Watch the video interview here! Transcripts available at https://tobydorr.com/podcast-schedule/ “A road can always be found between two hearts.” -        Leslie Ahmadi, language coach, cross-cultural/diversity consultant, author of the upcoming book Road Between Two Hearts: A Black American Bride Discovers Iran, and today’s guest on Fierce Conversations with Toby Some of our fierce topics today: [00:05] Introduction to the Podcast: Understanding how different cultures, races, and countries can come together to create an extended family. [01:05] Discussing Favorite Color: Toby and Leslie discuss Leslie's favorite color, brown, and how it became her favorite due to it complementing her complexion.  [08:24] Leslie's Memoir: Leslie talks about her upcoming memoir titled Road Between Two Hearts: A Black American Bride Discovers Iran. [21:11] Returning to the USA: Leslie shares her difficult decision to return to the United States from Iran and how it impacted her family, including her husband and children.  [26:05] Persian Culture: not being aware of certain customs and how a lack of awareness can lead to misunderstandings. [27:21] Living with Extended Family: Leslie’s experience of living in Iran and staying with her husband's family before moving into their own house.  [28:44] Living in a Multi-Generational Family: Toby and Leslie discuss their shared experience of living in multi-generational families.  [30:05] Leslie Ahmadi Offers Advice on Cross-Cultural Relationships: the importance of understanding one's own values and recognizing cultural differences.  About Leslie Ahmadi: Long before she could speak another language or have a sophisticated discussion on “cross-cultural relations,” Leslie Powell, an African American child from Connecticut, was fascinated by the glimpses of other worlds surrounding her. By the time she was four, she had staged her first imaginary flamenco dance, mastered half a dozen imaginary foreign languages, and traveled to countless made-up foreign lands. Her favorite recording artist was Harry Belafonte, known for his colorful collection of folk songs from across the world.  She studied Latin and Spanish in school, traveled to Italy, Spain, and Mexico in her secondary and post-secondary years, and embarked on a career as a language instructor of Spanish and English as a Second Language. While pursuing a Ph. D. in foreign language and culture education at The Ohio State University (1987), she met her future husband Mahmoud, a doctoral student in agronomy and gentleman from Iran who would eventually redirect her path from “established Spanish professor in America” to “adventurer in the Middle East.”  After four years of living and working with him as an English language professor and coach in Iran, Leslie’s own cultural experience had profoundly affected her.  She realized then that, upon her family’s return to the States, she would no longer be content with teaching language alone.  Instead, she would actively pursue the career of a cross-cultural educator, trainer and consultant.  She also knew that a book of her cross-cultural adventures was already brewing inside her. After being hired as “Director of Spanish for the Professions” at her alma mater The Ohio State University, her post led her to several other opportunities to present on cross-cultural issues both domestically and abroad. Links mentioned in this episode: Lesli Ahmadi: Website ____________________________________ Toby Dorr: Books and Audiobook Website   Patreon YouTube Instagram Facebook Or head to https://linktr.ee/fierceconversations for all things Fierce Conversations with Toby. Credits: Created by Toby Dorr. Produced by Number Three Productions, a division of GracePoint Publishing. Theme song: Lisa Plasse: Composer, arranger, and flutist Caroline Parody: Piano Tony Ventura: Bass For more information on these fabulous musicians, please go to https://tobydorr.com/theme-song/

Watch the video here!  Transcripts available at https://tobydorr.com/podcast-schedule/ “I think playing it safe is extremely boring and uninspiring.  Embrace the hard parts of your life story.  Break free from the prison in which you may find yourself confined.  