The Someone To Tell It To Podcast

Sandi Smith is one of Someone To Tell It To’s trained compassionate listeners. We can attest that she is a tremendous example of one who embodies the values and virtues of what good, intentional, and compassionate listening is all about. Sandi lives out those values throughout every aspect of her life. Most publicly, she founded, along with her husband Tom, Sandi’s Breads, offering a thoughtfully curated menu of artisan breads, pastries, and desserts, all baked in small batches with quality ingredients. Just as importantly, Sandi offers her staff and customers an atmosphere of kindness, excellent service, attentive listening, and a very real sense that her business is not transactional, but is connectional, showing everyone that they are truly valued and cared about.

Over the past thirty years, Benjamin Wagner has worked at the intersection of media and technology as an award-winning journalist and documentarian. In May, Benjamin’s new documentary, Friends & Neighbors, premieres nationwide. The film weaves together moments from his own life and career with the broader social forces around us, asking what’s broken, what it costs us, and what real healing could look like in an anxious and uncertain world. We discuss the film in this episode. On April 23, Benjamin will be with Someone To Tell It To, to premiere the film in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, before the nation-wide premiere. Fred (Mister) Rogers provided personal support to young Benjamin during a traumatic period in his life. Because of Someone To Tell It To’s co-production of the play, I’m Proud of You, in the spring of 2025, Benjamin connected with our mission and invited a collaboration with us. We are honored to be connected with him and this beautiful film. Get tickets here: https://secure.givelively.org/event/someone-to-tell-it-to-inc/the-friends-neighbors-southcentral-pa-premier-presented-by-sttit

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

What if one of the most important parts of our health isn’t physical or mental—but social? In this episode, we’re joined by Kasley Killam, Harvard-trained social scientist, two-time TED speaker, and author of The Art and Science of Connection. Kasley is a globally recognized expert on social health—the dimension of well-being rooted in meaningful relationships, community, and belonging. Kasley shares the powerful research behind why strong relationships help us live longer, healthier, and happier lives, and why our society has historically overlooked connection as a core pillar of health. Together we explore how to recognize when our social health may be suffering, and simple ways we can begin strengthening our “social muscles.” We also talk about the power of listening, the courage of vulnerability, and how organizations and communities can move from being transactional to truly relational. In a time when many people feel isolated, Kasley offers both insight and hope—reminding us that flourishing is something we do together.

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

Jael K.D.L.V. Chambers grew up in urban communities–rich with vibrant culture, but also rife with challenges. Those communities inspired in him a passion for celebrating the unique beauty of those cultures, along with an equal passion to uplift and transform those communities to be their very best. He is guided by the principles of his faith which teaches him that all of us want to be accepted, all of us want to belong, and all of us want to be heard. Show Notes: 2Pac To Live & Die in L.A.: https://youtu.be/9S96qfXKKRY?si=rCvanf5QayJFPOwr

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

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

Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Barbara Bray—author, coach, podcast host—whose work has transformed education for more than three decades. Barbara helps people uncover their “why,” embrace the power of story, and live with greater purpose, authenticity, and joy. In this episode, we explore the personal experiences that shaped her mission, the magic of storytelling, the inspiration behind her message, and the transformative role deep listening plays in finding meaning. If you’ve ever questioned your purpose or wondered whether your story matters, this episode will remind you that your voice—and your “why”—are worth sharing. Barbara's books and other information can be found at: https://linktr.ee/barbarabray27

Alex Ross-Reed (she/they) is a soul having a human experience on planet earth. Seeking connection, working for peace, learning, making, playing and loving everyday. Working for justice, cooperation, creativity, and supporting people, especially those in the LGBTQIA2S+ community, who are young and their families is their passion and mission. An artist, Alex knows that art saves lives, and wants to show the world how.

From above the Arctic Circle in northern Norway, Professor Ingrid C. Nordli joins us to focus on her years of experience researching, teaching, and writing about how children uniquely listen and how adults can better listen to them. A communications and linguistics expert, Ingrid speaks with us about the music of language and how, with its distinct rhythms, melodies, and harmonies, we can learn to respect the perspectives, the beautiful innocence, and the dignity of children - and the dignity of persons of every age, for that matter.

Joshua Lazerson remembers starting to understand the power and importance of listening as a teenager. At the age of 25 he made a personal commitment to try to prioritize listening in his life, and has 41 years of practice to date. Today, he fulfills that commitment, in part, with The Listening Project, through which he holds space by offering to listen to anyone who wishes to join him in a variety of public places around San Diego County, California, where he lives. Join us in this warm and beautiful conversation as Joshua describes why and how he holds that space for others to share who they are and what is on their hearts and minds.

