Facil Retreat Yearbook-2023

WELCOME LETTER

Welcome to the 2023 Facilitator Retreat! We are so excited to have all of you here to reflect on our shared work and learn from one another.

While our mission to the public is to remind us all of our shared humanity, we see this retreat as an opportunity to remind you all of the way this work brings us together and brings us joy. We hope this can be a meaningful space for each of you to connect with one another on personal and professional matters, and reinvigorate what drives us to uplift the stories of those around us. Thank you all for being here and for bringing your unique skill sets to StoryCorps.

With Gratitude,

Natasha Herring Morgan Zipf-Meister

Lea Zikmund

Daniel Horowitz Garcia

Virginia Millington

B I L E T E A M

M O

LEA ZIKMUND Director

SARAH PADGETT Manager, Community Partnerships

FRANCHESCA PEÑA Site Manager

MANUELA VELASQUEZ

Bilingual Facilitator

DELILAH RIGHTER Facilitator

SHIRA SMILLIE

Bilingual Facilitator

LEA ZIKMUND

Lancaster, PA She/her/hers

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Photography. I travel so much and often find myself wanting to take better pictures wherever I go but have never really learned!

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ?

Einstein's Dreams It's a really fun & easy read and makes me connect to my imagination well and feel more creative

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

When I'm living in the moment I'm moving slowly and noticing things around me I'm pausing to listen to my friends or family and absorb what they're saying I'm not thinking about what needs to happen next or what I need to take care of.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: MBY022086 (LISTEN TO THE WHOLE THING!)

I think I cried the entire time I facilitated this interview These two love each other in such a pure way it's impossible not to feel it. They know what they've both been through and they honor each other's journeys in such a sweet way.

SARAH PADGETT

Somerville, MA She/her

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Dancing!Ijustthinkit'ssuchabeautiful formofexpression Plus,danceparties wouldbeextrafunifIcouldactuallydance!

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ?

WhenThingsFallApart-BookbyPema Chödrön.It'seasytorunaroundinlife tryingtofixandcontroleverythinginstead ofacknowledgingtherealitythatmost thingsinlifeareever-changing.Thisbook servesasareminderhowfreeingitcanbe toacceptfearandlossalongside excitementandjoy

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

WhenI'minthemoment,Ifeelagreater weightandappreciationforthedetailsin mysurroundings.Objectsandideasalso feelmoreintertwined;meaningfeelsmore tangibleandrootedin sights/sounds/smells It'seasiestformeto findasenseofgroundednesswhenI'min thewoodsormaking/listeningtomusic withmyclosestfriendsandfamily Jumpingintolakesandrivers,eating homemademeals,longdrives,poetry, meditation,andlookingatsunset/starsall helptoo!

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: MBY021239 (START AT 39:16)

I love children's wisdom and I just found these two hilarious. They remember the simple truths we adults often forget!

MANUELA VELASQUEZ

Brooklyn, New York she/they

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

I think it would be so cool to be an expert at playing the cello. I've never touched one but it's my favorite instrument, the sounds are so living and compelling.

WHAT MOVIE DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD WATCH?

Everything Everywhere All at Once ! This movie made me sob in the theater lol Amazing and unique exploration on how things can be so infinitely complex and yet so infinitely simple.

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Being outside! sun or rain on my skin, just feeling connected to the world happening with and around me maybe eating some snacks with my friends in a park.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: MBY022628 (START AT 37:36 TRACK 2)

I facilitated this recording for production during a field recording day in Santa Fe NM (part of our Mobile stop in Albuquerque). This is hands down one of the most beautiful recordings I've ever had the privilege to facilitate Lifelong friends Estevan and Theresa talk about storytelling, trauma, and resilience, reflecting on the trauma experienced by their Indigenous ancestors and how these experiences shape the collective memory shared among their communities today From 37:36 until about 39:54 Theresa talks about the importance of "touching feet to earth" and connecting with her Acoma ancestors, "I am touching those stories of my people that were there long, long time ago" She emphasizes the importance of hope in transforming stories of trauma into something more powerful and something healing. The audio may not be published on the archive yet (as of 5/23/23 when I'm submitting this) but I have it on my computer if anyone wants to listen!

FRANCHESCA PEÑA

Bronx, NY She/they

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

I would love to become an expert on identifying trees and plants! I love hiking and going for long walks and knowing more about the plants I sharing space with would be lovely and really add to the experience

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ?

