America through it.Copyright Heartcast Media Sciences sociales
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    Épisodes
    • The Voice She Became: Shakila Ahmad’s Journey as a Muslim Woman in America

      The Voice She Became: Shakila Ahmad’s Journey as a Muslim Woman in America
      Aug 15 2025
      In this episode of Roots, Routes, and Voices, Clara Matonhodze and Bryan Wright engage with Shakila Ahmad to explore the journey that has defined her as a Muslim woman in America. Moving to Cincinnati from Pakistan at nine years old, Shakila faced the challenge of being the only brown Muslim girl in her class. Her experiences during these formative years fostered a sense of resilience and belonging, ultimately leading her to become the first woman to chair the board of a mosque in the United States.

      Shakila reflects on adapting to a new country, overcoming language and cultural barriers, and building meaningful friendships across different faiths and backgrounds. She highlights the critical moments that encouraged her to embrace leadership roles instead of retreating during tough times. Her commitment to servant leadership and her efforts to build trust within interfaith, civic, and professional communities are central to her story. Through her initiative, Empowering Spaces, Shakila combines decades of experience to help organizations cultivate more welcoming and engaged communities. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the significance of authentic voices and the bravery required to make oneself heard.

      Join us for a thoughtful discussion about the roots that ground us, the paths we navigate, and the voices that contribute to shaping America's future.

      Chapters:

      00:00 - Introduction
      00:40 - Navigating Identity and Adaptation
      09:23 - Discovering Community in America
      14:46 - Classroom of Shared Core Values
      20:58 - Grassroots Spirituality and Community Building
      21:49 - Cincinnati's Foundation: Welcoming Islamic Community
      29:20 - Cultural Fusion and Faithful Gathering
      34:03 - Building Community Through Relationship Education
      38:38 - Finding Your Voice Amid Threats
      44:32 - "Mentorship and Immersion Impact"
      50:50 - Grounded by Faith, Family, Community
      59:46 - Launching Consulting Career
      01:05:27 - "Hope Through Inspirational People"
      01:06:09 - Podcast Credits and Acknowledgments
      01:06:48 - Outro

      Quotes:

      "Being vulnerable is being brave. If I hadn't spoken up, others would define me. I chose to step forward because being truly seen is the first step to belonging."- Shakila Ahmad

      "We all seek community and understanding. By truly listening to each other's stories, we discover our shared humanity."- Clara Matonhodze

      "At the heart of migration and leadership lies trust and community. Through vulnerability and learning, we foster lasting belonging and change."- Bryan Wright

      Key Takeaways

      Roots and Routes
      The Power of Belonging and Authentic Friendship
      Discovery of Universal Values
      Hybrid Identity
      Building Inclusive Community
      Stepping Forward in Times of Crisis
      Trailblazing Leadership
      Faith, Family, and Community as Anchors
      Emotional Labor and the Importance of Self-Care
      Empowering Spaces
      Hope in Community

      Connect with Shakila Ahmad:

      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shakila-ahmad-57a286179/
      Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karlaboldery/
      Website: https://empowering-spaces.com/

      Call To Action:

      Visit Home - Cincinnati Compass to sign up for our newsletter and stay connected about upcoming community events.
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      1 h et 8 min
    • The Cost of Freedom: Bao M. Nguyen’s Story from Saigon to Cincinnati

      The Cost of Freedom: Bao M. Nguyen’s Story from Saigon to Cincinnati
      Aug 11 2025
      In this episode of Roots, Routes, Voices, Clara Matonhodze and Bryan Wright engage with Bao M. Nguyen to explore his transformation from the vibrant streets of Saigon to the serene neighborhoods of Cincinnati. Bao shares his enduring memories of life in Vietnam, the upheaval of immigrating to the United States, and his quest for a sense of belonging in the Midwest. His story highlights his family's resilience amid war and separation, his rise and subsequent departure from Procter & Gamble, and how redefining success inspired him to foster community through initiatives like Cincinnati’s Asian Food Fest and Asianati. Through Bao’s experiences, the episode examines the true cost of freedom, the challenges of establishing a new home, and the intricate layers of identity formed between cultures.

      Driven by his grandparents’ tales of snow, Bao moved to Dayton, Ohio from Vietnam at fifteen. After graduating from Miamisburg High School, he earned a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Cincinnati. Bao began his career at Procter & Gamble as an automation engineer and advanced to become the North America Sales Manager for Swiffer. Despite his success, he felt compelled to pursue a path that aligned more closely with his values and experiences.

      Bao emphasizes that his achievements are a product of his family and community support rather than being self-made. Recognizing the numerous individuals who aided his journey, he chose a career in financial services to help guide multi-generational and under-served families through their own challenges. Bao is committed to making a meaningful impact in his community, building on the foundation laid by those who supported him.

