Tania Anderson – Courage, Compassion, and Living a Fantastic Life
Host: Dr. Allen Lycka
Guest: Tania Anderson
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Tania Anderson, the 2024 and 2025 recipient of the Diversity and Inclusion Advocate Award. Tania shares her incredible journey as a flight attendant for over three decades, her experiences in war zones, and her work supporting underserved communities worldwide. From flying into conflict zones to visiting leper colonies and supporting Afghan refugees, Tania's story is one of bravery, empathy, and making a global impact.
Highlights from the Episode
Receiving the Diversity and Inclusion Advocate Award
- Tania discusses her shock and gratitude at receiving the prestigious award.
- The honor recognizes her contributions to fostering inclusivity and diversity through her global efforts.
Flying into War Zones During the Gulf War
- Tania shares her experiences flying into Saudi Arabia during Desert Storm.
- Despite the risks, Pan Am flight crews volunteered for these missions, showcasing extraordinary courage.
- She recounts a similar experience in 2013 flying into Afghanistan’s Bagram Air Base under dangerous conditions.
The Afghan Translator Rescue Mission
- Tania reflects on her involvement in the airlift of Afghan translators to safety in the U.S. during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.
- She shares heartwarming updates about a young Afghan translator she stays in touch with.
Global Humanitarian Efforts
- Tania recounts her visits to leper colonies in Nigeria, where she witnessed both hope and hardship.
- She details her time at Mother Teresa’s orphanage in India, highlighting the struggles of young girls abandoned due to dowry traditions.
Acknowledging Global Kindness
- Tania and Dr. Lycka discuss Canada’s hospitality during global crises, including Gander’s response on 9/11 and the country’s ongoing refugee support.
- Tania emphasizes the importance of paying kindness forward, citing her habit of collecting hotel amenities to donate to those in need.
The Power of Empathy and Open-Mindedness
- Tania credits her open heart, willingness to listen, and ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds as keys to her fantastic life.
- She highlights the importance of building bridges through shared human experiences.
Memorable Quotes
- Dr. Allen Lycka: "Ordinary people can live extraordinary lives if they just decide to move forward."
- Tania Anderson: "The whole world belongs to us. We're human first, and we're all in this story of life together."
About the Guest
Tania Anderson is a seasoned flight attendant, global humanitarian, and advocate for diversity and inclusion. Her memoir, On Butterflies’ Wings, recounts her travels to 78 countries and her mission to honor the human spirit.
Call to Action
Know someone making an extraordinary impact? Nominate them for the International Order of Fantastic Professionals award at www.fantasticprofessionals.com.
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