In this episode, we sit down with an extraordinary guest, Dr. Leslie Powell Ahmadi, who shares her captivating journey from pursuing a Ph.D. in foreign language and culture education at The Ohio State University to unexpectedly falling in love with an Iranian doctoral student in agronomy. As a Black American Christian, she never imagined marrying Mahmoud, a Muslim man, and moving to Iran. Yet, she did and her four years living there were filled with experiences that transformed her life—discovering the culture, teaching at a university, raising children, and witnessing the profound beauty and challenges of her new environment. Join us as she reflects on love, identity, and navigating life in a foreign land.

Dr Leslie Powell Ahmadi
Not Without My Daughter
LinkedIn Dr Leslie Powell Ahmadi
*Book release coming in 2025: Road Between Two Hearts: A Black American Bride Discovers Iran

Join us in this heartfelt episode as we sit down with Autumn and Jade (she/her) to dive deep into Jade's transgender journey. With Autumn's unwavering love and support, Jade navigated the complexities of transition, finding strength and courage along the way.

Together, they share candid insights into the challenges faced by transgender individuals, especially in today's turbulent political climate. From personal experiences to broader societal perspectives, this conversation sheds light on the importance of empathy, understanding, and acceptance.

Autumn Theodore Photography
Autumn Theodore Photography Instagram
Jade Barry Instagram
Roman Minerals Instagram
National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE)
The Trevor Project
Kaleidoscope Youth Center

In this podcast episode, we explore Ashley Brooks' inspiring journey and her groundbreaking book. Ashley's work sheds light on how community-driven civic environments impact personal development and well-being. Ashley's thesis takes us on a qualitative research adventure, using co-design and service design to create inclusive spaces. What makes Ashley's work unique is her dedication to centering the voices and needs of Black and Indigenous Women of Color (BIWOC) in public spaces. Through interviews, surveys, and collaboration, she empowers these women to shape inclusive spaces that celebrate their culture, enhance safety, promote learning, and honor their holistic identities.

ashleymilanbrooks.com
An Intersectional Lens
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