Shows
The Shift: Stories of Resistance + ResilienceHarnessing the Power of the Arts with Dr. Anne HuangShow Notes:In this heartfelt episode of The Shift, host Mark Travis Rivera sits down with Dr. Anne Huang, Executive Director of World Arts West, for a profoundly moving conversation about identity, ancestry, and the healing power of the arts.Together, they explore how storytelling becomes a bridge between generations, cultures, and communities. Dr. Huang reflects on her Taiwanese heritage and how it roots her daily life and leadership. From her early days as a dentist to becoming a passionate advocate for immigrant artists, Dr. Huang shares a remarkable...2025-06-1036 min
The Shift: Stories of Resistance + ResilienceEmbodying Healthy Masculinity To Heal with Joél LeonShow Notes:In this episode of The Shift, host Mark Travis Rivera engages in a powerful and heartfelt conversation with Joél Leon, acclaimed poet, cultural critic, and author of Everything and Nothing at Once: A Black Man’s Reimagined Soundtrack for the Future.Together, they explore themes of resistance and resilience, as well as the vital role of storytelling in cultivating understanding and building community. Joél shares personal reflections on fatherhood, masculinity, and the challenges of body image as a Black man. He also discusses the importance of e...2025-06-0342 min
The Shift: Stories of Resistance + ResilienceDaring to Make Career Pivots with Dr. Lakeya CherryShow Notes:In this episode of The Shift, host Mark Travis Rivera talks with Dr. Lakeya Cherry, an executive leadership coach and entrepreneur, about owning our stories. Our stories are perhaps the keys that unlock many of our life choices and unlock much of this conversation—showing up as our whole selves gives us the courage to imagine changing careers or pursuing entrepreneurship. Dr. Cherry addresses the unique challenges women of color face in building a business and highlights the spaces we create when we live in our truth. Although flexibility can bring challenges, this conversation, paraphrasing Dr...2025-05-2741 minThe Shift: Stories of Resistance + ResilienceRestoring Trust in a Polarizing World with Minda HartsShow Notes: In this episode, Mark Travis Rivera welcomes author and CEO of The Memo, LLC, Minda Harts, to have a conversation emphasizing storytelling's power in bridging divides and fostering understanding among differing perspectives. Together, Mark and Minda explored themes of self-awareness, trust, identity, and resilience in the context of personal and professional growth. They discuss the importance of making decisions that enhance trust within communities, navigating the complexities of identity in political discourse, and the challenges women of color face in entrepreneurship. They remind us that self-reflection, community support, and acknowledging past mistakes are essential to b...2025-05-2037 min
The Shift: Stories of Resistance + ResilienceGrieving as a Tool for Healing with Obella ObboShow Notes:In this episode of The Shift, Mark Travis Rivera engages in a heartfelt conversation with Obella Obbo, a DEI specialist and licensed therapist, he is also the CEO of The Radical Empath, LLC. They explore themes of resistance and resilience, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the importance of mental health. Obella shares his journey as a radical empath, emphasizing the need for self-love and community support. The conversation also touches on the significance of storytelling in navigating personal and societal challenges.Guest Bio:Obella Obbo (he/him) is...2025-05-1349 min
The Shift: Stories of Resistance + ResilienceFinding Refuge and Resolve in Our Lineages with Araya BakerShow Notes:In this engaging conversation, Mark Travis Rivera speaks with Araya Baker, a counselor and advocate for social justice. They explore themes of identity, care, and the importance of lineage in shaping personal and collective resilience. Araya shares insights on the significance of representation in media, the challenges of being a writer in the face of criticism, and the necessity of asking for help in times of despair. The discussion highlights the power of storytelling in creating an inclusive world and the role of community in supporting one another. In this conversation, the speakers explore themes...2025-03-2650 min
The Shift: Stories of Resistance + ResilienceTricking White Women Into Giving Up Their Power with Sarah PhelpsShow Notes:In this episode of The Shift, host Mark Travis Rivera has a profound conversation with Sarah Phelps, an advocate and community educator. They explore themes of resilience and resistance, particularly in the context of marginalized communities and women's rights. The discussion delves into the complexities of privilege, the political climate affecting women's rights, and the role of white women in social justice movements. Sarah shares her experiences and insights on the importance of community and the need for awareness in the face of systemic oppression. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by various communities and...2025-03-181h 00
The Shift: Stories of Resistance + ResilienceCreating A Community of Fearless Women with Paulaska RamirezShow Notes:In this engaging conversation, Mark Travis Rivera and Paulaska Ramirez explore themes of resistance and resilience, sharing personal stories and insights on the impact of current societal issues on future generations. They discuss the importance of community, education, and advocacy in fostering empowerment and navigating challenges while reflecting on the need for collective action in the face of adversity. In this conversation, Paulaska Ramirez and Mark Travis Rivera explore the themes of privilege, community support, self-doubt, and the power of storytelling. They discuss how understanding one's positionality and embracing intersectionality can empower individuals to overcome...2025-03-1150 min
The Shift: Stories of Resistance + ResilienceBeing Someone the World Hates and Loving Yourself Anyways with DoctorJonPaulShow Notes:In this engaging conversation, Mark Travis Rivera and DoctorJonPaul explore themes of identity, resistance, resilience, and self-love. They discuss the complexities of navigating capitalism, the importance of storytelling, and the need for authenticity in a world that often marginalizes diverse voices. DoctorJonPaul shares personal experiences and insights on embracing one's identity and the power of community in fostering self-acceptance and love.Guest Bio: Dr. Jonathan P. Higgins (DoctorJonPaul) is an award-winning educator, professor, national speaker, freelance journalist, thought leader, and media critic who examines the intersections of identity...2025-03-0459 min
The Shift: Stories of Resistance + ResilienceHumaning Well When All Seems To Be Going To Hell with Amber CabralShow Notes:In this engaging conversation, Mark Travis Rivera and Amber Cabral explore the themes of resistance and resilience, the importance of human connection, and the evolving landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work. They discuss the significance of being authentic and intentional in their efforts to create a more inclusive world while also addressing the challenges faced in the current socio-political climate. Amber shares her insights on 'humaning well' and the need for individuals to prioritize their well-being to support others effectively. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of storytelling and personal impact in fostering community...2025-02-2554 min
The Shift: Stories of Resistance + ResilienceUnderstanding the Role of Community in Mental Health and Healing with Yolo Akili RobinsonIn this conversation, Mark Travis Rivera and Yolo Akili Robinson explore the themes of resistance and resilience in the context of personal and professional lives. They discuss the importance of storytelling, the toll of being in a constant state of resilience on mental health, and the need for spaces to process grief and emotions. Yolo shares insights from his work with BEAM, emphasizing the significance of community support and advocating for Black mental health. In this conversation, Yolo discusses the profound impact of community activists and writers like Joseph Beam, Audre Lorde, James Baldwin, Esther Perel, and Tarana Burke...2025-02-1948 min
The Shift: Stories of Resistance + ResilienceRecognizing Our Shared Humanity in a Divided Time with Yvonne AlstonIn this episode of The Shift, Mark Travis Rivera and Yvonne Alston delve into themes of resilience and the importance of understanding our shared humanity amidst political and social divides. They explore the nuances of resistance and resilience, the impact of apathy on society, and the necessity of maintaining dignity and integrity in conversations with those with differing views. The discussion emphasizes the need for awareness and empathy in navigating complex social issues, particularly in today's polarized climate. In this conversation, Yvonne Alston and Mark Travis Rivera explore the complexities of navigating relationships in digital and real-world spaces, emphasizing...2025-02-1155 min
Terry MeinersMark Travis memories from Terry Meiners, Paul Miles, Gus AllenLongtime WHAS Radio traffic reporter Mark Travis passed away after a long illness. He was a radio aficionado, serving as deejay, host, traffic reporter, and dispatcher for several different outlets during his career.Terry Meiners, Paul Miles, and Gus Allen shared funny memories of Mark Travis on WHAS Radio only hours after learning of his passing on February 7, 2025.We can just imagine Mark Travis' big laughter at the retelling of these anecdotes. RIP, brother!2025-02-0804 min
The Shift: Stories of Resistance + ResilienceNavigating Resistance and Rest in Activism with John Graham, Jr.About The Series:
The Shift began as a LinkedIn Live Audio Series in 2023. In 2025, after the 2024 election results, Mark decided to refocus the series on the themes of resistance and resilience and turn It into a multi-platform series.
