TRUTH According To: Recent Episodes
Discourse
This show is about YOU, the listener. Our goal is to educate through someone else’s lived experiences. We share people’s real life stories and give you the inside scoop of their journey. Together we will widen our lens on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, in hopes to help you better understand the people around you to create the change we need to see in the world.
In the season finale of TRUTH According To we have a conversation with the International Best Selling Author of HUSH MONEY: How One Woman Proved Systemic Racism in her Workplace and Kept her Job. We dive into Jacquie Abram’s lived experiences as a Black woman in America, her mental health and the traumatic effects on her fellow community members. These conversations are never easy but the courage to stand up and share one's story should be applauded! Remember, your TRUTH is your lived experience.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at http://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquie-abram-30507858/
Favourite Quote: "I'm fighting racism one book at a time."
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
LinkedIn is not a dating site according to one of Canada’s top recognition experts. Sarah McVanel brings her soap box to share her framework for keeping things kosher on the professional networking site. We dive into the struggles of women on social media, sexual harassment and how bullying flipped her life upside down. A passionate, resilient professional speaker who’ll have you hanging on the edge of your seat as she recounts her lived experiences.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at http://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahmcvanel/
https://greatnessmagnified.com/
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
When you dedicate yourself to making a difference in the world you meet some really great people. Dr. Barbara Perry is a recognized global authority on hate crime, and the primary national authority on right-wing extremism in Canada. As the Director of the Centre on Hate, Bias and Extremisim she is often called upon as an expert by media outlets such as CBC, The Current, The Globe and Mail and The New York Times. We had the pleasure of sitting for a candid conversation on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion that you do not want to miss!
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at http://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://socialscienceandhumanities.ontariotechu.ca/centre-on-hate-bias-and-extremism/index.php
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
Speaking up and being yourself is never easy but our next guest makes it simple, he just is. Authentic as they come Edward Gonzales, also known as Eddie from NASA shares his experiences living in LA pre and post Rodney King. We discuss the winding road to his dream job and the impact he’s able to make now working in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility. This conversation has wonderful stories, lessons learned and imparts wisdom to help us all move forward, together.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at http://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-gonzales-50a7b991/
https://www.instagram.com/eddiefromnasa/
Favourite Quote: "Find the yes."
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
Language Alert Being able to be free is all Daniel ever wanted. Dancing around wearing women’s clothing is when she felt most happy. In this vulnerable conversation with Celia Sandhya Daniels we speak about her journey to authenticity. We discuss her struggles with coming out, belonging and have a frank discussion around Dave Chapelle’s Netflix documentary, The Closer. This episode gets very real as we learn more about the trans and non-binary community in this insightful conversation.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at http://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/celiasandaniels/
Favourite Quote: “True change in an organization starts from the Bathroom all the way up to the Boardroom.” - Celia Sandhya Daniels
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
The man that walked in, was not the same man that walked out. After 32 years in Policing Keith Richards leaves as a highly celebrated community hero. With national awards recognizing his contributions, you’ll meet a jolly giant who shares words of wisdom on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. His understanding on the topic of DEI is only matched by his zeal to be continually learning about this evolving landscape. He shares how a black kid from Pickering, Ontario was shown kindness by the police and how he chose to pay it forward when he became one. Listen in on a conversation between friends as our host Victor Rampaderat introduces you to an all-star member of the Discourse team.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check our website at http://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
Favourite Quote: “We live in the same country, but we don’t live in the same word.”
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
After immigrating to Canada from Brazil, Luis shares the challenges he faced being apart of the LGBTQ2+ communities. He openly shares stories about the phobias that exist and how he struggled with his own identity.
He gets to unite people and provide a voice to the movement at Pride at Work Canada. In this episode he helps us to understand the importance of learning peoples correct pronouns, the difficulties faced by the transgendered community and so much more.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check our website at http://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/luisaugustonobre
Favourite Quote: "Be the change you want to see in the world." - Mahatma Gandhi
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
Susanne has a PhD in Engineering and is a huge advocate for inclusion and belonging in the workplace. This insightful conversation shares her thoughts on the direct cost of bias to the companies bottom line.
As an advocate for change, she shares her lived experiences in the workplace and openly shares personal biases showing tremendous self awareness. Her stories shed light on the very real problems that need our attention if we are to build more equitable work environments.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at http://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susannesvensdotter
Favourite mantra: The more Diversity and Inclusion, the more learning!
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
After landing his dream job working in the corporate office for the 3x NBA Champions, the Miami Heat, Casey Dellapenna walked away from it all.
