Summary

In this episode of Courageous Conversations, host Laurabel Mba speaks with Nicole Kieley, the Deputy Mayor of Mount Pearl, about her courageous journey into politics, the importance of systemic change, and her personal experiences with trauma and recovery. Nicole shares her insights on vulnerability in political spaces, the challenges of advocating for change, and the resilience required to navigate life's adversities. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of personal experiences and political advocacy, emphasizing the need for diverse voices in governance.

Takeaways

• Courage is about living authentically despite challenges.
• Systemic change is essential for long-term solutions.
• Vulnerability can be a strength in political spaces.
• Personal experiences inform political advocacy.
• Recovery from trauma is a non-linear journey.
• Finding common ground is crucial for collaboration.
• Diversity in governance leads to better outcomes.
• It's okay to show emotions in public settings.
• The personal is political; our lives impact our work.
• Resilience is built through shared experiences.

Sound Bites

"Both had to happen though, right?"

"The personal is political."

"I would love to! I'd love to."

"Recovery is a process, it's not linear."

"We need it as a province. We need it."

"I was involved in a car accident that crushed my body."

"It was an intense amount of feeling of joy and love."

"That is an act of courage."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Courageous Conversations

01:44 Nicole Kieley's Journey into Politics

05:59 The Importance of Systemic Change

11:09 Navigating Politics as a Woman

20:32 Nicole's Life-Altering Accident

26:55 The Journey of Recovery and Resilience

Keywords

Courageous Conversations, Nicole Kieley, politics, systemic change, resilience, vulnerability, trauma, recovery, women's empowerment, advocacy

Keywords

Courageous Conversations, Black Identity, Queer Identity, Community, Diversity, Faith, Authenticity, Intersectionality

Summary

In this episode of Courageous Conversations, Laurabel Mba speaks with Brittan Hudson, a community developer with the Enchanté Network. They discuss the complexities of navigating Black and queer identities, the intersection of faith and queerness, and the importance of finding community. Brittan shares personal experiences of racial identity in predominantly white spaces and emphasizes the need to celebrate diversity within Blackness. The conversation culminates in reflections on authenticity and parting words for both Black and non-Black audiences.

Takeaways

Brittan Hudson is a community developer with the Enchanté Network.

Navigating Black and queer identities can feel like walking a tightrope.

Queerness was never a choice for Brittan; it was a part of their identity.

The church community can often be conservative and unwelcoming to queer individuals.

Finding community is essential for embracing one's queer identity.

Experiences in predominantly white spaces can be isolating for Black individuals.

Diversity within the Black community is often overlooked.

Authenticity is crucial for personal growth and acceptance.

Celebrating one's Blackness is important for self-identity.

Understanding one's history and family roots is vital for Black individuals.

Sound Bites

"As a Black queer, not a part-time thing."

"I was one of two Black families."

"Your Blackness is meant to be unique."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Courageous Conversations

02:32 Navigating Black and Queer Identities

08:49 The Struggle of Embracing Queerness

14:51 Finding Community in Queerness

21:42 Experiences of Racial and Queer Marginalization

24:04 Navigating Identity in Diverse Spaces

31:30 The Journey to Self-Acceptance

42:59 Empowering Messages for the Black Community

46:43 Understanding Bias and Representation

keywords: Courageous Conversations, racial identity, diversity, equity, inclusion, personal stories, community engagement, anti-racism, intersectionality

summary: In the inaugural episode of Courageous Conversations, host Laurabel Mba introduces the podcast's mission to explore the intersection of race, identity, and personal experiences. Drawing from her initiative, Race Table Talks, Laurabel aims to create a platform for diverse voices to share their stories and insights on navigating societal perceptions and personal identities. She shares her own background, including her Nigerian heritage, queer identity, and experiences in Canada, while inviting listeners to engage in meaningful discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Takeaways

• Courageous Conversations aims to explore diverse identities.
• The podcast is inspired by Race Table Talks initiative.
• Laurabel Mba shares her personal journey and identity.
• Intersectionality plays a crucial role in individual experiences.
• The podcast will feature guests with unique perspectives.
• Listeners are encouraged to suggest topics and guests.
• Creating a brave space for open dialogue is essential.
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central themes.
• Personal stories can challenge societal stereotypes.
• The journey of self-discovery is ongoing and shared.