Show Notes:
In this conversation, Mark Travis Rivera and John Graham, Jr. discuss the purpose of The Shift series and delve into the concepts of resistance and resilience. They explore the significant role of Black women in democracy and the intersectionality of race and gender in political dynamics, emphasizing the need for community and collaboration...2025-02-0444 min
Rise Up! The Baker Podcast with Mark DyckTravis Gerjets of Prairie Sky Breads in Minot, North DakotaTravis Gerjets is back on the podcast and holy dinah, he's got a five year old bakery now! A coffee shop, cafe and airstream trailer full of awesomeness too. On this episode, Mark and Travis dig deep into the prairie baking mythos, talk about Prairie Sky Breads and the Minot food scene, about building a bakery that doesn't kill the baker, and embrace their shared love of amazing baking teams. There's also talk of The Bakery Leadership Circle, a leadership and change program for bakery owners and senior leaders, kicking off in March 2025. Apply now!...2025-01-081h 21
LNXdance Podcast022 Sip & Chat: Mark Travis RiveraSend us a message!Welcome back to LNXdance with your Co-Hosts, Marcus & Mari! Introducing our next guest, the inspiring Mark Travis Rivera. We are so honored to share his story with you. Enjoy!Trigger Warning: this episode talks about gun violence and mental health. Get More Mark: https://linktr.ee/marktravriveraTelling stories is at the core of Mark Travis Rivera’s purpose in life. He is an award-winning creative entrepreneur and the Chief Executive Officer + Founder of The Professional Storyteller, where he embraces the power of...2024-07-3142 min
Mitchell Levy Presents AHA MomentsBrian Walker, Mark Travis & Brian Ludwig on Thought Leader Life Credibility SpecialsGet to know these successful thought leaders and find out how they present themselves and their crafts as experts in their fields.Brian Walker, the President of Statwax, is a trusted digital growth partner for marketing enthusiasts. He leads the operations, strategy, and growth of an agency focused on creating a more efficient, data-driven approach to acquisition marketing for Higher Ed, SaaS, and B2B. He brings cutting-edge performance marketing strategies to all clients from every core service. If you’re a Higher Ed business and want a true marketing partner, consider reaching out to...2024-04-2916 min
Get Better at Beach VolleyballEpisode #94 Travis Mewhirter - Balancing Being an Athlete, Coach, Author, Commentator, DadIn this episode, Mark Burik and Travis Mewhirter discuss the transition from playing to coaching in beach volleyball. They explore the challenges and rewards of coaching, including the importance of building trust and effective communication with athletes. They also discuss the use of constraint training and creative problem-solving in coaching. The conversation extends beyond the realm of sports, as they explore how coaching techniques can be applied to personal relationships. They emphasize the value of understanding each other's needs and using strategic advice and support to improve relationships. The episode concludes with a discussion on supporting and coaching coaches...2024-03-201h 05
Create Magic At Work®S4. Ep. 6 - How Audacious Courage Makes You a Trusted Leader w/ Mark Travis RiveraJoin me, Amy Lynn Durham with Mark Travis Rivera, The Professional Storyteller, Founder, and Consultant, in this 2 part podcast as he shares his story dating back to early childhood leading to him being the storyteller he is today. He shares where he got his courage and bravery and how he implements it in many aspects of his life, including his experiences in the corporate space. We talk about what it's like to show up as your authentic self in the workplace, spirituality, inclusion and so much more! Today on Create Magic At Work®:...2024-03-1831 min
Courageous Leadership with Travis YatesFrom The Front Line to The Front of Health with Dr. Mark SherwoodSend us a textWhen life handed you a uniform and a badge, it didn't provide a manual on how to maintain health amidst the chaos. Today's episode is nothing short of a revelation, as Dr. Mark Sherwood, a retired police sergeant and beacon of wellness, joins us to discuss the seismic shift in his life's path. From the gritty streets of law enforcement to the holistic corridors of fitness and functional medicine, Mark's transformation is a testament to the impact of proactive health and the potent power of hope in our lives. We dissect the overlooked...2024-03-0147 min