The first thing that comes to mind is the book Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski I think everyone should read it because it does a great job at shedding light at our lack of proper sex education in the US and how much shame we are taught to have around matters of intimacy

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

When I am living in the moment I feel connected with my self I go through my day with a sense of gratitude, awe, peace, and contentment. I can be anywhere and with anyone but I find this state is more easily accessible when I am out in nature on a nice sunny day

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: DDV000486 (START AT 8:56)

When I facilitated this interview, I was particularly moved by the participants' discuss around loss and grief This was in the thick of the pandemic and lockdown so it really resonated at the time. I still think about the recording often when I think about grief and how it not only comes from a loss of a loved one but really any kind of loss

DELILAH RIGHTER

Brooklyn, NY She/her

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Curious about quilting.

WHAT MOVIE DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD WATCH?

CODA. This movie made me cry and I don't cry during movies. Just lovely.

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Hanging out with friends (or alone) in Prospect Park and attempting to leave my phone at home

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: MBY022664 (START AT 30:00)

Their chemistry is electric (I really felt like I was not supposed to be there). It was also striking to me that they had to leave the very thing that brought them together.

SHIRA SMILLIE

Philadelphia, PA She/her

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Travel. It is the best form of self-care.

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ?

Autobiography of Malcolm X. It tells the truth.

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

It means walking on the beach, wind blowing in my hair and being kissed by the sun.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: MBY022472 (THE ENTIRE INTERVIEW!)

Participants came in and asked me to interview them on the spot. We discuss interracial relationships, dating, and life lessons It is a sweet recording and Melanie has a beautiful southern accent.

MORGAN ZIPF-MEISTER

Brooklyn, NY She/her

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Whatever skill it takes to make teleportation a reality How does this not exist yet??? Let's just by pass flying cars and go straight for instant travel

WHAT MOVIE DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD WATCH?

WOW This feels too big a question to answer! Here's what I can say for sure - If you have not watched the films of Christopher Guest - specifically 'Waiting for Guffman' just do yourself a favor and rent it. If you have any friends involved in the theater or performing arts - or even if you were ever in a school play this movie really hits on something And for all you Schitt's Creek fans Eugene Levy and Catherine O'Hara are in all of these films.

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

When I feel the closest to living in the moment its usually when I'm doing something physical - running, skiing, yoga, swimming, etc - or - when I'm performing and I'm connected with my scene partner(s) In those moments everything else disappears - it's just one breath at a time - one foot in front of the other

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: DDF000568 (START AT 31:56)

This MVI interview between a mother and son so SO moving. They talked so much about what being in the military means to their family both the good and the bad. It resulted in Ian telling his mother for the first time that he planned to enlist To be in the room for that moment was beyond special.

JEB BACKE

Chicago, IL They/Them/Theirs

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

If I could become an expert in something over night, I'd want to be an expert in niche local histories across America I feel like the more I learn about local histories, the deeper I connect with people and places– so might as well gobble up every local history in one evening!

WHAT MOVIE DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD WATCH?

Everyone should watch The Witch so you can understand why I'm this way.

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

I generally try to keep my days as mindful as my noggin will allow. But the most "in the moment" moments are usually when I'm completely enraptured by convo with people I'm close with. Or also when I'm playing music with people and it gets into that freaky ethereal flow state.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: DDB002615 (START AT 22:00)

David is just a cool guy, who has lived an incredibly enriched life as an activist. I got the impression that the multitude of stories he told during our interview only scratched the surface of what he's done.

IAN GONZALEZ

Brooklyn, NY He/Him/His

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Whistling I have never been able to do it and have always felt silly not being able to do something so simple. I would love to learn how to do it overnight and whistle in the faces of my doubters.

WHAT MOVIE DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD WATCH?

Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron has always been underrated The movie is almost completely devoid of human dialogue and instead uses great neighs and sounds for communication between the horses It also grapples with themes of fighting back against imperialism and western expansion and the protection of nature and its resources. Also, the soundtrack slaps in the corniest way and is true roadtrip gold.

