Episode Notes[00:00] Reflecting on 2024: A Solo Journey[01:29] Shreya and Esha Venkat: Making a Positive Impact[02:17] Jimmy D. Smith: Mentorship and Strategic Friction[03:10] Derek Sivers: Embracing Hard Questions[04:26] Chaz Scott: Radical Self-Care and Personal Growth[05:14] Kwame Sarfo-Mensah: Identity and Cultural Affirmation[06:23] Bill Reed: Engaging with Heartfelt Questions[07:03] Joe Primo: Gratitude and Life's Transitions[08:01] David Pearl: Stretching Imagination with Questions[08:50] Bobby Morgan: Restorative Practices in Education[09:55] EbonyJanice Moore: Honoring Black Women[11:15] Amy Herman: Visual Intelligence and Curiosity[12:18] Jenny Hegland: The Story Behind the Poem[13:04] Austin Graff: Caring Through Questions[14:08] Nikki Giovanni: A Legacy of Conversation[16:21] Cal Fussman: The Art of the Interview[17:33] Brian Fretwell: Transforming Conversations[18:23] Stephanie Easter: Navigating Leadership with Questions[19:15] Jerry Colonna: Deep Questions on Belonging[20:30] Lynn Borton: Choosing to be Curious[21:08] Wrapping Up 2024: Celebrating the Power of Questions[22:10] Looking Ahead to 2025: Enhancements and Community Growth Resources MentionedShreyaa VenkatEsha VenkatNEST4USJimmy D. SmithDerek SiversChazz ScottSuccess Starts Within: Achieve Your Potential Through Radical Self-Care by Chazz ScottKwame Sarfo-MensahLearning to Relearn: Supporting Identity in a Culturally Affirming Classroom by Kwame Sarfo-MensahBill ReedJoe PrimoGrateful LivingBrother David Steindl-RastConnecticut HospiceDavid PearlStreet WisdomBobby MorganEbonyJanice MooreAll The Black Girls Are Activists: A Fourth Wave Womanist Pursuit Of Dreams As Radical Resistance by EbonyJaniceSister Citizen by Melissa Harris-PerryAmy HermanVisual Intelligence: Sharpen Your Perception, Change Your Life by Amy HermanJenny HeglandThe Good Listening ProjectUnlimited BoundariesAustin GraffNikki GiovanniJames BaldwinVirginia FowlerCal FussmanMuhammad AliMikhail GorbachevBig Questions PodcastBig Questions Podcast: The Great Farewell for Larry KingLarry KingBrian FretwellFinding GoodSteffanie EasterJerry ColonnaREBOOT: Leadership and the Art of Growing Up by Jerry ColonnaREUNION: Leadership and the Longing to Belong by Jerry ColonnaLynn BortonChoose to be Curious PodcastBeauty PillProducer Ben Ford Questions AskedHow can I take this forward in a way that works for me, that works for the community, and that benefits the greatest amount of people? Shreyaa VenkatHow do you use friction strategically? Jimmy D. SmithWhat do I want more of? Brian FretwellWhat do I need less of? Derek SiversWhy do I think I need more? Derek SiversIs more the solution? Derek SiversIs less the solution here? Derek SiversWhat habit do I need to let go of so I can show up as my authentic self? Chazz ScottWhat is the origin of my preconceived notions about a particular group of people? Kwame Sarfo-MensahHow are you doing? Bill ReedOne day people will gather to celebrate your life. They'll either have a deep well to draw from, or they'll have to make stuff up. And what do you want them to say is the question? Bill ReedWhat can I celebrate today by seeing it as new rather than something mundane? Joe PrimoReally? David PearlWhat would it look like for Black women to get to live from that place, to create from that place, to imagine from that place, to build new ethic and curriculum and language, and push culture forward from that place? EbonyJaniceHow can I ask the right questions to elicit information from this work of art to change how people look so they, in turn, can see better? Amy HermanWhat is the historical context of the place? Austin GraffWhat is the culture like now? Austin GraffWhat are some of the biggest disappointments or tensions in the area? Austin GraffHow are you taking risks? Steffanie EasterHow do you persist? Steffanie EasterHow have I been complicit in creating the conditions I say I don't want? Jerry ColonnaWhat is it that I have to give up that makes me feel safe so that the conditions of the world create belonging for everyone? Jerry Colonna

Shreyaa Venkat and Esha Venkat were inspired by their parents model of serving those in need, and founded the non-profit NEST4US, that is N.E.S.T Numeral 4 U.S., as a philanthropic platform built upon kindness, generosity, and social good. With the mission of making the world better through kindness by mobilizing volunteers worldwide to advance progress on societal issues and spark equitable solutions for the greater good. Their work has received significant recognition, including the George H.W. Bush Points of Light Award in 2020, which was co-chaired by all four living former presidents. Their year-end 2023 numbers include 7,000 volunteers, 85,000 blessing bags, and over $4.2M of meals donated across 30 countries and six continents.The stats are impressive; what makes this nearly insane is this sibling effort started when they were ages 13 and 10.Shreyaa is now 22 years old, the CEO of NEST4US, and a Global Health accelerated master's student at Georgetown University. She is pursuing a career in health policy, combining her passions for health equity, climate advocacy, and volunteerism to aid marginalized communities worldwide.Esha is 19 years old, the COO of NEST4US, and is at Georgia Institute of Technology majoring in Public Policy with a minor in Global Development. Over the past decade, she has contributed over 7000 hours of service, engaging people through a wide array of global service campaigns.The sisters discuss the challenges they faced as young activists, the importance of asking questions, and their efforts to expand the nonprofit's impact both locally and globally. The conversation also touches on their personal development, the significance of self-care, and how community service has shaped their lives. Shreyaa and Esha emphasize the importance of involving young people in sustainable development and the power of simple acts of kindness. The episode encourages listeners to consider how they can make a difference in their communities and impact the world positively. Listen in for lots of questions!This Curated Questions episode can be found on all major platforms and at CuratedQuestions.com.Keep questioning!Episode Notes[00:48] Meet Shreya and Isha Venkat[03:27] The Power of Questions[05:37] Travel and Cultural Awareness[08:04] Adapting Service to Local Needs[19:05] Early Beginnings of NEST4US[23:42] Expanding Programs and Community Impact[40:02] Creating a Bond Through Music[41:26] Engaging Volunteers Beyond Service Hours[42:55] Balancing Quantitative and Qualitative Impact[47:35] Adapting to Virtual Platforms During COVID[52:18] Expanding Internationally and Embracing Community[53:55] Aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals[01:00:54] Challenges and Growth in Social Impact Work[01:12:20] Reflecting and Adapting for Future Impact[01:17:03] Navigating Challenges and Saying No[01:18:29] Aligning with United Nations SDGs and Managing Programs[01:19:47] Seizing Opportunities and Mentorship[01:29:48] Current Questions and Future Plans[01:34:22] The Role of Martial Arts in