171: Rewriting the Narrative: How Self-Mothering can Shift Your Sense of Self with Mel Harris

In this episode, I sit down with Mel Harris, a strategic alliance builder, four-time co-producer of the GLAAD Media Awards, and host of Finding Our Way Forward. Mel and I first connected as fellow TEDx speakers, and our shared experience forged an instant bond. Beyond the stage, Mel’s work amplifies marginalized voices, builds transformative partnerships, and redefines leadership through advocacy and empowerment.

Our conversation explores Mel’s personal journey of resilience—from navigating the challenges of coming out in an evangelical faith community to finding her own path of self-mothering. She shares powerful insights on overcoming trauma, the importance of community, and the transformational moment that led her to embrace her own capacity for mothering herself and others.

You’ll also hear about:

• (02:15) How TEDx brought Mel and me together
• (08:47) The power of self-mothering and rewriting personal narratives
• (16:22) Mel’s journey from loss and rejection to leadership and advocacy
• (22:50) Building strategic alliances to create lasting impact
• (34:18) Overcoming the "orphan syndrome" and embracing chosen family
• (45:12) How mothering energy can heal communities and drive social change

Mel’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of rewriting our own stories.

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