Posts tagged Community
위기 속 강한 인내| The One with Shawn Daniel, JD - From Chicago's South Side to Tech Leadership: Episode 24 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:위기 속 강한 인내| The One with Shawn Daniel, JD - From Chicago's South Side to Tech Leadership: Episode 24 (2024)

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Shawn Daniel, JD, whose journey from the rough streets of Englewood, Chicago, to military service, law school, and founding a tech company is nothing short of inspiring. Shawn shares how his life's challenges—shaped by the harsh realities of gang violence, a father's absence, and the trauma of 9/11—helped forge his unshakeable resilience and drive. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the wisdom he's gained from overcoming adversity, and how his faith has been his guiding light through some of the darkest moments of his life. This episode is packed with valuable insights on leadership, growth, and the power of community support.

In addition to his personal story, Shawn dives into the creation of Triune Alert, an innovative app designed to bridge critical communication gaps during emergencies, including encounters with law enforcement. Triune Alert was inspired by life-altering experiences, such as his mother’s health crisis while he was stationed in Iraq and a similar situation with his grandmother. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by Black individuals, especially during high-pressure situations with police, Triune Alert provides a much-needed tool for keeping families connected and safe. By quickly notifying loved ones and legal contacts, the app ensures that individuals have immediate support, particularly in sensitive or potentially dangerous interactions.

Shawn's journey exemplifies how adversity can fuel purpose and drive. His story is a powerful reminder of the impact of resilience, mentorship, and giving back to the community. Don’t miss the chance to hear Shawn’s incredible journey and learn from his experiences.

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사랑하는 이의 자살 후의 삶|The One with Debra Blaylock - Beyond the Shadow: Life After the Suicide of a Loved One: Episode 22 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 사랑하는 이의 자살 후의 삶|The One with Debra Blaylock - Beyond the Shadow: Life After the Suicide of a Loved One: Episode 22 (2024)

TW: This episode discusses suicide and grief.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with my dear friend, Debra Blaylock, who courageously shares her journey of grief and resilience following her husband's suicide, which took place just before the COVID-19 lockdown. The timing added layers of isolation and loneliness to her already immense sorrow, complicating the healing process. This episode aims to explore the immediate and prolonged aftermath of such a tragic loss and to share, in Debra’s words, how “the pain never leaves; it’s transferred down to the family.” Debra talks about the invisible nature of pain—how it can quietly consume loved ones and leave a permanent impact on those left behind. She reflects, “You have to realize you are not a person; you are just involved,” encapsulating how grief reshapes one’s identity. Debra stresses the importance of recognizing the signs of distress, having open conversations about mental health, and seeking support when needed. Her story is a poignant reminder that although the pain may be overwhelming, there is always hope, and no one is ever truly alone. She leaves listeners with the crucial message: “There is always hope, and you are never truly alone.” This conversation sheds light on the silent struggles many face and offers hope and guidance for anyone navigating a similar path. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. Together, we can break the silence around mental health and be a source of light and support for one another.


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여성의 학문 길|The One with Professor Margaret Watson - On Empowering Women in Academia: Episode 19 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:여성의 학문 길|The One with Professor Margaret Watson - On Empowering Women in Academia: Episode 19 (2024) 

Meet Professor Margaret Camilla Watson—better known to her friends as Mag! Trust me, this woman is an absolute legend. With over 35 years in healthcare research and academia, Mag’s contributions are nothing short of inspiring. 

Mag shared her journey from her Scottish roots to becoming a pioneering pharmacist and academic. Growing up in a family of educators, her love for learning was inevitable, but what shaped her career was a blend of mentorship, community, and Scotland’s free education system. She spoke passionately about the challenges women face in academia—especially self-promotion and building networks—and her latest book, Women in Academia: Achieving Our Potential, tackles these head-on.

Her wisdom about resilience, social capital, and the need to fix broken systems resonated with me, and I bet it will with you, too. Ready to get inspired? Grab your headphones, and join us on this insightful journey with Mag!

Listen now, and let’s keep the conversation going!


