The Pittsburgh Convos by Storyburgh

This episode features a deep dive into the evolving landscape of journalism with Dr. Jeanna Sybert, a researcher and administrator for the Pittsburgh Media Partnership (PMP). We discuss her background as a "blue-blooded" child of journalists, her academic research on the ethics of crisis photography, and the systemic challenges facing modern media.From the "Passion Paradox" to the rise of AI, Dr. Sybert explains how technology acts as an accelerant for existing economic problems and why seeing journalism as "labor" is crucial for its survival. We also explore the PMP’s role in supporting over 40 local newsrooms to ensure Pittsburgh remains a vibrant information ecosystem.09:26 – Growing up "blue-blooded": Life as a child of two newspaper journalists.12:01 – Journalism as Labor: The reality of precarious work in the media.17:54 – The Power of Crisis Imagery: Researching the 2016 Aleppo photo.28:10 – Technodeterminism: Is technology really the "killer" of journalism?37:33 – Rethinking Objectivity: Lessons from the 2020 social justice movements.48:36 – Pittsburgh Media Partnership: Why Pittsburgh isn't a "news desert."54:28 – The "Passion Paradox": Why journalists sacrifice so much for the craft.1:01:10 – AI Skepticism: Learning the lessons of the social media revolution.

In this episode, we have the privilege to chat with Lisa Cunningham -- storyteller, editor, designer, and one of Pittsburgh’s strongest advocates for artists and local media.Lisa shares her journey from growing up on a rural dairy farm in central Pennsylvania to shaping Pittsburgh’s alternative media scene at Pittsburgh City Paper, where she spent over a decade as art director before becoming editor. She talks about the golden era -- and decline -- of alt-weeklies, the ethical decision that led her to leave the paper, and why editorial independence matters.Today, Lisa serves as Director of Marketing & Communications at the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council, where she launched Artsburgh, a weekly arts newsletter highlighting events, opportunities, and underrepresented creative voices. She also helped create Creative Hive, a monthly gathering connecting artists, arts organizations, and creative professionals across Pittsburgh.We also discuss the future of local journalism, the challenges artists face today, funding for the arts, and how AI may impact creative work. This conversation is about storytelling, ethics, community, and why supporting local arts and journalism matters.04:43 Discovering storytelling and writing10:15 Starting a career at Pittsburgh City Paper15:08 The rise and decline of alt-weekly newspapers18:12 Ethical conflict and leaving City Paper30:31 Why artists struggle financially33:35 Arts opportunities around the NFL Draft37:31 Creative Hive community events51:42 AI and the future of creative work53:02 The fragmented state of Pittsburgh media56:34 Advice for the future of journalism1:00:14 Balancing meaningful stories vs clickshttps://www.pittsburghartscouncil.org/bloghttps://www.pittsburghartscouncil.org/signuphttps://www.instagram.com/pghartscouncil

In this wide-ranging and candid conversation, journalist Brian Conway joins Will to reflect on his journey in journalism, the realities of freelance reporting, the emotional weight of covering national tragedy, and the future of local media in Pittsburgh.Brian begins by sharing why he loves living in Pittsburgh’s Southside Flats — a neighborhood often stereotyped for its nightlife but, in his view, one of the city’s most livable areas outside weekend chaos. From there, the conversation moves back to his early journalism experience at American University, where he interned with Al Arabiya during the Iraq War era. As a 20-year-old intern, he helped prepare interview questions for George W. Bush at the White House — a formative and surreal early-career moment.After leaving Washington, D.C., Brian returned to Pittsburgh, preferring its relational, community-driven culture over what he describes as the transactional atmosphere of D.C. He built his career through music blogging, freelance writing, investigative reporting, and photography. Along the way, he became deeply embedded in Pittsburgh’s independent journalism scene.He speaks frankly about the financial instability of freelance journalism — juggling multiple outlets, side gigs, event work, and contract projects to make ends meet. The collapse of collaborative creative spaces like Work Hard Pittsburgh illustrates the structural fragility of independent media ecosystems.The conversation turns dramatic when Brian recounts July 13–14, 2024, when he received a call that The New York Times needed a freelancer after the attempted assassination of Donald Trump. Within hours, he was interviewing witnesses, driving between locations, and ultimately knocking on the door of Corey Comperatore’s grieving family. He describes the heavy emotional tension between compassion and professional obligation — being both a human witness to tragedy and a journalist chasing critical quotes.The experience led to a front-page byline in The New York Times, a milestone that unfolded almost accidentally — from standing at a music festival to covering one of the biggest stories in the world in under 48 hours.Brian also shares his late ADHD diagnosis, calling it a revelation that helped him better understand his focus patterns, deadline-driven productivity, and internal struggles. Rather than seeing it as a weakness, he discusses how he’s learned to “weaponize” it as a strength in fast-moving reporting environments.On AI, Brian takes a practical view. He uses it as a research tool and for processing large public-records documents but does not see it replacing investigative reporting. In his view, deep journalism still requires human relationships, on-the-ground reporting, and ethical judgment.Finally, he explains the evolution of his publication from Pittsburgh Independent to Pittsburgh Manifold. The name change reflects a shift toward a collective journalism model — a collaborative structure built from multiple independent contributors working together under shared nonprofit support. “Manifold” represents one system made of many parts — a metaphor for the cooperative future he believes local journalism needs.This conversation is ultimately about resilience — personal, professional, and institutional — in a media landscape that is constantly shifting.11:53 – Internship at Al Arabiya and preparing questions for George W. Bush20:20 – Why Brian left D.C. and returned to Pittsburgh22:31 – The financial reality of freelance journalism27:51 – Learning about the Trump shooting while at a music festival29:52 – Being sent to the alleged shooter’s address30:26 – Visiting Corey Comperatore’s family 31:54 – Earning a front-page byline in The New York Times17:16 – ADHD diagnosis and self-discovery39:04 – AI’s role in journalism44:37 – Why Pittsburgh Independent became Pittsburgh Manifold47:35 – The case for cooperative journalism models*** Adapted summary as generated by YT Summary / Glasp

