Christopher Kelly lives with neurodiversity. He sees his neurodiversity as a gift that he can offer to the world, and that’s exactly what he does. He focuses on his own and others’ abilities rather than their disabilities. He prioritizes inclusion over exclusion. He validates others’ feelings and circumstances, especially with their health challenges. He supports them and works to help them live their best lives. Our conversation with Chris offers a refreshing perspective about the way we view ourselves and others.

Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Barbara Bray—author, coach, podcast host—whose work has transformed education for more than three decades. Barbara helps people uncover their “why,” embrace the power of story, and live with greater purpose, authenticity, and joy. In this episode, we explore the personal experiences that shaped her mission, the magic of storytelling, the inspiration behind her message, and the transformative role deep listening plays in finding meaning. If you’ve ever questioned your purpose or wondered whether your story matters, this episode will remind you that your voice—and your “why”—are worth sharing.

Barbara's books and other information can be found at: https://linktr.ee/barbarabray27

Alex Ross-Reed (she/they) is a soul having a human experience on planet earth. Seeking connection, working for peace, learning, making, playing and loving everyday. Working for justice, cooperation, creativity, and supporting people, especially those in the LGBTQIA2S+ community, who are young and their families is their passion and mission. An artist, Alex knows that art saves lives, and wants to show the world how.

From above the Arctic Circle in northern Norway, Professor Ingrid C. Nordli joins us to focus on her years of experience researching, teaching, and writing about how children uniquely listen and how adults can better listen to them. A communications and linguistics expert, Ingrid speaks with us about the music of language and how, with its distinct rhythms, melodies, and harmonies, we can learn to respect the perspectives, the beautiful innocence, and the dignity of children - and the dignity of persons of every age, for that matter.

Joshua Lazerson remembers starting to understand the power and importance of listening as a teenager. At the age of 25 he made a personal commitment to try to prioritize listening in his life, and has 41 years of practice to date. Today, he fulfills that commitment, in part, with The Listening Project, through which he holds space by offering to listen to anyone who wishes to join him in a variety of public places around San Diego County, California, where he lives. Join us in this warm and beautiful conversation as Joshua describes why and how he holds that space for others to share who they are and what is on their hearts and minds.

In our latest episode, we have a conversation with Kristopher Sledge — pastor, conversation curator, traveler, husband, and father — who has built a reputation for helping people engage in real, honest dialogue about life’s toughest issues. Kris shares how he creates safe spaces for meaningful conversations around justice, equity, and inclusion, and how humility, listening, and curiosity can bridge deep divides. He also reflects on a life-changing experience that shaped his passion for connection and compassion. Join us for a powerful conversation about what it takes to stay at the table — even when it’s uncomfortable — and to see one another as human beings first.

In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Deary, President & CEO of the Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce and former Executive Director of Leadership Cumberland. With more than 20 years of experience in leadership, program development, marketing, and community engagement, Nicole has devoted her career to fostering growth, connection, and collaboration across Central Pennsylvania. Nicole shares her own journey into leadership, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and why authentic relationships are at the heart of effective leadership.

Together, we explore how she helps emerging leaders move beyond surface-level networking into deeper, lasting connections—and the role emotional intelligence, intentional listening, and safe spaces play in that process. From sparking meaningful moments between participants to creating environments where every personality can thrive, Nicole offers wisdom and practical insight into what it means to lead with both courage and compassion. If you’ve ever wondered how to cultivate stronger, more connected teams—or how leaders can avoid isolation by rooting themselves in genuine community—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

When Kait Gillis-Hanna opened her coffee shop, it was about more than lattes and pastries—it was about creating a place where everyone belongs. By intentionally hiring people with disabilities, Kait has cultivated a workplace rooted in dignity, purpose, and connection. In this conversation, we talk with Kait about her vision, the challenges and joys of building an inclusive team, and the transformative power of belonging at work. Her story reminds us that when we make space for everyone’s gifts, we enrich not only our workplaces, but our communities as well.