Very few choose purpose when pursuing new employment opportunities, but the pandemic caused self reflection for many. A disruption in our daily lives coupled with time to reflect upon our impact sent Casey on a journey to explore how he was making a difference.
In this candid conversation we speak about American sports culture, racism witnessed and how preparing future generations with financial intelligence is important to help set future leaders up for success.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at http://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-dellapenna/
https://www.instagram.com/caseydell20/
Favourite Quote: "We are all born with 2 lives. The 2nd one begins when you realize you only have 1."
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
It’s not everyday you meet people who wear their heart on their sleeve. We live in an individualistic society where we centre ourselves vs looking at the needs of others. Melanie Ryan, has consistently demonstrated a WE vs ME mentality in her many undertakings.
The founder of a Local Non-Profit Beck’s Place that helps humans and pets during some of the difficult transitions in life. She also co-chaired her community's first ever PRIDE event and became a foster parent to two young children who eventually became her adopted children. It wasn’t until seeing the world through their eyes that she could really understand a different perspective to the very real challenges of our current systems.
Her honesty and vulnerability brings up the unglamorous part of being an adoptive parent. Join us on the journey which led this executive to leave her cushy corporate job with one of the largest tech firms in the world to help people on their Diversity, Equity and Inclusion journey.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe. and check out our website at http://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melaniefryan/
Website: https://www.mfrcoachconsult.com/
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
Regardless of what station of life you’re in, you’ll find as people we are far more alike than we are different. This time we will take a trip down-under to welcome our first international guest all the way from Australia. Her story of courage and resilience is nothing short of remarkable.
Niti Nadarajah's example for women of colour will be inspiring to all women. Climbing to be the head of legal for a global multinational in Australia and Pacific Islands, her wonderful personality and beautiful accent will make listening to her experience that much more enjoyable.
We touch on many issues around Diversity, Equity and Inclusion that surround women in the legal profession, including talking about the infamous “Old Boys Club” to suffering the unbelievable loss of a child. She teaches us how listening to understand, instead of listening to speak, is a great starting point in building cultures of belonging.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at http://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/niti-nadarajah/
Favourite Quote: “You either walk inside your story and own it, or you stand outside your story and hustle for your worthiness” -Brene Brown
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
After repressing a lot of the microaggressions and traumas experienced growing up she decided it was time to get help. An open conversation around what it’s like to feel different in society and how that pushes you to places within yourself.
Gabriella Lachapel O’Brien brings a unique perspective of what it’s like for the LatinX community in America. Climbing the ranks of the male dominated construction industry is something she continues to do, recently being featured in a New York industry journal.
Her journey has been one of unlearning and relearning which is something she encourages everyone to do, especially when it comes to your ancestry. An honest conversation with a rising executive, this female powerhouse will make you think.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at http://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.instagram.com/gabilachapel/
Favourite Mantra: I can do hard things.
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
After growing up in the United Kingdom being harassed as a child by grown-ups for the colour of his skin, our next guest jumped on a plane with his family to move to the United States of America. Realizing he needed to fit in here, he quickly made changes, one of which was losing his accent posthaste.
He shares a few stories from his recruiting days and his opinions on where DEI falls flat. He brings his unique intersectionality with race and shares openly and honestly through this lived experiences.
Now he’s become a social media influencer and content creator on the platform LinkedIn. He specifically works with recruiters and shares inside knowledge on how organizations should be looking at the conversation of Diversity and Inclusion through a recruitment lens.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at http://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/recruitmentmarketing1/
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
A convicted felon who drinks 12-20 cups of coffee a day, shares how he turned it all around. A champion for the underdog, Matthew Higgins puts “Humanity” back into Human Resources.
An openly gay man who explored his sexuality as a male prostitute numb to the world around him. In this episode he recounts how an ex-boyfriend refusing to bail him out, was the turning point in climbing his way out from a very dark place in his life.
Today he removes barriers and breaks stigmas around mental health, felons and those without formal education. His smile, energy and joy adds life to those around him. If you want to witness vulnerability personified, listen in!
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at https://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewhiggins-sphr/
Favourite Quote: “Would the little boy I once was look up to the man that I’ve become?”
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
Being a Black professional living in America poses unique challenges as outlined by John Graham Jr. in his new book Plantation Theory. He shares with us the history behind Juneteenth, his thoughts on Independence Day and a message to “White people”.
This courageous conversation dives into his thought leadership on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion as well as what he’s doing to enhance Employer Brands at Shaker Recruitment Marketing.