In this first episode of The Convos Season 3, host Will Halim interviews Jeff Freedman — co-creator of QBurgh, a Pittsburgh-area LGBTQ+ news and community platform — in a candid, wide-ranging conversation. They dive deep into Jeff’s life story: his upbringing in Pittsburgh, early experiences as a young gay man long before the internet era, and his first steps into LGBTQ+ community organization through sports.Jeff shares personal memories from growing up without cable television in the 1960s, moving during the 1970s energy crisis, and working for Westinghouse before finding his path as an activist and community leader. A large portion of the talk focuses on the early gay softball league in the 1980s, the onset of the AIDS crisis and its stigma, and the evolution of public perception and health responses.He also talks about his coming out journey, family reactions, and the nuanced meaning of identity and self-labeling. From there, the discussion broadens to terms and labels in today’s LGBTQ+ lexicon and how inclusive language can both help and confuse. Jeff discusses the size and visibility of Pittsburgh’s LGBTQ+ community, the importance of Pride events, and his long involvement — including leadership roles such as Pride Parade co-chair.The conversation transitions into Jeff’s work in local media, the recent closure of City Paper, and the mission of the Pittsburgh Media Partnership to support fair, accurate reporting. Throughout, Jeff emphasizes the value of listening, community, and respectful dialogue — highlighting the evolution of media and identity as intertwined parts of modern life.Drawing on his decades of activism and current leadership with QBurgh — a major LGBTQ+ news and resources outlet that has grown into a hub for community information and connection — Jeff provides both personal reflection and advocacy insight. QBurgh serves as a platform for news, resources, and community events for LGBTQ+ people in Pittsburgh and western Pennsylvania, helping fill a long-standing media gap and act as a “virtual community center.”Some Highlights:(04:08) Jeff’s background — Pittsburgh native, grew up in South Hills, moved during the 1970s; early life details setting stage for activism.(09:30) Origins of Jeff’s LGBTQ community involvement — founding a gay softball league in the early 1980s and how that led to broader community engagement.(12:17) Personal impact of the AIDS epidemic — stigma, loss of friends, and transformation in community perspective.(17:24) Coming out journey — high school and college experiences, family reactions, and identity formation.(36:43) Discussion on LGBTQ+ labels and pronouns — how language has evolved and Jeff’s perspective on identity terminology.(48:28) LGBTQ+ visibility in Pittsburgh — community size, Pride events, and the lack of a centralized gay neighborhood in the city.(51:53) Jeff’s long involvement with Pride — leadership roles including chair and parade co-chair, and efforts to build community celebration.(54:56) Media work — Jeff comments on the closure of City Paper and his role in the Pittsburgh Media Partnership promoting fair, accountable reporting.(1:01:16) Closing thoughts on bias, listening, identity, and growth — emphasizing learning, openness, and respectful communication.This wide-ranging conversation explores identity, community, evolving language, media responsibility, and why visibility and empathy still matter. A powerful reflection on how far we’ve come — and what it still means to show up for one another.