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Living in the moment to me means forgetting about the limitations that you set up for yourself and your surroundings for a second and just allowing yourself to be free to respond to whatever is happening around or inside of you Most recently, I went crazy at my sibling's punk show and was wiggling around like a maniac to a song of theirs, screaming along to the lyrics and connecting deeply with the music.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: DDA003184 (19:30-21:24)

Thiswasjustsuchagoodconversationanditwassohardtochosejustone moment,butIchosethisonepartiallybecauseitwasoneoftheshorterstories provided ButitgivesagreatlookintowhatwashappeninginBostoninthe 1970'sdesegregationefforts,therelationshipbetweenthesetwowomen,and givesgreatdetailastohowa70yearoldwhiteteacheratthetimeusedher privilegeforgood Context:thewomantellingthestorywasablackelementary schoolteacherinBostonteachinginarecentlydesegregatedschool,andthere wereviolentprotestshappeningeverydayafterschool(shewouldbe screamedatandpeoplewouldthrowthingsather)

TAMEKIA JACKSON

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Expert weapons user because it's an awesome and incredible useful skill to have

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ? WHY?

N. K. Jemisin's Broken Earth Series - Everyone should read these books because they are beautifully written and they push you to think about the systems within society.

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Living in the moment is being fully present and staying open to the possibilities and exploring the one that most grabs my fancy.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: DDV002414 (13:23/27:25)

I was particularly moved by Albert's view of the military and country that was developed after WWII and then how that changed during the Vietnam War. I also truly appreciated his reflection about this change, and commitment to work towards the betterment of the country.

Fortuna, California she/her

COLE JOHNSTON

Brooklyn, NY He/Him`

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

I'd like to become an expert in stand-up comedy because my two favorite things are making people laugh and being the center of attention.

WHAT MOVIE DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD WATCH?

I think everyone should watch The Princess Bride because we could all use a little romantic escapism and a happy conclusion

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Living in the moment means taking a beat to observe the little things around me--the sun on my skin, the birdsong, the smell of fresh cut grass, human touch, etc.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: MBY022055

This recording was so touching and feels especially necessary in the current moment.

JULIA KIRSCHENBAUM

Brooklyn, NY She/Her

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

I really, really wish I could sing I'm just not very good, and even though I've accepted it, I think karaoke (and maybe life in general) would be way more fun if I could belt out some classics

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ?

Just Kids by Patti Smith. I don't know why I love it so much other than that it is a beautiful portrait of art, of New York, and of what it means to really, truly see another person I have not stopped thinking about it since I read it mid-pandemic

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Living in the moment, for me, means cooking a big meal and then sharing it with family and friends in a place with a view of the mountains or the water (or both)

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT:

This recording features the composer and trombonist Craig Harris talking to his young neighbor Kyri, and it sums up what outreach for StoryCorps is all about. It captures the essence of Harlem through an intergenerational lens -- "I am honored to do this interview with you because that means that I will live a little longer." I love how Craig talks about walking through the neighborhood along the spirits of Harlem icons.

DDE001667 (START AT 11:25)

CHAPIN MONTAGUE

Brooklyn, NY She/Her

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

My friend recently started quilting and I think it would be a cool thing to master. Crafting and community building all in one!

WHAT MOVIE/BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD WATCH/READ?

Movie: C'mon C'mon (about radio and human connection and will probably make you cry) Book: Crying in H Mart (will get you to call your mom)

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Usually being outside somewhere away from my daily routine, in the park with friends, visiting family and home, at a beach in the PNW.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: DDA003177 (22:20-25:15)

This was my family and friends day recording. It was really beautiful to listen to Maureen and Paul talk about this difficult moment in their lives and convey so much support and love for one another.

JUSTIN CUMMINS

Atlanta, GA He/Him/His

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Carpentry, I love working with my hands and building stuff, I believe it is therapeutic in a lot of ways and would love to get better at it.

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ?

First Principles; I believe it is a great book with a wealth of information about the founding of our country.

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

To me living in the moment is traveling abroad and exploring new places.

When I facilitated this conversation I was extrem l nervous when one participant asked the other participant when they had felt discrimination. T participants response to the question and the w was received by the other participant showed m these conversation can be had. This interview m feel positive about the work I am doing and tha truly making a difference

STEPHANIE GLAROS

Minneapolis, MN She/Her

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Culinary skills Food is my love language, so I'm constantly trying to up my game.

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ?

"High Conflict," by Amanda Ripley

A rarity in the nonfiction world due to its great character development and strong narrative arc. Author explains why we get trapped in false binary modes of thinking (e.g. "us vs. them”) and how we can break free without compromising our values.

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Focusing on my breath and practicing gratitude. Ideally, I’m surrounded by nature with my husband and our dog

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: DDV002259 (9:40-34:35)

Carla and Maynard share their vastly different experiences of the pandemic and how they formed their beliefs around vaccines and masking. A great example of how One Small Step creates space for listening to understand, not to criticize or judge

CLAIRE LEBLOND

Harrisonburg, VA she/they

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Gems and minerals Identifying them, where they might be from, their chemical makeup and all of that good stuff I would like to be able to source them better, help folks pick out quality jewelry, and be able to hold my own at my gem and mineral club!

