Advocate.

As someone who advocates for equity, civil justice, early education, behavioral health (which includes but isn't limited to the ongoing research and development for psilocybin), and protecting my family (pro-responsible gun rights), I can say that the essential trait in advocacy work is the ability to keep in the pursuit of fighting for justice, even when we feel defeated.

My belief in ensuring equity and inclusion does not come with pointing fingers, as it is in no one’s best interest to ‘move for change’ by blaming one another for the lack of inequities our people recognize. I understand that the most proactive way of forwarding growth (while maintaining our individual beliefs) is to acknowledge the injustice and discuss how we can create and implement standards that benefit our society moving forward. For that to happen, we must be willing to recognize that it is acceptable for each of us to have our own political beliefs. Most want what is best for their family, community, and state.

Therefore, I started this podcast to allow everyone to hear from the people and causes that directly impact our community.

Additionally, I am vulnerable in some episodes and discuss my own experiences because I feel that the stigma and stereotypes surrounding behavioral health and the drug epidemic are bullshit.

Please allow yourselves the ability to perspective, no matter your political affiliation, background, status, creed, religion, etc., and I can help answer questions or concerns that directly impact you.

I promise to keep my implicit bias in check because I want to learn and understand, like you.

I 💜 awkward conversations.

Samantha