Our Stories Matter: Recent Episodes
Our Stories Matter Podcast
Brought to you by Trauma Informed LA, Our Stories Matter is a podcast celebrating the complex lived experiences of activists and healers by sharing their inspiring stories. Our Stories Matter centers on healing through activism, art, poetry, film, music, breath, movement, and more. Each guest brings a unique story, but one with the global theme of community healing and liberation through storytelling. As journalist Lauren Gilger profoundly states, “the power of the story will save us all.”Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram for updates!
In this riveting episode, we sit down with Lara Burns, a former FBI counterterrorism expert, for a deep dive into the evolution of terrorism—from the attacks of September 11, 2001, to the emerging threats we see on today’s college campuses. With decades of experience tracking radicalization and confronting violent extremism, Lara brings a sharp, informed lens to the disturbing parallels between global terror tactics and the ideological warfare now playing out in academic institutions.
Together, we trace the shifting landscape of terrorism, explore how misinformation and propaganda fuel hate movements, and discuss the impact of geopolitical trauma—like the events of October 7—on students, particularly Jewish and Israeli, that increasingly face intimidation and silencing.
Lara’s insights offer a wake-up call: the front lines of extremism are no longer just abroad—they’re here, where the next generation is being shaped. This episode challenges listeners to examine what safety, free speech, and moral responsibility mean in today’s educational spaces.
Former FBI counterterrorism expert Lara Burns reveals how the radicalization she once tracked overseas is now taking root on America’s college campuses. Full episode premieres on June 26th.
Yasmine Mohammed, author of Unveiled: How Western Liberals Empower Radical Islam, shares her harrowing story of escaping religious fundamentalism and an arranged marriage to an Al-Qaeda terrorist. In this episode, Yasmine opens up about risking everything for the safety of her daughter, the emotional toll of living in hiding, and her ongoing fight for human rights. She draws powerful parallels between the extremism she fled and the rising hatred seen on college campuses today. Through her organization, Free Hearts Free Minds, Yasmine supports ex-Muslims facing persecution and advocates for freedom of thought. This conversation explores resilience, liberation, and the urgent need to challenge radicalization in all its forms.
Yasmine Mohammed escaped religious extremism and now fights for human rights. In this preview, she reflects on the cost of freedom and why her story resonates on today’s campuses. Full episode drops Thursday, June 19th.
Shoval Tshuva, an Israeli filmmaker, shares her powerful story of resilience, creativity, and the painful reality of being silenced. In this episode, Shoval opens up about her short film Funky, which addresses sexual assault and was gaining recognition at film festivals—until she was abruptly canceled for being Israeli following October 7th. She discusses the disturbing erasure of Jewish and Israeli women’s experiences of sexual violence, despite mounting evidence and survivor testimonies. Shoval reflects on the broader implications of this silencing, particularly on college campuses, where survivors are often met with skepticism or denial. Her story sheds light on the double standards in advocacy, and the urgent need for truth, justice, and the unwavering belief in every survivor’s voice.
Israeli filmmaker Shoval Tshuva shares the story behind her film Funky—and how she was canceled for being Israeli. A powerful episode about silencing, survival, and the fight to be heard. Full episode drops Thursday, June 12.
Loay Alshareef, born and raised in Saudi Arabia, shares his personal journey of breaking free from extremist ideologies after a transformative encounter with a Jewish individual. In this episode, Loay reflects on the emotional and psychological toll of radicalism, the power of human connection, and the moment that sparked his curiosity and change. He also draws parallels between his experience and the rise of radical ideologies on college campuses, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue, critical thinking, and inclusive communities. Loay’s story is one of transformation, unity, and the hope that curiosity and compassion can counteract extremism.
Loay Alshareef’s life changed after a single conversation challenged years of extremist belief. This preview introduces his powerful story of transformation, empathy, and cross-cultural healing. Full episode drops Thursday, June 5th.
