Join us for an enlightening conversation with John Kinectly, the dedicated executive director and community leader of L'Arche Syracuse. Discover how L'Arche creates a harmonious environment for individuals with and without intellectual disabilities to live together as family across four homes in Syracuse. We promise you’ll be inspired by the story of Ted Fox, a core member whose journey from anger to becoming a community spokesperson showcases the transformative power of belonging and support. John takes us through the organization’s history, founded by Wolf Wolfensberger, and how it rose from the deinstitutionalization movement to become a beacon of hope and inclusion.

We also take a closer look at the everyday rhythm of life at L'Arche, where structured routines and shared meals build a nurturing sense of community and emotional well-being. Listen as we highlight the story of a former law professor who found his calling at L'Arche over three decades ago, illustrating the profound impact of these relationships. Challenges like state policy restrictions and labor shortages are met with resilience and advocacy, calling for better state support. John and our community members share personal anecdotes that underscore the vital role of inclusive communities in celebrating the unique gifts of everyone, emphasizing that true community means everyone is valued and cherished.

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Join us as we dive into the extraordinary world of Ada Pasternak, the prodigious violinist turned singer-songwriter. Picture this: a young girl, uprooted from Moscow to the bustling streets of New York, guided by the melodious legacy of her classically trained parents. Ada’s candid recounting of her journey from being a reluctant violin player to earning a scholarship at Berklee College of Music is nothing short of inspiring. Her transition from classical to contemporary music, fueled by personal experiences like significant breakups, showcases how she has mastered the art of transforming life’s challenges into heartfelt compositions.

Venture with us into the vibrant music scene of Nashville, where Ada has found a new rhythm. The city, known for its rich musical tapestry, offers her an ideal backdrop to hone her craft, surrounded by influences as diverse as John Mayer and The Beatles. Ada opens up about the unique experiences of performing in intimate settings and how Nashville’s dynamic environment invigorates her songwriting process. Despite not gracing the legendary Broadway, her dedication to recording and connecting with fans through live performances and social media has made her a cherished figure in the community.

Finally, we explore Ada's reflections on identity and belonging. From the tranquil beaches of Fairfield to the bustling avenues of Nashville, she weaves a narrative of finding home in music. The episode touches on themes of healing and new beginnings, emphasizing Ada’s passion for music therapy and her car-free lifestyle. Through heartfelt anecdotes and aspirations of future collaborations with artists like Jacob Collier, Ada invites us into her world of artistic possibilities, providing a soundtrack that resonates deeply with listeners and encouraging us all to embrace our journeys with confidence and self-assurance.

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Tiffany Woys joins us to share her courageous journey behind her latest release, "American Dreamer," a song that aims to bridge divides during a politically charged time. Reflecting on the nostalgic days of civil political discourse, Tiffany opens up about her initial trepidations and the driving force of love and unity that pushed her to release this patriotic anthem. As we navigate through the songwriter's world, we uncover the transformative power of music to inspire civic engagement and foster a sense of national pride, transcending political barriers.

The episode takes a heartfelt turn as we discuss my personal evolution as a podcast host. Moving away from the rigid question-by-question format, I've embraced a more conversational style that invites deeper guest engagement and honest dialogues. With the shift to a professional studio setting in the second season of "What's Mine is Yours," the focus is on creating a warm, inviting space for our guests, ensuring their stories and insights are captured authentically. We tackle the common misconception that hosting a podcast is easy, sharing the learning curves and growth experiences along the way.

We wrap up with a candid look at the music industry's current landscape, particularly the surprising trend of cover songs overshadowing original works. This discussion highlights the industry's shift towards viral content at the expense of enduring musical quality and originality. We encourage listeners to actively support the artists they believe in, emphasizing the impact of informed voting and civic participation on shaping the future. With Tiffany's "American Dreamer" as our soundtrack, we champion a message of unity and pride in our shared identity as Americans.

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Thanks for listening! Follow us at youtube.com/c/skiphappens