WHAT BOOK/MOVIE DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ/WATCH?

Open Water, Caleb Azumah Nelson Beautiful prose and definitely written tenderly and soulfully by a poet He uses repetition in a way that you feel the main character's heart open and beating on the pages Lines still stick with me, like: "It's one thing to be looked at, and another to be seen" Written in second person POV- a favorite! Read it to be seen :) And a movie-- Steel Magnolias, every time

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

It looks like losing my sense of time when I am watching a live performance, particularly music. I love getting to admire talent in real time and getting lost in a production! A bonus is when I'm sitting with my friends/family and we are all getting to experience it together

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: DDV002459 (START AT 35:00)

This was the first time I laughed out loud in an interview These two had been exploring their very different backgrounds extensively, and then found themselves on the subject of "Alien Con" where their paths crossed in an unexpected way.

N E S M A L L S T E P

NATASHA

Harlem, NYC

she/her/hers

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

KungFu so I could be a superhero or spy.

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ?

The Alchemist. The spiritual journey and the self journey is one that many can relate to and ultimately it is about perseverance Also, Paulo Coehlo Rocks! I can’t just suggest one book others: To Kill a Mockingbird by Maya Angelou (same reason) and House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros So many more but I’ll leave it there.

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Laughing, Dancing, Eating with Friends, Family and Colleagues

HERRING

MBY021385 (LISTEN FROM 0:28-10:44 & 14:00)

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS

01.

The first is an interview I did while on Mobile and captured on Martin Luther King Jr Day Both participants met him amongst other civil rights activists. I also enjoyed the ease in which both of these pastors (one white & one black) spoke of race, God and sometimes interchangeably

MBY021513 (LISTEN FROM 11:33-15:17 OR 18:08)

02.

The second, is one of humility and perseverance of Paul Kennedy (formerly incarcerated) I was having a particularly difficult day but this experience quickly reminded me of how grateful I should be even on those challenging days

CHELSEA AGUILERA

Grass Valley, CA She/Her

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Repurposing and conservation. I think there is too much extractive consumption in the world and I think we should focus on finding new ways to use the materials we have already extracted from the Earth.

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ?

Oh the places you will go, Dr. Seuss

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Being fully present in my mind and body. Breathing fully, using all of my senses, not worrying about what is going to be happening next. Being with my kids, experiencing them in all their stages fully and authentically.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: MBY016361

I've been thinking about this interview lately because it taught me about a part of world history I had never heard of, the Partition of India, from a first person point of view. I also felt it was remarkable to understand how much kindness and forgiveness Krishna expressed and how her daughter Ranu was not at such a place of peace and acceptance

MARY BESS SER

Chicago, IL

she/her/they/them

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Learning languages - it would be good for my brain and I would love to speak multiple languages

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ?

1619 Project - for obvious reasons

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Living in the moment for me usually means being present with any or all of my 3 kids and wife and enjoying the day, whether we’re at Lake Michigan, or a park, or a restaurant, or at home OR it means being alone, writing morning pages in a notebook, or going swimming, focusing on being alive and how I’m feeling, as opposed to doing a hundred things at once

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: CHI002579 (START AT 9:40)

There are so many interviews to choose from - I wanted to pick something upbeat, one that surprised me These women were both named Melissa and they share a birth mother One was raised by the birth mother, the other was placed for adoption when the other Melissa was nine years old and went off to summer camp The 9 year old Melissa never knew about the new baby Melissa until later in life after her mother died The second Melissa was named by her adoptive parents, and she had “dates” with her birth mother every once in a while, unbeknownst to Melissa #1 When they met as adults, after Melissa #1 adjusted to the secret her mother never shared with her, they now have a special relationship and see different aspects of their mother in each other It’s about healing and unexpected relationships [heart emoji]

NAOMI GRAVER

Big Bear City, CA She/Her IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Learning new languages!

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ?

Tunneling to the Center of the Earth - Kevin Wilson

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Living in the moment looks like: spending time outside, cooking elaborate meals, challenging myself by practicing perspective shifts.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: DDV001437 (START AT 42:57)

AsBrandonandTammie reflectontheirOneSmallStep conversation,theyremain frankandhonestwithone anotheraboutassumptions theyformed,andexpress respectandgratitudetowards oneanotherandthe experience

KERRY JOHNSON II

Memphis, TN He/Him IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE?