In our latest episode, we have a conversation with Kristopher Sledge — pastor, conversation curator, traveler, husband, and father — who has built a reputation for helping people engage in real, honest dialogue about life’s toughest issues. Kris shares how he creates safe spaces for meaningful conversations around justice, equity, and inclusion, and how humility, listening, and curiosity can bridge deep divides. He also reflects on a life-changing experience that shaped his passion for connection and compassion. Join us for a powerful conversation about what it takes to stay at the table — even when it’s uncomfortable — and to see one another as human beings first.

In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Deary, President & CEO of the Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce and former Executive Director of Leadership Cumberland. With more than 20 years of experience in leadership, program development, marketing, and community engagement, Nicole has devoted her career to fostering growth, connection, and collaboration across Central Pennsylvania. Nicole shares her own journey into leadership, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and why authentic relationships are at the heart of effective leadership. Together, we explore how she helps emerging leaders move beyond surface-level networking into deeper, lasting connections—and the role emotional intelligence, intentional listening, and safe spaces play in that process. From sparking meaningful moments between participants to creating environments where every personality can thrive, Nicole offers wisdom and practical insight into what it means to lead with both courage and compassion. If you’ve ever wondered how to cultivate stronger, more connected teams—or how leaders can avoid isolation by rooting themselves in genuine community—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

When Kait Gillis-Hanna opened her coffee shop, it was about more than lattes and pastries—it was about creating a place where everyone belongs. By intentionally hiring people with disabilities, Kait has cultivated a workplace rooted in dignity, purpose, and connection. In this conversation, we talk with Kait about her vision, the challenges and joys of building an inclusive team, and the transformative power of belonging at work. Her story reminds us that when we make space for everyone’s gifts, we enrich not only our workplaces, but our communities as well.

Austin T. Qualls’ journey is one of redemption, resilience, and reinvention. He has a powerful story to tell about how he has found new life after a decision that landed him in the throes of the criminal justice system. Rather than allowing “cancel culture” to keep him down, he is on a mission to serve those who serve and to uplift the communities he is part of.

Jamaican-born Marva Shand-McIntosh, is a Speech Language Pathologist in the District of Columbia Public Schools, in Washington, D.C. In this conversation, Marva’s passion for the essential impact that listening well can have shines through. She has realized that her work helping others with their verbal abilities needs to be undergirded by intentional listening. Everything begins with listening, she believes, and she dedicates her professional and personal self to living out that belief. “If you’re not listening”, she says, “you’re not loving”. For additional information head to the ILA website listen.org and ilovetolisten.com

As Someone To Tell It To continues to grow, we’re embracing a new chapter of leadership — one that honors who we are and where we’re going. After more than a decade of co-leading as our Co-Chief Encouragement Officer (Co-CEO), Co-founder Michael Gingerich is transitioning into a new role as Chief Values Officer. Michael’s heart has always been at the soul of our mission. Michael will continue to pour into our team, our culture, and the deeper “why” behind all we do — guiding us with the wisdom and compassion that have defined his leadership from the very beginning. Stepping into the role of Co-Chief Encouragement Officer (Co-CEO) is our own Angie Dickinson. Co-leading alongside Tom Kaden (Co-CEO and Co-founder). Many of you already know Angie as the creative force behind our programming — she leads with empathy, wonder, and an incredible ability to see possibility in every challenge. In the past five years she’s helped countless individuals and organizations find connection, healing, and hope. We’re proud and grateful to welcome her into this new role. Change is inevitable, but navigating it with grace and intention can make all the difference. In this special episode, Angie joins us as we dive deep into the heart of transition—what it means, how it shapes us, and the opportunities it holds. Whether it’s a career move, personal shift, or unexpected life event, this conversation offers honest reflections, practical wisdom, and the reminder that you’re not alone in the journey.

In this special re-release, we revisit a playful and profound episode featuring Jed and Sophia Lazar, creators of the connection-building game COZY JUICY REAL. During our conversation, we dive into the game itself—experiencing firsthand how it sparks laughter, honesty, and heartfelt connection. What starts as fun quickly becomes something deeper: vulnerable, meaningful, and richly human. That’s the magic of COZY JUICY REAL—it invites us beyond surface talk into conversations that build trust and forge real bonds. Our time with Sophia and Jed was no exception. They’re warm, wise, and deeply committed to creating spaces of belonging in a disconnected world. We’re excited to share this episode again—you’ll be glad you met them. To get all of the details and the connection questions head here: https://someonetotellitto.mykajabi.com/walk-talk-listen-2025

In our latest episode, we are joined by Dr. Kristina Newport, Chief of Palliative Care at Penn State Health, in Hershey, Pennsylvania. With wisdom, compassion, and heart, Dr. Newport shows us how care at the end of life can be filled with meaning, connection, and profound humanity. Her insights remind us of the extraordinary power of listening, presence, and love.