The Shift: Stories of Resistance + Resilience
The Shift: Stories of Resistance + Resilience
Podcast Description
The Shift began as a LinkedIn Live Audio Series in 2023. In 2025, after the 2024 election results, Mark Travis Rivera decided to refocus the series on the themes of resistance + resilience and to use the series as an opportunity to harness the power of stories to help us recognize our shared humanity. Mark Travis Rivera is the CEO + Founder of The Professional Storyteller, LLC, and serves as the host and producer of The Shift.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The series focuses on topics such as activism, community building, intersectionality, and the dynamics of power and economics. Episodes often explore significant issues affecting marginalized groups, for example, discussions on the role of Black women in democracy and the need for collective identity among communities.
The Shift is a podcast series exploring stories of resistance and resilience from activists, creatives, and leaders across industries who are boldly challenging the status quo. Through honest conversations and powerful storytelling, we uncover how people shift systems, narratives, and culture to create a more inclusive, just, and liberated world. If you believe in the power of stories to spark change, this is the podcast for you. It is hosted and produced by Mark Travis Rivera, CEO + Founder of The Professional Storyteller, LLC.
Show Notes:
In this conversation, Mark Travis Rivera and Yolany Gonell explore themes of resilience and resistance through personal stories and professional experiences in higher education as first-generation college graduates. They discuss the importance of mentorship, allyship, and cultural connections in navigating systemic challenges. Their conversation emphasizes the need for equity in education and the role of individuals in creating positive change within their communities. Yolany shares her journey as a first-generation Latina and a veteran, highlighting the significance of breaking cycles and fostering belonging for students from diverse backgrounds.
Takeaways
- Resilience is about having a growth mindset and being purposeful.
- Cultural connections play a vital role in personal and professional success.
- Mentorship and allyship are crucial for navigating challenges in higher education.
- Equity gaps in education reflect systemic issues that need addressing.
- Personal stories of struggle can inspire others to overcome their own challenges.
- Creating a sense of belonging is essential for student success.
- Breaking cycles of disadvantage requires intentional effort and support.
- Higher education must align its mission with practices that support all students.
- Investing in community and cultural wealth can enhance educational outcomes.
- The future of education depends on systemic change and inclusive practices.
Guest Bio:
Yolany Gonell (she/her) is a first-generation college graduate, a US veteran, and has over 21 years of progressive experience in higher education, providing guidance and strategic direction to advance belonging and close equity gaps. Her work spans student development, transition programs, career readiness, and residential life, working collaboratively with partners across the university to examine policies and practices, expand resources, and develop data-driven strategic plans that support the retention and persistence of all students. In addition to her work in higher ed, Yolany serves on the advisory board for organizations supporting and strengthening LGBTQ communities through direct service and action.
Connect with Mark:
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Connect with Yolany:
Questions or comments?
Email us at [email protected].
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/aspire
License code: HH1UUNHIRJ7LUSVU
Disclaimer Note: The captions in this video are auto-generated, and while we try to ensure accuracy, you may notice a typo or error. Thank you in advance for extending grace.
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