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Richard Thurmond is Senior Vice President of Community and Economic Development for Charlotte Center City Partners, a place-making organization for the Center City of Charlotte. He guides special projects and business recruitment efforts that help make the Center City of Charlotte a more livable, memorable, viable, and sustainable place. Previously, Rick spent 21 years with Charlotte magazine. He served as publisher for 4 years and editor for 13 years. During his tenure, the magazine won national and regional awards for excellence. He has served on numerous community boards, including on the board of Historic South End and Theatre Charlotte. Rick earned a B.A. in English from Davidson College. This episode is perfect for anyone interested basketball, editing and publishing a city magazine, staying and leaving, and the value of curiosity and humility. IN THIS EPISODE Rick describes his home growing up, family influences, how he came to think of himself as a writer, and the significance of basketball in his life. He reflects on his time at Davidson College, study-abroad in Avignon, his start as a sports journalist, and becoming an assistant editor and writer at Charlotte magazine. He talks about why the relaunch of Charlotte magazine succeeded, taking the magazine personally, becoming editor at the age of 26, and being his own harshest critic. Rick discusses the role of the editor of a city magazine, the story of Charlotte, taking readers where they would not have gone, and his proudest moment at the magazine. He addresses whether Charlotte magazine was a magazine for the whole of the city, and why he did not pursue editorial positions in larger media markets. Rick reads from an article he wrote about whether Charlotte could make someone happy, and shares his regret as a writer and why he left Charlotte magazine. He discusses joining Charlotte Center City Partners, the community and economic development work he is doing now, and why it is important to him. Rick shares the moments in his day that are the most meaningful to him, the most important decisions he has made, and how he would write the story of himself. plus Mark's personal word essay: The End and A Beginning To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Claude Alexander, Jr. is bishop and senior pastor of The Park Church, a Baptist church headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. He has led The Park Church since 1990. Under his leadership, The Park Church has grown from one local congregation of 600 members to a global ministry of thousands of members with three locations and weekly international reach. Bishop Alexander works with government and community officials to address the community’s most critical issues. He serves on many local and national religious, civic, leadership and university boards of directors. He is the chair of the board of trustees of the Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and the Second-Presiding Bishop of the Kingdom Association of Covenant Pastors. Bishop Alexander earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from Morehouse College, a Master of Divinity Degree from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry Degree from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in leading a church, redressing racial difference, our responsibilities to each other, and our relationship to God and mystery. IN THIS EPISODE Bishop Alexander describes The Park Church, its history, the qualities that distinguish it, its business enterprises, and its mission in the world. He talks about the 400-year anniversary of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade and racialization in America, being a cultural translator, and what responsibilities we have redressing racial differences and disparities. He makes a connection between social capital, ethnicity, privilege, and the Good Samaritan parable. Bishop Alexander addresses charges of sexism and homophobia in the black church, issues an apology, and considers how history might judge his position on gay marriage. He discusses the arc of the history of the people of God, the bracketing of the best and worse of humanity, and Simon Peter. Bishop Alexander explains why Sunday morning is the most segregated time in America. He reflects on growing up in Jackson, Mississippi, what was important in his family, the volume and weight of the religious calling he felt as a teenager, and studying philosophy at Morehouse College. Bishop Alexander shares a crisis of faith that challenged his sense of value, emotions about the death of his brother, and what he wants people to truly know. plus Mark's Personal Word Essay: Seeing Fully What We Now See in Part To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Jess George is Government and Community Affairs Manager for Google Fiber in Charlotte, North Carolina. Jess works with government officials, community leaders, organizations and neighborhoods to advance innovation and address issues of access, opportunity and digital inclusion. Prior to joining Google Fiber, Jess worked for 15 years in the nonprofit field. She most recently served as the Executive Director of the Latin American Coalition, North Carolina’s largest Latino immigrant integration and advocacy organization. She has served as director of the United Way of Central Carolinas. Jess earned a B.A. in International Politics from Penn State University. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in deploying new technologies, being an ally to immigrants, whether the personal is political, and living with hope and optimism. IN THIS EPISODE Jess explains her role at Google Fiber and updates the roll-out of fiber optic deployment in the Charlotte market. She addresses why high speed internet access is important and whether the internet is overrated. She discusses bridging the digital divide, the negative impacts of device addiction, and where we are going with the advent of new internet-based technologies. Jess shares what she is obsessed with, the town she grew up in, and how her parents’ values and career choices influenced her. She reveals wanting to be Nancy Drew, Mata Hari, an intrepid reporter and a spy, recites a poem her godfather wrote about her, and tells a defining story about interacting with bullies. Jess talks about moving from Tully, NY to Uniontown, PA during her senior year of high school, attending Penn State University, and a pivotal internship in Paris. She discusses wanting to become an ally of immigrants, serving as executive director of the Latin American Coalition, the challenges and rewards of leading the organization, and whether ‘the personal is political.’ Jess shares her feelings about joining Google Fiber, what hope and optimism mean to her, and a poem by Hafiz about dropping keys to beautiful rowdy prisoners. plus Mark's Personal Word Essay: Systems Intelligence To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Sonya Pfeiffer is owner and creative director of the Elder Gallery of Contemporary Art, a fine arts gallery in Charlotte, North Carolina. She leads the gallery’s strategic planning and programming.  Sonya is also a criminal defense attorney and partner in the Rudolf Widenhouse Law Firm, specializing in wrongful conviction litigation. She spent many years as a general assignment and investigative reporter at television stations in Boston, Raleigh, Omaha and New York. Sonya earned a bachelor’s of science degree in Journalism from Ohio University and J.D. degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. This episode is perfect for anyone interested directing an art gallery, criminal defense, television reporting, the practice of Ahimsa, and the once chance we have in life. IN THIS EPISODE Sonya describes the Elder Gallery of Contemporary Art, how she goes about creatively directing, the topics that interest her, and what she hopes the Gallery becomes. She considers whether a fine arts gallery that sells at a price point that only a few people can afford is in fact inclusive. She discusses her law firm’s statement of values, why standing up to the power of the state is personal to her, and seeing the humanity and perspective of another person. Sonya talks about politics, Catholicism, Olympic development soccer, and a playground incident that taught her lesson about empathy and privilege. She explains why she and her sibling became storytellers, her desire to become a foreign correspondent, and what taking unconventional paths says about her personality. Sonya talks about the Michael Peterson case, how other reporters would have described her, her significant scoops, and the Owl theory. She shares how her relationship with David Rudolf came about, what drew them together, and answers whether she thinks of her and David as a power couple. Sonya reflects on her spiritual journey, her concept of God, her practice of Ahimsa and Yoga, and the one chance she has in this life. plus Mark’s Personal Word Essay: Partial to the Defense To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Beatriz Friedmann is a school counselor, yoga instructor, IT consultant, researcher and traveler. Her school counseling incorporates mindfulness to help students develop self-awareness and self-control. She recently completed a 27-year career at IBM, where she held numerous positions, including as a business value consultant, project executive, application development manager and systems analyst. She worked for IBM in Brazil, Canada and the United States. Beatriz earned a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Technology from the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro, a Masters of Business Administration degree from the Institute of Financial Markets in Rio de Janeiro, and Master’s degree in Education from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. This episode is perfect for anyone interested emigrating to new countries, balancing the mind with the heart, finding new purpose, and becoming present one step at a time. IN THIS EPISODE Beatriz describes growing up in Brazil and her brother having Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LSG is is a complex, rare, and severe childhood-onset epilepsy). She talks about when she was 9 years old losing her mother to cancer and how she internalized her mother’s death. She explains the role of Logosophy in her life (Logosophy is a philosophy of conscious evolution and metacognition). She shares a memory of sharing a diary with a friend and what it revealed. Beatriz describes beginning her career at IBM Brazil, the life she lived, and choosing to leave Brazil behind. She tells a story about saying the name of her daughter. She describes emigrating to Canada, the challenge of being an immigrant parent, and how she felt about leaving her country of origin behind. Beatriz discusses emigrating again to the United States and adjusting to life in Chappaqua, New York. She describes turning 40 years old, entering therapy, coming to terms with the death of her mother, and questioning her career. She talks about moving again, this time to Charlotte, in search of belonging. She shares a summer of emotional pain when her career ended, her father died, her dog died, and her youngest daughter left home. Beatriz discusses finding solace and meaning in yoga, meditation, and a new career as a school counselor. She shares her plan to emigrate again, this time to Portugal, and the metaphor of walking as a way of living. plus Mark’s Personal Word Essay: The Second Mountain To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning  