Leadership[01:39:45] The Importance of Self-Care[01:45:08] Encouraging Community Involvement Resources MentionedNEST4USNEST BuddiesNEST InspiresNEST NurturesNEST TutorsNEST KaresIntact TechCiscoUnited Nations Sustainable Development GoalsWhole FoodsUnited Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)Beauty PillProducer Ben Ford Questions AskedWhen did you first understand the power of questions?Are we there yet?Travel, what, does that look like for you?How, how had questions been a part of travel?Where were some of the places that you went to?How did questions inform some of your experience, either preparation wise or while you were there?How can we bring the ideas and the magic of NEST4US to this country?How can we be able to connect and collaborate with similar organizations that exist globally?What are the questions that you think about in those three buckets for that particular location  to engage with the local communities?How can I bring nest for us to Tanzania in a way that fits the Tanzanian context?Who are we working with?Who are we supporting?What are the needs as said by them?How do we also remain culturally consciousHow can we best listen and learn to the community members there, in order to create the best change possible and a change that really fits well in the context of the country itself?Being aware of targeting or serving the local need, and then listening to what that actual need is, was that learned through mistake?Did you get voices early on in your process of getting things going where you heard that and that became a part of, your work?What is happening?What is the mission?What is the values of the specific organization, group, individual that is doing whatever work that is in that community?What are common bad assumptions folks make?What questions did you consider as you were standing things up as you're developing NEST4US?How can we bring this kind of joy, this kind of passion in a space where other friends, other families and other friends can come together and enjoy it as much as we do?How do we involve young people, families, and different groups of people in a way that allows them to impact the community in a way that they're passionate about?How do we get people to join us?How do we get our volunteers?How do we get people to believe in our mission and help out at all of our events?How do we scale?How do we get more people involved?Am I really making a difference?Is this really having an impact?Why don't we have the opportunity?What are the questions that you work through as you evaluate adding more  of these opportunities or categories?What is the problem?What are the things impacting the problem?Why is this a gap in our community?How can we, who are the people behind the work that's going to be done?What are the challenges and barriers that you might face when you try to work with different people, bring different people together?How can we prepare for that in a way that is equitable, that's fair, and that's not harming anyone in any way?What does success look like?How do we measure that?How do we see it?How do we notice it?How do we document it?How do we replicate it in the future?What are some things similar that we've done in the past?What works or what was some feedback that we thought would might be different?What song do you want to add to the playlist?Are there any questions you use to engage volunteers when they're coming in?Which of these projects are you really feeling like engaging in today?What do you think about this?Is this something you're interested in?How is it different between the in person events versus events that are literally spanning the globe?What are some of the questions that really resonate with you as you look at these goals?How do we bring this to the local level that we were working onWhat is the role of youth in accelerating progress for the [United Nations] Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?How can we engage as many people as possible?How do we harness that power of community to really drive about change and also advance those goals that we have of youth leadership and giving people that opportunity to play a role in something that they've clearly are passionate about?Who are we to stop that?How has it been for you in engaging with these leaders from all over the place?Are there any particular questions that you think are not being asked or do not get the attention that it deserves?What is the role of young people in sustainable development?We need young people, but how?What is meaningful youth engagement?What does 'meaningful' mean?How do we balance addressing urgent needs, like right now, short term needs with building that sustainable long term solutions that we need?Are you just stumbling, fumbling, trying to figure your way through that?What does that look like for you?Is this making an impact?What's going well?What are people telling us?What do we need to edit?What do we need to change?What do we need to keep the sameHow do we ensure that we're still helping and staying true to that mission?What does it look like for you to say no?How do you keep those aligned with the UN SDGs without overstretching our bandwidths as individuals or our volunteers, or settling with just limited surface level engagement?What if we did this and it worked out?What if we did this and it didn't work out?What can we get out of this opportunity?How can we support others?How can we continue to uplift the messages that we are trying to share through NEST4US?Why can't both things be true?What do you think is often misunderstood about those in need?What is your right now question?How can I be the bridge between grassroots work and the policy realm in order to maximize impact in the most equitable and cost effective way?How can we take these words and these questions and turn them into answers that is done in a formalized way?How can we take those policies and make sure they're being translated properly on the ground in order to ensure that everyone has the opportunity and access and quality services that they need most?What is that transition going to look like?How we can bring, that magic of NEST4US to campus?Are there going to be new projects that we're thinking about implementing or old projects that we want to boost up?What has earning black belts taught you?Do you guys ever sleep?What are my priorities at this moment?Is this something I should really be pouring my energy into?Are these the people that I want to pour my energy into?How can we be like that?How can I take this forward in a way that works for me, that works for the community, and that benefits the greatest amount of people?What can we do today to make the world better in the future?What is that one action or that those actions that we can take to actually make a difference in the world?What if all 8 billion of us in the world did one kind act every single day?What if everybody in the world helped just that one person?How do we encourage others to ask better questions themselves?How do we encourage each other to then take action after asking themselves these questions?How do I get involved?