We provide an opportunity for those who are making a difference in the world and doing the hard things to share their stories with others.” -        Toby Dorr, bestselling author, inspirational speaker, and the host of Fierce Conversations with Toby Some of our fierce topics today: [00:05] - "The Origin of 'Fierce': The Power of Words" - Discussing how the word "fierce" became the inspiration for the podcast, the significance of collecting impactful words, and the positive connotations of the word "fierce." [02:05] - "Conversations That Matter: Tackling Uncomfortable Topics" - Exploring the importance of addressing challenging and uncomfortable subjects, and how these discussions can help prepare individuals for difficult situations. [04:05] - "From Playing It Safe to Taking Risks" - Delving into the journey from a life of caution to embracing risks and the importance of pushing one's boundaries to lead a fulfilling life. [05:05] - "Fierce Conversations with Toby: A Welcome Message" - An introduction to the podcast, highlighting its mission to showcase individuals making a difference and encourage listeners to embrace the hard parts of their life stories. About Your Host, Toby Dorr: Toby Dorr dared the unthinkable. She liberated a handsome younger man, a convicted murderer, from Lansing Correctional Facility. Since completing her time in Federal Prison, Toby has achieved two Master's degrees and rebuilt a broken life. Through her memoir, Living With Conviction, you will feel all the heart-pounding, tear-jerking, heartbreaking, eye-opening experiences that touch the most primal human need, the need to be significant. A fascinating prison tale, through the lens of love, inspires change. Continuing the movement, The Unleashed Series, implores women through twelve-week programs to escape what confines them. Finally, a poetry volume, You Are Not Your Worst Mistake, features poems from Toby's prison journals. Featured in the Wall Street Journal, Anderson Cooper, Brooke Baldwin, Inside Edition, The Atlantic, and Dateline, Toby is a featured guest on podcasts, including the nationally-ranked Criminal podcast. A screenplay is in the works. A Lifetime movie, Jailbreak Lovers, was released in July of 2022. Escape your prison! Learn more about Toby: Books and Audiobook Website   Patreon YouTube Instagram Facebook Or head to https://linktr.ee/fierceconversations for all things Fierce Conversations with Toby. Credits: Created by Toby Dorr. Produced by Number Three Productions, a division of GracePoint Publishing. Theme song: Lisa Plasse: Composer, arranger, and flutist Caroline Parody: Piano Tony Ventura: Bass For more information on these fabulous musicians, please go to https://tobydorr.com/theme-song/

Watch the video interview here!   Transcripts available at https://tobydorr.com/podcast-schedule/ “I have a weekly conversation with my mentees. We do once a month face to face. And it really makes a difference. People know that you care.”  - Marla Smith, Christian care provider, clinical researcher, mentor for the Welcome Home Reentry Program and today’s guest on Fierce Conversations with Toby Some of our fierce topics today: [00:05] Introduction to the podcast and guest Marla Smith. [02:17] Marla's early life crossroads and personal growth. [03:24] Marla's decision to pursue a master's degree in Christian counseling. [06:05] Marla's experience as a volunteer and being named Volunteer of the Year. [11:10] The challenges faced by women reentering society after incarceration. [17:14] The importance of successful reintegration into society. [17:33] Early support for individuals reentering society. [18:05] The role of mentoring and support programs in reentry. [19:20] Challenges faced by individuals upon release from prison. [21:05] The value of group meetings and peer support for formerly incarcerated women. [24:05] The "Fearfully and Wonderfully Made Ministry" and its mission to educate young girls about puberty and their bodies. [29:03] Outro to this episode. About Marla Smith: A mother and grandmother, Marla Smith also provides Christian Care and performs clinical research. As part of Catholic Charities’ Welcome Home Reentry Program Marla mentors previously incarcerated women. Additionally, through her Fearfully and Wonderfully Made ministry, Marla educates young girls about puberty with a special emphasis on their bodies as they prepare for menstruation. Links mentioned in this episode: Marla Smith: Website ____________________________________ Toby Dorr: Books and Audiobook Website   Patreon YouTube Instagram Facebook Or head to https://linktr.ee/fierceconversations for all things Fierce Conversations with Toby. Credits: Created by Toby Dorr. Produced by Number Three Productions, a division of GracePoint Publishing. Theme song: Lisa Plasse: Composer, arranger, and flutist Caroline Parody: Piano Tony Ventura: Bass For more information on these fabulous musicians, please go to https://tobydorr.com/theme-song/  