Eli Tsives, a loud and proud student activist at UCLA who has appeared on CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC, returns to the podcast alongside Naomi, founder of Jewish Pride Always and a passionate educator creating content grounded in facts and truth. Together, they embody the yin and yang of Jewish advocacy on college campuses—Eli leading visible counter-protests against antisemitism and radicalism, and Naomi driving awareness through education and fact-driven advocacy. In this episode, Eli shares the personal challenges and resilience required to confront rising Jew hate in academic and social spaces, while Naomi emphasizes the critical role of history, research, advocacy, and community support. Their complementary approaches highlight how diverse strategies unite to combat rising Jew hate, build solidarity, and support the mental health of Jewish students today. Their stories are a powerful testament to the impact of unified, multifaceted leadership.
Student activist Eli Tsives and Jewish Pride Always founder Naomi return to the podcast for a powerful conversation on advocacy, education, and resilience. Together, they represent the yin and yang of Jewish campus activism—combining bold protest with fact-based education to support Jewish students and build a united movement. Full episode drops Thursday, May 29.
In this episode, Arno Michaelis, a former Neo-Nazi and author of My Life After Hate, and Mubin Shaikh, a former jihadist extremist turned counterterrorism expert, join this powerful episode to share their journeys from radicalization to redemption. Now colleagues at Parents 4 Peace, Arno and Mubin work as exit interventionists, helping individuals disengage from extremism and educating communities across North America about the warning signs of radicalization. They reflect on their personal transformations, the beliefs that once fueled their hatred, and the turning points that led them to leave extremist ideologies behind. Together, they draw striking parallels between the radical movements they once belonged to and the polarization growing on today’s college campuses. This episode is a moving exploration of change, accountability, and the urgent need for empathy and dialogue in confronting hate.
Former extremists Arno Michaelis and Mubin Shaikh open up about their journeys out of hate and into healing. This is a preview of an unforgettable conversation about change, compassion, and confronting radicalization. Full episode drops Thursday, May 22.
In this episode, Eden Yadegar, a senior at Columbia University, shares her journey as a leading advocate against antisemitism on college campuses. As president of Columbia's chapter of Students Supporting Israel, Eden has organized rallies and educational events to promote Jewish identity and push back against rising hostility. In November 2024, she testified before the U.S. House Committee on Education and the Workforce, offering powerful testimony about her experiences. She discusses her activism, the challenges she’s faced, and the methods she’s found most effective for fostering open, respectful dialogue in today’s polarized environment.
Eden Yadegar, a student leader at Columbia University, offers a glimpse into her fight against antisemitism and her testimony before Congress. Don’t miss her insights on activism, identity, and hope. Full episode drops Thursday, May 15.
Adela Cojab Moadeb, a Mexican-Jewish student activist and NYU graduate, shares her courageous journey of standing up against antisemitism and radicalism on college campuses—long before October 7th. In this episode, Adela reflects on her decision to sue her university, her experiences navigating intersectional identities, and her commitment to advocating for marginalized communities. She discusses the mental health impact of hate speech on Jewish students, the importance of interfaith solidarity, and the need for inclusive, safe spaces. Having spoken on platforms like CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC, Adela emphasizes resilience, unity, and the power of speaking out. Her story is one of strength, activism, and the bravery to lead even when standing alone.
Adela Cojab shares her powerful journey of speaking out against antisemitism and radicalism on college campuses—long before October 7th. Hear a preview of her courageous activism and why her voice matters now more than ever. Full episode drops Thursday, May 8.
This season on Our Stories Matter, we’re confronting the mental health crisis and rising radicalization on college campuses. Students, survivors, and changemakers share powerful stories of resilience, resistance, and the courage to speak out in the face of hate.
Season 6 premieres May 8th.
Lucy Aharish, an Arab-Israeli journalist, news anchor, television host, and mother, discusses how the events of October 7th have affected her personally and professionally. Aharish opens up with her struggles of reporting on atrocious, antisemtic acts. In addition, Aharish emphasizes the importance of education and critical thinking when it comes to engaging in meaningful discourse. She also talks about how it is her duty, as a journalist and civilian, to criticize her government and fight for her country. Lastly, she speaks to the uncertainties of life during a time of war and her struggles with learning how to rebuild a life full of hope. Aharish wonders, how do we regain our compassion, and how, if ever, will we return to normal life?