EbonyJanice Moore is the founder and CEO of The Free People Project and The EbonyJanice Project. She has authored several books, and her most recent release is “All The Black Girls Are Activists: A Fourth Wave Womanist Pursuit Of Dreams As Radical Resistance.” Her Spiritual Mentorship Program, entitled “Dream Yourself Free,” is designed to support Black Women in healing intergenerational wounds and prioritizing pleasure.Her talks embody a Hip Hop Womanist perspective. She is the visionary and creator of Black Girl Mixtape, a platform and safe think space that elevates the intellectual authority of Black Women.She founded the All The Black Girls Are Bestsellers Campaign, raising over a million dollars to mass-purchase Black femme books to achieve the coveted status of New York Times Bestseller. This project endeavored to spend most of these funds in small Black and Indie-owned bookstores, giving thousands of books to individuals and organizations nationwide.EbonyJanice earned her Bachelor's in cultural anthropology and Political Science and a Master's of Arts in Social Change with a concentration in Spiritual Leadership, Womanist Theology, and Racial Justice.I have followed EbonyJanice on social media for several years, learned from her worldview, and wanted to create a space for a deeper discussion about how questions have been a companion in her multi-faceted journey.EbonyJanice recounts how her grandmother taught her to question texts early on. She shares insights from her spiritual mentorship program, 'Dream Yourself Free', and discusses her book 'All the Black Girls Are Activists' which delves into Black women's pursuit of dreams as resistance. EbonyJanice elaborates on the power of dreaming from a place of safety rather than resistance and the impact of nurturing Black women in her community. The discussion touches on societal pressures, systemic inequities, and the potential for transformative change when Black women are listened to and supported.This Curated Questions episode can be found on all major platforms and at CuratedQuestions.com.Keep questioning!Episode Notes[02:33] The Power of Questions[04:50] Dreaming Beyond Resistance[12:44] Exploring Love and Relationships[20:39] Patriarchy and Society[24:18] Honoring Latresha Gowdy[31:03] The Journey of Self-Discovery[38:12] Faith and Imagination[40:19] Imagination and Faith: Childhood Reflections[44:05] Expansive View of God and the Universe[45:47] Softness and Vulnerability of Black Women[51:09] Listening to Black Women: A Call to Action[01:07:40] Personal Journey: Embracing African Spirituality[01:15:48] Final Thoughts and Encouragement Resources MentionedAll The Black Girls Are Activists: A Fourth Wave Womanist Pursuit Of Dreams As Radical Resistance by EbonyJanice MooreFannie Lou HamerCrush on You video by Lil' KimSomething's Got to Give with Diane Keaton and Jack NicholsonIfá and Orisha initiationTeaching Community a Pedagogy of Hope by Bell HooksKamala HarrisMartin Luther King Jr.Barack and Michelle ObamaAudrey LordeAngela DavisChanequa Walker-BarnesSister Citizen by Melissa Harris-PerrySonya Renee TaylorMahogany L. BrowneZakiyyah Abdul-MateenNikki BlakRoya MarshIfá Yoruba ReligionJames BaldwinJerry ColonnaJay-ZEbonyJanice.comBeauty PillProducer Ben Ford Questions AskedWhen did you first understand the power of questions?What other questions do you have?Who would I get to be if I got to create my life from a place of dreaming and not always resistance?Can you unpack that a little bit more or talk around what you're seeking to get at with that question?What is the difference between me and my friend?What would it look like if we could all just exist and not be carrying the weight of, a capitalist anti-black white supremacist society on our shoulders at the age of six?What kind of questions currently fuel your imagination?Is there an equivalent in male form of my girlfriends?What would it look like if I radically love myself?Who would I be if I really radically loved myself?What are you going to do for freedom today?Can you please say some more about how she lived this question?How do you even know that?How do you know that you can say that?What happened to spark this?What happened to inspire this for you to even try this for you to even walk in that direction?You know, what about me?What areas of my life have I not given myself the permission to be more EbonyJanice?What areas of my life have I not explored?How the heck did you know this?Where the heck did you get that from?Was I not paying attention during that sermon?Where was that one chapter of the Bible you didn't read?What is God doing on Saturn right now?Why did he name them?What was God thinking to organize the Big Dipper?What does the Big Dipper mean?What does God look like?What does God sound like?What is God doing?What's God doing here?What is God doing over there?What does God do?Why isn't God doing what would be helpful?What questions must we wrestle with to achieve a world in which soft black women thrive?What would it look like for Black women to get to live from that place, to create from that place, to imagine from that place, to build new ethic and curriculum and language, and push culture forward from that place?What is your right now question?what does it mean to be a priest?Do you have any other thoughts or encouragements about questions that we haven't necessarily explored?Is that true?Is that my voice?Do I really believe this?What is my own evidence that causes me to believe this?Is there possible that there are more than one truth?More than one path to this thing, if so, what is the other path?Where's the best place for folks to engage with you, reach out, find out what you're excited about and learn more about you?