Content warning: This episode discusses the journey of one our guests to recovery with an eating disorder. While this episode, and all episodes of Fierce Conversations with Toby, are designed to facilitate healing for all, some listeners may be troubled by the subject matter. Watch the video interview here! Transcripts available at https://tobydorr.com/podcast-schedule/ Everything happens for a reason. And five years from now, you'll look back and finally understand that very reason. It's not happening to you, it's happening for you. It will all be okay in the end. And if it's not okay now, then it's not the end." - Amanda Plasse, today’s guest on Fierce Conversations with Toby Lisa Plasse and her daughter, Amanda Plasse, open up about their journey through Amanda's mental health challenges, particularly her battle with an eating disorder. Lisa describes the rollercoaster of emotions and treatments Amanda went through over 18 months, leading to a transformative experience with dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Amanda shares her future aspirations of graduating with a psychology degree, attending grad school for social work, and ultimately establishing a comprehensive treatment center to address multiple aspects of mental health in one place. Their conversation underscores the importance of open dialogue, reducing stigma, and holistic support systems, providing valuable insights for listeners facing similar challenges. Some of our fierce topics today: [00:00] Introduction to Amanda and Her Journey [07:15] Discussion of Amanda's Eating Disorder [12:20] Recognizing Signs of Mental Stress in Young Adults [15:50] Amanda's Decision to Share Her Story on Social Media [20:22] Amanda's Social Media Post [29:10] How Society Can Reduce the Stigma Surrounding Eating Disorders [29:18] Reducing Stigma Around Eating Disorders [35:10] Amanda's Future Goals About Amanda Plasse: Amanda Plasse is going to be a junior this fall at Montclair State University studying psychology. After graduation, she plans to continue onto grad school in order to become a therapist. Her ultimate goal is to eventually return back to school to receive her PhD in psychology and open up her own treatment center that treats various mental illnesses. Currently, she is a Crisis Counselor with the Crisis Text Line. She is also a Recovery Caseworker with the Red Cross, providing resources and speaking with clients who have recently experienced a natural disaster. Finally, she works at Illuminate ABA as a behavior technician working with children with autism. She has been diagnosed with multiple mental illnesses and has been to several treatment centers and hospitals herself. Her hope is that she can help as many people as she can who are struggling because she knows what it's like to truly live with a mental illness. About Lisa Plasse: Lisa Plasse is the owner, director, and flute and voice teacher of From the Top Music Studio in Midland Park, NJ, which offers instrumental and vocal lessons. In addition to her work at From the Top, she is also an applied vocal lessons instructor at Columbia University and has produced and directed many musicals, theater workshops, and concert performances. Lisa also composed and played the flute for the theme song for Fierce Conversations with Toby. Links mentioned in this episode: Blog post 1 by Lisa Plasse about her daughter Amanda Plasse Blog post 2 by Lisa Plasse about her daughter Amanda Plasse ____________________________________ Toby Dorr: Books and Audiobook Website   Patreon YouTube Instagram Facebook Or head to https://linktr.ee/fierceconversations for all things Fierce Conversations with Toby. Credits: Created by Toby Dorr. Produced by Number Three Productions, a division of GracePoint Publishing. Theme song: Lisa Plasse: Composer, arranger, and flutist Caroline Parody: Piano Tony Ventura: Bass For more information on these fabulous musicians, please go to https://tobydorr.com/theme-song/

Contennt warning: This episode discusses death, including the death of a fellow inmate by execution because of the death penalty and the death of our guests husband to cancer. While this episode, and all episodes of Fierce Conversations with Toby, are designed to facilitate healing for all, some listeners may be troubled by the subject matter.   Watch the video interview here! Transcripts available at https://tobydorr.com/podcast-schedule/   “I would have never done the things I did when I got home. Never. If it weren't for what I had learned and the people I had met there [in prison].”  - Lisa Nordike, today’s guest, former cellmate with Toby Dorr, and the real “George” from the bestselling memoir Living With Conviction   Some of our fierce topics today: [00:00] Introduction and Guest Introduction [03:02] Discussing Time Spent in Prison [07:16] Taking in Foster Children [10:20] Educational and Career Paths of Foster Children [13:11] Bonding and Friendships in Prison [14:38] Remembering Friends Who Passed Away [17:19] Lisa's Execution and Coping [18:05] Recalling Light Moments in Prison [21:12] Lisa's Philanthropic Efforts and Love for Kids [25:00] Outro About Lisa Nordike: Lisa was one of Toby's closest friends inside prison and was a major character in her memoir Living With Conviction, where she was known as “George”. After Lisa served her prison sentence, she took in a dozen foster teenagers whose parents were incarcerated. Lisa is proof that it is possible to rebuild your life and even become a beacon of hope to others.   Links mentioned in this episode:   Lisa Nordike: Lisa does not have a public profile, but contact can be made through Toby at [email protected]. ____________________________________ Toby Dorr: Books and Audiobook Website   Patreon YouTube Instagram Facebook Or head to https://linktr.ee/fierceconversations for all things Fierce Conversations with Toby. Credits: Created by Toby Dorr. Produced by Number Three Productions, a division of GracePoint Publishing. Theme song: Lisa Plasse: Composer, arranger, and flutist Caroline Parody: Piano Tony Ventura: Bass For more information on these fabulous musicians, please go to https://tobydorr.com/theme-song/

Content warning: This episode discusses the healing journey of Moira Dadd after experiencing childhood abandonment, stays in multiple orphanages, and the death of her mother by suicide. While this podcast is intended to facilitate healing and hold space for all, some listeners may be troubled by the subject matter. Watch the video interview here! Transcripts available at https://tobydorr.com/podcast-schedule/ “I kept saying no to my inner critic. No, no. Thank you. Thank you so much for taking care of me. I don't need you anymore. I imagine tussling with them sometimes, but I'm a superhero now. No, no, no. Retire."  - Moira Dadd, international bestselling author of the memoir Cherishing Me: Letters to a Motherless Child and today’s guest on Fierce Conversations with Toby In this episode, Moira and Toby embark on a profound conversation that touches on the delicate process of healing your inner child. Join us as we explore the power of forgiveness, both to others and to self, and how it has the potential to reshape your world and free you from the chains of the past. Moira's journey is an inspiring testament to the transformation that becomes possible when we confront our inner wounds and learn to forgive. Some of our fierce topics today: [00:05] Introduction and Guest Introduction  [01:06] Favorite Color and its Significance  [02:02] Crossroads and Seeking Help  [03:26] Early Life in Foster Homes and Orphanage  [06:26] Importance of the Grieving Process  [15:50] Moving from Doing to Being  [21:57] Reprogramming Negative Childhood Experiences and Embracing Ones Inner Child  [24:27] Fear of Failure and Fear of Success  [28:14] Embracing the Concept of "I Am Enough".  [31:53] Writing a Healing Memoir  [34:16] Gaining Gifts from Challenging Childhood Experiences  [35:56] Conclusion and Encouragement for Personal Growth About Moira Dadd Moira and her husband, Graham, a retired ordained Minister in the United Reformed Church, enjoy a busy and fulfilling life on the south coast of England. She has been blessed with three sons, two stepdaughters, their wonderful spouses and ten gorgeous grandchildren. Having suffered a profoundly painful and traumatic childhood through losing her mother to suicide in infancy, she spent several years in an orphanage followed by ten years with her sister in an abusive family before making her own way in the world, which she has indeed accomplished with aplomb! She is a trained Hypnotherapist and Master Practitioner of NLP and created a thriving private therapy practice which continues to this day. She gained her diploma in humanistic counselling in 2004, quickly followed by her certificate in education teaching diploma. She then embarked on her master’s degree in transpersonal arts and practice where she graduated with distinction in 2007. Her training continued in Sensorimotor Trauma Psychotherapy and Lifespan Integration. She has also been a volunteer facilitator of bereavement support groups for Cruse Bereavement for over ten years. Her therapeutic practices are beautifully complemented by her work as a funeral and wedding celebrant. She continues her journey of growth, healing, and service to others. Links mentioned in this episode: Moira Dadd: Books and Audiobook Website Instagram Facebook ____________________________________ Toby Dorr: Books and Audiobook Website   Patreon YouTube Instagram Facebook Or head to https://linktr.ee/fierceconversations for all things Fierce Conversations with Toby. Credits: Created by Toby Dorr. Produced by Number Three Productions, a division of GracePoint Publishing. Theme song: Lisa Plasse: Composer, arranger, and flutist Caroline Parody: Piano Tony Ventura: Bass For more information on these fabulous musicians, please go to https://tobydorr.com/theme-song/  