Black history/philosophy

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ?

Narrative of The Life of Frederick Douglass, because there have been some significant changes in society, but many things remain the same.

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Having a great experience with my family without our phones.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: DDB002600 (START AT 4:10)

They talk about the influential people in their lives. They reflect on the influence of their fathers, who both worked in politics

MELISSA VELASQUEZ

West New York, NJ She/Her IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE?

Botany, it's the foundation of so many important developments. I also think if I'm lost in the wilderness, it would be pretty darn helpful subject to be an expert on

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ?

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, it's an easy read and packed with gems I've read it in different phases of my life and it always gives.

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

It not a place or a person, but an intentional state of mind for me. It's a daily reminder to remain grounded and stay present . It's practice, that's easier said than done

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: NO MORE QUESTIONS! ANIMATION

While on the mobile tour, No More Questions- was often used during our listening events, and I just loved seeing people reaction to it. It's heart warming and funny.

MARIE LOVEJOY

New Orleans, LA She/Her/Hers

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE?

IwouldbeabletoaccuratelypaintwhatIseein frontofmeandinmyimagination.

WHAT MOVIE DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD WATCH?

BlackOrpheus.Carnivalisareminderthatour timeonthisearthisshortandwearehereto liveandfeelandlaughanddanceandweep andrageandsingandlove Inthisfilm adaptationofa2000yearoldGreekmyth,setin 1959Brazil,Iwatchpeopledancethesame dancesIdanceinthestreetsduringMardiGras hereinNewOrleans.Mybodyremembersthat forthousandsofyearsacrosstheworldallof humanitygrappleswiththesameheart,the samelosses,thesamejoys Thesunsets And lifegoeson Newgenerationsdanceatopthe hillandwatchthesunriseagain

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

There'sseveralbriefmomentsthatmovedme.Butmostly thatthesetwowomenseemedtotrulyHEAReachother andgenuinelyconnectandrespecteachother Their Christianfaithandloveoftheirchildrenbondedthem,even thoughbothhadbeenraisedwithdifferentpoliticalviews 22:00ish-25:00ish:Alabamastereotypesandraisingspecial needschildren27:14-34:00:AdvicetoparentsofLGBTQ kids/changingmindsinthechurch39:00-40:00

Assumptionsbaseduponwheretheyliveandwhatthey looklike 45:00ish:Whatthey'llbothtakefromthis

SAGAR O'HARE

Atlanta, GA they/them

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Foreign country's cultural expectations and their specialities

WHAT MOVIE DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD WATCH?

Crash (2004)

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Capturing the moment. Acknowledging it makes me happy, and actively being in it (Ex Feeling my kitten's wet nose. Putting on sunscreen and my dog gets excited because she knows we're going on a trail.)

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: OSS000076 (START AT 22:19)

I love when participants talk about how the conversations around politics have changed over the decades. It puts into perspective how political parties have changed, how campaign marketing has changed.

JONATHAN ZELINGER

Brooklyn, NY He/Him/His

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE?

I would love to become an expert in hypnosis... I think the "why" is obvious

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE

SHOULD ?

Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow I'm not sure if it's good I just started reading it this morning but I would love some folks to chat with about the book. I love to gab and gossip. Sorry.

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

I am facilitating a writing workshop -- on the beach! No one is wearing shoes or sandals. Everyone is thoughtfully reading someone else's writing - assuming the best of whoever wrote it.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: DDV002478 (START AT 12:45 )

Thesetwofolkswerequietlybothverygregarious Theyreallywanted toshareandasmuchastheywantedtoshare,theywereexcitedto listen Often,IwantmyOSSconversationstostartquitebroad Iam alwaysitchingforthetopicofancestrytocomeupandcomeupearly Ithinkitprovidesusefulsubtextforaconversationpartner Ialsolove hearinghowpeople'sfamiliesendeduphereintheUS This conversationfinallyitchedthatscratchanditendedupbeingwoven throughouttheentireconversation Itisalsoworthnotingthatboth participantsidentifiedasJewish OnewasbornJewishandone convertedtoJudaismbecausehiswifewantedtoconverttoJudaism Iconsideredthisconversationtobetenderandmodern Itreminded meofthenuancedbeautyofourcountry

T L A N T A + B E Y O N D

DANIEL HOROWITZ GARCIA Manager, Atlanta Booth

BRENDA FORD Administrative Assistant/Facilitator, Atlanta Booth

VIRGINIA MILLINGTON Managing Director, Program Operations

VINCENT PRETI Manager, Learning & Engagement

DANIEL HOROWITZ GARCIA

Atlanta, Georgia he/him

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Ancient celestial navigation. I have no idea why.

