I would have dinner with Nina Simone, the world-renowned jazz and soul singer. She carried the weight of the world on her shoulder. Racism and discrimination tore through her life yet she remained steadfast in her art as she was outspoken about sharing her experience and speaking from the soul. Her work and story inspired several transformative figures of the Civil Rights Movement. Yet, she was ahead of her time. She felt the consequences of this. Her life is a story of painful struggle, yet her listeners are gifted with music that comes from a deep voice yearning for a time where acceptance, empathy, and love for all is a time of the present. I would ask her: Who in your life did you find inspiration from? Who were the helpers along the way that helped you understand your vision for your work?

My favorite podcast is The Teachback. It’s a newer podcast from a former teacher who speaks with a past student every episode. His podcast goes into a reflection on how this student has grown and changed but also how the former student has retained aspects of themselves that have helped them along their journey. It’s a podcast about “teaching, learning, and the value of human connection.” Will McDonough, the host, talks about what’s currently interesting this former student, what is in the world that’s getting their attention, and what excites them. As a political science major, my focus stretches been a wide array of topics and dips into all areas of society. People’s stories and experiences can be impactful towards our own journey, and The Teachback reminds us how we can find growth from our past selves.