In this episode, Chuck Ondo shares his incredible life journey, starting with a calling as a teenager to join the U.S. Marine Corps. After five years of service, he transitioned to the Pennsylvania State Police, becoming an undercover detective and SERT (SWAT) operator in Philadelphia.Despite a highly decorated career with over 30 commendations, the accumulated trauma of witnessing death and violence—including a heartbreaking infant drowning—wore Chuck down. He began using alcohol and eventually stole cocaine from the police evidence room to cope with PTSD. His career ended when he was arrested by his own team and sentenced to state prison, where he immediately faced violent attacks for being a former cop.However, prison became the site of his transformation. Chuck learned to understand the backstories of those incarcerated rather than just judging their crimes. After his release, he became a barber and used his trade to connect with homeless veterans, realizing a haircut could open the door to mentorship and faith. This led him to co-found the Semper Fi Mission, a nonprofit dedicated to prison ministry, homeless outreach through "Prayer Cuts" events, and providing housing for recovering veterans, effectively turning his life's mess into a powerful message of hope.Key Highlights(03:55) Chuck describes the exact moment he felt a divine "calling" to join the Marine Corps.(17:30) A wild story from his undercover days: witnessing a drive-by shooting and chasing the suspect for 17 blocks through Philadelphia.(26:25) The breaking point: Responding to the tragic drowning of an 18-month-old baby that mirrored his own son's age.(29:25) Crossing the line: The moment Chuck first stole drugs from the police evidence room to escape his trauma.(34:44) Living in fear for 37 days knowing he was caught, ending with being arrested by his own SWAT team colleagues.(41:06) Arriving in prison and immediately being attacked by inmates who knew he was a former state trooper.(51:39) How becoming a barber after prison allowed him to start ministering to homeless veterans in his chair.(1:02:32) The vivid dream at 3:15 AM that gave birth to the name and concept of the "Semper Fi Mission."(1:11:02) The launch of "Prayer Cuts," an outreach event providing food, clothing, prayer, and haircuts to hundreds of people in need.(1:17:37) Details on the Cornerstone Residence, a recovery house specifically for veterans. Reading Chuck's story is one thing, but hearing him tell it—with the raw emotion of a man who has lost everything and found something greater—is an entirely different experience. From the adrenaline of a 17-block foot chase to the quiet moments of prayer on the streets of Pittsburgh, this is a conversation about the resilience of the human spirit that you don't want to miss. Play this podcast to witness a true testimony of faith, forgiveness, and the power of a second chance.https://www.semperfimission.org/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558926009554www.cornerstoneresidence.org *** Adapted summary as generated by YT Summary / Glasp and Gemini AI

Chris Berg is a Pittsburgh area resident, sci-fi author, seminary graduate and software executive currently living in Plum, PA.In this episode, we reconnect after nearly a decade with a podcast guest whose life has woven together seminary study, sociology, software engineering, AI, nonprofit innovation, and deep community engagement in Pittsburgh.Our conversation begins with how we first crossed paths as Storyburgh had just started its journey in 2016 – inside the office of Adrien Walnoha, then the CEO of Community Human Services (CHS) – and follows the unlikely connections that carried him from Washington State, to seminary housing in East Liberty, to a lifelong journey through technology and social impact.Overall themes / takeaways:- The importance of combining social science (sociology, religion, human empathy) with technology/ software to address social problems.- Homelessness (and other social issues) cannot be solved with “one size fits all” — need solutions that reflect complexity: pets, identity, language, instability.- Timing matters: early-stage social-impact tech often fails due to cost, lack of infrastructure or awareness — but advances in AI and cloud make now a much more favorable moment.- The power of stories: whether in interviewing people or writing fiction — understanding lives, trauma, “journeys” — is essential for empathy-based problem-solving.- Social-service systems often fail because they impose linear, bureaucratic processes on chaotic human lives; real-world solutions need to account for recursion, uncertainty, and human improvisation.This is a story about cycles – of place, of identity, of the way software, sociology, and seminary thinking unexpectedly reinforce each other. It’s also a call for new collaboration between foundations, technologists, and social service organizations, especially now that individual innovators can build meaningful tools at a fraction of yesterday’s cost.Divide By Zero By Chris Berg can be found on Amazon.com #dividebyzero *** Adapted summary as generated by YT Summary / Glasp AI

