Shows
The Waging Peace PodcastWhen Words Heal: Conversations from Gaza to AmericaSend us a textMohsin Modi-Ud-Din, founder and CEO of MeWe International, shares his innovative work using storytelling and communication to transform trauma in conflict zones including Gaza and Syrian refugee camps.In this second part of our conversation you will hear more about how:• MeWe International builds communication and storytelling interventions for psychological well-being and community engagement across 12+ countries• Peace provides what war can't: justice and joy, which are essential for human flourishing• Storytelling creates community, which keeps humans alive as a species• Communication has been weaponized but should be recla...2025-05-1231 min
The Waging Peace PodcastStorytelling as a Lifeline: Using Narrative for Mental Health in Conflict ZonesSend us a textStories we tell ourselves shape our relationships and psychological well-being. Mohsin Modi-Ud-Din shows how harmful narratives can erode mental health while transformative storytelling rebuilds connections across even the deepest divides. Listen to hear more about:• Mohsin's experiences in Gaza with humanitarian medical missions • How storytelling interventions help trauma survivors reclaim their humanity• Neuroplasticity and our brain's capacity for growth and transformation• Cultivating curiosity to overcome fear in our relationships"Every single human being is a living, breathing story of change. The second that we diminish o...2025-04-2833 min
The Waging Peace PodcastThere Is No Violent Solution: A Young Israeli's Solution to Occupation and Genocide Part 2Send us a textAt 18, Sophia chose prison over participating in occupation. "When you recognize you have a choice, you have responsibility for that choice." Her story reveals how militarism dehumanizes everyone it touches. "Violence will only breed more violence." The only future we have is a future together." Sophia Orr who spent 85 days in military prison for refusing to serve in the Israeli army. Her courage challenges us to ask ourselves: Are we collaborators or resistors in systems of violence? What choices are we making with our priv...2025-03-2027 min
The Waging Peace PodcastIsraeli Soldier Refuses to Wage War: Why Sofia Orr Chose PrisonSend us a textSofia Orr, a 19-year-old Israeli conscientious objector, shares her journey of refusing mandatory military service and spending 85 days in prison for her stance. Listen to hear how:Sofia began questioning military service at age 13, viewing it as a political choice rather than obligationShe describes Israel as "more an army with a country than a country with an army" with military indoctrination beginning in childhoodSofia's prison experience revealed how military systems dehumanize everyone involved, including guardsShe rejects the notion that violence can solve the conflict: "There is no military solution to this"2025-03-1922 min
The Waging Peace PodcastA Comedian's Guide to Making Art + Making ChangeSend us a textRita Brent blends comedy and advocacy, using her platform to address serious societal issues while promoting joy and connection. Through her journey from childhood musician to stand-up comedian, Rita emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, community support, and compassion in navigating life's challenges.• Exploring the evolution from music to comedy • The significance of personal experiences in comedy • Balancing humor with advocacy through songs • Addressing critics and embracing authenticity About Rita:Rita Brent is an award-winning comedian, musician, and military veteran. She grew up in Jackson, MS where she...2025-02-2439 min
The Waging Peace PodcastLessons from History: A DEI PerspectiveSend us a textEducator and DEI expert Jebeh Edmunds breaks down what we don't know about DEI.You'll learn:Where Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) originated.How to take action when you experience or witness discrimination in your school or community.Why our fight for justice, peace and equality is happening right now.This episode delves into the historical context and contemporary relevance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), emphasizing the importance of understanding our past and actively engaging in the fight for equality. • DEI has historical roo...2025-02-1147 min
The Waging Peace PodcastSmall Acts Sparking Big Changes with Sharon McMahonSend us a textPart two of our conversation with Sharon delves into the essential role of hope in effecting positive change and combating the perils of cynicism. After you listen, you’ll know: How to choose between hope and toxic positivity 3 ways to take one small action to make Big Changes.One powerful, underused tool you can start using immediately to kick cynicism to the curb.About Sharon:A #1 New York Times bestselling author, educator, and host of the chart-topping podcast Here’s Where It Gets Interes...2025-02-0327 min