Ken Lambla is founding dean of the College of Arts + Architecture at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where he has served on the faculty since 1983. The College of Arts + Architecture is comprised of academic units in Architecture, Art, Art History, Dance, Music and Theater. Ken’s teaching has focused on architectural design, design process, and social history. He has worked as an architect and urban designer in Belfast, Chicago, San Francisco and throughout North Carolina. Ken received a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Design from the University of Kansas, and a Master of Architecture degree from the University of California, Berkeley. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in arts and architecture, interdisciplinary design, community development, stewardship, and how arts inform a life. IN THIS EPISODE Ken reflects on a 3-month camping trip to Patagonia and what the trip was about. He considers who he found himself becoming in Patagonia and what he is bringing back from his trip. He describes the academic units of the College of Arts + Architecture and how the idea for the College began to form. He states the case he made to his colleagues to form a new college at UNC Charlotte. Ken addresses whether the goals of the College of Arts + Architecture were met during his tenure as dean, what he thinks he and College got right and what he and the College could have done better. He answers whether the College of Arts + Architecture is today what he hoped it would be and why the College of Arts + Architecture is important. He talks about growing up in New Jersey and what was important to his family. He discusses the high school teacher who inspired him, descriptive geometry, being attracted to the abstraction of architecture, and the concept of struggle. Ken shares what drew him to Environmental Design at the University of Kansas and how an interdisciplinary approach to learning became a seed for the UNC Charlotte College of Arts + Architecture. He notes how living and working in Belfast, Chicago and San Francisco intensified the role of arts in his life. He shares the core of what he values that he wants his students to learn. He talks about what social values should guide what we build and where he goes where is most happy. Ken notes what’s on his mind as he passes the baton of leadership to a new dean, whether he has led the life he has wanted to live and what’s next for him. plus Mark’s Personal Word Essay: A Life Revealed in One Scene To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Clarence ‘Clay’ Armbrister is president of Johnson C. Smith University, a historically black university in Charlotte, North Carolina. He assumed the role in January 2018. President Armbrister has over 35 years experience in the private and public sectors, including time in senior administrative and leadership positions at Temple University, Johns Hopkins University, the School District of Philadelphia and Girard College. In addition to his background in education, Armbrister has held executive positions in law, government and finance. His volunteer and public service recognition is extensive and varied. He earned a B.A. in political science and economics from the University of Pennsylvania, and a J.D. from the University of Michigan School of Law. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in historically black colleges and universities, public service, and the value of relationships. IN THIS EPISODE Clarence describes Johnson C. Smith University and the population of students it serves. He notes the strengths of the university and what it could do better. He discusses what is it that he wants to ‘radicalize’ on campus and his areas of strategic focus as president of the university. He addresses the financial health of the university and an unexpected challenge that came up on campus. Clarence answers why it would be a good investment to contribute to the university. He makes a case for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) ‘having a place’ in the 21st century. He addresses the graduation rates of HBCUs and whether the preparedness of students is different than in previous generations. He identifies what is top of mind for his students. Clarence notes what he would spend money on if he had a blank check but was limited to addressing one concern at the university. He reflects on his childhood growing up in Opa-locka in Miami in the 1960s. He tells a story about his grandfather who was a Baptist minister and disciple of Marcus Garvey who was beaten in 1921. He explains why the story of his grandfather was meaningful to him and contributed to him having a certain race consciousness. Clarence talks about his time as a student at the University of Pennsylvania and why he chose to later study law. He answers what drew him to leadership roles in city governance and education. He shares what brings him the most joy and what he values most. plus Mark's Personal Word Essay: Blue Ocean Shift To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning  

Liz Clasen-Kelly is executive director of The Men’s Shelter of Charlotte, which provides emergency shelter to men while working to end homelessness in the Charlotte region. Previously, Liz served as Associate Executive Director for the Urban Ministry Center, an interfaith organization dedicated to bringing the community together to end homelessness. She has also served as director of public policy and community engagement for the Council for Children’s Rights. Liz has received several honors for her work, including the YWCA Woman of Achievement Community Champion Award. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Religion from Davidson College and a Master’s degree in Public Policy from Duke University. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in helping people needing shelter, working to end homelessness, abundant love, and encountering Christ in the in-between.   