EPISODE · Aug 16, 2025 · 34 MIN
A Conversation with TJ and Joel, Part 1
from Leaders, Letters, and Legacy • The Podcast with Dr. Mari Ann Callais and Scott Fussell · host Dr. Mari Ann Callais and Scott Fussell
SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Scott Fussell and Dr. Mari Ann Callais discuss the impactful journey of Joel Goldman and TJ Sullivan, who pioneered the program 'Friendship in the Age of AIDS.' The discussion covers their personal stories, the origins of the program, its evolution, and the significant impact it had on college campuses. The guests reflect on the importance of inclusivity, the challenges of addressing mental health, and the organic development of their speaking engagements, emphasizing the role of community support in their success.KeywordsFriendship in the Age of AIDS, HIV education, college campuses, inclusivity, mental health, speaking engagements, personal stories, fraternity and sorority life, public health, storytellingTakeawaysDr. Mari Ann Callais shares her excitement about reconnecting with old friends.The importance of reflection and clarity in personal growth.Joel Goldman and TJ Sullivan's program was groundbreaking in AIDS education.The program aimed to educate students while infusing humor into serious topics.The initial title of the program was 'Fraternity Brothers Get AIDS Too.'The duo did not expect their program to last for eight years.Inclusivity was a core value in their presentations.They navigated the complexities of discussing sexual orientation in their program.The impact of their program was felt across many college campuses.The organic development of their program led to unexpected moments that resonated with audiences. Sound bites"We didn't expect it to go eight years.""Inclusivity was a major value for us.""We didn't know why they gasped."Chapters00:00 Reflections on Loss and Legacy04:34 The Impact of the Program on College Campuses15:59 The First Steps: From Idea to Implementation16:56 Navigating Challenges and Learning Experiences19:03 Inclusivity and Representation in Messaging22:25 The Impact of Humor and Storytelling26:07 The AIDS Quilt: A Symbol of RemembranceTo book Dr. MAC or Scott, go to...scottfussellcoaching.com or marianncallais.com
What this episode covers
SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Scott Fussell and Dr. Mari Ann Callais discuss the impactful journey of Joel Goldman and TJ Sullivan, who pioneered the program 'Friendship in the Age of AIDS.' The discussion covers their personal stories, the origins of the program, its evolution, and the significant impact it had on college campuses. The guests reflect on the importance of inclusivity, the challenges of addressing mental health, and the organic development of their speaking engagements, emphasizing the role of community support in their success.KeywordsFriendship in the Age of AIDS, HIV education, college campuses, inclusivity, mental health, speaking engagements, personal stories, fraternity and sorority life, public health, storytellingTakeawaysDr. Mari Ann Callais shares her excitement about reconnecting with old friends.The importance of reflection and clarity in personal growth.Joel Goldman and TJ Sullivan's program was groundbreaking in AIDS education.The program aimed to educate students while infusing humor into serious topics.The initial title of the program was 'Fraternity Brothers Get AIDS Too.'The duo did not expect their program to last for eight years.Inclusivity was a core value in their presentations.They navigated the complexities of discussing sexual orientation in their program.The impact of their program was felt across many college campuses.The organic development of their program led to unexpected moments that resonated with audiences. Sound bites"We didn't expect it to go eight years.""Inclusivity was a major value for us.""We didn't know why they gasped."Chapters00:00 Reflections on Loss and Legacy04:34 The Impact of the Program on College Campuses15:59 The First Steps: From Idea to Implementation16:56 Navigating Challenges and Learning Experiences19:03 Inclusivity and Representation in Messaging22:25 The Impact of Humor and Storytelling26:07 The AIDS Quilt: A Symbol of RemembranceTo book Dr. MAC or Scott, go to...scottfussellcoaching.com or marianncallais.com
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A Conversation with TJ and Joel, Part 1
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