Join us for an insightful conversation with photographer, storyteller and U.S. Army veteran Michel Sauret as we trace his remarkable journey from Rome to Pittsburgh—and from mechanic-training soldier to award-winning photojournalist. We cover everything from his childhood footsteps from the Vatican, to immigrating to the U.S. at age 10, to learning the language and culture through TV and grit, to enlisting at 17 and finding his true calling behind the lens. We also dive deep into his deployments, the evolution of his creative vision, his signature bold and saturated photographic style, his travel work in Japan and Thailand, the impact of modern tech and AI in photography, and how he turned military discipline into commercial success—while still keeping family, faith and place at the center. Whether you’re a photographer, veteran, immigrant, storyteller or creative-minded person—this one covers a lot!Highlights (with timestamps):01:58 – Immigrated to Pittsburgh at age 10 in 199509:24 – Enlisted in U.S. Army Reserve at 17 to ease family’s college burden14:11 – Language struggles, ESL classes, humour and journey to fluency18:30 – Deploying to Iraq in 2008 as Army photojournalist; learned photography in real time20:00 – Internship at Pittsburgh Post‑Gazette: discovering photography was the right medium26:08 – Travel work: Japan & Thailand; mixing photo and video work on 40th-birthday trip33:11 – One meaningful image from Iraq: girls at airport opening; emotional significance41:37 – Current commercial work: modular emergency rooms for Valenor; energy-drink shoot; local landscaping clients43:55 – Wedding & senior portrait business (One Wish Productions) as side brand46:00 (approx) – Reflections on place, purpose, creativity, family and legacy*** Adapted summary as generated by YT Summary / Glasp AI🌐 Website: www.sauretphoto.com🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michelsauret📷 Instagram: instagram.com/michel.sauret👤 Facebook: facebook.com/michel.sauret

In this episode of The Pittsburgh Convos, arts advocate and CEO of Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council Patrick Fisher dives into the power of public art, storytelling, and community connection. From curating murals to bridging institutions and creatives, Patrick shares how art can shape identity, foster inclusion, and spark civic pride.🔸 Highlights:Patrick’s journey into arts leadershipWhy public art mattersNavigating challenges in creative spacesBuilding inclusive cultural ecosystemsAdvice for emerging changemakersListen in for a thoughtful conversation on creativity, collaboration, and the soul of Pittsburgh.

Caroline Fisher, a self-described storyteller, curator, creator, equal parts class clown, and teacher's pet, shares her journey from a childhood rooted in academics and a love for learning in Pittsburgh's Mount Lebanon, to a dynamic career path that eventually led her back home. After graduating from Davidson College and pursuing a master's in education at Wake Forest, she began her teaching career in Boston. Despite finding it fulfilling, the demanding lifestyle of a teacher in the US led her to seek a change.She moved to New York City without a clear plan, eventually landing a community manager role at Vayner Media, a social digital agency. This was a significant culture shock, transitioning from academia to the fast-paced advertising world. She then worked at Bonobos, a men's retail brand, and later at Victoria's Secret as a live content specialist, traveling globally to create content. Despite a seemingly glamorous life in New York, she found herself deeply unhappy, realizing the identity she was "cosplaying" didn't align with her true self.This realization prompted her return to Pittsburgh, where she now works for Pittsburgh Tomorrow as the Head of Storytelling. This organization aims to build a brighter future for Pittsburgh by addressing population decline, attracting new residents, and fostering community engagement. She emphasizes the importance of collective action, bold leadership, and overcoming the city's self-deprecating nature to promote its unique strengths and opportunities.- Pittsburgh Tomorrow's Mission (23:07): As Head of Storytelling at Pittsburgh Tomorrow, her job is to counter Pittsburgh's population decline (more deaths than births, negative job growth since the 80s) by attracting growth and telling positive stories about the city.- Focus Areas of Pittsburgh Tomorrow (59:18): The organization focuses on four key areas: engaging with youth, welcoming newcomers, catalyzing leadership, and telling Pittsburgh's story to the outside world, particularly highlighting "Pioneers" (first movers and problem-solvers).- Importance of Action and Collaboration (30:38):Caroline emphasizes the need for a "bias towards action" rather than just studies and discussions, fostering bold leadership, and encouraging collaboration among Pittsburgh's many nonprofits to achieve shared goals.- Attraction, Retention, and Engagement (45:31): She conceptualizes Pittsburgh Tomorrow's strategy as attracting new people (including foreign-born citizens), retaining current residents by making the city more discoverable and helping them find community, and engaging "Pittsburgh lifers" to contribute to the city's future.- Addressing Challenges and Community Involvement (55:33): Caroline stresses the importance of not leaving people behind as technology evolves, advocating for equitable opportunities, and encouraging individual Pittsburghers to take a stake in the city's future by getting involved and supporting local businesses.*** Adapted summary as generated by YouTube Glasp Extension and Google Gemini AI