This episode provides a greater understanding of the Black professionals struggle between freedom and security.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at https://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johngrahamcreative/
https://twitter.com/instagraham1906
Book: https://plantationtheory.com/#The-Book
Favourite Quote: "If who you are doesn't fit where you are, change where you are, not who you are." - Caroline Wanga, Chief Executive Officer of Essence Communications Inc.
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
When you see the bad, it’s hard to keep it to yourself. Jonaed opened our eyes to some of the injustices happening in education and the corporate world.
After observing faults with the fairness around diversity in the workplace he and a few partners founded a company called No Degree to help level the playing field for marginalized communities.
In this candid conversation he shares the affectionate acronym used for PwC amongst other secrets that you won’t want to miss.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at https://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonaed/
Favourite Quote: Discipline is doing what you don’t want to do when you don’t want to do it.
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
Kindness makes the world go round. Sarika’s first memory in the USA were strangers literally taking the clothes off their back to keep newcomers from India warm.
Her insights into cultural diversity help to build our lens on the way specific communities think. Her passion for change is fuelled by her children and in this very honest conversation we learn more about the immigrant experience.
Weaved within this episode are her thoughts on what she calls “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Engagement.”
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at https://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarika-bhakta-empowers/
https://www.instagram.com/sarika_empowers/
Book: https://nikeya-diversity-consulting-llc.square.site/product/power-up-super-women-stories-of-courage-and-empowerment/1?cp=true&sa=true&sbp=false&q=false
Favourite Quote: "Do not go gentle into that good night." – Poem by Dylan Thomas
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
Can you imagine reaching a pinnacle of career success only to walk away from it all with no plans for the future other than self-care? In the pursuit of inner wealth, Ronnie left his position as a Vice President on Wall St.
In this episode he talks about humble beginnings and how his father was shot just months after arriving in New York from India.
A serendipitous meeting at the bar he worked at while putting himself through college led to a diversity internship on Wall St. that changed the direction of his life. While being introduced to the world of finance, business and philanthropy he came to the decision that some things are far more important than money including ones own mental health.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at https://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronnie-gyani/
Website: ronniegyani.com
Favourite Quote: “he or she who dares, wins”
-unknown
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
Sitting on a porch with an idea and a bottle of beer is where this founder got his start. Today he has one of the fastest growing companies in America two years running.
Through his trials and tribulations he's built an incredible network of supporters and cheerleaders who've poured into his life - now he does the same for others.
He candidly shares stories of being an Italian American growing up in New Jersey and how having a tribe of mentors helped shape the man he is today.
His vulnerability and passion for doing the right thing is admirable. There is no secret to his success as he shares in this very honest conversation.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at https://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenmagarro/
https://www.instagram.com/darebear16/
Favourite Quote: "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Maya Angelou
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
These two young women battled TikTok after receiving death threats, obscene images and hateful messages from online trolls.
Umber struggled to find her belonging in the world as a woman of colour living in rural Canada. Her voice was silenced after being harassed by a bunch of men who hated what she stood for.
As a psychology student and social justice activist she continued to fight alongside her big sister Afshan to reclaim her voice.
They highlight the power of community and resiliency to never give up for the things you believe in.
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at https://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
Umber Saiyan https://www.instagram.com/umbersaiyan/ https://www.tiktok.com/@umbersaiyan Favourite Quote: “Your life isn’t yours if you always care what others think.”
Afshan Butt https://www.instagram.com/afshaaofficial/ Favourite Quote: "The more money you make the more good you can do."
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.
I love talking to people and learning about their cultures, perspectives and stories. We created a way to deliver free information to those that need it.
We’re turning to everyday people like you to share your unique insights to provide different perspectives for our listeners. We dream of a world where we have peace through understanding and celebrate our differences.
My hope is that by listening, and I mean truly listening, to other people’s lived experiences you’ll be better equipped to understand the people around you.
It all begins with Discourse.
Enjoy the show!
Want to learn more? Please subscribe, and check out our website at https://www.discourseagency.com
SHOW NOTES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/victorrampaderat/
Favourite Quote: "Live, Learn, Conquer."
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during this series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Discourse, its parent company or its employees. The accuracy of the information featured in this series has not been verified and is used solely for informational purposes. This series should not be considered professional advice. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Discourse, its parent company and its employees. Discourse expressly disclaims any and all liability for any direct, indirect, consequential or other damages arising out of the opinions expressed by individuals during this series.