NBA player and mental health advocate Michael Sweetney and nonprofit leader Eric M. Rubin who is the Global Ambassador for the Maccabi World Union and the Executive Director of Project Max, demonstrate how taking action on dismantling hate is central to their healing. Sweetney, who is coaching at Yeshiva University, shifted the focus on his NBA career to mental health advocacy, and is using his platform to deliver wellness presentations focusing on inclusivity and mental well-being. Rubin, a seasoned executive, leverages sports diplomacy to combat antisemitism and racism, engaging with global organizations to foster unity and tolerance. Both individuals highlight how their efforts to fight hate not only support others, but also contribute to their own healing and growth. Their journeys underscore the transformative impact of using sports and advocacy to promote unity and dismantle hate.
Amit Halpern Navigating a normal teenage life while also living through multiple wars, Amit Halpern describes how he is managing under such extreme circumstances. Demonstrating innate strength and resilience, he describes what it has been like to be alive through four wars. In addition, Halpern speaks to feeling safer in his identity while in Israel, even with an ongoing war, than he would in any other country, especially the United States due to the rampant anti-Semitism. Lastly, Halpern discusses the effects of generational trauma and how this has affected his upbringing.
Dr. Efrat Bron-Harlev and Reem Abed Elhai, CEO and Senior Nurse of Schneider Hospital, respectively, discuss their journey of finding connection during a time of war. They speak candidly about navigating personal and professional relationships between a diverse staff of Arabs and Israelis and how they cultivated a space of compassion and transparency, ultimately providing staff with a space to feel safe as they expressed their own personal struggles with the ongoing war. Furthermore, they discuss their abiilty to foster cultural competency amongst staff and how this benefitted both the patients and the staff. Lastly, they touch upon the long-term psychological impacts of war and how this, unfortunately, is only the beginning.
Dr. Yehudah Pryce, a Senior Director of National Mental Health and Well-Being Programs at a national nonprofit organization, psychotherapist, and clinical social worker, discusses his journey of finding joy and healing since the tragedy of October 7th. Dr. Pryce expresses his struggles with processing his pain and grief with the way society has responded to the tragedy. Lastly, he discusses the intersections that come with being part of the Black and Jewish communities.
Jonathan Bar Giora, renowned Israeil composer and head of the BFA School of Audio and Video Arts at Sapir College, shares powerful stories of grief and resilience. Describing the time after October 7th as a "marathon of pain and tragedy," Bar Giora describes how he found strength within his community. He details the commmunity he created with his students and how they engaged in collective healing. In addition, Bar Giora speaks to the medium of film as a meaningful way to process one's trauma.
Dr. Or Duek is a licensed clinicial psychologist and assistant professor at the Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Community Health Sciences at the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the Department of Psychiatry at Yale University School of Medicine. His research focuses on the effects of exposure to stress on humans. Using his clinical background, Dr. Duek joined the IDF as a mental health lieutenant where he helped soldiers navigate their own trauma during the war. Drawing on a strength-based perspective, Dr. Duek shares how he is helping soldiers reframe their traumatic experiences into a coherent narrative that promotes strength and resilience.
Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern shares her writings, her collection of poems related to the October 7th massacre. She is inviting you, our listeners, to send in your poems relating to a traumatic event in your life. Calling all poets.
In this episode, we speak with 19-year-old UCLA student and activist Eli Tsives, whose powerful story highlights the alarming rise of antisemitism on college campuses. Eli recounts his experience of being blocked from attending his classes simply because he is Jewish, offering a personal perspective on the challenges Jewish students face in academic spaces.
Despite these obstacles, Eli has become a passionate advocate for justice and inclusion, using his voice to combat hatred and misinformation. We discuss his journey, the importance of standing up to discrimination, and how to foster understanding and unity on college campuses.
Join us as Eli shares his courageous story, offering both inspiration and actionable insights on dismantling antisemitism and creating a more inclusive academic environment for all.
Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern shares her writings, her collection of poems related to the October 7th massacre. She is inviting you, our listeners, to send in your poems relating to a traumatic event in your life. Calling all poets.
Join us as we speak with Jonah Platt, artist, activist, and host of Being Jewish. Jonah shares his journey as a proud Jewish advocate, insights on combating antisemitism, and strategies for navigating tough conversations with empathy and compassion. Through humor and wisdom, he inspires listeners to embrace their roots, foster dialogue, and build bridges in a divided world.
Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern shares her writings, her collection of poems related to the October 7th massacre. She is inviting you, our listeners, to send in your poems relating to a traumatic event in your life. Calling all poets.
Dr. Nesrin Lubbad, Chief Medical Director of the Child and Adolescent psychiatric unit at Geha Mental Health Center and an Arab Israeli psychiatrist, details the complexities of navigating two identities during a time of war. She reflects on her upbringing, being born in Denmark and moving to Israel. In addition, she pulls from her training in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), describing how she relied on distress tolerance and emotional regulation techniques to keep her afloat. Lastly, she stresses the importance of disengaging from polarizing paradigms by holding space for two truths at once and emphasizing the mindset of "both and."
Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern shares her writings, her collection of poems related to the October 7th massacre. She is inviting you, our listeners, to send in your poems relating to a traumatic event in your life. Calling all poets.
Eitan Chitayat, Founder and Creative Director of international Natie Branding Agency and creator of the viral video "I'm that Jew," speaks to the importance of being openly Jewish. Chitayat believes that being outwardly proud allows Jews to take control of their narrative, ultimately humanizing their existence and resisting the false narratives put upon them. In addition, Chitayat emphasizes the importance of collective healing within the Jewish community. By coming together, rather than hiding, we can foster strength and resilience.
Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern shares her writings, her collection of poems related to the October 7th massacre. She is inviting you, our listeners, to send in your poems relating to a traumatic event in your life. Calling all poets.
Marie-Alice Legrand, a recent graduate of Columbia Law School and co-founder of the Law Students Against Antisemitism student organization at Columbia Law School, discusses navigating the aftermath of October 7th. Legrand credits her unequivocal support for the Jewish community to her upbringing in Germany. In addition, she emphasizes the importance of early education when it comes to combatting anti-Semitism and the importance of being a vocal ally. Lastly, she draws parallels between today's political climate with that of World War II, noting that history may be repeating itself.
Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern shares her writings, her collection of poems related to the October 7th massacre. She is inviting you, our listeners, to send in your poems relating to a traumatic event in your life. Calling all poets.
Dr. Ilana Kwartin is the Executive Director of Healing Space Rishhpon, an innovative healing center that aims to rehabilitate the mind-body connection ruptured by trauma. Dr. Kwartin recounts her experiences at the start of the war and how she has been prioritizing the healing of those most affected, all while holding space for her own healing and her family's healing. She explains how the body keeps the score and the importance of Healing Space Rishhpon's work as they provide individuals with a safe, healing environment to process their trauma.
Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern shares her writings, her collection of poems related to the October 7th massacre. She is inviting you, our listeners, to send in your poems relating to a traumatic event in your life. Calling all poets.
Syrian-Lebanese/German activist Rawan Osman, Founder of ArabsAsk, a forum meant for Arabs to ask questions and challenge preconceived notions about Judaism and Israel, and Chairwoman of PostOctober7, describes how she navigates hatred and criticism throughout her activsm. In addition, she provides insight into how to combat misinformation and polarization on college campuses and how to have productive dialogue about the Middle East. Osman emphasizes the importance of early education, sharing how this was pivotal in her journey to become an advocate for peace in Israel.
Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern shares her writings, her collection of poems related to the October 7th massacre. She is inviting you, our listeners, to send in your poems relating to a traumatic event in your life. Calling all poets.
Natalie Sanandaji, Public Affairs Officer at the Combat Antisemitism Movement, shares what it was like to narrowly survive the Nova festival massacre on October 7th. Hoping to find an escape within the music festival, Sanandaji describes the trauma that actually came from it. In addition, she describes the idea of a "choiceless choice" and how this ultimately allowed her to escape. Using storytelling as a way to heal and process her own trauma, Sanandaji continues to demonstrate strength and resiliency as she uses her voice to speak for those no longer with us.
Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern shares her writings, her collection of poems related to the October 7th massacre. She is inviting you, our listeners, to send in your poems relating to a traumatic event in your life. Calling all poets.