Daniel Rossi-Keen, a dedicated husband, father, and community advocate from Aliquippa, PA, recently shared his insights on community development, the challenges facing non-profits, and his hopeful vision for Southwestern Pennsylvania.- A Journey to Community Advocacy (03:10): Daniel moved to Aliquippa in 2011, driven by a passion for grassroots community building and economic growth.- Aliquippa's Past and Present (05:25): He recounted Aliquippa's history as a steel town, once home to J&L Steel, which employed a third of its 30,000 residents before its collapse in the 1980s. While a direct replacement for those jobs hasn't emerged, the recent establishment of Shell's petrochemical facility in Beaver County presents a complex new chapter.- RiverWise's Mission (11:13): Daniel founded RiverWise to empower Beaver County residents, giving them a voice and the agency to shape their community's future. The organization collaborates with a wide range of groups, from non-profit leaders to local governments.- The Hope and Challenges of Funding (17:34, 59:39): Riverwise actively worked on "community benefits plans" to help environmental justice communities secure federal funding. However, Daniel highlighted the significant hurdle of short-term funding for non-profits, noting that Riverwise, despite its success, operates with just over 10 months of funding certainty. This precarious situation makes long-term commitment to communities incredibly difficult.- Lessons for Non-Profits (48:19): Daniel advises aspiring non-profit leaders to embrace "experimentation and iteration," demonstrating their ability to work even without initial funding. He also stressed the importance of collaboration and learning from others to avoid reinventing the wheel.- A Hopeful Vision for the Future (1:03:40): Despite the challenges, Daniel remains optimistic about Southwestern Pennsylvania's future. He sees a growing sense of productive frustration, emerging coalitions, and increasing leadership within communities. He believes the region is at a "tipping point," poised for growth if it can continue to foster leaders willing to invest in long-term solutions and embrace the courage to fail publicly.*** Adapted summary as generated by YouTube Glasp Extension and Google Gemini AI

In this episode, Teresa Nightingale and I talked about the latest primary elections, cannabis reform, and sex work advocacy. She is a mom, an activist, a double cancer survivor, a nerd, and also a Yinzer Anna Nicole Smith who’s preoccupied with politics, gaming, dinosaurs, and being a good neighbor. As a dedicated Democratic committee member for Ward 15-2, she shares insights on the recent primary election where Cory O'Connor narrowly won the Democratic committee vote for Allegheny County. She discusses the division within the Democratic committee and the pushback against progressive politics in some areas.Teresa and her husband have been instrumental in passing an ordinance to lessen the penalties for marijuana consumption, reducing it from a misdemeanor charge to a summary offense and a fine. She continues to advocate for further cannabis reform, working with various organizations to support this cause.With the same token, Teresa is collaborating with Pittsburgh City Council, particularly Barb Warwick, to introduce an ordinance to lessen the penalties for adult consensual sex work. The proposed ordinance aims to help those involved avoid severe legal consequences, similar to the cannabis ordinance. Teresa emphasizes the importance of community support and collaboration with city council members to pass the ordinance.

Pastor Jennifer McCurry, now serving as Program Director of Religious and Spiritual Life at Carnegie Mellon University, reflects on her journey through ministry, community work, and interfaith dialogue. From local storytelling to global church perspectives, she shares how relationships and experiences have shaped her spiritual leadership.Highlights:Community roots (00:11–03:58): McCurry and the host first connected through Pittsburgh’s Homeless Advisory Board. She later led a 2017 storytelling project on personal transformation, which included public art and an interfaith worship event.Campus ministry (04:28–07:33): Now at CMU, McCurry helps students explore diverse spiritual and ethical identities, engaging with both religious and secular groups.Interfaith work (09:59–26:53): She fosters collaboration across faiths through events like Christian-Jewish dialogues and a shared Ramadan celebration that emphasized food, respect, and community.Call to ministry (27:23–33:10): A serious car accident in college helped clarify her vocational path and deepened her spiritual practices.Formation and perspective (36:55–48:22): Her ordination followed chaplaincy training and becoming a new mother. Reflection on cultural differences in preaching between the U.S. and Indonesia were also discussed.**Summary AI generated: Glasp Extension. Truncated version. 05/25/2025

In Season 2, Episode 2 of Storyburgh, Jo Deming reflects on her journey as a community organizer, consultant, and storyteller rooted in Pittsburgh’s North Side neighborhoods, particularly Perry South and Perry Hilltop. She was also a storytelling coach for one of Storyburgh's DMZ event in 2024 and played a major role in recruiting numerous storytellers for another event. Jo talks about her deep commitment to fostering inclusive community spaces, often inspired by her own church community that emphasized care, play, and shared meals beyond weekly worship. She shares how raising children in a screen-saturated world presents new parenting challenges, and how she tries to counter that with real-world engagement, like inviting families to shared dinners and encouraging participation in activities like sports and mock trial.Much of the conversation focuses on community development work. Jo discusses her past roles, including working with the Housing Alliance and her efforts to support legislation around housing trust funds and inclusionary zoning. She also recounts collaboration between Perry Hilltop and Fineview in resisting displacement caused by redevelopment, emphasizing the importance of building trust across racial and class lines to develop shared community goals.Currently, Jo runs a consulting business called Hope and Action, where she helps nonprofits navigate complex issues and develop adaptable plans amid uncertainty. She sees her role as a guide and connector—someone who helps people stay grounded while working toward practical, community-centered change.*AI generated: Glasp Extension. Truncated version. 03/18/2025*