Watch the video interview here! Transcripts available at https://tobydorr.com/podcast-schedule/ "Sometimes you can be significant by being insignificant...  We all have it within us to make a difference. You don't have to be wealthy. You don't have to be famous. You don't have to have a title."   - Toby Dorr, host of and the interviewee on today’s episode of Fierce Conversations with Toby Special behind-the-scenes episode! Join Toby Dorr, host of Fierce Conversations with Toby, and Mark Packard, producer of Fierce Conversations with Toby, as they dive deep into the inspiring stories that make their podcast shine. Discover what drives their passions and ignites their guests' stories. Let's uncover the heart behind the mic! Some of our fierce topics today: [00:00] Introduction to Mark Packard [01:02] Importance of Listener Perception in Podcast Production [01:51] Role of Music and Sound Mixing in Podcasts [02:07] Favorite Podcast Episodes [07:09] Defining "Fierce Conversations" [10:14] Book Discovery and Libraries [19:39] Audio Books and Changing Preferences [20:51] Embracing Risks and Playing It Safe [21:29] Speaking Up and Advocacy [24:15] Humanizing and Advocating for Prisoners [30:56] The Power of Difficult Conversations [43:01] Inspiring and Empowering Women [48:10] Outro About Mark Packard: As the director and producer of Number Three Productions, Mark is intent on building procedures and techniques that transcend the confines of traditional distribution models. With a pioneering spirit, he leads the charge in creating a new creator economy of shared resources, forever reshaping our landscape. Mark is always looking for an opportunity to amplify voices and disrupt the world. Recognized as a podcasting luminary, Mark has produced three captivating hiphop EPs, curated nine engaging podcasts, composed eight podcast theme songs, and brought nine enchanting audiobooks to life. His remarkable contributions have garnered acclaim, earning him consecutive nominations as Podcast Hero of the Year at the Publisher Podcast Awards, alongside esteemed creators from Marvel, Amazon, and Penguin Random House. Links mentioned in this episode: The Fierce Conversations Team Mark Packard: Number Three Productions Website Podcasts mentioned (links are for the YouTube episodes):  You Might Go to Prison with Justin Brooks Doing Things That Scare You with Catherine Bell Uncovering Grief's Beauty with Wendy Elle The Art of Living and Loving with Kathryn C. Boxill They Wanted Justice with Chris, Cliff, Charles, and Tim "Off Leash", Toby's Interview on the "Criminal" podcast (audio podcast link) Requesting books from your local library: How to Request a Book at Your Local Library through Libby How to Request a Book at Your Local Library through Hoopla (Click on "Title Requests") ____________________________________ Toby Dorr: Books and Audiobook Website   Patreon YouTube Instagram Facebook Or head to https://linktr.ee/fierceconversations for all things Fierce Conversations with Toby. Credits: Created by Toby Dorr. Produced by Number Three Productions, a division of GracePoint Publishing. Theme song: Lisa Plasse: Composer, arranger, and flutist Caroline Parody: Piano Tony Ventura: Bass For more information on these fabulous musicians, please go to https://tobydorr.com/theme-song/  

Watch the video interview here! Transcripts available at https://tobydorr.com/podcast-schedule/ Embracing Resilience: Ali Freeman's Inspiring Journey of Healing Through Art Content warning: This episode discusses the healing journey of Ali Freeman after the miscarriage of her daughter Morrison, as well as discussions of the loss of Toby’s daughter, Emily. While this podcast is intended to facilitate healing and hold space for all, some listeners may be troubled by the subject matter. “I think it's just believing in yourself. If something makes you feel good and makes you feel happy, then do it.  Don't stop.”  - Ali Freeman, inspirational artist and today’s guest on Fierce Conversations with Toby Embracing the complexity of love and the hardships of loss, Ali Freeman's journey reveals the raw emotions life can bring. For her, the creek has become a sanctuary of happiness. Each cracked glass piece she discovers serves as a poignant reminder of Morrison, the daughter she lost through miscarriage. The jagged edges of the glass mirror the pain and the void left in her heart even before meeting her daughter face to face. Yet, in the midst of brokenness, Ali's artistry weaves together these shattered fragments with other discarded pieces, giving birth to stunning creations. In the darkness, her art shines like a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to healing. A beautiful testament to resilience, these artworks become gentle reminders of the peace that overflows into joy, as the tapestry of life unfolds before our eyes. Some of our fierce topics today: [00:00] Introduction by Toby Dorr.  [01:01] Toby asks Ali about her favorite color and what it says about her. [02:14] Ali shares her crossroads moment in 2017 when she experienced a miscarriage. [05:08] Ali talks about the difficulty and heartache of the miscarriage and how it led to a moment of introspection. [07:06] Toby and Ali discuss the emotional impact of miscarriage and the need for support from others who understand. [10:04] Toby talks about Ali's art and how it memorializes her daughter Morrison. [14:08] Toby asks Ali what she would tell other mothers experiencing miscarriage. [15:54] Ali describes the significance of working with broken glass and how it connects her with her daughter. [17:38] Toby shares her plan to use broken pottery pieces to create art, inspired by Ali's work. [19:49] Ali discusses her journey as an artist and the importance of believing in oneself. [22:26] Toby concludes the podcast. About Ali Freeman Hi, I'm Ali Freeman creator of Eclectic Ali Design. I moved to Columbia, Missouri about 10 years ago. My husband and I began taking weekly walks along the local creeks. I quickly fell in love with the peacefulness the creeks offered. With each trip, I began to grow quite a collection of beautiful, raw creek glass - pieces that had laid untouched for many years.  One day, I was shown a rock portrait in a magazine and I instantly became inspired to create portraits of my own with my unique creek treasures. And thus...Eclectic Ali Design began. These handpicked pieces are lovingly designed into eclectic pieces of art.  The materials I use range from creek glass, rocks, driftwood, recycled tumbled glass, pottery, Polish pottery and other artistic mediums. My promise is to add new life to the pieces that have been left behind. Hopefully my art will tell your story and bring happiness to your home. Links mentioned in this episode: Ali Freeman: Website ____________________________________   Toby Dorr: Books and Audiobook Website   Patreon YouTube Instagram Facebook Or head to https://linktr.ee/fierceconversations for all things Fierce Conversations with Toby. Credits: Created by Toby Dorr. Produced by Number Three Productions, a division of GracePoint Publishing. Theme song: Lisa Plasse: Composer, arranger, and flutist Caroline Parody: Piano Tony Ventura: Bass For more information on these fabulous musicians, please go to https://tobydorr.com/theme-song/  

Sisterhood Behind Bars: The Unbreakable Bonds of Women in Prison Watch the video interview here! Transcripts available at https://tobydorr.com/podcast-schedule/ "Don't ever give up. Don't ever, ever, ever, give up. I could not see a life this beautiful when I was dealing with the legal process or even when I was a young single mother... whatever hardship you may be going through, it holds the seeds to the beautiful future, to the best version of yourself."  - Portia Louder, author of the memoir “Living Louder”, trauma and addiction mentor, public speaker, and today’s guest on Fierce Conversations with Toby. Some of our fierce topics today:  [00:00] - Introduction to the podcast episode and guest, Portia Louder. [00:59] - Discussion about Portia's favorite color and what it tells about her. [1:58] - Crossroads in Portia's life that pushed her in a different direction: Portia's decision to change her life in prison and the empowerment she gained. [03:47] - Avoiding pain and facing it, the importance of self-awareness and reflection. [4:04] - Using time in prison productively and valuing personal growth. [7:48] - The cost of keeping secrets and the power of openly admitting mistakes. [11:32] - Portia's work in helping incarcerated women and writing content for prisons. [14:56] - Moving past denial and embracing personal growth and change. [17:31] Helping incarcerated individuals find their power and move past victimhood. [19:56] - Evaluating life after prison and finding fulfillment in personal growth and experiences. [22:54] - Discussing self-discovery and embracing one's true self. [25:00] - Understanding self-forgiveness as a journey. [26:02] - Examining the impact of mistakes on others and allowing them to express their pain. [27:08] - Highlighting the sisterhood and camaraderie experienced in women's prison. [30:54] - Addressing the challenges of reintegrating into society after prison. [33:24] - Encouraging resilience and embracing the potential for a better future. [34:27] Outro. About Portia Louder: Portia Louder photographed weddings for a while until an opportunity to flip real estate caught her attention. But then she somewhat naively committed mortgage fraud in 2011. Indicted, Portia spent four and a half years in federal prison. Today, she speaks openly about her mistakes and what it took to move past them. Portia gained a new perspective and currently teaches empowerment skills to at-risk youth, mentors women struggling with trauma and addiction, and writes and speaks about her experiences publicly. What a perfect trainwreck to discuss fiercely! Portia’s memoir, Living Louder, A Compassionate Journey Through Federal Prison, is an account of compassion, faith and enduring friendships discovered in federal prison. Links mentioned in this episode: By clicking on the links here, we may earn some additional revenue that directly supports this podcast. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Portia Louder:   Book Website LinkedIn ____________________________________ Toby Dorr: Books and Audiobook Website   Patreon YouTube Instagram Facebook Or head to https://linktr.ee/fierceconversations for all things Fierce Conversations with Toby. Credits: Created by Toby Dorr. Produced by Number Three Productions, a division of GracePoint Publishing. Theme song: Lisa Plasse: Composer, arranger, and flutist Caroline Parody: Piano Tony Ventura: Bass For more information on these fabulous musicians, please go to https://tobydorr.com/theme-song/

From Zoom Calls to Lifelong Bonds: Unleashing the Power of Connection Watch the video interview here! Transcripts available at https://tobydorr.com/podcast-schedule/ Content warning: Mentioning and brief discussion of the death of one of our guest’s 5-year-old son. While this podcast is intended to facilitate healing and hold space for all, some listeners may be troubled by the subject matter. “The six of us met when we were randomly assigned to an author pod, a space to encourage each other's writing journeys.  We've never stopped. It's been two years now, and we've created a community that lifts each other up, encourages, and holds us accountable for our goals. But, more importantly, we've become sisters.” ­ - Toby Dorr, host, on the creation and evolution of the Author Pod “Woman, Rise!” Join us on an extraordinary journey as six women tell the story of finding friendship, inspiration, and lasting bonds in a writing workshop. From virtual meetups to a getaway in Maine, their story is a testament to the transformative power of connection. Delve into the profound impact of their soul-binding support network and discover how these remarkable relationships can enrich your own life. Some of our fierce topics today: [0:00] Introduction and welcoming the Woman, Rise! Authors. [1:00] Everyone’s favorite colors and what that says about them. [7:53] The story of the start of the Author Pod (fiercely titled “Woman, Rise!”). [9:43] What Leslie loves and finds special about all the authors in the Woman, Rise! Author Pod. [13:27] Everyone’s thoughts from when they first started meeting and then what it's come to mean to them. [26:06] A crossroads in the life of each member of the pod and how that pushed them in a different direction. [43:46] Anything else from the Author Pod? [58:54] Outro from Toby Dorr. Links mentioned in this episode: Leslie Ahmadi Website Kathryn C. Boxill Website    Wendy Elle Website Marilynn James Website  Lisa Plasse Website  ____________________________________ Toby Dorr: Books and Audiobook Website   Patreon YouTube Instagram Facebook Or head to https://linktr.ee/fierceconversations for all things Fierce Conversations with Toby. Credits: Created by Toby Dorr. Produced by Number Three Productions, a division of GracePoint Publishing. Theme song: Lisa Plasse: Composer, arranger, and flutist Caroline Parody: Piano Tony Ventura: Bass For more information on these fabulous musicians, please go to https://tobydorr.com/theme-song/