Susie Hess, Associate Professor of Practicum Education at USC Suzanne Dworak Peck School of Social Work and Co-Founder of Trauma Informed LA, and Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern, Director of the Intensive Outpatient Program at The Boston Child Study Center and a lecturer at Harvard Medical School, reflect on the circumstances surrounding their introduction to each other. Sharing intimate and vulnerable stories describing how they navigated holding space for their loved ones while also prioritizing their own healing during a time of war, Susie and Miri highlight the central theme of the podcast: post-traumatic growth. In addition, Susie and Miri speak to the polarizing paradigms on college campuses and ways we can dismantle these narratives. Ultimately, Susie and Miri ask us, how do we give meaning to what happened and how can we bring healing and compassion to everyone?
Since the October 7th attack, false narratives have intensified tensions and prejudice, in academic settings. Drawing from their own experiences of war, Dr. Bar-Halpern and Hess recognize the urgency of sharing stories of hope and resilience. Our Stories Matter Season 5, We Will Dance Again, strives to dismantle these harmful narratives, strengthen unity on college campuses, and confront polarization. Featuring storytellers from varied perspectives—Jews, Arabs, and Christians—the podcast works to cultivate compassion and understanding, break down polarization, and drive civil engagement to spark meaningful dialogue and across college communities.
Our Stories Matter Season 4 Finale Bonus Episode! Father Greg Boyle is the founder of Homeboy Industries, the largest gang-intervention, rehabilitation, and re-entry program in the world. Detailing the origins of Homeboy Industries, he reflects on powerful moments and stories that shaped his journey. He discusses the importance of unwavering compassion, the intentional act of loving, and dares to ask us – what would happen if we believed that people are unshakably good and we belong to each other?
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Damon Cooke is the co-founder and CEO of the Uncuffed Project, a non-profit organization that aims to change the narrative inside the prison system and reduce recidivism. Damon is a vivid example of resilience and determination, and what is like to bring change within the carceral system that is set up to oppress BIPOC communities. In this episode, Damon along with Susan Hess, who is a Associate Professor at USC School of Social Work and extensive experience in the field of domestic violence, James Debbaco who currently serves as the Chair of the Unchained Scholars student caucus and is an MSW student at USC Suzanne Dworak Peck School of Social Work, and Martin Leyva, program coordinator for Project Bound at California State University, San Marcos and a doctoral student UC San Diego in education share their lived experiences and explore how the intersectionality in their struggles has brought healing in their journeys.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Dr. Daniel Siegel is a Clinical Professor in the Psychiatrist at the UCLA School of Medicine and the author of the book IntraConnected where he explains the concept of MWe (Me + We) as the integration of the Self, Identity, and Belonging. He describes how culture, especifically in the United States, has taught society that identity is an individual and separate concept unrelated to the collective whole. This creates a lot of mental distress as individuals begin to feel like they don't fit in or don't belong. Drawing from wisdom of Indigenous and contemplative traditions, Dr. Siegel shares how the self (Me) is connected with others and is within all the human world and nature (We), creating an intraconnection that helps us realize that we are a Me as much as we are a We - a MWe - to create a better world that would also be inclusive of formerly incarcerated folks.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Stephanie Lane is an example of resilience and determination. She recounts how every struggle and trauma she experienced allowed her to grow into the woman she is today: fierce, independent and full of purpose. Stephanie also indicates the powerful impact that Homeboy Industries had in her life by providing employment and professional opportunities. She now leads a women's focus group where she gives back to women by guiding, counseling, and providing resources to help them find their place in the free world after incarceration.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Gonzalo Alvarado discusses his relationship with violence, how that shaped him and isolated him as a young man, and how that eventually influenced him to join a men's group in prison dedicated to finding solutions for the senseless violence inside. He discusses the power of the written word and how sharing his words with other people incarcerated created an unspoken bond that transcended racial lines. Now navigating the reentry community after spending over 20 years in prison, Gonzalo recounts his experiences with Homeboy Industries and how they've supported him on his healing journey.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Tyler Lord shares his journey as he transitions from a 32 years to life sentence to becoming a firefighter for FFRP. He discusses his battle with addiction and now, over 16 years clean and sober, he expresses a newfound love for life. As he talks about the lessons he's learned and the support he's received post-incarceration, Tyler hopes to be a beacon of light for others as they start their own healing journey.