All Stories Matter - Jodi Michaels: Global Ties Kalamazoo

Updated 1 day ago

Jodi discusses her journey from Canada to California, to New York to Kalamazoo, as well as a few stops and experiences along the way– including synchronized swimming! We also learn about her work and passion, Global Ties Kalamazoo.

Chapters

Introduction and Welcome (00:00:07)
The host, Marvinetta Woodley Penn, introduces the podcast and emphasizes the importance of stories.

Marvinetta Woodley Penn welcomes viewers to the podcast, regardless of their time zone. He introduces himself and the theme of the podcast, 'All Stories Matter,' expressing his belief in the significance of every individual's story.
Introduction of Guest: Jodi Hope Michaels (00:02:26)
Jodi Hope Michaels, the guest of the day, is introduced to share her story.

Marvinetta introduces her guest, Jodi Hope Michaels, who will be sharing her story. Jodi expresses her gratitude for being on the show and begins to talk about her background and experiences.
Jodi's Background and Journey to California (00:03:37)
Jodi shares her journey from Hamilton, Ontario to college in California.

Jodi talks about her upbringing in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, and how she decided to attend college in California. She reflects on the challenges of moving far from home and becoming an international student.
Synchronized Swimming and College Life (00:04:45)
Jodi discusses her involvement in synchronized swimming and her college experience.

Jodi explains how her participation in synchronized swimming played a role in her college journey. She describes the sport, its appeal, and how it contributed to her decision to attend Stanford.
Jodi's Adventurous Spirit and Family Background (00:07:01)
Jodi reflects on her adventurous nature and shares details about her family.

Jodi talks about her adventurous spirit, her family's support, and her siblings. She describes her experiences growing up and how her family influenced her love for swimming and exploration.
Career Path and Nonprofit Work (00:12:08)
Jodi discusses her career path and work in nonprofits, focusing on social justice.

Jodi shares her diverse career path, including her work in the Middle East and her passion for human rights and social justice. She highlights the importance of her experiences in shaping her current role in nonprofit organizations.
Global Ties Kalamazoo and Its Impact (00:23:32)
Jodi describes her role at Global Ties Kalamazoo and its mission to connect communities.

Jodi explains her role as Executive Director of Global Ties Kalamazoo, an organization that facilitates international exchanges. She discusses the importance of cultural exchange in fostering global understanding and connection.
Introduction to International Programs (00:33:15)
Discussion of international programs involving multiple countries and virtual exchanges with high schoolers from Haiti.

The segment begins with an introduction to a group of programs that involve participants from multiple countries. There is a specific mention of a virtual exchange program with high school students from Haiti, highlighting the international scope and collaborative nature of these initiatives.
Fellowships and Funding (00:33:32)
Explanation of fellowship programs and the variety of funding sources supporting international exchanges.

This segment elaborates on the different types of fellowship programs available, including those that are privately and publicly funded. The discussion covers the involvement of social workers for short-term programs and the long-term fellowship opportunities, emphasizing the diverse funding sources and the impact of these programs.
Outbound Exchanges from Kalamazoo (00:34:14)
Details on outbound exchange programs allowing participants from Kalamazoo to visit other countries.

The focus shifts to outbound exchange programs, discussing how participants from Kalamazoo, and potentially other areas, can engage in international exchanges. This includes visits to other countries, enabling participants to experience different cultures and further international collaboration.
Specific Fellowship Example: YLAI (00:35:05)
An example of the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) fellowship program, bringing entrepreneurs to the U.S.

A detailed example of the YLAI fellowship is provided, where young entrepreneurs from the Americas are brought to the U.S. for field placements in different locations. This includes a mention of a collaborative film project between a fellow from Bolivia and an organization in the U.S.
Building International Communities (00:35:47)
Discussion on the process of building international communities through conversations and projects.

This section delves into the ways international communities are built through conversations and collaborative projects. It highlights the importance of these interactions in fostering relationships and creating projects that contribute to building a global community.
Challenges and Benefits of Virtual Exchanges (00:36:35)
Exploration of the challenges and benefits of virtual exchanges compared to in-person interactions.

The conversation explores the challenges and benefits of virtual exchanges, including the ease of maintaining relationships through technology but the difficulty of replicating in-person interactions. The importance of informal time and opportunities to get to know people in person is emphasized.
Impact of Current Administration on Programs (00:37:33)
Analysis of how the current administration's policies impact funding and international exchanges.

This segment addresses the impact of the current administration on international programs, focusing on funding issues and the broader implications for international exchanges. Despite uncertainties, the value of fostering unfiltered interactions between people is highlighted.
Navigating Visa Challenges (00:39:32)
Discussion on the challenges faced by international partners in obtaining visas to the U.S.

The challenges associated with obtaining visas for international partners are discussed, with specific examples of ease and difficulty in different regions. The importance of continued international collaboration despite these challenges is underscored.
Future Vision for International Exchanges (00:40:26)
Vision for expanding international exchanges, particularly outbound programs for Kalamazoo residents.

The future vision includes expanding outbound international exchanges for Kalamazoo residents, with a focus on youth development and fostering global connections. The goal is to create meaningful exchange experiences that enhance personal and professional development.
Personal Journey and Reflections (00:49:01)
Reflection on personal journey and the importance of global connections in the speaker's life.

The speaker reflects on their personal journey, emphasizing the role of global connections throughout their life. The narrative includes personal anecdotes and experiences that highlight the significance of international interactions and cultural exchanges.
Conclusion and Encouragement for Connection (01:01:17)
Final thoughts on the importance of making personal connections and understanding through stories.

The concluding remarks encourage making personal connections and understanding others through their stories. The speaker highlights the value of being present and listening deeply to others as a means of building a more connected and beautiful world.