It is a conversation exploring the Pittsburgh Robotics Network (PRN), its funding, and the broader implications of AI and robotics in the region. Josh Lucas provides insight into the network's goals, funding challenges, and the local tech ecosystem. Here are the key takeaways:The Pittsburgh Robotics Network (PRN) receives funding primarily from the *Build Back Better initiative* of the Biden administration. About four years ago, the region secured a $62 million grant, though ongoing federal budget reviews could impact future funding. PRN is not just a trade association but an **economic development organization**. Its focus is to grow the local technical community without burdening startups with heavy financial commitments. The network currently includes over **125 robotics and autonomy companies**, of which around 80-90 are based locally. These companies span robotics, AI, and deep tech. Despite its growth, the Pittsburgh region struggles to unite its resources effectively. Fragmentation and competition for limited resources hinder collaborative progress. The PRN is developing a **Deep Tech and Commercialization Institute**, funded by an ARC grant, to help entrepreneurs commercialize their technologies more effectively. The initiative will have two curriculum tracks tailored to the needs of deep tech startups. The challenge of *commercializing robotics* and AI technologies is significant. Many companies still rely on traditional manufacturing methods and face difficulties scaling production. Josh discusses concerns about AI's potential negative impact, noting that if Pittsburgh doesn't lead in developing these technologies, it risks losing out on future economic opportunities. He believes AI's rapid evolution could result in job displacement and affect traditional industries. There is skepticism about the ability of public institutions, like schools, to keep pace with the rapid changes brought by AI. Josh suggests that AI-powered education might surpass conventional teaching in the future. The region's approach to technology development is contrasted with broader national and global dynamics, including the impact of AI on jobs, infrastructure, and societal norms. Overall, the conversation touches on the tension between innovation and ethical responsibility, emphasizing the need for Pittsburgh to balance rapid technological advancement with community development and inclusivity.*AI generated: Glasp Extension. Truncated version. 03/18/2025*

Angelica Daniele, founder of Yoga Recovery PGH and co-owner of Yoga Factory, shares her journey as an innovator, leader, and entrepreneur dedicated to community service. She joined the ownership team of Yoga Factory in October 2022, after seven years of teaching and managing there. The studio expanded to two locations, fostering supportive yoga communities. Angelica highlights various yoga styles like Yin, Slow Flow, Rocket, and Vinyasa Flow, emphasizing their physical and mental benefits. During the pandemic, she adopted Reiki, an energy healing modality, which aids in mental, physical, and trauma healing, often leaving clients feeling lighter and more relaxed. Yoga Recovery PGH integrates yoga with addiction recovery, promoting mindfulness, meditation, and holistic methods. This nonprofit provides a supportive, non-medical environment for those in recovery, enhancing their healing process through mind-body connection and mindfulness practices. Links: Yoga Factory in Lawrenceville and Squirrel Hill Yoga Recovery PGH

In the podcast episode, Seth Whitted shares his experiences growing up in Beaver Falls, highlighting the economic impact of the steel industry's decline on the community and contrasting it with Pittsburgh's faster progress and preservation of historical landmarks. He discusses the racial climate in his community, noting that it was more about trust issues between races than overt racism. Seth explains how his generation has begun to break these racial barriers and form interracial friendships. He recounts his journey from involvement in crime to finding purpose through faith and creating content focused on financial literacy and mental health. Seth attributes his transformation to his relationship with God, which helped him overcome past challenges and find a new direction in life. His story emphasizes the importance of breaking negative generational cycles and fostering personal growth and community development. Please follow Seth @WITITWEDNESDAY on YouTube and @whittedmedia on all other platforms. His "Breaking Negative Cycles" book can be purchased on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Negat...

Syreeta Gordon is a dedicated birth and postpartum doula, known for her compassionate support for mothers during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Through her work at Kangaroo Birthing and Maternity, she offers both emotional and practical assistance, aiming to alleviate the burdens new mothers face. Inspired by her own journey and driven by a passion for maternal health, Syreeta empowers mothers to navigate their birthing experiences with confidence and support. And Syreeta reflects on her own struggles with identity and purpose, highlighting how her experiences led her to find fulfillment in helping other mothers navigate pregnancy and postpartum; and, throughout the interview, Gordon discusses the role of doulas in providing holistic support to mothers during prenatal care, labor, and postpartum recovery. Her advocacy extends to initiatives such as the documentary "Her Dreams," where she amplifies the voices of Black birth workers and advocates for equitable birthing experiences. "Her Dreams" will premiere on Friday, April 5, 2024, at 6:30pm at Kelly Strayhorn Theatre in Pittsburgh, PA.

