Today on What Is It Like?, we sit down with Katerina Manoff — founder and CEO of ENGin, a nonprofit that has connected over 50,000 Ukrainian youth and global volunteers for English conversation and cultural exchange. In this way, Katerina shares the story behind launching ENGin in the midst of a global pandemic and a geopolitical crisis.

We talk about the power of language in shaping identity, the impact of war on education, and the deeply human stories that arise when strangers become friends across borders. Katerina reflects on the role of the Ukrainian language in reclaiming sovereignty, and her hopes for a peaceful future. Furthermore, Katerina offers practical advice to upcoming social entreprenuers about their potential journey of creation.

This episode is a testament to what’s possible when you match passion with purpose — and a moving reminder that sometimes, all it takes to change a life is a conversation.

In this illuminating episode of What is it Like?, we sit down with Dr. Marci Shore, a Yale professor and preeminent historian specializing in the intellectual history of twentieth and twenty-first-century Central and Eastern Europe. Dr. Shore’s work, including her critically acclaimed books Caviar and Ashes, The Taste of Ashes, and The Ukrainian Night, provides an in-depth look at how political ideologies shape individual lives and collective societies. Her unique approach intertwines rigorous historical analysis with deeply personal narratives, offering unparalleled insight into complex human experiences.

Join us as we delve into Dr. Shore’s relationship with Ukraine, exploring what initially drew her to study the country and how her perspective has shifted in light of recent events. She recounts memorable stories from the Maidan protests that have stayed with her and discusses the universal importance of personal storytelling, particularly during times of political upheaval.

We’ll also examine Ukraine’s current efforts to forge a post-Soviet identity amidst ongoing conflict, the significance of the resurgence of the Ukrainian language, and the profound ways Ukrainians are reshaping their connection to history and sovereignty. Dr. Shore shares her views on how educators can better connect students to the human dimensions behind geopolitical conflicts and contemplates Ukraine’s potential trajectory over the next five years. Finally, we discuss what rebuilding Ukraine might look like if peace is achieved, focusing on the central pillars needed for renewal.

This conversation goes beyond history; it touches on how understanding the past shapes perspectives on the present and future. Don’t miss this exclusive discussion with Dr. Marci Shore that promises to blend historical depth with personal insight, giving listeners a window into the heart of Eastern Europe and the complexities of our times.

In this episode, we sit down with Duke Harrison-Hunter, a Premier League Black List Award winner and influential mentor at Pompey in the Community. Duke shares his profound journey of overcoming addiction, facing adversity, and finding redemption through football. From the complexities of growing up between England and Jamaica, navigating domestic violence, and encountering racism, Duke’s story is one of resilience and transformation.

Listeners will hear candid reflections on how he discovered his inner voice, found faith amidst hardship, and channeled life lessons into empowering today’s youth. We dive deep into the role football plays in shaping young lives, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, and discuss the crucial ways community and daily affirmations can uplift those battling personal challenges.

Tune in as Duke opens up about conquering obstacles, redefining relationships, and using his story to inspire others to find their path away from addiction and into a life of purpose.