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정체성의 다리|The One with Dr. Kelechi Ibe-Lamberts - Cultural Alchemy: On Being Black Transnational: Episode 18 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:정체성의 다리|The One with Dr. Kelechi Ibe-Lamberts - Cultural Alchemy: On Being Black Transnational: Episode 18 (2024) 

Dr. Kelechi Ibe-Lamberts has such an extraordinary personality and rich experience. I had the most incredible chat with him. He’s not just a clinical associate professor at the University of Illinois Chicago School of Public Health—he’s the powerhouse behind the My Black is Transnational podcast. Talk about impressive credentials!

Born in Lagos and sent on a plane to the U.S. at just 8 years old, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts was raised in Chicago, embodying the essence of juggling multiple identities. Imagine a home filled with Christian, Muslim, and Ghanaian influences! As a 1.5-generation Nigerian-American, he gracefully balances these vibrant cultures with humor and poise. His journey is nothing short of inspirational, and we shared laughs and deep insights, leaving me with a fresh perspective on navigating cultural identities. What’s even more fascinating is his personal life—he’s married to an African American woman, and together they have three children. Their family is a beautiful testament to cultural blending, and Dr. Ibe-Lamberts’ reflections on raising a bicultural family are both heartwarming and insightful.

From mastering grocery shopping as a young immigrant to his current work fighting health disparities for refugees and immigrant communities, his story radiates resilience and passion. One of the most touching moments was hearing him describe being "Kelly" in Chicago while reclaiming his true name, Kelechi. It’s raw, personal, and deeply moving.

Let’s not forget his incredible family journey—how his second mother and distant father shaped his life. His shift from aspiring MD to embracing public health with a focus on transnational issues? Absolutely fascinating! This episode isn’t just about cultural integration; it’s about how love, respect, and persistence create something extraordinary. Don’t miss out—hit play and join us on this remarkable journey!

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릴롱궤에서 세계로|The One with Dr. Mathero Michelle Nkhalamba - From Malawi to the World: Bridging Western Training and African Realities in Mental Health: Episode 13 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 릴롱궤에서 세계로|The One with Dr. Mathero Michelle Nkhalamba - From Malawi to the World: Bridging Western Training and African Realities in Mental Health: Episode 13 (2024)

Hey, beautiful souls! Today on the More Sibyl Podcast, I’m thrilled to feature Dr. Michelle Mathero Nhkalamba, a pioneering clinical psychologist from Malawi’s vibrant capital, Lilongwe. Growing up with seven siblings, Michelle's early education in local schools fueled her passion for psychology, leading her to attain a BA in Humanities from the University of Malawi. She then pursued a master’s in Clinical Psychology from Bangor University, UK, and a PhD from Rhodes University with the support of the Beit Trust Scholarship.

In our enlightening conversation, we explored Michelle's unique approach to mental health, which marries Western-trained methodologies with Malawi's cultural realities. From offering counseling under trees to integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with motivational interviewing and mindfulness, her work is a testament to culturally conscious healing. Michelle’s dedication to accessible mental health care, her research in safeguarding ethical practices, and her advocacy for those in high-risk settings illustrate her commitment to transforming societal views on mental wellness in Africa. In our conversation, we touched on the realities of mental health in Africa, the struggles of being a "strong African woman," and the need for societal change. Michelle’s honesty and dedication left me in awe, and I know her story will touch your heart too.


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미국 시민권을 향한 13년의 여정| Stars, Stripes, and Stories - Mo!'s Path to American Citizenship: Episode 12 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 미국 시민권을 향한 13년의 여정| Stars, Stripes, and Stories - Mo!'s Path to American Citizenship: Episode 12 (2024)

Today’s episode is extra special for me because we’re celebrating a big personal milestone—my U.S. citizenship! I’m super excited to welcome back my dear friend Olabimpe Shode to the podcast. Bimpe and I took a walk down memory lane, chatting about my immigration journey, from those early days on a student visa to finally becoming a citizen. We talked about the stress, the challenges, and the joy of every step forward. Bimpe also shared her own inspiring story.

One highlight was talking about my time at the University of Oklahoma, where they really supported me through visa transitions and the green card process. It’s a refreshing take against the usual stereotypes, showing a journey full of support and success. I also opened up about the complexities of changing my name after marriage and balancing my personal identity with my professional life.

We also discussed the struggles faced by undocumented immigrants and the importance of preparation. This episode is a powerful testament to strength, community support, and the unyielding quest for better opportunities.

Here's some exciting news—The More Sibyl Podcast has been nominated for two APVA Awards! The Diasporan Podcast of the Year and Personal/Self-Development Podcast of the Year. We’d love your support, so please vote for us daily in both categories until August 16. Just follow this link: [ https://awards.apva.africa/voting/ ]. Every single vote makes a difference, so feel free to spread the word and get your friends and family involved too.

Thanks for being a part of our journey!


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인연| On 'Past Lives': An Exploration of Love, Loss, and Cinematic Brilliance - The One with Doc. Ayomide: Episode 11 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 인연| On 'Past Lives': An Exploration of Love, Loss, and Cinematic Brilliance - The One with Doc. Ayomide: Episode 11 (2024)

This week, I bring you an episode full of fun and laughter with Doc Ayomide, and it's a rollercoaster of stories and movies. We talked about *Past Lives*—the movie. *Past Lives* isn't just a film; it's an emotional journey through love, loss, and the sands of time. The movie follows the intertwined destinies of Nora and Hae Sung, childhood friends who are separated when Nora's family emigrates from South Korea. Years later, they reconnect, leading to a poignant exploration of what might have been and their lives' paths. Distributed by A24, this film has garnered critical acclaim for its heartfelt storytelling and nuanced performances.

We broke down those important lines and heart-wrenching scenes that hit you immediately in this episode. Ever feel like a movie is reflecting your own life back at you? Yeah, we’re going there. Doc Ayomide and I are here to share our favorite moments, dissect the characters' journeys, and spill the tea on how this film reshapes our understanding of human connections. As the resident Koreanophile, I shared some nuanced cultural meanings with Ayomide that he missed, adding another layer to our discussion. Whether you're a film fanatic or just love a good story, this episode has something for you. 

Join your favorite host as we unpack intricate storytelling and jaw-dropping moments that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Tune in—you won't want to miss it!

PS: Apple still sucks. #TeamDroid all the way


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10년간의 얼어붙은 우정| Enduring Bonds: A Journey of Friendship, Faith, and Family- The One with Dr. Olamide Somoye: Episode 10 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 10년간의 얼어붙은 우정| Enduring Bonds: A Journey of Friendship, Faith, and Family- The One with Dr. Olamide Somoye: Episode 10 (2024)

This week, I bring you an episode that truly resonates with me. Just before Christmas, I reunited with my dear friend Lamide in London, Ontario, after over a decade! Our unexpected meeting led to a heartfelt conversation about our spiritual journeys, shared immigrant experiences, and the enduring bond of our decade-long friendship. 

We discussed the importance of community and the joy of celebrating familiar traditions far from home. Lamide’s stories of motherhood and spiritual resilience, along with her view on maintaining deep connections, provided a profound perspective on relationships.

Join me for a heartwarming late-night chat with Lamide, filled with laughter, tears, and deep reflections. This special episode celebrates enduring connections and the strength of community. Tune in — you won't want to miss it!

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목적이 이끄는 삶| Rebuilding Lives: Overcoming Stigma, Addiction, and Cultural Perspectives - The One with Stephen Buckley: Episode 9 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 목적이 이끄는 삶| Rebuilding Lives: Overcoming Stigma, Addiction, and Cultural Perspectives - The One with Stephen Buckley: Episode 9 (2024)

This week, we are excited to share the inspiring journey of Stephen A. Buckley, whose path from Dallas, Texas, to Northwestern University and beyond is driven by a profound faith and commitment to making a difference. Growing up in a football-centric environment, Stephen balanced his athletic prowess with a deep-rooted Christian faith. Excelling both academically and athletically, he earned a scholarship to Northwestern University, where he studied Learning and Organizational Change. After graduation, Stephen embarked on a diverse career journey, driven by a passion for assisting others while ensuring financial stability. His path led him through roles in home healthcare sales and pharmaceutical sales before he discovered his calling at Edovo. At Edovo, Stephen dedicated himself to providing educational resources to incarcerated individuals across America, aiming to reduce recidivism and restore dignity to marginalized communities.

Stephen's commitment to prison ministry is deeply personal, rooted in his own experiences and steadfast belief in redemption. His multicultural marriage to his Nigerian wife, Dr. Jessica Puri, has enriched his understanding of family and cultural harmony and profoundly influenced his perspective on life and community. During our conversation, we explored the complex landscape of mental health, particularly as it affects Black men in America. We also talked about his journey of finding purpose beyond traditional career paths, discussing how his faith anchors his pursuit of social justice and community impact.