Muffy Mendoza, founder of  @BrownMamas  shared her journey and the profound influence of her mother, Diane. Reflecting on motherhood, Muffy described a pivotal shift in her perspective upon returning to Pittsburgh, inspiring her to establish Brown Mama, a grassroots organization. Central to Muffy's narrative was her mother's emphasis on "black excellence" and the importance of striving for greatness. Muffy's advocacy for homeschooling, despite initial skepticism, emphasized the value of in-person interaction alongside online options. Throughout, Muffy highlighted the evolution of Brown Mama and the challenges faced by grassroots initiatives. Her narrative illustrated resilience, determination, and a commitment to empowering mothers and fostering community in Pittsburgh's African-American families. More about the organization: https://brownmamas.com/

Carsen Brunn, a New Kensington resident, is the president for Bridge USA chapter at Point Park University in Pittsburgh, PA, which is a nonprofit organization dedicated to depolarizing college campuses across the United States, with similar efforts underway in Europe and Africa. The organization is also to cultivate a healthy democratic society by addressing political polarization, especially prevalent on social media platforms. Carsen specifically discusses the challenges posed by foreign influence and bot-driven events, citing instances during protests where both sides were orchestrated by external entities. The conversation takes a personal turn as Carsen reflects on his own political journey, expressing his concerns about the two-party system and the evolving dynamics of political discourse. The conversation explores the nuances of depolarization efforts and the need for constructive dialogue in fostering a more inclusive and engaged society. Throughout the discussion, Carsen emphasizes the importance of understanding differing perspectives and the role Bridge USA plays in achieving these goals.

Professor Anita Varma, from the University of Texas in Austin, provides insights into her personal unconventional journey into journalism. Formerly a resident of Pittsburgh, Professor Varma discusses the industry's challenges, particularly in the aftermath of the 2008 economic crash, and reflects on its evolving nature from then till now. During the conversation, Professor Varma elaborates the term "solidarity journalism," urging for a bias towards basic human dignity and emphasizing support for vulnerable groups. She challenges the notion of impossibility of perfection in journalism, highlighting that it involves making judgments that are not categorized as true or false but rather as right or wrong. The discussion emphasizes the significance of collaboration in journalism, drawing parallels between collective reporting efforts and addressing societal issues.

Christine Biancheria grew up in Edgewood, attended Allderdice, and completed her college degrees in University of Pittsburgh. Upon retiring from her law practice, she reconnected with the fellowship friends she had met while working at the International Commission of Jurists in Geneva, Switzerland. One of them founded Aseema, a Non-Governmental Organization (also known as a nonprofit) based in Mumbai, India, that educates impoverished school-aged children.

Maria Manautou-Matos, a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University and Duquesne University, founded Pittsburgh Latino Magazine to address the absence of coverage for Latino events. Originating from Puerto Rico, she encountered misconceptions about the territory's relationship with the U.S. The magazine, which was initiated during the pandemic, offers bilingual content on a variety of topics, events, opportunities, and local businesses. It serves the Latino community by addressing a gap in traditional journalism that often exists in representing and serving the needs of specific communities.

Sonja Reis shuttered her Gazette 2.0 magazine for good on All Souls Day on November 2nd, 2023. Several articles in local media outlet have covered its closure, so in this podcast the host and Sonja discuss the circumstances surrounding the closure, her involvement with Gazette 2.0, the challenges faced by the publication and community journalism, the need for stronger partnerships among local newsrooms, and her perspective on the changing landscape of the media industry. She also talks about her role as a Communications and Marketing Manager at the McKees Rocks CDC and the challenges faced by the organization, where any progress may take years, if not decades, to happen.

John Bolanos, a retired executive from Austin, Texas, relocated to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania a few years ago to be nearer to his grandchildren. His roots trace back to San Bruno, located on the southern side of San Francisco, California, where he was raised with conservative values. When his daughter expanded their family by adopting seven children, six of whom are African American, John’s political views remained largely unchanged. However, the tragic murder of Michael Brown in 2014, along with the subsequent unjust killings of numerous African Americans, sparked a realization in him. He understood that as his grandchildren grew older, society might perceive them as threats due to their race. This profound realization prompted a shift in John’s life. His perspectives evolved, and his circle of former friends shrunk as he gained new friends.

During her time as a graduate student at the University of Pittsburgh, Kelsey Grushecky shared her personal story in the "Collectors' Items" series hosted by Storyburgh. Her tale was a heartfelt account of her experiences and deep connection with the city and people of Gifu, Japan. In this particular episode, she recounts her previous adventures during her time in Czechoslovakia and Vietnam. Her fascination with diverse cultures has cultivated an open-minded perspective within her, a trait that is increasingly crucial as a librarian in the face of the growing trend of book banning across the nation.

The overall goal of Storyburgh is to build community and understanding through storytelling and there are many ways to tell own stories. In addition to regular published articles published on www.storyburgh.org, we also have "The Convos" where informal conversations take place in a private studio setting that are then broadcasted through various platforms. In this episode, we have a conversation between Pamela Monk, the StoryburghLive! and DMZ RingLeader, and Will Halim, the Founding Director, about the origins of the recently launched programming: The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in 2022. Through The Demilitarized Zone - DMZ, Storyburgh believes that sharing your narratives in an auditorium filled with a live audience, which is simultaneously live-streamed, elevates the level of influence and engagement to new heights. The experience of being with a person tell their in person stories fosters a unique sense of closeness to the community, regardless of whether you resonate with the underlying message of the story or not. DMZ aims to provide a safe space for people to share personal experiences and stories that may be uncomfortable or cringeworthy. Coaching is offered to storytellers for guidance and support.

Samson Johnson, who was adopted as a toddler and raised by an Orthodox Jewish family in Swissvale, had the unique opportunity to learn about other religions too, including Christianity and Islam. This experience emphasized the value of understanding and respecting diverse belief systems. Despite not pursuing formal higher education, Samson’s intellectual curiosity led him to explore complex philosophies like Stoicism and various religions, demonstrating that self-education can be just as valuable as traditional academic paths. He reflects on his own schooling experience, growing up with a single parent and five siblings after his father passed away when he was 13. He was even homeschooled for a bit. He discusses how traditional schools sometimes fail to cater to students who learn differently. And growing up Jewish and Black was very tough and difficult. Now, he’s on a mission to help young people by providing guidance and support through mentorship.

In our third episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with the ever-energetic Margo Hinton from Troy Hill. We delve into a variety of topics that she previously shared at The Demilitarized Zone community storytelling event. This event took place at the Tripoli Street Community Center on September 1st, 2022, and our discussion serves as a follow-up to the intriguing narratives she presented there. The topics range from "lighter" one, such as the joy of joining a new church against a mother’s wishes, to more serious issues. These include the challenges of growing up in a predominantly white neighborhood and experiencing overt racism, manifested in horrifying acts such as cross burning and gun threats. While this episode can be viewed independently of Margo’s original presentation, gaining a deeper understanding of the context would be beneficial and can be achieved by watching or listening to her initial talk here: https://youtu.be/ue3ZR6GM0qI

“The Convos,” a podcast series by Storyburgh, is hosted by its Founding Director, Will Halim. In the second episode, we are joined by Mary Beth Spang from Southside, and the discussion covers a range of intriguing topics: Mary Beth’s connection with Pamela Monk, the ringleader of StoryburghLive!, and their collaborative efforts in the Storyburgh project. Her journey as a working therapist dealing with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), which inspired her to pursue a doctorate degree in Psychology at Carlow University. Prior to this, she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Penn State and Harvard respectively. The pressing issue of the scarcity of mental health professionals, attributed to the challenges in acquiring the necessary qualifications and accreditations to practice in this field. The use of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V), emphasizing the critical role of accurate mental health diagnoses. The discussion also delves into the various treatment options and diagnosis. Both of them may require several iterations for optimal results. Mary Beth Spang is also the Storyburgh's #BridgingYourMind mental health editor.

“The Convos,” Storyburgh’s podcast series, is hosted by Will Halim and this second episode features Amber Thompson of Sharpsburg, covers her experiences and insights on transparency and challenges living in Pittsburgh. We discuss issues such as racism, misogyny, and the struggle for equity in education and the workforce as well as the challenges of non-profit organizations and the need for measurable values. We highlight the importance of data and accountability in decision-making and the need for intentional efforts to ensure inclusivity and accessibility at events and initiatives.

“The Convos,” Storyburgh’s podcast series, is hosted by Will Halim and in this inaugural episode features Josh Lucas, the dynamic and inspiring leader of Work Hard Pittsburgh, covers the following topics: the challenges of philanthropy, technological advancements, and societal changes the impact of technology, potential challenges for the future, and the importance of open dialogue the need for transparent conversations that lead to accountability for everyone and all organizations, including foundations and non-profit organizations And, last but not least, having critics are critical—no pun intended—for the growth of individuals and institutions alike; without their input, our potential for self-improvement remains constrained, if any.