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ?

People's History of the US. It gives a good overview of how change happens.

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Focusing on my breath while my daughter zoom bombs my meeting for the 4th time, the dogs bark at both the Amazon and UPS delivery driver, and whatever I'm attempting to cook slowly burns on the stove

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: ATL003612 (START AT 8:50 -OR LITERALLY ANY PART)

Never assume you know what the participants are going to talk about

BRENDA FORD

Atlanta, Georgia she/her

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

Someone in grad school told me I needed to develop an aura of mystery I've never been able to figure out how to do that, but it sounds cool.

WHAT BOOK/MOVIE DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ/WATCH?

The Body by Stephen King became the movie Stand By Me (1986) I like both very much Stephen King's stories were a huge part of my adolescence

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Indoor camping with my cat

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: ATL004085 (START AT 9:17)

This interview is about how a young teen in the 1950s, who did not consider himself different from other the guys, discovered he was gay and knew it was not okay before really even knowing what being gay meant.

VIRGINIA MILLINGTON

New York, New York she/hers

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

I have always admired people who can create beautiful objects that come from long-standing traditions of care and practice If given the opportunity, I think that the ability to create books and to learn the specific skill of book-binding would be something that would bring me great joy

WHAT MOVIE DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD WATCH?

I was profoundly affected by the experience of watching the film "Afterlife", directed by Wandafuru Raifu In this movie, people are asked to decide upon one memory that they can exist within forever, in whatever space we enter after death I have always thought that idea was beautiful and startling, and used it to remain present, grounded, and grateful for the experiences of happiness we are offered DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Being present for me usually involves some act of engagement - spending time with close friends, riding my bike around NYC, or swimming laps outdoor in a public pool in the summer These activities, which have become habit and ritual by this point, remind me always to find joy in repetition, aging, community, and closeness

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: MBY010044 (START AT 28:00)

This interview represents to me the breadth and scope of the StoryCorps Archive. I found this interview by searching for interviews about employment that featured women speaking to one another. In this interview, the two participants discuss in powerful terms the nature of their relationship, the strength of solidarity, and their own growing power within an employment setting. This interview showcases an example of a relationship that is not based on traditional structures, but one based on communion, shared struggle, and friendship.

VINCENT PRETI

Queens, New York he/him/his

IF YOU COULD BECOME AN EXPERT IN ANY SUBJECT OR SKILL OVER NIGHT, WHICH WOULD IT BE? WHY?

I would love to wake up tomorrow and find myself fluent in Spanish Despite having taken years' worth of lessons, I am far from achieving this goal I suppose not everyone's brains are wired for language! Nevertheless, being fluent in Spanish, or any language for that matter, opens up a world of connections With 474,700,000 native speakers, there are 474,700,000 million more opportunities for connection, friendship, and personal growth

WHAT BOOK DO YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD READ?

To this day, no author's prose has moved me in the way James Baldwin's has I'm a huge fan of his work, particularly his novels "Go Tell it on the Mountain," "Another Country," and "Giovanni's Room" Baldwin possesses a unique ability to resonate directly and unwaveringly with the core of one's heart, like violins in an orchestra His words possess a raw power that stirs the soul and challenges societal norms around race, sexuality, and the human condition

DESCRIBE WHAT LIVING IN THE MOMENT LOOKS LIKE FOR YOU.

Having just finished an intense tennis match, I'm sitting in Astoria Park with my cousins and closest friends, watching the sun set beyond the Hell Gate Bridge We're debating what to eat for dinner and the world is our oyster At dinner, one of my friends asks where we would like to travel next and we begin to plan our world adventures This is the good life

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT: CTE000486 (START AT 7:55)

L&E partner facilitator, Chris Brookes, interviewed Peter Baker about his family's discovery of Lake Ivanhoe, WI one of the first Black vacation communities in the United States. Later in life, Peter spent decades fighting for, and ultimately winning, a historical marker for the town. This interview moves me deeply as it is all about the theme of belonging, especially with the contrast of the constrained racial environment in Chicago with the intentional choice of Lake Ivanhoe. The lead for this interview came to us from SCS' Diane Bezucha who interviewed Peter for a public radio piece a few years back.

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