In this engaging discussion, Jerry Colonna, a leadership coach and co-founder of Reboot.io, delves into the transformative power of questioning. He shares his journey from journalism to coaching, highlighting how curiosity fuels personal growth. The conversation explores difficult questions of belonging, accountability, and generational trauma. Jerry emphasizes the importance of empathy and reclaiming one's ancestry to foster change. With heartfelt anecdotes, he illustrates how storytelling can deepen connections and promote healing across generations.

Joe Primo is the CEO of Grateful Living, an organization based on the work of Brother David Steindl-Rast — 98 year-old author, scholar, and Benedictine monk who is also known as the “grandfather of gratitude.” In his prior work with dying patients and grieving children, Joe encountered the deep sorrow and always-available joy that permeates our search for meaning. Gratefulness for life, he believes, is foundational to discovering meaning and the only response that is big enough and appropriate for the plot twists, delights, surprises, and devastation we encounter along the way. A student of Brother David since his studies at Yale Divinity School, Joe is committed to advancing their global movement and making the transformational practice of grateful living both accessible to all and integral to communities and places of belonging.  As an international speaker, author, and commentator, Joe has served on numerous boards. He is the author of “What Do We Tell the Children? Talking to Kids About Death and Dying.” He was previously the CEO of Good Grief. Joe recounts his early experiences as a hospice chaplain, highlighting the importance of asking well-crafted, intentional questions to connect with and support grieving individuals. He emphasizes the foundational role of gratefulness in discovering meaning in life and shares stories from his work with children and families facing death. Joe discusses how grief, while universal and normal, is often mishandled due to societal discomfort and lack of understanding. He urges listeners to acknowledge, embrace, and integrate grief to move forward healthily. The conversation also delves into the commercialization of gratitude and how to return to its core essence as a spiritual practice. The episode concludes with Joe's reflections on living a grateful life, making improbable friends, and asking courageous questions to foster deeper understanding and connections. This Curated Questions episode can be found on all major platforms and at CuratedQuestions.com. Keep questioning! Episode Notes[01:09] Meet Joe Primo: CEO of Grateful Living[02:36] The Power of Questions in Grief and Healing[03:31] A Chaplain's Journey: Lessons from Hospice[06:18] The Importance of Presence and Connection[14:39] Personal Reflections on Grief and Loss[20:54] Exploring the Concept of Grateful Living[35:09] The Interconnectedness of Grief and Gratitude[44:34] Anticipatory Grief and Caretaking Challenges[46:15] The Power of Questions in Understanding Grief[46:50] Navigating Grief Bursts and Emotional Roller Coasters[49:00] Insensitive Comments and Their Impact[51:59] The Importance of Showing Up Despite Awkwardness[54:57] Shifting Perspectives on Grief and Support[01:00:10] Embracing Gratefulness and Present Moment Awareness[01:04:42] The Role of Questions in Healing and Connection[01:13:15] Empowerment Through Grateful Living[01:25:31] Final Thoughts and Encouragements Resources MentionedGrateful LivingBrother David Steindl-RastWhat Do We Tell the Children? Talking to Kids About Death and Dying by Joe PrimoGood GriefConnecticut HospiceVictor FrankelJohn Paul LederachYou Are Here by Brother David Steindl-RastRainer Maria RilkeTao Te ChingRabbi Sharon BrousGrateful Grief Course at Grateful LivingGrateful Gatherings Course at Grateful LivingBeauty PillProducer Ben Ford Questions AskedWhen did you first understand the power of questions?What other secrets did Grandpa have?What's my point in this story?How did he enrich your life?What will you miss most about him?What about him now or at the end of his life really surprised you?What do you wish he understood about you that he didn't?How do I begin this conversation?What are the questions that I need to ask to achieve those goals I named earlier of understandingWhat hopes did you have for baby J while you were pregnant?How did you imagine your life would change as parents?What are the best characteristics you think the other parent would've shared and given to Baby J?What type of life did you envision for him?Can you not see what everybody else is seeing here?What else didn't happen?If you had been able to sit with that 14-year-old self and ask those questions, how do you think that would have changed you?How did that work?Am I alone in this?Are my thoughts ridiculous?Am I a little crazy here?What does this mean?Why is it that there was a draw for you to even be working in that capacity?Why are we here?What is the meaning of all of this?Life is a gift, and what are we to do with it?What is the object in which we give gratitude?Is gratitude itself just sufficient to exist?Does there need to be an object to whom it is the thanks is given?What are some of the ways gratitude has been cheapened?What are ways to intentionally undo that or to get back to the heart of it, instead of the cheap knockoffs that we've been paying attention to?What is misunderstood about grieving?What is grief?Why did this happen?Why did this happen to me?Why did this happen to the person?What is the meaning of this?Where is the meaning in this moment?How will I live my life based on, or despite the events that have occurred?Who do I want to become?How can our questions help us understand what this experience or day is like?How are you saying this to children?Are you kidding me?What questions do you carry with you and often revisit?What does this moment have to offer me right now?What can I celebrate today by seeing it a new, rather than something that is mundaneHow do you think that's changing your relationship or response to those observations or moments?How do we become more alive?What makes us more alive?What happened to you?What do you do with this imperfection?