Tune in to hear Stephen's story of faith, resilience, and social justice, including his entrepreneurial ventures with DBE Logistics. Through DBE Logistics, Stephen integrates his faith into business, aiming to create enduring impact and opportunities for underserved populations. Subscribe to the More Sibyl Podcast for more inspiring stories.

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어버이날| Unbreakable Bonds: A Father's Day Special with Paula and Mr. Theophan Mulamula: Episode 7 (2024)

어버이날| Unbreakable Bonds: A Father's Day Special with Paula and Mr. Theophan Mulamula: Episode 7 (2024)

Today’s episode is unique as we celebrate Father's Day with two extraordinary guests, Paula and her father, Mr Theophan Mulamula. I first stumbled upon Paula's story a couple of years ago through a podcast she did with her dad, which left a lasting impression on me. Now, I’m thrilled to have them both share their experiences. Paula's admiration for her dad is palpable. She recounts cherished memories from her childhood in Tanzania to her current life in Georgia, each story highlighting her father's unwavering support and love. One significant moment she shared was during a chaotic night in Tanzania, where her father's calm presence and quick action reassured her and her friends amidst a crisis. It's moments like these that exemplify their strong bond.

During our conversation, it becomes clear that Paula and her father have a bond beyond traditional father-daughter relationships. Mr. Mulamula, a single father, candidly discusses his challenges as a parent and his unconventional approach to parenting. Growing up in a traditional African household with strict discipline, he recognized the need for a different approach with his children.

Paula, who affectionately refers to herself as a "daddy's girl," describes how their bond developed over time. From daring adventures in Tanzania to her adolescent rebellion, their path was distinguished by mutual respect and understanding. She cherishes her father's support throughout her life, from cutting her hair to expressing her feelings about his girlfriends. Their partnership exemplifies the power of unconditional love and mutual respect in building a good parent-child relationship.

We touched on essential topics ranging from Paula's background in Tanzania to her adventures in Georgia. One remarkable incident was when Paula went to Birmingham without saying anything, leaving her family apprehensive until she called her father. It symbolized their trust and understanding, a link that transcended space and time. Another poignant event was Mr. Mulamula's honest sex education discussion with Paula, an uncommon and bold step for a dad of his time. Tune in to this beautiful episode.

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40살이 되면|On Milestones and Memories - The One Where TDawg Turns 40: Episode 6 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 40살이 되면|On Milestones and Memories - The One Where TDawg Turns 40: Episode 6 (2024)

Today’s special episode features my wonderful, devoted, and sweet husband, Taiwo, also known as TDawg. For TDawg, May was a month of celebrations and introspection as he turned forty, a momentous milestone. Even with his rigorous work schedule—36 days straight with little time off—TDawg could still enjoy the satisfaction of reaching this goal. As we celebrated his 40th birthday, he talked about how this decade feels distinct but still important. His expectations were far exceeded by the lavish nature of the 40th birthday celebration. Everything was well thought out, from the branded drinks to the careful planning.

Questioning TDawg during the episode about his biggest triumphs and difficulties, he shared, despite his modesty, that he recognized many noteworthy achievements. It was a dream come true for him to finish residency training and work alongside his colleague, Dr. Diana Escobedo, as chief resident. His professional recognition demonstrated his excellence in the field, including an invitation to set the standard for the American Board of Family Medicine. He adores our daughter Arife, and he considers becoming a father to be a wonderful and meaningful experience. Securing a master's degree in Public Health and Epidemiology represented yet another noteworthy accomplishment on his path. He also acknowledged that there have been difficulties along the way.

TDawg shared heart-warming memories of his late father, highlighting the values instilled in him—hard work, dedication, and striving to be the best version of himself. He reminisced about their time together, from learning multiplication tables to working on the family farm in Ota, Ogun State, filled with laughter, hard work, and invaluable life lessons. Despite the pain of losing his father, he finds comfort in the fond memories and the enduring influence of his father's teachings, which continue to guide him in his approach to life and his aspirations for the future.

TDawg's journey to 40 is marked by significant achievements, profound reflections, and a deep appreciation for the love and support of his family and friends. His story is one of growth and gratitude. As he embarks on the next chapter of his life, he does so with a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose, knowing that the best is yet to come. His experiences serve as an inspiration to prioritize well-being, find joy in the little things, and always strive for balance. TDawg’s story is a reminder of the power of perseverance and the impact of meaningful connections in shaping a fulfilling life journey.

Special thanks to TDawg’s niece, Ibukun, for her immense help with this episode.

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취약성 수용|The One with Kemi Sope-Agbebi  - Navigating Life's Challenges with Courage and Connection: Episode 5 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 취약성 수용|The One with Kemi Sope-Agbebi  - Navigating Life's Challenges with Courage and Connection: Episode 5 (2024). She has

I am thrilled to welcome my long-time friend and former student, Kemi Sope-Agbebi, also known as KSA. Kemi has journeyed remarkably from her days in pharmacy school to becoming the Global Head of Special Projects at mPharma. She also leads Room 707, an initiative she started in 2021 to support young people facing challenges like grief, depression, addictions, and abuse, having helped over 300 individuals so far.

Kemi's story is one of strength and dedication. We explored our shared history, her personal experiences with loss, and her unwavering commitment to mentoring others and breaking the stigma around seeking help. Kemi opened up about growing up in a family where her father's desire for a son made her feel unwanted. Despite this, she excelled academically, driven by a desire to prove her father wrong. However, her achievements were overshadowed by bitterness and a lack of fulfillment. She candidly discussed her struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts, emphasizing the importance of addressing mental health issues early on.

Kemi's transformation is truly inspiring. She embraced forgiveness, highlighting the importance of letting go of past grievances for personal growth and healing. Her work with Room 707 underscores the necessity of seeking help without stigma and the critical role of open communication between parents and children. She stressed the psychological impact of parental comments and the need for safe spaces where children can express themselves without fear of criticism.

Furthermore, Kemi praised her husband's unwavering support in her personal and professional life. She discussed the evolution of Room 707 from a church-based initiative to a global platform for mental health support, offering group therapy sessions and exploring broader accessibility through technology. 

Kemi's narrative is a powerful testament to the transformative power of forgiveness and the human capacity for growth. Her story highlights the importance of resilience, open communication, and tailored parenting, providing hope and a call to action for better mental health support and understanding.

Find her on IG @yourroom707.

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우리 시어머니와 함께|The One with Deaconess Esther Adedipe - On Family, Faith, Loss, and Love: A Journey with Grandma: Episode 4 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 우리 시어머니와 함께|The One with Deaconess Esther Adedipe - On Family, Faith, Loss, and Love: A Journey with Grandma: Episode 4 (2024)

In this week's episode of "The More Sibyl Podcast," we're joined by a special guest, Deaconess Esther Adedipe, TDawg’s mom and my mother-in-law, fondly called Grandma. On the show, she shares her remarkable life journey. Born in 1946 to a devout family, Grandma reflects on her upbringing guided by her minister father, showcasing the values of courage and wisdom instilled in her from a young age. She recounts her academic achievements and fond memories of her family, highlighting her father's multifaceted talents and their influence on her skills and faith.

The conversation explores Grandma's love story with her late husband, Grandpa, revealing the timeless romance nurtured through handwritten letters and shared values. Amidst tales of motherhood and unexpected twists, Grandma's resilience and faith shine through as she navigates challenges with grace and perseverance. Grandma discusses the pressure from family members to have more children, especially sons, and the spiritual journey they embarked on to conceive twins after already having five children.

Grandma opens up about the profound loss of her beloved husband, sharing the deep grief and sense of loss that followed. Yet, her story is one of triumph over adversity, as she speaks candidly about finding strength in her faith and the support of her family during such a difficult time.

As Mother's Day echoes in the background, Grandma offers words of encouragement to mothers everywhere, sharing her wisdom on finding joy beyond loss and embracing new beginnings. The episode concludes with reflections on the joys of grandmotherhood, reminding listeners of the enduring power of love and family bonds.


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아프리카의 목소리에 힘을 실어주기|The One with Bidemi Adedire - On Empowering African Voices: Episode 3 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: The One with Bidemi Adedire - On Empowering African Voices: Preserving Oral Traditions and Driving Digital Innovations

In this episode, we had the privilege of hosting Bidemi Adedire; a trailblazer in cultural preservation and storytelling. Her work is not just about preserving the past; it's also about ensuring that our voices are heard and our stories are remembered for generations to come. She is a founding member of African Podcasters and Voice Artists (APVA). Ms. Adedire has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of African podcasting and voice artistry. Through APVA, she has pioneered initiatives to resource the audio-creative sector, including the APVAAwards, which honored us with the Diasporan Podcast of the Year award last year, fostering a thriving community that celebrates the diversity and richness of African storytelling.

Growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, Bidemi navigated the complexities of life with the unwavering support of her parents, who prioritized education despite financial constraints. This early exposure to the value of learning ignited a lifelong passion for knowledge and storytelling in Bidemi. Bidemi fondly recalls her childhood love for reading, which was nurtured by her father's gift of a box of novels. These books opened doors to new worlds and ideas, shaping Bidemi's perspective on life and her place in the world.

As an adult, Bidemi’s commitment to empowerment is palpable. From facilitating forums like Lunch and Learn for women to fostering community engagement, she champions the ethos of giving back. Her vision for a future where African voices resound with pride and recognition is both aspirational and attainable. Bidemi's story reminds us of the power of resilience, generosity, and community. Her journey inspires us to believe in the potential for positive change, both within ourselves and in the world around us.

Join us in this enlightening conversation as we explore the impact of family, education, and community support on personal development and discover the importance of empowering African voices in podcasting and beyond.

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인종간 입양인|The One with Christelle Pellecuer - Between Worlds: A Transracial Adoptee's Journey from Madagascar to France: Episode 2 (2024)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 인종간 입양인|The One with Christelle Pellecuer - Between Worlds: A Transracial Adoptee's Journey from Madagascar to France: Episode 2 (2024)

 

In this episode, Christelle Pellecuer, a certified coach empowering black adoptees, joined us on The More Sibyl Podcast to share her journey of self-discovery and cultural identity. As a transracial adoptee (someone who has been adopted into a family of a different racial or ethnic background) from Madagascar raised in France, Christelle's narrative is one of resilience, growth, and the ongoing quest for identity.

The conversation explored Christelle's experiences growing up in France, feeling disconnected from her Malagasy roots, and the complexities of transracial adoption. She shared poignant moments from her childhood, highlighting the challenges of navigating her identity in a predominantly white environment. Despite these hurdles, Christelle's story is one of hope and perseverance.

One of the most powerful moments of the episode was when Christelle spoke about the joy of reconnecting with her African roots. She expressed the bittersweet realization of not fully embracing her heritage earlier in life, citing the "black tax" as a barrier to cultural understanding. However, she emphasized the importance of embracing one's identity and urged families to do better in fostering cultural connection. Christelle also shared her reflection on her journey as a mother. She candidly shared the challenges of raising her daughter while still grappling with her own identity. Through her experiences, Christelle learned the value of self-awareness and the importance of creating a supportive environment for her daughter's growth.

Throughout the conversation, Christelle stresses the active involvement of adoptive parents in their child's cultural education, advocating for the incorporation of cultural elements into the home and participation in cultural events. She concludes by encouraging listeners to embrace self-awareness and explore their identities, highlighting the adoption journey as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Christelle's story serves as a powerful reminder that perseverance and self-reflection can lead to finding belonging despite the challenges of transracial adoption.


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부부 선교사| The One with The Bunns - Americans Serving Internationals: Episode 25 (2018)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: The One with The Bunns

Meet the Bunns or like I call them, Love Bunns; they are one of my favorite dyads in the world. Despite just meeting them a little over a year ago in Oklahoma, I consider myself blessed and honored to be a part of their family and that I get to call them “fremily” (family+friends).

Charlie and Dona Bunn are also the Directors/Chi-Alpha campus pastors for the University of Central Oklahoma. Chi-Alpha is an outreach ministry to universities to reach students, reconcile them to Christ, and transform the university, the marketplace, and the world. Statistics have reported that 85% of international students have neither eaten in an American home and 75% have never been in an American home. The Bunns, through their ministry, are trying to change those statistics. For twenty years, they have been building community for international students to give them a sense of belonging.

In this episode, we explored how Americans can benefit from multiculturalism, and how internationals (students) in the US contribute to broaden the worldview of Americans. We also talked about what Americans can do to change the perception held by most internationals of Americans of being just friendly but not necessarily good friends.

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