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Manuel Torres shares one of the many challenges that he had to go through while incarcerated - having to learn how to represent himself in court due to a flawed legal system. Manuel learned the importance of education early on through the teachings of his mother, which was one of the motivators that helped him reduce his sentence significantly by advocating for a fair court process while fighting his case. Despite all the struggles, Manuel continues to grow personally and professionally with the support of family and Homeboy Industries; and continues his healing journey creating music and sharing his story.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Benjamin Fowler embodies what it means to be resilient. Detailing the hardships he faced transitioning from incarceration to the reentry community, Benjamin describes how the Fire Camps and the Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program gave him a second chance at a new life. Benjamin recounts the struggles and rewards of what it means to be an inmate firefighter, and how the love for his children and his community empowered him to never give up.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
From living in anguish thinking that a lifetime in prison is all that was left, to getting another chance at life with freedom through SB 1437, Ivy shares about the role that Homeboy Industries played in her life to overcome challenges that came after being released. Ivy faced obstacles with employment, housing, and navigation of different patriarcal systems that oppress women and limit their ability to succeed as free individuals.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Brandon Smith is the co-founder and CEO of The Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program. Brandon exempifies what is like to be relentless, innovative and passionate to bring opportunities to become a firefighter not only for himself, but to formerly incarcerated folks who complete fire camp and are in search of a similar career. Brandon recounts the different challenges that he experienced after his release with different social institutions, the stigma that comes of being in prison and how this inspired him to create a path to help others achieve the same success through mentorship and support post release through FFRP.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Fabian Debora has always placed art at the center of his healing. As Founder and Executive Director of Homeboy Art Academy, Fabian describes in detail how his upbringing influenced his relationship with art and healing. Using the knowledge he knows now, Fabian is using his cultural influence to highlight the facilitation of art and its healing powers. Through art, Fabian is changing the paradigm of how to connect with another human being.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
In partnership with Homeboy Industries and Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program, Our Stories Matter Season Four shares the stories of folx reentering the free world through radical resistance and activism.
Prisons and many organizations in the free world complement each other as two sides of the same coin, as they continue to oppress and shackle folx coming home. Our Stories Matter engages in dialogue with two organizations that are dismantling the 46,000 collateral consequences around employment and education within a punishing system that has been created for recidivism.
Storytelling is political. Storytelling is liberating. Storytelling is community healing. Our Stories Matter.
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Public defenders have often gotten a less-than-honorable wrap when it comes to providing services for those who need it the most. In this week's episode, Brendon Woods, Alameda County's first Black Chief Public Defender, challenges that bad reputation as he shares his passion and advocacy for the liberation of victims of mass incarceration.
Brendon talks about how he is leveraging his position to fight against systemic injustice in the legal system. Tune in to hear the changes he is making in the community.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Naima Ramos-Chapman is an activist and filmmaker. Her powerful story highlights ways she has used filmmaking to promote her own healing and the healing of others from complex and systemic trauma. She discusses how she leveraged film to give light to perspectives and experiences that are often dismissed and overlooked.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
While law in the US has a history of perpetuating systematic racism, Summer Lacey has utilized it to advocate for the most marginalized amongst us. Summer’s life embodies the transformational mission of using the law to resist and dismantle systems of oppression.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Romarilyn is a black feminist prison abolitionist scholar working to interrupt criminalization at the intersections of race, gender, and education.
Her fierce advocacy as the Program Director of Project Rebound at Cal State Fullerton has helped establish the John Irwin Memorial House, the first collegiate housing initiative in the nation that provides a residence, holistic support and academic care for formerly incarcerated and system impacted students.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Claudia Peña and Bryonn Bain are trailblazers in their work with UCLA's Prison education Program. The two are using their background in everything from the arts and literature to working in the legal system to invest in the education and healing of those who are incarcerated.
In this episode, Claudia and Bryonn share their efforts to promote transformative justice and healing through collaboration and trauma-informed practices.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
“We’re just human beings trying to live our lives in a system that is oppressing us.” This episode’s storyteller speaks on the challenges that come with not only being an undocumented immigrant in the United States, but also being a Black man in America.