Amy Herman is a recovering lawyer and the founder and president of her company, The Art of Perception. Amy combines her litigation background with her training as an art historian to help a diverse clientele sharpen observation, analysis, and communication skills through a four-step framework of Assess, Analyze, Articulate, and Act. The roots of this work began while she was serving as the head of education at The Frick Collection in New York City. She took medical students out of their clinical setting and brought them to an art museum to teach them how to analyze works of art so that when they returned to the hospital in the clinical setting, they would be better observers of their patients. Amy subsequently adapted the program for a wide range of professionals and leads sessions for the New York City Police Department, the FBI, the French National Police, the Department of Defense, Interpol, the State Department, Fortune 500 companies, first responders, retailers, and the military. In her highly participatory presentation, she demonstrates the necessity for astute visual literacy and how analyzing works of art affords participants an innovative way to refresh their sense of critical inquiry and skills necessary for sharper performance and effective leadership. The program has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The CBS Evening News, and Smithsonian Magazine. Her 2018 TED talk, A Lesson on Looking, has amassed nearly 1M views. Ms. Herman holds an A.B., a J.D., and an M.A. in art history. Her May 2016 book, Visual Intelligence: Sharpen Your Perception, Change Your Life, was on the New York Times and Washington Post best sellers’ lists. Her second book, Fixed: How to Perfect the Fine Art of Problem-Solving, was published in December 2021, and her third book, smART: Use Your Eyes to Boost Your Brain, was published in October 2022. Amy shares her experiences from law and art history, emphasizing how questioning can broaden knowledge and improve problem-solving skills. Additionally, her expertise underscores the significance of effective communication, human connections, and shared experiences across personal and professional contexts. The conversation touches on themes of situational awareness, self-reflection, and the growth that comes from embracing imperfections, drawing on real-life examples and anecdotes, like learning from a retired prison guard and understanding trauma through the art of kintsugi. This Curated Questions episode can be found on all major platforms and at CuratedQuestions.com. Keep questioning! Episode Notes[00:48] Meet Amy Herman: Lawyer Turned Art Historian[02:16] The Power of Questions in Art and Life[04:44] Art and Observation: Transforming Perspectives[06:36] Personal Stories and Reflections[10:29] Engaging with Art and Humanity[21:06] The Importance of Clear Communication[31:12] Finding Common Ground Through Art[40:50] The Unique Perspective of Art Guards[41:50] Engaging with Art Through Questions[43:24] Personal Stories and Art[47:42] The Power of Situational Awareness[51:29] The Importance of Asking Hard Questions[55:16] Learning and Unlearning Through Questions[01:13:29] The Mandate to Share Experiences[01:14:50] Final Thoughts and Encouragements Resources MentionedThe Art of PerceptionThe Frick CollectionVisual Intelligence: Sharpen Your Perception, Change Your Life by Amy HermanFixed: How to Perfect the Fine Art of Problem-Solving by Amy HermansmART: Use Your Eyes to Boost Your Brain by Amy HermanHelen McKenzieMee ShimMetropolitan Museum of ArtMrs. Hannah Winthrop by John Singleton CopleyNicolaes Ruts by RembrandtDr. Edgar MunhallMonica, son's babysitterPhilip Seymour HoffmanHirshhornJohannes VermeerFaith RinggoldMrs. Kate Moore by John Singer SargentCobalt Blue Dress by Amoako BoafoPhilippa Pham HughesKintsugiAmy Herman on InstagramBeauty PillProducer Ben Ford Questions AskedWhen did you first understand the power of questions?Do you have any art exercises that I could do with my kids?how can we ask better questions of looking at art?In your training as a art historian, are questions an equal part of a foundation of understanding?How can I ask the right questions to elicit information from this work of art to change how people look so they, in turn, can see better?how was your son's growing-up experience different as a result of your work?How did I miss this?What else am I missing?What does that balance look like?What are some consistencies you found regarding the kinds of questions these experts in these various disciplines have adopted?Am I clear?Am I being clear?Do they really mean to say what they're saying?Is this really what I want to say?Is this what I want to communicate?Is this what I don't want to say?How do you make sure you don't trip over a mahogany table?Anything I need to know before we go into the operating room?How do we ensure we don't miss what's hiding in plain sight?Anything here I'm missing?Anything I do not see here?How did he die?How did you find out?How would you use questions to get yourself to default to your humanity?How are you using questions to help you regulate yourself?What's the best thing that happened to you so far today?What's something wonderful that happened to you that you couldn't see coming?What do you think of this?What do you see here?What's your favorite piece here?Do you have a favorite piece?Is there something you like in this room more than others?What do you like here?What is your process for coming up with your questions as you look at a piece of art?Who thought to put these two together?Who put these together?What does the artist look like?How did they come up with the two of these?What were the curators thinking?How does that lay the groundwork for how we're going to see the rest of this exhibition?Do they know that it's being exhibited here?How do I see it?How do other people see it?Where am I?How did I get here?How do I get out of here safely?How do I communicate to others where I am?Where am I in this painting?Did the artist include me in the painting?Am I shut out of the painting?Do I identify with the subject?Do I not identify with the subject?How can they ask better questions?How do they ask the difficult questions?How did I get here?How did it take me so long?What got us here?How do we get out of this?What is the call to action to change how we got here?What is your process for helping folks reckon with whatever got them there?How do we  look at ourselves as that piece of art?What am I relying on  for this behavior?Why do I do this?How can I leverage this experience to make life better for me, those I care about and the people I work with?How can I take this experience and make it better?Why can't you just accept the experience for what it is?Do you have any other thoughts or encouragements about questions that we haven't explored?How are you?

Episode Notes[00:48] Meet Chaz Scott: A Journey of Transformation[02:32] The Power of Questions and Mental Wellness[05:09] Empowering Youth Through Mental Wellness[10:29] The Role of Self-Reflection and Empowering Questions[22:03] The Importance of Self-Care and Morning Routines[27:47] Transformative Power of Morning Routines[29:15] The Importance of Self-Reflection[36:56] Challenging Negative Self-Talk[40:30] The Journey of Personal Growth[51:29]Empathy Through Experience[53:29] Encouragement for the Future[56:21] Connect and Engage Resources MentionedThe Power of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent PealeSupra MentemPositively CaviarSuccess Starts Within: Achieve Your Potential Through Radical Self-Care by Chazz ScottHampton UniversityInstinctive ElaborationMichael BeckwithBlack Panther MovementDavid GogginsThe Four Hour Work Week by Tim FerrissDeja Vu with Denzel WashingtonCarl JungThe Patriot RunChazz Scott on InstagramChazzscott.com/bookBeauty PillProducer Ben Ford Questions AskedWhen did you first understand the power of questions?What's the purpose of my life?How can I have a happy life?How can I enjoy my life?How can I overcome challenges more easily?Why target the middle schooler?How do you use curiosity and questions to engage this particular group?Do you know what negative self-talk is?Do you know the importance of positive self-talk?Have you ever heard of meditation or yoga?What if I can accomplish this?What if I can get over this fear?What if I can accomplish that goal?Were these a series of questions that you had used for yourself?What was your process for coming up with this list of questions?What kinds of emotions do I want to feel daily?What hobbies or passions make me feel excited about my life?What habit do I need to let go of so I can show up as my authentic self?Why me?Why does this happen to me?What was your personal process as you were going through these questions?Was that a journaling thing?How often were you diving into these questions or just ruminating on them throughout the day?What did that look like for you in your journey to get to transformation?How would you recommend some of those successful or optimal techniques?What questions have you found that are underutilized?Who am I?How do I want to show up?Are there any particular questions that you carry with you and revisit?How do I want to show up as a leader?Do I want to be empathetic?Do I recognize when somebody is struggling and I can encourage them?How do I want to show up as myself?How can I show up as my true, authentic self daily?What would your wisest self say to you right now in this situation?What's the impact of this book on me?What clarity can I see that I've gained from this book?What is your Right Now Question?What's next?Any other thoughts on how to develop empathy?

"The way you unlearn is by first acknowledging the privileges you have." - Kwame Sarfo-MensahKwame is applying his dual-major Bachelor of Arts and Mathematics and Master of Education degrees from Temple University to the high calling of equipping educators with the tools to create culturally affirming classrooms where every student's identity is acknowledged and celebrated. His third book, Learning to Relearn: Supporting Identity in a Culturally Affirming Classroom, will be released on November 15th, 2024.Kwame taught middle school math in Philadelphia and Boston before moving to Sierra Leone, where he currently serves as a global education consultant through his firm, Identity Talk Consulting, LLC. Over the last several years, he has also hosted the podcast Identity Talk 4 Educators LIVE.Kwame explores the concept of identity, including personal and social identities, and how these can affect one's experience in the world. The conversation delves into the challenges of addressing identity in educational settings and the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Kwame shares his experiences and insights on the power of questions in navigating contract negotiations, understanding student backgrounds, and self-growth. The dialogue also touches on unlearning ingrained biases and recognizing privileges. The discussion concludes by reflecting on the role of questions in fostering a more inclusive and understanding society.This Curated Questions episode can be found on all major platforms and at CuratedQuestions.com.Keep questioning!Episode Notes:[00:50] Meet Kwame Sarfo Mensah[03:07] Understanding Identity[08:24] The Power of Questions in Negotiations[12:56] Navigating DEIA in Education[24:09] Questions an Educator Asks to Know Their Classroom[33:46] Unlearning and Self-Work[37:43] Navigating Accessibility Challenges[38:37] The Process of Unlearning Privilege[40:21] Questions for Equity in Education[42:33] The Role of Allyship and Humility[46:08] Understanding Positionality and Power[47:50] The Journey of Self-Knowledge[50:30] Hope Amidst Social Challenges[56:13] The Importance of Asking Questions[01:02:20] International Perspectives on Identity[01:08:28] Reflecting on Personal and Professional Impact[01:11:09] Final Thoughts and Resources Resources MentionedThe Pedagogy of the Oppressed by Paulo FreireNice Racism by Robin DiAngeloDr. Kimberlé Crenshawidentitytalk4educators.comKwame Sarfo-Mensah on LinkedInKwam_the_identity_shaper on Instagramidentityshaper on XBeauty PillProducer Ben Ford Questions AskedWhat is your working definition of identity?Why not keep this basic standard, teach it, and then recognize that variations from that perceived standard exist?When did you first understand the power of questions?What's your budget for professional development services at your school?What were some of the amounts that were given? Will the school receive any grants in the coming months or even years?Is it predominantly through trial and error that you got that experience?Are there any other questions that you found helpful as you've done negotiations?Does your school have a mission statement around diversity, equity, and inclusion?Is there any living document or statement that supports this work?What are some things that you've already done to initiate this line of work?What do you say to clarify what D.E.I. is and is not?Wouldn't it make sense to at least recognize them or do some school-wide activity where we provide information or give them a chance to express how much their traditions and faiths mean to them?Why can't we give that same energy to folks who may not celebrate Christmas?How can this be better as a result of you being here?What kind of questions can educators use to understand the various identities within their classroom?What does that