Roxana (she/her) identifies as a Mexican American immigrant, a mother and a proud Texan. Roxana describes the changing face of Texas, after moving back to her home town in 2020 with her new family. She describes navigating a state that’s very different from the place where she grew up, and the challenge of protecting her biracial son from hateful attitudes and politics. Roxana also discusses growing up as an undocumented immigrant, struggling with never feeling good enough, but not letting that stop her from taking action and holding herself and others accountable.

Mary (she/her), who identifies as a Midwestern transplant to Utah, describes being a health care provider and health care recipient during the pandemic. This includes being present for her family, patients, and fellow health care workers as they struggle to save lives; and her role helping others cope with death. Mary also discusses the profound impact of ‘science denial’ in today’s politics, and the attack on the US Capitol Building as seen from out West.

Fred (he/him) identifies as an African American man. Fred shares insights from working with his community during the pandemic. He describes the resilience of people who have had to figure out how to survive systems they were never intended to be a part of, and how listening to their experiences can be the key to solving real issues for everyone.

Lauri (she/her) identifies as a Midwesterner and a Psychotherapist. Lauri talks about living in Michigan at this point in time, and how local/national politics and the pandemic are impacting our mental health. In particular, she discusses a pathway to becoming un-numb to the constant bombardment of outrageous statements and acts that we've endured over the past four years.

Ann (she/her) identifies as African American female of Caribbean descent. She talks about being a community farmer during the pandemic, and how sustainable local farms can saves lives. As a naturalized citizen from Guyana, Ann also discusses her experience being a woman of color in the States at this moment in time.

The day after the election was called for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris I started thinking about the voices that I've had on the show over the past few months. I was curious to talk with folks again now that the election over and the results had been announced. I’m grateful to following people, who shared their thoughts, feeling and hopes with me about this moment in time. Jollanna (she/her), who identifies as a mother, a woman of color and an educator. Chris (he/they), who identifies as gender non-binary. Elsa (she/her), who identifies as a Mexican immigrant, a mother and a child advocate. Mark (he/him), who identifies as a gay male and Asian American. Hainer (he/him), who identifies as a Latinx man. Monica (she/her), who identifies as a sixty-something, newly retired caregiver. Rodrigo (he/him), who identifies as a DACAmented Mestizo. Jennifer (she/her), who identifies as a cisgender white woman and a mother.

Maggie (she/her) identifies as a straight single mom, a teacher and a student. I spoke with Maggie the day after the election was called for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. She talks about the uncertainty of waiting for election results, and the joy of celebrating on the streets of New York City. Maggie discusses becoming politically aware during the past four years, her journey from complacency to advocacy, and finding her voice while fighting for her beliefs and the rights of others. She also discusses coming to terms with systemic racism in the US, recognizing white privilege, learning to live as an active anti-racist.

Monica (she/her) identifies as a happily married, sixty-something, newly retired caregiver. As a resident of Louisville Kentucky for more than 20 years, Monica talks about becoming aware of systemic racism, getting involved in protest movements, and her personal experiences with the Kentucky police.