Tune in to this week’s episode to learn how Aly Wane is using his experiences to advocate for the humanization of Black and immigrant communities in the political and justice systems.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
“We are the ones that can best support each other coming home. Because we know what that feels like. We know how much we want to give back and how sorry we are for what happened in our lives”. Instead of systems of oppression being erected to stifle our reconnection to the community, women survivors of the American criminal punishment system can be empowered to be the healers our communities need.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
ACTIVATION WARNING:
This entire episode discusses multiple forms of trauma, including graphic descriptions of intergenerational trauma, sexual trauma, physical trauma, emotional trauma and carceral trauma.If activated, TILA recommends to incorporate healing practices such as move, walk, journal, run, push against a wall, connect with people who are supportive empathetic and remember to breathe...If at anytime you need to take a break, take a break and you can always return later...
Countless women’s voices are smothered under the brutal reality of incarceration in America. Yet, Rianne has mustered the courage to speak truth to power. Incarcerated going on 12 years, Rianne clings to honesty, hope and resilience in her healing journey. Listen to her bare her soul live from the belly of the beast.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
“You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” Fearlessly from the Inside, Keyon shares how music and his promotion of literacy have been his tools for advocating for social justice in Black and Brown communities.
Tune in to this week’s episode to hear Keyon’s story of personal reform as he overcomes systemic and physical barriers.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
On this week's episode of Our Stories Matter, storyteller Sydney Rogers, shares how learning to receive love from others and themselves emboldened them to embrace their intersectionality. Sydney explains how their healing journey has positioned them to utilize performing arts as a tool of empowerment and advocacy to increase the visibility of the Trans Non Binary community. This episode is in memory of Ms. Carpenter, a social worker who inspired Sydney through the care and love she showed to a younger Sydney and their family.
Tune in to hear more about Sydney's journey and their plans to expand their advocacy through social work.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
This week's episode showcases the story and advocacy of Anthony Robinson, a writer and artist who is using his experience in the prison system to empower those who have had negative experiences with criminal injustices. From writing articles that have inspired people internationally, to creating platforms for creatives in California, Anthony has established himself as a force of change.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Martín Leyva is leveraging his position in academia to change the face of education in higher education. Martín highlights how having a trauma and healing-informed approach to teaching challenges students to think more critically about traditional academic material in order to promote a tradition and legacy of holistic, communal, and transgenerational healing.
Tune in to this episode of Our Stories Matter to learn more about Martín's advocacy through education.Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
“...imagine a world where healed people helped hurt people heal and become whole.” When JC Cavitt found himself facing a prison sentence at age 17, he found refuge and self-expression in poetry and spoken word. His use of words set the stage for him to model, encourage, and champion vulnerability and healing in others.
Join this episode’s Storyteller as he shares how his gift has become an avenue for personal and communal liberation.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
“I think that’s the healing agent that Beit T’Shuvah gives. We give people spirit, we tell them we have faith in them, and we give ‘em love.” “And a sense of belonging.” Harriet and Rabbi Mark tag-team to share their collective aspirations for elevating healing of mind, body, spirit, and justice through their marriage and community addiction treatment center, Beit T’Shuvah.
Listen to this episode to hear their story of love and advocacy.
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This season our Diverse storytellers focus on HEALING from Incarceration in conversation with our hosts Yehuda (Pryce) and Susan “Susie” Hess.
Our Stories Matter promotes a support system and healing process through community care.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Join us for a conversation with Yehudah Pryce, who sees faith as a liberating and redemptive force to confront trauma in a sustaining way that transcends structural barriers and oppressive forces.
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Join us for a conversation with Salina Gray, a teacher with 24 years in traditional public, charter, and graduate schools. She shares her story and vulnerability on how she has made her way to heal through mindfulness. Salina reveals, “the first step is to sit with yourself.”
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @OurStoriesMatterPodcast on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
In this special episode of Our Stories Matter, we present the audio recording from our IPV Revolution: Healing the Healer event. In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness (October) and in light of the current political moment and global public health context, we joined together for community care and collective healing through an exploration of the imperative to center the healing, transformation, and liberation of communities of color impacted by intimate partner violence (IPV).
