All Stories Matter - Mary Reed Reminds Us: "Life is for the Living!"

Updated 2 days ago

Mary Reed is well known in many Kalamazoo circles, but her influence is felt in countless other cities in America. An artist, businesswoman, cosmetologist, community activist and truly kind person, Mary is one of the most engaging people I’ve met in quite a while. Listen to part one of her story, and I’m sure you’ll tune in for part two.

Chapters

Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:15)
Marvinetta Woodley Penn introduces herself and her podcast 'All Stories Matter', emphasizing the importance of storytelling.

Marvinetta Woodley Penn greets the audience and introduces the podcast 'All Stories Matter', explaining her belief that everyone has a story worth sharing and that all stories matter.
Purpose of the Podcast (00:00:35)
Marvinetta explains her motivation for starting the podcast, emphasizing the value of storytelling and human connection.

Marvinetta discusses why she started the podcast, expressing her genuine belief in the importance of stories and how they connect people, regardless of age, situation, or background.
Interviewing Mary Reed (00:01:04)
Marvinetta introduces her guest, Mary Reed, and discusses how she came to meet her through the Public Media Network.

Marvinetta introduces Mary Reed, her guest for the episode, and talks about her connection to the Public Media Network, praising its community contributions and encouraging support through donations.
Mary Reed's Background (00:01:56)
Mary Reed shares her life story from Illinois to Kalamazoo, including her experiences in Minnesota and her family's history.

Mary Reed outlines her background, detailing her journey from Illinois to Three Rivers and Portage, her time raising children in Minnesota, and her eventual return to Kalamazoo to be close to family, illustrating her deep connections and life changes.
Public Media Network's Impact (00:03:33)
Discussion on the positive impact of Public Media Network in the community and its support for creative initiatives.

Marvinetta and Mary discuss the significant role Public Media Network has played in the community, supporting creative initiatives and providing opportunities for people to engage, learn, and create, highlighting its value and need for public support.
Mary Reed's Return to Kalamazoo (00:04:33)
Mary shares her experience of returning to Kalamazoo to support her father after her mother's sudden passing.

Mary Reed recounts her decision to return to Kalamazoo from Minneapolis to support her father after her mother's unexpected death, sharing the emotional journey and the adjustments her family made during this challenging time.
Exploration of Kalamazoo's Opportunities (00:05:56)
Mary explores the opportunities and changes in Kalamazoo since her return, highlighting community engagement.

Mary discusses her exploration of the new opportunities in Kalamazoo since her return, mentioning her involvement in various community activities, the changes she has witnessed, and her enthusiasm for the city's dynamic environment.
Mary's Educational and Professional Background (00:07:59)
Mary shares her educational journey, including her time at Portage Northern High School and Western Michigan University.

Mary Reed talks about her educational background, from graduating from Portage Northern High School, being active in various school activities, to studying at Western Michigan University, where she pursued a degree with an emphasis in journalism.
Contributions to Hair Braiding Industry (00:12:02)
Mary's involvement in advocating for hair braiders' rights and establishing a national registry for braiders.

Mary Reed describes her significant contributions to the hair braiding industry, including her efforts to establish a national registry for hair braiders to practice without penalties, advocating for the recognition of traditional skills not taught in schools.
Mary's Influence and Legacy (00:14:12)
Mary reflects on her role as a catalyst for change, helping others realize their potential and create impactful projects.

Mary reflects on her role as a catalyst for change, discussing her influence in helping others, like a former student who established a foundation to combat trafficking, and her passion for empowering individuals to achieve their goals and make a difference.
Discovering Passion for Cosmetology (00:28:16)
The speaker shares how traveling inspired them to pursue cosmetology, learning new techniques and eventually attending cosmetology school in Minnesota.

The speaker discusses their love for travel and how it served as an opportunity to learn and refine new skills and techniques in cosmetology. They recount the decision to attend cosmetology school after moving to Minnesota, driven by a desire to make a career out of their passion.
An Encounter with Celebrity Styling (00:28:54)
The speaker talks about inheriting clients from a celebrity stylist and the challenges of working with extensions.

While working at a salon, the speaker had the opportunity to inherit clients from a stylist who worked with celebrities, including Prince. They discuss the experience of working with extensions and the learning curve associated with styling different types of hair.
Transitioning and Finding New Opportunities (00:30:32)
The speaker reflects on their move from Michigan to Minnesota, using resources to choose a new place to live.

After considering several cities, the speaker chose to move to Minnesota by using resources like the Best Places to Live Almanac and subscribing to local newspapers. They reflect on the decision-making process and the importance of living in a place that aligns with their interests.
Supporting the Next Generation (00:33:34)
The speaker emphasizes the importance of guiding and supporting young people in their journey.

The speaker discusses their belief in the potential of young people and the importance of setting an example and providing guidance. They stress that it is a responsibility to help younger generations understand what the world expects of them and to prepare them to succeed.
Returning to Kalamazoo (00:35:35)
The speaker talks about returning to Kalamazoo and the possibility of moving again.

After returning to Kalamazoo to support their family, the speaker reflects on the idea of moving to another place. They express a desire to continue exploring and living life fully, despite being settled in one location.
The Significance of Hair (00:38:00)
The speaker discusses the cultural and personal significance of hair, particularly for women.

Hair is a significant topic for many women, especially those of African descent. The speaker, a hair specialist, talks about the importance of feeling good about one's hair, regardless of its condition, and the societal pressures surrounding hair appearance.
Writing and Educating on Hair Safety (00:39:36)
The speaker introduces their book on safety for cosmetologists, filled with games and information.

To address the lack of safety knowledge for cosmetologists, the speaker wrote a book that includes practical information and engaging activities. They share their motivation for writing the book and how it serves as a resource for those in the beauty industry.
Embracing Change and Positivity (00:41:00)
The speaker shares thoughts on embracing change and maintaining a positive outlook.

In discussing life changes, the speaker encourages embracing new experiences and maintaining a positive mindset. They share personal insights on how to navigate life's transitions and the importance of being adaptable and open to new opportunities.
Exploring Wheat Weaving (00:48:45)
The speaker describes their passion for wheat weaving, an art form with cultural significance.

The speaker explains how they transitioned from hair braiding to the art of wheat weaving. They highlight the cultural roots of this craft, its presence in various continents, and their personal journey in mastering it. The speaker mentions their involvement in exhibits and their plans to continue exploring this artistic pursuit.
The Stay-at-Home Wife (00:56:36)
A discussion about traditional roles, highlighting a wife's role as a homemaker and the influence of maternal advice.

The conversation explores the role of a stay-at-home wife, who managed household duties and encouraged her family to embrace life's opportunities. The influence of maternal guidance is emphasized, suggesting a shared experience with the same mother.
The Importance of Sharing Stories (00:56:59)
Emphasizing the value of sharing personal stories with children to strengthen family bonds and legacy.

The speaker underscores the importance of telling personal stories to children. This act is portrayed as a way to pass down family history and values, ensuring that children carry forward the legacy and lessons of their parents.
Listening and Embracing (00:57:17)
Encouragement to actively listen to children, provide comfort, and reassure them of their value and perfection.

Listeners are encouraged to be attentive to their children, to embrace them physically and emotionally. By holding children close and listening, parents can convey love and reassurance, affirming that their children are perfect and all is well.
Conclusion and Gratitude (00:57:34)
The show wraps up with gratitude and a promise to return, fostering an ongoing connection with the audience.

The program concludes with a heartfelt thank you to the audience for tuning in. The host expresses appreciation and promises to continue the conversation in future episodes, maintaining engagement and connection with viewers.