process look like for understanding a classroom?What traditions or customs do you practice in your family or culture?How do the friends or the community around you influence your sense of self?What languages do you speak?What's something that's changed in your me bag?What questions can we use to unlearn the narrative you are talking about?Why do I believe what I believe about a certain group of people?Where do these ideas come from?Do they come from my schooling?Do they come from the friends and people who are around me?Do they come from my family?What is the origin of my preconceived notions about a particular group of people?What's the source of this information?What agenda are they trying to fulfill by disseminating this information?How does unlearning happen, or what are some steps or milestones along that path?What does the unlearning process look like?Have you come across or used any particular questions in your journey for fighting for others or advocating for others?Does this policy negatively impact a specific subgroup of people over another based on how it's worded? If so, how can we amend that policy to ensure that this doesn't continue?Are there particular stories that are not being told in these books?Are there certain protagonists in these books that are not being seen or do not match the backgrounds of students in your class, whether from a racial, linguistic, or cultural standpoint?What are some things that I am doing that make me complicit in perpetuating the discrimination that my students face?Is this a situation where I decenter myself, or do I push in?Do you want any help on this?Why wasn't one single Palestinian American speaker invited to the DNC in Chicago?If they're not giving us the answers, where can we find these answers to our questions?How are you American?How come you can't speak your language?Where are you coming from?What is your right now question?Have I done enough as far as being present for both of my sons? Have I done enough as far as being a present partner for my wife?Have I done enough self-work to be the best human I can be to my family and my loved ones? Have I done enough professionally  to feel good or to at least  give myself credit for all that I've accomplished?Do you have any other thoughts or encouragements that we haven't explored yet, or any other categories regarding questions that we haven't touched on?

"Here's the trick I've learned. Ask a question and listen to the answer." - Bill ReedBill Reed has an impressive resume filled with leadership roles across companies such as Intuit and Northwestern Mutual in the financial arena and Sweet Fish Media, helping B2B marketers produce personality-led content. Currently, he is assisting Dwellspring to capitalize on the success of the 12-hour Sound Machine Podcast, with over 1.3M unique listeners per week, to help worldwide listeners get better rest.A consistent theme throughout his career is dedicating himself to serving others by intentionally nurturing relationships through creative and engaging methods.The discussion delves into how questions have shaped Bill’s parenting, leadership, and mentoring approach, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and intentional relationship-building. We also explore the impact of effective questioning in meetings and mentoring relationships, focusing on Bill's current endeavors and insights into fostering a culture of transparency and authentic inquiry.This Curated Questions episode can be found on all major platforms and at CuratedQuestions.com.Keep questioning!Episode Notes[00:49] Meet Bill Reed: A Journey of Leadership and Curiosity[02:01] The Power of Questions in Parenting[04:09] The Art of Asking Questions[07:52] Building a Culture of Inquiry[15:51] Mentorship and the Role of Questions[24:13] The Importance of Curiosity and Lifelong Learning[31:31] The Value of Mentorship and Sacrifice[44:08] The Wise Thing to Do[45:12] Empowering Self-Discovery[49:48] The Art of Asking Questions[52:55] Curiosity and Connection[01:00:50] Right Now Questions[01:07:41] The Dwellspring Sleep Podcast Success[01:18:08] Final Thoughts and Encouragements Resources MentionedDr. Laura SchlessingerGeorge RavelingAndy StanleyLynn Borton of Choose to be CuriousDwellspring.ioWilliam (Bill) Reed at LinkedInBill Reed email William@Dwellspring.ioBeauty PillProducer Ben Ford Questions AskedWhen did you first understand the power of questions?What's reasonable, what's fair?How have you changed your questions as the kids have gotten older?Was curiosity something your parents encouraged?What would a growing up look like, did your parents foster that?What is the problem to be solved?Why are we here?what is your question?Should we hire a new director of marketing?What have you done to build a culture where questioning up front is seen as an invitation, vice weaponization, and potential judgment?How do we move from failure to success?were there any particular things that you discovered that helped ease that process to developing that culture?What are some of those lessons learned about being able to ask helpful questions and not just abrasive questions?What if we spend 4 million doing that, what does that look like?Where have been some consistencies and perhaps some differences between how those either worlds operate within the realm of questions?Is there anything that you could say to your 30-year-old self that would apply or accept today's wisdom?Do you think that your 30-year-old self would've listened?What did mentoring look like, and how might your mentors use questions as you've gone through those different phases and seasons of life?Is anyone here a mentor?So when you say that, what does that look like, or what comes to mind for you?Can I buy you a cup of coffee?Are there any particular questions that you have found helpful as you've been on either side of that mentoring relationship?How are you doing?What's on your mind?What's going on in your life?Based on your past experiences, your current circumstances, and your future hopes and dreams, what's the wise thing to do?What do you want them to say?One day people will gather to celebrate your life. They'll either have a deep well to draw from, or they'll have to make stuff up. And what do you want them to say is the question?How did that happen?How did that make you feel?Are you really interested in people?What is your curiosity practice?What did you just do, you stole the opportunity for them?What are your Right Now Questions?What breaks your heart?What makes you angry and why?What are you passionate about?What if a podcast was 12 hours long?Why can't we do it this way?

"Share your questions. They're not as yours as you think they are.." - David PearlDavid Pearl.  David is a performer, author, director, and public speaker who has established himself as an innovator in business, the arts, and social change.  In his early years, he sang at the Royal Opera House as the boy soprano soloist for four years. Later, he played double bass and toured as a London School Symphony Orchestra member and the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain.  David is a creative force who has pioneered the use of the arts in business and works as a creative confidant to high-profile CEOs and their teams across the globe. He is the mastermind behind experience engineering, a method for designing and leading high-stakes, high-impact meetings and creating stories for leaders that help harness the power of narrative and leadership.  As an author, David has written several insightful books, including his most recent work, Wanderful, Human Navigation for a Complex World. This book aims to awaken our innate guidance systems to help us navigate life's complexities. He's also the founder of Street Wisdom, an international social venture that brings experiential learning to city streets across the globe. Finally, David is also the creative mind behind Wanderful, a podcast designed to add a bit of wonder to your walking.The conversation highlights Pearl's journey from his early musical career to pioneering 'experience engineering' and founding the initiative Street Wisdom. Key themes include the transformative power of questioning, the resilience of a playful mindset, and the importance of curiosity in both personal and professional realms. Additionally, we delve into meaningful connections through shared interests and reflective walks, emphasizing how profound questions can build understanding, community, and personal development. The discussion underscores re-evaluating work and life's purpose, creativity, imagination, and the complexities of human interaction.This Curated Questions episode can be found on all major platforms and at CuratedQuestions.com.Keep questioning!Episode Notes:[02:39] The Power of Questions[04:28] Challenging Reality and Personal Experiences[07:13] The Art of Asking Questions[13:52] The Influence of Polymath Parents[20:15] The Importance of Playfulness[21:41] Exploring Creativity and Improvisation[25:33] The Importance of Naming[30:31 Street Wisdom and Creative Exploration[31:25 ]How Questions Inform Improvisation[36:04] Street Wisdom and the Power of Wandering[48:57] The Essence of Creativity[49:32] The Power of Asking Different Questions[50:11] Inspiration from Everyday Life[51:04] The Importance of Imagination[52:17] Learning from the Future[54:12] Connecting with Others[55:59] The Impact of Street Wisdom[57:34] Connecting with Others Through Questions[58:52] Personal Journeys and Reflections[01:02:12] The Value of Unanswerable Questions[01:08:01] The Future of AI and Human Inquiry[01:15:39] The Role of Questions in Business and Life[01:17:10] The Future of Learning and Technology[01:30:21] Final Thoughts and Encouragement Resources MentionedDavid PearlRoyal Opera HouseWanderful, Human Navigation for a Complex World by David PearlStreet WisdomWonderful PodcastPlacido DomingoCharles HandyDavid FrostKen CampbellImproperaDavid GlassGalapagos - playAgile Software DevelopmentRichard BandlerNeuro Linguistic ProgrammingDerek SiversDuendeThe Future SchoolAnother World is Possible by Geoff MulganAwareness by Anthony DeMelloGeorge FloydRaymond CoatesWilliam ShakespeareJoanna MacyWorldwide Wander - 27 September 2024David Pearl on LinkedInStreetwisdom.orgBeauty PillProducer Ben Ford Questions AskedWhen did you first understand the power of questions?Really?If it is real, is, are you serious?So how well do you think that went?What would you have done differently?Are there any questions?Were they [your parents] forward-leaning on developing curiosity and challenging reality?Why has your sense of play been so resilient?How do questions inform your improvisational work?What's trying to happen here?How can I serve what's happening?What do I want to make happen?What are we going to make happen?How can I be the facilitator?How can I be the means by which this thing can happen?Does it come back, or does it come from you?Why not?What if?What then?Why not us?Why do we have to wait for the picture?What is next?What is this supposed to be?What is required?What is this thing that is next?What are questions that we've been asked that we missed today?What would your grandchildren's children thank you for learning today?What will the future thank you for learning?What if this worked out?What if this was better than we could imagine?If it's true that most people think this doesn't work out, how does it affect our decision-making and choices?What was the problem again?If you could see it working out, would your friends have issues with you?What is that?What's in this for you?Are you a racist?What are you going to do differently?To be, or not to be?Where are my people?What are you going to do with the time you save?How long would it be before humanity began to make the same mistakes to start to defray that system?How do we name this differently?How do we name things playfully?How can I make this more accessible, more available, more delightful?How can people learn more without realizing they're learning?How can we teach without lecturing?Are there any other thoughts or encouragements about questions we haven't intentionally explored?How should Palestine represent itself better to the world?How great would that be?We're working hard, but is it the right work?Are the metrics that you're using the right metrics?What's next?What can we make happen next?Where am I heading?Where, where next?What is the best place for folks to engage with you and learn more about what you're excited about?