Through storytelling and an analysis of the systems that impact survivors of color and those who are supporting crisis intervention, healing, and resilience, we created a dialogue that focused on how to build the capacity and sustainability of professionals and survivor leaders working to prevent and address the impact of intimate partner violence.
Speakers included Orchid Cameron, Ramona Merchan, Paula Miley, Nkem Ndefo, and Patty Ramirez.
Disclaimer: This audio contains subjects that may be activating for people who have experienced trauma.
Join us for a conversation with experienced trainer, coach, advocate, and leader, Ramona Merchan who shares the meaning of anti-racist activism and how we as a community and individuals can heal through it. Ramona offers her impactful story and what brought her to assisting vulnerable and marginalized communities through anti-racist advocacy.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @OurStoriesMatterPodcast on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Join us for a timely conversation with Saúl Sarabia who offers voting as a healing mechanism. He expresses, “Civic participation, owning my civic voice, and taking collective action with other people is healing work.” Listen to affirm how our voices are more than just a vote.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @OurStoriesMatterPodcast on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
After a successful Season One, we're back with our second season! Brought to you by Trauma Informed LA, Our Stories Matter is a podcast celebrating the complex lived experiences of activists and healers by sharing their inspiring stories. We invite you to learn more here!
As journalist Lauren Gilger profoundly states, “The power of the story will save us all.”
For updates on the podcast follow @OurStoriesMatterPodcast on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter.
Founders of Project Kinship, Steve Kim and Mary Vu join to discuss their healing journey through re-entry activism. They share, ”Vote, vote, get out there and vote for policies that impact our people.”
Join us for a conversation with South LA organizer, LaNaisha Edwards who shares the importance of voting and speaking for the voices that are not heard. LaNaisha shares insight on California propositions that will be voted on this November and reminds us, “There is no way to impact change without voting.” Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @OurStoriesMatterPodcast on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Join us for a conversation with Annalisa Enrile who offers poetry as a healing mechanism, a way to work out trauma, express yourself, and find your voice. Audrey Lorde stated, “Poetry is not a luxury” and this episode will explore why that statement is true and how the power of words can bring us closer to our truths. Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @OurStoriesMatterPodcast on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Join us for a conversation with Hugo Gonzalez who discusses art as activism and activism as art. Hugo is an artist and activist committed to dismantling patriarchy through advocacy, diverse community building, and challenging societal norms.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @OurStoriesMatterPodcast on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Join us for a conversation with Mike Alcantara who discusses the journey of how he became an entrepreneur through his struggles, setbacks, and now his goal to aspire others to follow him. Mike is passionate about motivating others to always achieve their highest self.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @OurStoriesMatterPodcast on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Join us for a conversation with Unchained Scholars, a group of formerly incarcerated MSW, DSW, and Ph.D. students working with ally members to dismantle the barriers faced by people impacted by the criminal punishment system. The Unchained storytellers include Genevieve Rimer, DSW; Heidi DeLeon, MSW; and Fabiola Quijano, MSW.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @OurStoriesMatterPodcast on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Join us for a conversation with Nkem Ndefo, founder and president of Lumos Transforms and creator of The Resilience Toolkit, a model that promotes embodied self-awareness and self-regulation in an ecologically sensitive framework and social justice context. We invite you to learn more about Nkem Ndefo here.
Visit the Our Stories Matter homepage to learn more about the podcast. Follow @OurStoriesMatterPodcast on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Join us for a conversation with Alexus Rhone- writer, producer, artistic theologian, and revolutionary artist exploring the power of story. Passionately committed to being a “truth-teller,” Alexus offers a strong, compelling voice to people (young and younger) looking for authenticity and transparency.
We invite you to learn more about Alexus here. We also invite you to learn more about our fearless podcast co-hosts and Our Stories Matter team here.
Join us for our Facebook Live party with Alexus on June 7th at 6pm PST. For updates on the party follow @OurStoriesMatterPodcast on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter.
Brought to you by Trauma Informed LA, in partnership with Lokels Only, Our Stories Matter is a podcast celebrating the complex lived experiences of activists and healers by sharing their inspiring stories. We invite you to learn more here!
As journalist Lauren Gilger profoundly states, “the power of the story will save us all.”
For updates on the podcast follow @OurStoriesMatterPodcast on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter.