PODCAST · education
Resilient Voices & Beyond
by Michael D. Davis-Thomas Aka MDDTSpeaks
Resilient Voices & Beyond is a podcast that amplifies the voices of those who were once silenced and aims to empower a new generation of foster care alum leaders. Through conversations with community partners, leaders, advocates, and activists, this podcast educates listeners on reforms, policies, and advocacy related to foster care, adoption, kinship, CCIs, JJ, and the child welfare system. The podcast challenges stigmas and labels surrounding these topics and creates a dialogue on reform and advocacy that is already happening or needs to happen. The core values of Resilient Voices & Beyond include empowerment, inclusivity, education, collaboration, authenticity, and innovation. The mission of the podcast is to create a platform for silenced voices to be heard and received, while the vision is to inspire and empower a new generation of leaders committed to making a positive change in the world.
Episodes
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Power With Purpose, Leadership With Heart
Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast Season 3, Episode 57 Title: Power With Purpose, Leadership With Heart This episode does not center leadership as a title. It centers leadership as a transformation. It asks a harder question. What happens when someone who was once navigating survival steps into...
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Aging Out Is Not a Graduation. It Is a Test of New Freedoms
This episode confronts a truth that systems continue to avoid naming with clarity. Aging out of foster care does not mark a successful transition into adulthood. It exposes whether the relationships built around a young person were ever real, sustainable, or rooted in accountability. In this…
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After the Storm Is When the Flowers Bloom
This episode stands as a living testament to what it means to survive, to rebuild, and to reclaim identity beyond what systems, statistics, and suffering attempted to define. In this deeply reflective and unfiltered conversation, I sit with Jennifer Tai, MSW, ASW, PPSC, whose life embodies both…
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Healing while curating dreams and breaking generational trauma.
Resilient Voices and Beyond Podcast, Season Three, Episode 54. Healing while curating dreams and breaking generational trauma. Guest, Julissa Grozozski Torres, YPA, NYCPS, CRPA, Founder and CEO of Triumph OVA Struggles Advocacy and Consulting LLC. This episode holds space for healing centered...
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It Can Be Done
🎙️ Episode 53 — “It Can Be Done” Guest: Hery “Eddie” Acosta | Author, Speaker, Youth Advocate Podcast: Resilient Voices & Beyond – A Healing-Centered Conversation Foster Healing Fellowship Capstone Series Episode Description: In this gripping and hope-filled episode titled “It Can Be Done,” host...
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" She believed she could, so she did ”
🎙️ Episode 52 — “She Believed She Could, So She Did” Guest: Faith M. Keen | DHHS Intern • FSM Contractor • LEx Policy Advocate • TLE Member • BSW Candidate • Future MSW Podcast: Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast — Season 3 Host: Michael D. Davis-Thomas Episode Description: In this powerful and...
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"Still waters run deep"
🎙️ Episode 51 — “Still Waters Run Deep” Guest: Sylvia Monica Parrott | National Foster Care Advocate, Public Speaker, Lived Experience Leader Podcast: Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast — Season 3 Episode Description: Still waters don’t mean still souls. In this soul-stirring episode of Resilient...
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Your story is the message. Your story is your legacy
🎙️ Episode 50 — “Your Story Is the Message. Your Story Is Your Legacy” Featuring: Tamara L. Dillard | Author, Clinical Social Worker, Therapist, Foster Care Advocate, Foster Alumni Podcast: Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast — Season 3 Host: Michael D. Davis-Thomas In this milestone 50th episode...
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“Broken Systems, Funded Silence: Deconstructing the Nonprofit-Gov Pipeline” – Part 2
🎙️ Episode 49 – Season 3 Title: "Broken Systems, Funded Silence: Deconstructing the Nonprofit-Gov Pipeline” (Part 2) Guests: Bobbi Taylor (Founder & CEO, Proximate Solution) & Tamara Dillard, MSW, CSW (Clinical Social Worker, Advocate, Foster Care Alumni) Host: Michael D. Davis-Thomas | Founder…
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“Broken Systems, Funded Silence: Deconstructing the Nonprofit-Gov Pipeline” – Part 1
Season 3, Episode 48 🎙️ Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast Title: “Broken Systems, Funded Silence: Deconstructing the Nonprofit-Gov Pipeline” – Part 1 In this explosive Part 1 of a two-part special, Resilient Voices & Beyond dives into one of the most underexamined yet critical realities in…
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"Your direction is more important than your speed."
Season 3, Episode 47 Title: “Your direction is more important than your speed.” Subtitle: From Surviving to Serving: Reclaiming Purpose Through Pain In this deeply moving episode of the Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas (MDDTSpeaks) sits down with Andrea Atkins—a...
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“Life is not what happens to you, but how you respond to it.”
Season 3, Episode 46 Title: “Life is not what happens to you, but how you respond to it.” Subtitle: Stepping Into the Call: From Surviving to Surrendering In this transformative episode of the Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas (MDDTSpeaks) reconnects with long-time...
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“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” – Colossians 3:23 (NLT)
Season 3, Episode 45 Title: “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” – Colossians 3:23 (NLT) In this deeply moving episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas is joined by author, advocate, mother, and…
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"Your Story Is Your Superpower—Own It, Share It, and Let It Open Doors for You."
Episode Title: "Your Story Is Your Superpower—Own It, Share It, and Let It Open Doors for You." Season 3, Episode 44 In this transformative episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas sits down with powerhouse speaker, author, trauma expert, and former foster youth...
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“Live life to the fullest, excel despite challenges, and never let those who wish you harm dictate your path.”
Episode Title: "Live life to the fullest, excel despite challenges, and never let those who wish you harm dictate your path." Season 3, Episode 43 In this raw and transformative episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas is joined by Maegan “Mae” Mason, a resilient...
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“Love is the work.”
Episode Title: "Love is the Work.” Season 3, Episode 42 In this deeply enriching episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas welcomes the dynamic State Representative Stephanie A. Young, a legislator, community leader, ordained minister, and fierce advocate for...
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" It only takes one adult to make a difference."
Episode Title: "It Only Takes One Adult to Make a Difference." Season 3, Episode 41 In this powerful episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas welcomes Jacob Holley, a Certified Trauma-Informed Trainer, Lived Experience Leader, and passionate foster care advocate....
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"Hurt People Hurt People”
Episode Title: "Hurt People Hurt People" Season 3, Episode 40 In this moving episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas is joined by the inspiring Victoria “V” DeHart, a 24-year-old adoptee, advocate, motivational speaker, and social work student, to discuss her...
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"Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you respond to it"
>Episode Title: "Life Is 10% What Happens to You and 90% How You Respond to It" Season 3, Episode 39 In this powerful episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas sits down with Tristian W. Smith, MSEM, a retired Army officer, published author, and advocate for…
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"Don't Let Your Past Struggles Define Your Future"
Episode Title: "Don't Let Your Past Struggles Define Your Future" Season 3, Episode 38 In this emotionally moving episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas sits down with the resilient and inspiring Tashala Webster, a foster care alumna, adoptee, advocate, and...
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"You Only Live Once, But If You Do It Right, Once Is Enough"
Episode Title: "You Only Live Once, But If You Do It Right, Once Is Enough" Season 3, Episode 37 In this inspiring episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas sits down with the multifaceted Chianté Lymon-Hamilton, a trailblazer and advocate for justice and equity.…
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"Practice Makes Progress, Not Perfect"
🎙️ Episode 36: Practice Makes Progress, Not Perfect 🌟 Featuring Guest: Stephanie M.V. Popper 🔗 Guest Professional Titles: Farm Social Worker | MSW Student | Foster Youth Advocate In this inspiring episode of the Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, Michael D. Davis-Thomas sits down with the...
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“More stories = more connection and more connection = more healing.- Dr. Liz”
🎙️ Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast: Season 3, Episode 35 Title: "More Stories = More Connection, and More Connection = More Healing" In this profound and heartfelt episode, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas dives into the transformative power of storytelling and resilience with the remarkable Dr.…
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" The most dangerous phrase in the language is, 'We've always done it this way "
In this enlightening episode of the "Resilient Voices & Beyond" podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas engages with Commissioner Rebecca Jones Gaston, the visionary leader of the Administration for Children, Youth, and Families (ACYF). Commissioner Gaston shares her compelling journey from her…
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All Things Work Together
Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast Season 3, Episode 33 🎙️ Title: “All Things Work Together” In this episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond, we are honored to feature Aytia Tarpley—a remarkable Lived Experience Expert, Survivor Leader, Consultant, Keynote Speaker, and Peer Support Specialist.…
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“Love Yourself, The Rest Will Fall Into Place”
In Season Three, Episode 32 of the Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, we are honored to host the inspirational Maryum K. Shadeed. Maryum's story is one of profound resilience and self-discovery, offering a beacon of hope and strength to all who listen. About Our Guest: Maryum K. Shadeed is an...
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"...But God"
"...But God " In this empowering episode of "Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast," we are honored to host Rachel Worthy, a fervent advocate for social justice and a beacon of resilience. With a rich background in social work and a deeply rooted commitment to serving others, Rachel shares her…
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"Be the Difference for a Child: The Joan E. Ulsher Story"
"Be the Difference for a Child: The Joan E. Ulsher Story" Episode Description: In this deeply inspiring episode of "Resilient Voices & Beyond," we sit down with Joan E. Ulsher, a figure of resilience, hope, and unwavering dedication to child advocacy. From surviving child abuse and navigating the...
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"My Story Matters Because I Matter. I Am Absolutely Enough."
In this empowering episode of "Resilient Voices & Beyond," 🎙️ we delve into the inspiring journey of Miranda Mizla, from her challenging beginnings in foster care 🏠 to her remarkable transformation into a Licensed Master Social Worker (LLMSW) 💼. Join us as Miranda shares her story of…
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"Never Lose Faith and You Will Make It Through"
Title: "Never Lose Faith and You Will Make It Through" 🎙️ Join us for a heartfelt and inspiring journey on episode 28 of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, titled "Never Lose Faith and You Will Make It Through." In this powerful episode, we sit down with the incredible Tamisha Macklin, a woman…
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Everything can be taken from a person except for one thing; the freedom to choose one’s attitude in any given situation
Episode 27 Title: "Everything can be taken from a person except for one thing; the freedom to choose one’s attitude in any given situation." Episode Overview: Episode 27 of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast unravels the incredible saga of Nick Vasquez. His journey from a tumultuous childhood to a...
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Be the Black Sheep but Not a Statistic
🎙️ Episode 26: Be the Black Sheep but Not a Statistic ~Shinedown In this captivating episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond, we delve into the extraordinary life journey of Aiden Russell Abruzzino, a resilient 24-year-old with a powerful story of triumph over adversity. 🌟 Topic of Discussion:...
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Until then… I just keep moving forward
Welcome to a poignant episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast! 🎙️ In Season Three, Episode 25, we embark on an inspiring journey with Brandon Youngblood, exploring his life's challenges and triumphs in the episode titled "Until then… I just keep moving forward." 🚀 Join us as we delve into...
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God brings beauty from ashes.
Welcome to Episode 24 of Season Three of Resilient Voices & Beyond, marking our 113th overall episode! 🎙️ In this empowering installment titled "God Brings Beauty from Ashes," we dive into Milizhia Mills' transformative journey—a dynamic professional and former foster youth, sharing her…
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“Ain't No 2 Days The Same”!
Welcome to "Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast" Season Three, Episode 23, titled "Aint No 2 Days The Same"! 🎙️ Join us on this remarkable journey as we explore Jonathan Norris's life, navigating challenges and triumphs. Our guest, Jonathan Norris, Foster Care Specialist for Wayne County and DEI...
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“The way I see it if you want the rainbow you have to put up with the rain”
Welcome to another inspiring episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast! 🎙️ In Season Three, Episode 22, we delve into the remarkable journey of Alexia Roberts, exploring life's challenges and triumphs in the episode titled "The Way I See It: Embracing the Rainbow After the Rain." 🌧️ Join us…
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"Lifting families through Hope, Money and Love."
🎙️ In Episode 21, join us for another impactful conversation on Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, titled "Navigating Challenges: Samantha Siers' Continued Journey." Our remarkable guest, Samantha Siers, the Program and Operations Coordinator at LIFT-Chicago, and Board Chair at San Miguel…
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" If you don't ask, the answer is always no."
🎙️ Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast: Season 3, Episode 20 - "If you don't ask, the answer is always no." Nora Roberts 🌟 In this empowering episode, we delve into the inspiring life journey of Jena Piazza Braunsberg, Esquire (she/her), a remarkable Legal Training Specialist with Voce, Attorney...
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Resilient Voices & Beyond Trailer
Welcome to Resilient Voices & Beyond, where silence transforms into strength, and personal revolutions unfold. I'm Michael D. Davis-Thomas, the founder of MDDTSpeaks, and this podcast is our commitment to amplifying the voices that were once muted. Join us as we serve as a beacon for individuals...
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“Treat yo’self. Don’t cheat yo’self.”
Welcome to an empowering episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast! 🎙️ In Season 3, Episode 19, we're diving into the captivating life story and expertise of Shanita Perdomo, a multifaceted individual bearing the titles of Lover of Jesus, Social Entrepreneur, Aspiring Author, and Business...
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"We all have a purpose to which we are called to; it’s up to you to answer it.”
Welcome to Season Three, Episode 18 of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast! 🎙️ In this episode titled "We all have a purpose to which we are called to; it’s up to you to answer it,” your host, MDDTSpeaks (Michael D. Davis-Thomas), takes a courageous step from behind the mic to share his powerful...