      Chapters:

      00:00 – Introduction
      00:40 – Adjusting to Isolation in California
      08:29 – Family Reunification Journey
      15:52 – "Many Moms Shaped My Childhood"
      17:01 – Self-Made or Community-Built?
      26:07 – Conflicting Leadership Realizations
      31:04 – "Empowerment Through Financial Impact"
      34:29 – Financial Guidance: A Reluctant Mentor
      39:26 – "Asian Food Fest Celebrates Community"
      43:45 – "Family Mealtime: A Sharing Negotiation"
      52:01 – "Global Belonging Among Asian Identities"
      55:40 – Evolving Through Struggles
      01:02:05 – Cultivating Legacy and Self-Worth
      01:04:41 – Podcast Credits and Acknowledgments
      01:05:20 – Outro

      Quotes:

      "Sometimes the ladder leans on the wrong tree. Find your roots and create a sense of belonging for others."- Bao M. Nguyen

      "We never truly arrive; we're always evolving. Building a community is as powerful as finding a home."- Clara Matonhodze

      "Every journey shapes our landscape. By sharing our roots and supporting each other, our community grows stronger."- Bryan Wright

      Key Takeaways

      The Sound and Soul of Home
      From Displacement to Reunion
      Redefining Success and “Making It” in America
      The Power of Pivot: Owning Your Path
      Building Bridges and Community Roots
      The Ever-Evolving Meaning of Belonging
      Legacy, Responsibility, and Planting Seeds
      Inspiration for the Next Chapter

      Connect with Bao M. Nguyen:

      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bao-m-nguyen/
      Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bao_down4what/
      Website: https://www.asianati.com/

      Call To Action:

      Visit Home - Cincinnati Compass to sign up for our newsletter and stay connected about upcoming community events.
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      1 h et 11 min
    • Bridging Continents, Building Community: Fatou Souare and the Power of Cultural Advocacy

      Bridging Continents, Building Community: Fatou Souare and the Power of Cultural Advocacy
      Aug 1 2025
      Welcome to "Roots, Routes, Voices," the Cincinnati Compass podcast showcasing stories that shape America's diverse community. In this episode, host Clara Matonhodze and cohost Bryan Wright interview Fatou Souare, an HR professional, cultural advocate, and co-founder of the Kentucky African Women's Association (KAWA).

      Originally from Senegal, Fatou shares her journey of moving to the United States, navigating cultural shifts, and overcoming the challenges of starting anew. She discusses her transition from Senegal to Louisiana and eventually to Kentucky, highlighting her experience as a single mother balancing personal ambitions with family responsibilities.

      Through KAWA, Fatou has become a key figure in Northern Kentucky’s African immigrant community, providing essential resources, mentorship, and celebrating cultural identity. Her role as the Senior Specialist of Talent Acquisition at Cincinnati Children’s complements her work with KAWA, allowing her to advocate for diversity and help individuals find meaningful employment.

      This conversation delves into the importance of community building, preserving cultural roots, and leading with both compassion and strategy. Fatou’s dedication to supporting other immigrants offers valuable insights into resilience and the immigrant experience. Whether you're interested in leadership, cultural advocacy, or community development, this episode provides a meaningful look at Fatou’s efforts to make a positive impact.

      Chapters:

      00:00 - Introduction
      00:11 - Reality Beyond School: A Life Education
      08:15 - Journey Through Education and Relocation
      12:33 - "Respect and Helping Others"
      18:14 - Protective Aunt at School
      21:21 - Open-Minded Family Defies Cultural Norms
      31:01 - Kawa Initiative: Cultural and Resource Support
      32:36 - Community Health and Resource Collaboration
      38:57 - Irene's Effective Leadership Skills
      45:01 - Balancing Cultural Integration and Authenticity
      49:05 - Understanding Immigrant Integration Challenges
      53:46 - Amplifying Immigrant Voices Publicly
      01:01:03 - Exploring American Identity Transition
      01:03:20 - Podcast Acknowledgments & Credits
      01:04:00 - Outro

      Quotes:

      "By helping one, we light the way for many to find hope and belonging."- Fatou Souare

      "Our traditions anchor us, enabling us to thrive and create beauty together."- Clara Matonhodze

      "Every voice shapes our cities. Communities grow through shared stories and built bridges."- Bryan Wright

      Key Takeaways:

      Embracing Dual Roots
      Leap of Faith and New Beginnings
      The Power of Women’s Leadership
      Community as a Lifeline
      Bridging Cultures and Building Understanding
      Navigating Challenges with Heart
      Dreaming Bigger, Together
      Passing the Torch

      Connect with Fatou Souare
      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kentucky-african-women-association-453641311
      Website:https://kawaus.org/about/

      Call To Action:
      Visit https://www.cincinnaticompass.org/ to sign up for our newsletter and stay connected about upcoming community events.
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      1 h et 4 min
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