Over the past thirty years, Benjamin Wagner has worked at the intersection of media and technology as an award-winning journalist and documentarian. In May, Benjamin’s new documentary, Friends & Neighbors, premieres nationwide. The film weaves together moments from his own life and career with the broader social forces around us, asking what’s broken, what it costs us, and what real healing could look like in an anxious and uncertain world. We discuss the film in this episode.

On April 23, Benjamin will be with Someone To Tell It To, to premiere the film in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, before the nation-wide premiere. Fred (Mister) Rogers provided personal support to young Benjamin during a traumatic period in his life. Because of Someone To Tell It To’s co-production of the play, I’m Proud of You, in the spring of 2025, Benjamin connected with our mission and invited a collaboration with us. We are honored to be connected with him and this beautiful film. Get tickets here: https://secure.givelively.org/event/someone-to-tell-it-to-inc/the-friends-neighbors-southcentral-pa-premier-presented-by-sttit

In this Women’s History Month, Pennsylvania State Senator Patty Kim made history when she was the first Asian-American woman to be elected to the upper chamber of the state legislature, in November 2025. She talks about her inspiration to be a public servant and the issues that motivate her to make Pennsylvanians' lives better. In the course of the conversation she also talks about her natural introverted temperament and how it can be a struggle for her to be an introvert in an extroverted job and world. But she also believes that the inherent gifts of introverts to be attentive listeners - noticing the feelings and demeanors of others, and being sensitive to their needs - can be a great strength for a leader.

What if one of the most important parts of our health isn’t physical or mental—but social? In this episode, we’re joined by Kasley Killam, Harvard-trained social scientist, two-time TED speaker, and author of The Art and Science of Connection. Kasley is a globally recognized expert on social health—the dimension of well-being rooted in meaningful relationships, community, and belonging.

Kasley shares the powerful research behind why strong relationships help us live longer, healthier, and happier lives, and why our society has historically overlooked connection as a core pillar of health. Together we explore how to recognize when our social health may be suffering, and simple ways we can begin strengthening our “social muscles.”

We also talk about the power of listening, the courage of vulnerability, and how organizations and communities can move from being transactional to truly relational. In a time when many people feel isolated, Kasley offers both insight and hope—reminding us that flourishing is something we do together.

Ed Miller discovered Someone to Tell It To during a challenging leadership stretch and found it incredibly helpful and refreshingly human. A recent transplant to New York City, Ed also dabbles in acting and writing, and believes good conversations and a hearty laugh can change everything — and he’s always up for both. In this episode, we have a thoughtful and laugh-filled conversation in which we talk about travel and his life experiences, and Ed believes the place where you feel safe is where you are most “at home”.

Jael K.D.L.V. Chambers grew up in urban communities–rich with vibrant culture, but also rife with challenges. Those communities inspired in him a passion for celebrating the unique beauty of those cultures, along with an equal passion to uplift and transform those communities to be their very best. He is guided by the principles of his faith which teaches him that all of us want to be accepted, all of us want to belong, and all of us want to be heard.

Show Notes:

2Pac To Live & Die in L.A.: https://youtu.be/9S96qfXKKRY?si=rCvanf5QayJFPOwr

Her purpose in life is “to help people see their best so that they can be their best!”. Una Martone, President & CEO of Leadership Harrisburg Area, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is committed to mentoring others to be servant leaders. Her passion for finding the best in others makes her a respected and sought-after community leader herself. She also has a passion for her family and shares stories of how her parents, who were immigrants from Ireland, nurtured their children and inspired them. Una also believes that listening well is the greatest gift we can give to others. We agree.

Christopher Kelly lives with neurodiversity. He sees his neurodiversity as a gift that he can offer to the world, and that’s exactly what he does. He focuses on his own and others’ abilities rather than their disabilities. He prioritizes inclusion over exclusion. He validates others’ feelings and circumstances, especially with their health challenges. He supports them and works to help them live their best lives. Our conversation with Chris offers a refreshing perspective about the way we view ourselves and others.

Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Barbara Bray—author, coach, podcast host—whose work has transformed education for more than three decades. Barbara helps people uncover their “why,” embrace the power of story, and live with greater purpose, authenticity, and joy. In this episode, we explore the personal experiences that shaped her mission, the magic of storytelling, the inspiration behind her message, and the transformative role deep listening plays in finding meaning. If you’ve ever questioned your purpose or wondered whether your story matters, this episode will remind you that your voice—and your “why”—are worth sharing.

Barbara's books and other information can be found at: https://linktr.ee/barbarabray27