The inaugural episode of Authentic Conversations... after a year of hemming and hawing, we decided to face our fears, shift our priorities and jump in knowing we would just need to figure things out as we go. In our line of work of seeking to make Charlotte a better and more accessible place for all to live, we meet the most interesting people. Consistently, we find ourselves in AWE of the humans we share company with. From CEOs and entrepreneurs, to public officials and non-profit leaders, to those in our community who have faced various struggles. We all have a story. This podcast is to create a safe space to highlight the stories of people in our Charlotte community and explore topics that impact all of us (whether you realize it or not). If you sometimes feel a little disconnected from our community, or just need a little more light in your life - we hope this podcast will add value to your days.

Today's Episode: "Meet the Hosts!"

Introducing Liz Ward, Maya Bullock and Courtney Fowlkes - all from the Give Impact team right here in Charlotte. Three very different people, who are in different stages of life - but who all care deeply about making our city a better place to live.

0:33 Intro to the Podcast

3:58 Meet the Hosts / Three Authentic Things about Each of Us

21:18 Moving from our sacred office to the podcast… Tools we use to create a safe space.

1. Being Intentional About Your Space (for yourself and others)
2. Tibetan Signing Bowl
3. Affirmation Cards

24:15 Maya Pulls a Card - "I Find a Deeper Meaning in Personal Growth Amid the Discomfort"… spot on!

26:12 Courtney Pulls a Card - "I Choose Love No Matter What" … and then a discussion about seasons, waiting, and

reminding ourselves (and you) that we are each worthy. We are all in this together.

32:25 Upcoming Topics

33:35 Who the heck is the Give Impact team?? - https://www.giveimpact.org/

34:34 This isn't about us… Intentions of the Podcast & "Rules of the Road"

A discussion on listening, imperfections, and authenticity.

Those on this podcast will strive to hold conversations within the below framework:

1. Speak from our own perspective
2. This is a judgement free zone
3. Respect one another
4. People are not defined by their actions. We will be intentional with our words and framing, especially when talking about difficult topics or experiences.
5. We desire to live in a place of truth, even when its difficult. We will make mistakes.
6. Each of us are committed to and will strive to show up authentically.

40:42 A Discussion on Fear

41:25 Courtney reminds Liz to pull an affirmation card…!

"My Energy Creates My Reality: What I Focus on is What I Will Manifest"

42: 00 Announcing Episode 2….

"Managing Mental Health in a Changing World" with our friend, Justin Perry of

Perry Counseling, Recovery and Healing. https://justinperrycounseling.com/