IN THIS EPISODE Liz describes the Men’s Shelter of Charlotte and the services it provides. She reviews the number of men experiencing homelessness in Charlotte, what drivers affect the rate of homelessness, and what approach guides the work of the Men’s Shelter. She shares what one would see walking into the two Men’s Shelters of Charlotte campuses, the experience men have at the Men’s Shelter, and her keys to improve the flow of services She explains the phrase ‘Life goes on, You’re Not Alone.” Liz tells a story illustrating the friendships that are formed in the Men’s Shelter. She answers how to interact with people experiencing homelessness and whether sleeping in public is a human right. She provides an update on the campaign in Charlotte to address chronic homelessness. She addresses whether a better homeless service system attracts more people experiencing homelessness. Liz shares why she does what she does and what she experiences every day. She talks about navigating class and economic differences in Kingsport, Tennessee. She discusses what was important to her as a young person, her an intense need to be right, and how she learned to play a role influencing public policy. She describes a significant religious experience that changed her life. Liz recalls her religious fervor at Davidson College and the importance of relationships at the Urban Ministry Center in her spiritual growth. She remembers the experience she had and the grace she received at Davidson College. She addresses a theology that can withstand human suffering. She talks about Dale Mullinex and the influence of his work and leadership. Liz shares what she values most. plus Mark’s Personal Word Essay:  Christ is Risen To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Natalie Frazier Allen is founder and executive director of The Arts Empowerment Project, a non-profit organization which provides funding to connect court-involved and at-risk children to high-quality existing arts programs. Natalie formerly served as Family Division Policy Counsel and as Chief of the Domestic Violence Unit in the Attorney General’s Office for the District of Columbia. She serves on the board of directors of The Mint Museum and has previously served on the boards of the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts + Culture and the Women’s Impact Fund. Natalie earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Spelman College, and a J.D. from The George Washington University National Law Center. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in connecting at-risk children to the arts and finding one’s way back to childhood passions.    IN THIS EPISODE Natalie describes the mission and work of The Arts Empowerment Project. She discusses the population of at-risk children that The Arts Empowerment Project serves. She explains Adverse Childhood Experiences and the toxic stress it often causes in adulthood. She details the programs that The Arts Empowerment Project delivers. Natalie considers the effectiveness of her programs and the importance of social capital. She addresses how the arts helps people who have experienced trauma. She shares a story of a student who flourished after being exposed to the arts. She answers why the work of The Arts Empowerment Project matters. Natalie notes what she would prioritize if she had additional resources for The Arts Empowerment Project. She reflects on growing up in a working-class neighborhood in Queens, New York, the work of her siblings, what was most important in her family, and being a rule-follower. She shares what she loved about attending Spelman College and what being in the AKA sorority means to her. Natalie explains why experiencing studying and practicing law in Washington D.C. was a dream come true. She remembers a file that crossed her desk as a lawyer that had a particular impact on her. She answers why she left the law, what became most important to her, and how the idea of The Arts Empowerment Project came about. Natalie reflects on the importance of family and faith in her life. plus Mark’s Personal Word Essay: The Disquieting Muses of the Space-Time Continuum To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Tom Warshauer is Assistant Director, Community Engagement for the City of Charlotte’s Housing & Neighborhood Services Department. In his 29-year career at the City, Tom has worked with business and neighborhood groups to enhance quality of life in Charlotte. He is an American Leadership Forum fellow and has served on several community councils and boards, including as chair of the Community Building Initiative and as a founding board member of Equality NC, The Wesley Mancini Foundation and Charlotte Lesbian and Gay Fund. He is a Human Rights Commission Charlotte Chapter’s Legacy Award Honoree for fostering equity in the Charlotte community. Tom earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Architecture and Fine Arts from Rice University and a Master of Arts in Real Estate from MIT. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in community engagement, neighborhood development, creating a city, and celebrating diverse and authentic lives. IN THIS EPISODE Tom explains how he helps residents become more engaged in their neighborhoods. He talks about how people feel about their neighborhoods and neighborhood data sets. He notes the common concerns of neighborhoods and which neighborhoods are getting it right. He outlines the role his department is playing in economic mobility efforts. Tom talks about the importance of city markets in developing neighborhoods. He shares what’s changed during his 29 years of work in city management. He discusses what he means by doing what one can do right now. He describes growing up in Wilmington, NC, the Warshauer family, and being a middle-child who loved Lemon Pledge and go-carting. Tom remembers his excitement moving to New Orleans, loving his time in high school, his nights in the French Quarter, and liking intermission at the Opera. He talks about studying architecture at Rice University, restoring buildings and homes in Houston and Wilmington, and earning a masters degree in real estate at MIT. He explains why he moved to and stayed in Charlotte, and the work he is most proud of in his career. He answers whether he has an interest in returning to home restoration work. Tom discusses harvesting the fruit of seeds that he has planted and what he has learned from his relationships. Tom shares what he values most about people and the diversity of their lives. plus Mark’s Personal Word Essay: A Young Man from the Provinces To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Eric Davis is a producer, writer, director and photographer. He works with businesses and non-profit organizations to create media content for television, web and live events. He is currently affiliated with Susie Films, a producer of cable television programs and corporate media. Eric previously served as Vice President of Broadcasting and Content for WTVI, Charlotte’s PBS station. During his tenure, WTVI won 7 Mid-South Region Emmy awards, including twice for Cultural Documentary. He is on the board of the 100 Words Film Festival and serves on the Executive Committee of the Mecklenburg County Boy Scouts of America. Eric earned a B.Sc. degree in Telecommunication Management from the University of Florida and an M.B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in producing media, telling stories, helping other people do better, Florida, wrestling, hot dogs, marching bands and football. IN THIS EPISODE Eric describes what he does as a producer and his base skill as a writer for video. He explains the work he does producing documentaries for Susie Films. He outlines the process he follows to produce a video for a corporate client. Eric shares what makes for a good story and he goes about getting it. He tells a story about telling a story in Galway, Ireland. He considers why story-telling is so central to the human experience and the value he brings as a story-teller. Eric explains what he means by the phrase ‘if you can’t fix it, feature it.’ He answers whether the value of professional producing has increased or decreased in a world where everyone is a content creator. He identifies the person who does what he does whose work he admires and the signature to his work. Eric talks about growing up in Florida and why the people there are weird. He shares what was important to him when he was yearbook editor in high school and on the track team at Brandon High School. He discusses his path attending four colleges, studying telecommunication management, selling radio on-air advertising and finding his way to Charlotte. Eric answers what was difficult and what he loved as Vice President of Broadcasting and Content at WTVI, Charlotte’s PBS station. He reveals why he is a story-teller and what professional wrestling has to do with it. He discusses helping other people do better and what he has learned about creativity. Eric plays a lightning round sharing answers on Dusty Rhodes, Lums hot dogs, roadside stands, speed traps, the Florida Gators, the Auburn-Alabama rivalry, Dan Marino, the Miami Hurricanes, marching bands, high school kicking, picking college football games, and the Boy Scouts of America. plus Mark's Personal Word Essay: Football is Transcendent To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Kelly Ottman is a professor in the Radar School of Business in the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE). She teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in leadership, strategic planning, team development and organizational behavior. Kelly developed and leads the Doing With Business China program in which engineering students undergo 11 weeks of classroom preparation that culminates in a 12-day working tour of China. She is a leadership coach providing consultation to executives throughout the world. Kelly earned a B.Sc. degree in Therapeutic Recreation at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and an M.P.A. in Health Care Administration and Public Policy and a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership and Adult Education from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in doing business with China, cultural immersion, clarifying mission and vision, and finding joy in purpose. IN THIS EPISODE Kelly describes MSOE and her area of focus in the scholarship of teaching and learning. She notes the classes she teaches and what she wants her students to learn. She explains what she means when she says gray is a color. She notes what she helps to develop in faculty as a faculty development Kelly shares how cultural immersion helps with leadership development and how and why she launched the Doing Business With China She references practicing Tai Chi in the Temple of Heaven and what students most often say when reflecting on their experience in China. She explains Guanxi, the Chinese system of social networks and influential relationships which facilitate business and other dealings. She tells a story illustrating how her students have been transformed by their experience in China. Kelly discusses the phenomenal growth in China she has witnesses and how its technology has leapfrogged the world. She answers what people should know about China as it advances, what is considered good leadership in China, and how China is practicing the Art of War. She talks about growing up in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, her parents, and what was formative about her years in middle school. She reflects on finding joy in purpose and learning that one cannot prepare for everything. Kelly shares a mission and vision statement that changed her life and what matters most to her. plus Mark's Personal Word Essay: Finding Joy in Purpose To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Federico Rios is the International Business and Immigrant Integration Manager for the City of Charlotte. His work focuses on community outreach and improving systems to help immigrant newcomers. Previously, Federico was program director for the Northeast Learning Community and Newcomer Services for Communities in Schools in Charlotte. He has several years experience serving as a mental health professional in Charlotte and in New York City. Federico is a board member of the Leading on Opportunity Council and Communities in Schools in Charlotte. He earned a bachelor of arts degree in English from the State University of New York at Stony Brook. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in serving immigrant communities, false and true narratives, embracing a new city, and optimism about equity and justice.   IN THIS EPISODE Federico explains his role serving the immigrant and international business community in Charlotte and how his position came about. He notes how a dramatic shift in demographics has led to a need to better welcome newcomers and immigrants. He shares what he expected would be the immediate focus of his work and what his work has actually been. He addresses how his office is attending to the key recommendations of the Immigrant Integration Task Force Report Federico discusses a false narrative about immigrants and the part race plays in the response to undocumented residents. He answers whether he supports open borders and amnesty for undocumented residents and whether his views influence his work as a municipal employee. He shares what excites him about the work that he is doing. He talks about growing up in Queens, New York, and what his parents taught him. Federico talks about the person who helped him complete his college education after the tragedy of 9/11. He discusses how his career began, how he found his way to Charlotte, adjusting to a new community, and going through a difficult moment. He notes his experience at working at Communities in Schools. He answers whether he has an interest in public office and whether he is optimistic about equity and justice in America. Federico shares what is most important to him. plus Mark’s Personal Word Essay: Out of Many To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Bob Henderson is senior minister and head of staff of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. His ministry is focused on the centrality of worship, on pastoral care, and on vibrant mission programs. Bob previously served as senior pastor at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Greensboro, North Carolina. Prior to Westminster, Bob was associate pastor of the Eastminster Presbyterian Church in Stone Mountain, Georgia. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in religion and economics from Furman University, his Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Columbia Theological Seminary. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in the Presbyterian church, faith in public life, gay marriage, white privilege, the changing language of proclamation, and what is true. IN THIS EPISODE Bob explains what makes a Presbyterian church a Presbyterian church. He identifies the core principles of Presbyterianism, including the priesthood of all believers, that God alone is lord of the conscious, and faith in public life. He answers what it means to be a confessional church. He discusses whether and how minority views are protected and honored in the Presbyterian church. Bob explains the position of the Presbyterian church nationally on gay marriage. He describes the evolution of his own thinking on gay marriage and the position of Covenant Presbyterian on gay marriage. He addresses why the Presbyterian church nationally is 90% white and its legacy of forcing and leading white supremacy in America. He shares his view on white privilege and whether Covenant Presbyterian members actually want greater racial diversity in their pews. Bob answers what Covenant Presbyterian does well and it could do better. He considers religious life in America and what revival in the Presbyterian church would look like. He talks about growing up on the East Coast, what he learned from his parents, and how he came to the church. He addresses whether wealth gets in the way of salvation and if salvation is preordained. Bob shares a crisis of faith during a mission in college, what was formative during theological school, his first years as a minister, and a mid-career reflection. He recalls arriving at Covenant Presbyterian during the recession. He discusses how his language of proclamation is changing, the authority of the Bible, and his favorite theologians. Bob shares what he knows is true. plus Mark's personal word essay: Grace to Mystery To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Stephanie Cooper-Lewter is executive director of Leading on Opportunity, an initiative to improve economic mobility in Charlotte, North Carolina. She is responsible for developing goals and strategies to implement systemic change. Stephanie previously served as vice president of initiatives and public policy for the Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina and as president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Columbia, South Carolina. She has received numerous awards, including the University of Minnesota Distinguished Alumni Award. Stephanie earned a bachelor’s degree in social work from Bethel College, a master’s degree in social work from the University of Minnesota, and Ph.D. in social work from the University of South Carolina. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in economic mobility, leading systemic change, overcoming poverty and personal challenges, and living into purpose.   IN THIS EPISODE Stephanie explains the Leading on Opportunity Council and the relevance of the measurement upon which Charlotte is ranked among cities in economic mobility. She describes the timeline of events that led to the formation of a Leading on Opportunity Task Force and Leading on Opportunity Council. She notes what the Leading on Opportunity Task Force Report examined and recommended. She discusses cross-determinant factors of segregation and social capital in economic mobility. Stephanie talks about what theories of change are helping prioritize her work. She defines what she means by access and opportunity. She considers how the community has embraced the language of economic mobility and whether it is dampening other initiatives in Charlotte. She addresses the difference between equitable opportunity and equal chance in economic mobility work. Stephanie shares the circumstances of her birth in Indian and adoption in America. She remembers her adoptive mother and sisters and growing up in Minnesota. She recalls her time at Bethel College in St. Paul, how her life changed, and how her experience as a young single mom struggling with poverty informs her work today. She highlights how her career evolved and the wisdom figure who supported her most. Stephanie shares the challenges she has faced, how she is doing, and what is it about her work that resonates most with who she is. plus Mark's Personal Word Essay: Adopting Charlotte To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Sally Robinson is a civic leader and community volunteer whose contributions have shaped education, arts and culture in Charlotte and Durham. She has served on many boards, including the Charlotte Symphony, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Library, the McColl Center for Visual Arts, the Foundation For The Carolinas and Duke University. Sally was the visionary force behind the launch of the Levine Museum of the New South. She has received many awards for her service, including the Duke University Distinguished Alumni Award, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte Distinguished Service Award, the John Tyler Caldwell Award for the Humanities, the Charlotte Woman of the Year Award, and the Arts & Sciences Council Lifetime Commitment Award. Sally graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a degree in history from Duke University. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in family history, community service, connecting to ideas and possibility, and a lifelong friendship and love.   IN THIS EPISODE Sally describes her first home in Charlotte and growing up in the 1930s and 1940s. She tells a story about German POWs and chewing gum just after World War II. She remembers her father and the work he did in textile machinery. She talks about roaming the streets of downtown Charlotte in the 1940s. Sally shares her mother’s community service during the war and the example of civic leadership she established. She recalls her brothers’ heroic service during the war and the family routine of listening to the news and tracking the war effort. She discusses going to boarding school at Mary’s School in Raleigh and the influence of a particular teacher. She shares her first date with Russell Robinson and how it led to marriage. Sally talks about studying history and being a student at Duke University. She answers whether she ever felt limited as a homemaker during the 1950s. She describes how development patterns in Charlotte changed in the 1950s and 1960s. She reflects on segregation, the civil rights movement, and how her perceptions about race relations have evolved. Sally explains how her passion for civic life developed in the 1980s and 1990s and launching the Levine Museum of the New South came about. She answers whether there is a cause or issue that she might have been more involved in. She remembers the naming of the Robinson Center for Civic Leadership at the Foundation For The Carolinas in the 2000s. She shares what is on her mind today for Charlotte in the 2020s. She discusses connecting to community and her connection to Duke University. Sally answers why her marriage works so well and what’s next.  plus Mark's Personal Word Essay: Only Connect To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Howard Slutzky is a professor of psychology at Johnson & Wales University. He has a particular interest in the areas of emotional intelligence, positive psychology, and mindfulness. Howard offers numerous health and wellness workshops on topics such as relationships, stress reduction, time-management, grief and loss, dream interpretation, and coping with medical issues. He has worked in a variety of clinical settings including community mental health, college counseling, and private practice. He also has a part-time private practice where he conducts disability evaluations for Social Security. Howard earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland at College Park and a doctorate of psychology from Georgia School of Professional Psychology with a focus on general adult psychology. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in teaching psychology, interpreting dreams, surviving leukemia, overcoming personal trauma, and living authentically.   IN THIS EPISODE Howard describes a favorite lesson on alien hand syndrome he teaches in his Introduction to Psychology course. He answers why psychology classes are so popular on college campuses. He tells a story about a student seeking enlightenment. He talks about different workshops on mental health and wellness he leads and how he goes about interpreting dreams. Howard shares who he is in the classroom and what he wants his students to learn. He recalls his childhood in Potomac, Maryland, and his sister Elisa. He describes being diagnosed at the age of seven with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia and surviving cancer as a child. Howard recites a poem he wrote in graduate school called ‘Fallen Angel’ about isolation and pretending. He shares how he found his way to teaching and what he loves about it. He talks about discovering that his sister Elisa had been killed and managing the events that followed. He addresses going to work the day after his sister died. Howard answers where he is now emotionally, what has helped him manage his grief, and what he says to people experiencing tragedy and loss. He explains why the life and welfare of animals is so important to him. He shares what he knows today that he didn’t know before about overcoming trauma. plus Mark's Personal Word Essay: The Way of the Jain To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Debbie Warren is president and CEO of RAIN, formerly the Regional AIDS Interfaith Network. RAIN provides access to personalized care to individuals and their families who are living with HIV and associated chronic conditions so they may live healthier, fulfilled lives. Debbie founded RAIN, a non-profit organization, in 1992. She is also a founding member of the North Carolina AIDS Action Network and has been active in state and national advocacy efforts on behalf of HIV+ patients. She has taught at the US Conference on AIDS and joined experts on HIV/AIDS at The White House as part of a dialogue on the role of public-private partnerships in the National HIV/AIDS Strategy. Debbie has received numerous awards for her work, including the Human Rights Campaign Charlotte Legacy Award. She is an ordained Baptist minister. She is a graduate of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in helping people living with HIV/AIDS, pastoral care, the maturing of faith, and finding one’s identity in service and love.   