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“Keep Getting Into Good Trouble”
Welcome to Season 3, Episode 17 of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast! 🎙️ In this empowering episode titled "Keep Getting Into Good Trouble," we dive into the remarkable journey of resilience with the incredible Kenisha Coon. Kenisha, a powerhouse in the field, shares her profound lived…
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"My life is my Testimony”
❗❗❗❗❗❗❗❗❗❗❗❗Tigger Warning ❗❗❗❗❗❗❗❗❗❗❗❗❗ Welcome to Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast Season 3, Episode 16 - "My Life is My Testimony." 🎙️ In this inspiring episode, we're joined by the incredible Whitney Nicole Penn, a Foster Care Alumni and advocate for change. From facing the challenges of...
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On a journey of breaking generational trauma and healing
🔊 Welcome to Episode 15 of Resilient Voices & Beyond, where we embark on a heartfelt exploration of breaking generational trauma and fostering healing. Our resilient guide for this episode is the extraordinary La Tika Jeffery, a Youth Development Specialist and SPEAKOUT Liaison for the state of...
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"Lead with Data, Follow with Passion."
Welcome to a transformative episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast - Season Three, Episode Fourteen! 🎙️ Title: "Lead with Data, Follow with Passion." 📊❤️ In this episode, we are honored to host Mercedes O’Bryant-Gruzeski, a Field Operation Specialist, Child Welfare, and Lived Experience...
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Helping those who have lived experience from foster care go from surviving to thriving.
Welcome to another empowering episode of the Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast - Season Three, Episode Thirteen! 🎙️ Titled “Helping Those Who Have Lived Experience from Foster Care Go From Surviving to Thriving.” 🌈 In this edition, we have the pleasure of hosting the incredible Joscelynn…
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"Sharing Your Story Can Inspire Others to Enact Change."
Welcome to a milestone episode of the Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast – Season Three, Episode Twelve, and our 100th episode! 🎉 Titled: "Sharing Your Story Can Inspire Others to Enact Change." 🎙️ In this very special edition of our podcast, we are delighted to have an exceptional guest who...
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"Building Capacity To Engage Youth"
Welcome to a compelling episode of the Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, Season Three, Episode Eleven, where we delve into the heart of a critical topic: "Building Capacity to Engage Youth." 🎙️ In this thought-provoking discussion, we are joined once again by the remarkable Deanna Jones, known…
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"It's okay to be vulnerable and be loved and compassionate."
Welcome to an insightful and compassionate episode of the Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, Season Three, Episode Ten, titled "It's okay to be vulnerable and be loved and compassionate." 🎙️ In this episode, we embark on an enlightening journey with two extraordinary advocates:Meet Kayla Powell…
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"The true character of society is revealed in how it treat its children."
Welcome back to the Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast for Season Three, Episode Nine, featuring the remarkable returning guest, Isabel Rodriguez! 🎙️ Isabel is not just a graduate of the University of Michigan Ann Arbor, she's a powerhouse of advocacy and change. Her journey since her last...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Resilient Voices & Beyond is a podcast that amplifies the voices of those who were once silenced and aims to empower a new generation of foster care alum leaders. Through conversations with community partners, leaders, advocates, and activists, this podcast educates listeners on reforms, policies, and advocacy related to foster care, adoption, kinship, CCIs, JJ, and the child welfare system. The podcast challenges stigmas and labels surrounding these topics and creates a dialogue on reform and advocacy that is already happening or needs to happen. The core values of Resilient Voices & Beyond include empowerment, inclusivity, education, collaboration, authenticity, and innovation. The mission of the podcast is to create a platform for silenced voices to be heard and received, while the vision is to inspire and empower a new generation of leaders committed to making a positive change in the world.
HOSTED BY
Michael D. Davis-Thomas Aka MDDTSpeaks
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Resilient Voices & Beyond have?
Resilient Voices & Beyond currently has 146 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Resilient Voices & Beyond about?
Resilient Voices & Beyond is a podcast that amplifies the voices of those who were once silenced and aims to empower a new generation of foster care alum leaders. Through conversations with community partners, leaders, advocates, and activists, this podcast educates listeners on reforms, policies,...
How often does Resilient Voices & Beyond release new episodes?
Resilient Voices & Beyond publishes regularly with 146 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Resilient Voices & Beyond?
You can listen to Resilient Voices & Beyond on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Resilient Voices & Beyond?
Resilient Voices & Beyond is created and hosted by Michael D. Davis-Thomas Aka MDDTSpeaks.
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