IN THIS EPISODE Debbie describes RAIN and its core work of delivering services to those people living with HIV/AIDS. She identifies the HIV/AIDS population that RAIN is serving and the extent of HIV/AIDS as a public health issue. She discusses the number of people living with HIV/AIDS and the disproportionate effects of HIV in Mecklenburg County. She addresses whether the LGBTQ community has moved on from prioritizing HIV/AIDS intervention. Debbie considers whether communities of color are accepting the fact that HIV is impacting them to the extent that it is. She explains how RAIN integrates the voices of people living with HIV in its programs and services. She answers how a person gets HIV and prospects for health after a diagnosis. She talks about what gives her hope in the work she does. Debbie describes signature events of RAIN including Gay Bingo, AIDS Walk and annual World AIDS Day luncheon. She shares what draws her in to helping people living with HIV and AIDS. She remembers growing up in Jackson, Tennessee, her father, mother and grandmother, and what set the stage for the work she is doing now. She discusses the role West Jackson Baptist Church played in her life and her time attending Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Debbie remembers the early days of AIDS, coming out as a lesbian, and a conversation with her mother. She recalls two men who were instrumental in the start of RAIN. Debbie shares how she manages the loss of people she loves, how her faith has changed, her feelings about her own death one day, and what matters most. plus Mark's Personal Word Essay: The Best of Who We Are To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Freda Lester is a retired Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) Major. Over a 29-year career, Freda served in various capacities and districts. She served as a community liaison for several neighborhoods, creating programs that reduced crime and strengthened community advocacy. In her last post she commanded the Northwest Service Patrol Area, one of the most challenging patrol areas in the City of Charlotte. Freda has received numerous awards and accolades for her police work, including CMPD Officer of the Year and the CMPD Medal of Valor for saving the life of a citizen. She serves on several non-profit boards, including chairing the board of the Keith Family YMCA. She earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a master’s degree in business administration from Pfeiffer University. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in law enforcement, community policing, civil emergency response to protest, and a life dedicated to community safety.   IN THIS EPISODE Freda shares what wearing the badge meant to her. She assesses the relationship between the CMPD and the community. She tells a story about not being liked simply because she was a police officer. She identifies what CPMD is doing right in the community and what it could do better. Freda reveals what her priority would be if she was the police chief. She addresses how much of policing has become social work. She discusses her involvement and the police reaction in the Keith Lamont Scott shooting that led to protests and civil disturbance in the City of Charlotte. She answers criticism about how the CMPD Civil Emergency Unit responded to citizen protest during the Keith Lamont Scott shooting. Freda shares how she feels when citizens protest against the police. She discusses when a police shooting is justified. She tells a story about drawing her gun at a vehicle felony stop and controlling adrenaline. She remembers fellow officers who died from police killings and suicide. Freda talks about what makes for a good cop, what parents say to children about police officers, and how she feels when she arrests someone. She reveals what comes to mind when she hears the phrase ‘The Thin Blue Line.’ She remembers growing up on a farm, her time in high school, and how she came to join the CMPD. She talks about being a rookie cop, how her CMPD career evolved, and being promoted to Sergeant, Captain and then Major. Freda answers whether she still feels like a police officer and what’s next for her. plus Mark's Personal Word Essay: A Visit to Jail To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning

Stephen Valder is a pediatrician who practiced medicine for 24 years. He was a partner a Providence Pediatrics before retiring in 2016. He has since become interested in addressing the issue of affordable housing as an individual unaffiliated with a non-profit organziation. He is vice chair of the West Side Charlotte Community Land Trust, an owner of housing units that he rents to low-income residents, and an advocate for several affordable housing solutions. Stephen earned a Bachelor’s degree in biology at Duke University and an M.D. at Baylor College of Medicine. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in aptitudes and motivations, civic engagement, affordable housing, the obligations of privilege, and living one’s values.  IN THIS EPISODE Stephen describes how his first day of practice as a pediatrician was like his last day of practice. He shares what motivated him to retire from the practice of medicine. He answers whether his colleagues felt similar dissatisfaction with their work. He discusses applying multiple aptitudes on confined tasks. Stephen talks about the factors he balanced when deciding to retire from medicine. He addresses what was enough financially for him leaving medicine mid-career. He answers how his colleagues and patients responded when he retired. He reflects on whether he retired too young and going about engaging in community. Stephen explains why he became interested in affordable housing and how he has gone about contributing to solutions. He shares his experience of being a landlord and what he has learned. He discusses whether renting out his properties are a business or a mission. He answers whether he is more fulfilled in retirement. Stephen considers the benefits and the obligations of privilege. He talks about growing up in Charlotte and the influence and example of his parents. He notes the one person he met at Duke University who has had the most impact on his life. He shares how he came to practice pediatrics. Stephen reveals what he wants his to have been about. plus Mark's Personal Word Essay: Leo Tolstoy and the Blues To learn more, visit On Life and Meaning