Stand in the & with Heather Gates

Heather Gates
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Society & Culture

Stand in the & is a gathering designed to support curiosity, connection, & courage. This podcast is a series of conversations, with people across human-centered industries and life experiences, where we talk about showing up in the complexity of the human experience, where we get stuck, and how we find forward. Whether it’s the squeeze between empathy & accountability, structure & flexibility, hope & frustration, fear & excitement, us & them, or countless other “ands” we encounter. We’re leaning into the messiness. This podcast is a joyful & honest exploration around the nuance and possibility that exists within & among us. I hope you’ll join us!

  1. 1d ago

    Wired for Connection: The Neuroscience of Our Collective Experience

    In this episode, Heather and Dr. Ahmad Hariri explore the neuroscience of human connection – how we are wired for both connection and “othering”, what neuroplasticity is, and a consideration of the collective value of neurodiversity. They discuss how understanding this can empower and support us in fostering relationships and personal growth that align with the values & intentions we hold.  Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employees, clients, or affiliated organizations. Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy Guest: Dr. Ahmad Hariri, Professor of Psychology & Neuroscience, Duke University Resources Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst by Robert M. SapolskyMismatch: How Our Stone Age Brain Deceives Us Every Day by Ronald Giphart & Mark van VugtGood Reasons for Bad Feelings: Insights from the Frontier of Evolutionary Psychiatry by Randolph M. NesseSocial: Why Our Brains Are Wired to Connect by Matthew D. LiebermanConnect About the Podcast Email us with your ideas and feedback: connect@standintheand.com Visit the Podcast for more episodes See what we’re up to on Instagram with all things “&” To request strategy partner & facilitation support from Human-Centered Strategy, visit us online at https://human-centeredstrategy.com/contact/ Purchase the Merch Stickers, mugs, and touchstones can be purchased here https://human-centeredstrategy.com/gifts/

  2. Aug 4

    Considering Individual & Collective Responsibility in Creating Change

    In this episode, Heather Gates and Meg Koepke explore the power of individual and collective responsibility in creating systemic change, especially within healthcare and collaborative improvement. They discuss how small groups, agency, and curiosity can drive meaningful progress despite large systemic challenges and share some of their own experiences about things that we can do or seek to help us get there. Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employees, clients, or affiliated organizations. Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC Guest: Meg Koepke, Co-Founder, Coral Health Advisors  Resources Coral Health Advisors Pop Health Podcast  Connect About the Podcast Email us with your ideas and feedback: connect@standintheand.com Visit the Podcast for more episodes See what we’re up to on Instagram with all things “&” To request strategy partner & facilitation support from Human-Centered Strategy, visit us online at https://human-centeredstrategy.com/contact/ Purchase the Merch Stickers, mugs, and touchstones can be purchased here https://human-centeredstrategy.com/gifts/

  3. Jul 1

    The Art of Holding Both Ambition & Contentment

    In this episode, small business founders, Heather and Erica, explore the intricate & imperfect balance between ambition and contentment, sharing personal insights, practical tools, and cultural reflections. As ambitious entrepreneurs with families, they discuss navigating the rhythms of life and work, emphasizing the importance of self-defined success, noticing little moments of contentment, trusting your intuition, and building supportive community. Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employees, clients, or affiliated organizations. Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC Guest: Erica McArthur Allison, President & CEO, Formation PR + Brand  Resources Formation PR + Brand Chad Littlefield Group Activities  Connect About the Podcast Email us with your ideas and feedback: connect@standintheand.com Visit the Podcast for more episodes See what we’re up to on Instagram with all things “&” To request strategy partner & facilitation support from Human-Centered Strategy, visit us online at https://human-centeredstrategy.com/contact/ Purchase the Merch Stickers, mugs, and touchstones can be purchased here https://human-centeredstrategy.com/gifts/

  4. Jun 22

    Our Brains in the &: Fear, Reward, and Human Behavior

    On this “expert in the &” episode, Heather and Dr. Ahmad Hariri, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Duke University, unpack some complexities of the human brain and how understanding it can help us live more intentional lives. Dr. Hariri shares some brain-circuit basics, along with details on how our neural architecture influences behavior and emotional regulation. This episode also includes a few reminders and tools to help us all hold ourselves with compassion and support us in thriving individually & collectively. Send us your questions… we’re doing a Part 2! Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations. Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC Guest: Dr. Ahmad Hariri, Professor of Psychology & Neuroscience, Duke University Resources Michael Pollan on Psychedelics Secret of Secrets by Dan Brown Whole Brain Living by Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor Looking Inside the Disordered Brain by Ahmad Hariri Dr. Dan Siegel “Brain in the Hand” model Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers by Robert Sapolsky's Connect About the Podcast Email us with your ideas and feedback: connect@standintheand.com Visit the Podcast for more episodes See what we’re up to on Instagram with all things “&” To request strategy partner & facilitation support from Human-Centered Strategy, visit us online at https://human-centeredstrategy.com/contact/ Purchase the Merch Stickers, mugs, and touchstones can be purchased here https://human-centeredstrategy.com/gifts/

  5. Jun 12

    Unlocking Human Potential: The Dance Between Control & Surrender

    On this episode, Heather Gates and Meghan O'Malley explore the nuanced dance between control, surrender, and agency. This conversation delves into how embracing paradoxes, regulating our nervous systems, and fostering connection can unlock human potential and foster authentic leadership. Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations. Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC Guest: Meghan O'Malley, MS, Author, Speaker, Coach & Consultant  Resources •Meghan O’Malley Coaching •“Unstuck Yourself: Thrive Beyond Burnout & Discover Your True Purpose” by Meghan O'Malley MS, Laura Cardwell •“Unshakeable: The Power of Connection When Everything Is Crumbling” by Meghan O’Malley, TedXAsheville •The Imaginal Change Podcast •Dr. Lisa Miller - researcher, professor and published author at Columbia University who studies the brain as it relates to spiritual connection  Connect About the Podcast Email us with your ideas and feedback: connect@standintheand.com Visit the Podcast for more episodes See what we’re up to on Instagram with all things “&” To request strategy partner & facilitation support from Human-Centered Strategy, visit us online at https://human-centeredstrategy.com/contact/ Purchase the Merch Stickers, mugs, and touchstones can be purchased here https://human-centeredstrategy.com/gifts/

  6. May 15

    The Balance of Acceleration & Stewardship within Tech Innovation

    In this episode, Heather Gates and Daniel Carnegie explore the importance of balancing acceleration and stewardship in tech and data innovation. They discuss the critical role of listening, the challenges of implementing technology, and the need for humility and curiosity in fostering effective communication. Through personal anecdotes and insights, they highlight the lessons learned from past innovations and the importance of creating a culture that values inquiry and collaboration. They discuss the importance of defining success in tech solutions, the complexities of innovation, and the necessity of incorporating human elements into deployment. The dialogue emphasizes the need for open communication, judgment in decision-making, and the challenges of navigating complexity in a rapidly changing technological landscape. Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations. Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC () Guest: Daniel Carnegie, MD, MPH, MBA Chief Data Officer, North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services  Connect About the Podcast Email us with your ideas and feedback: connect@standintheand.com Visit the Podcast for more episodes See what we’re up to on Instagram with all things “&” To request strategy partner & facilitation support from Human-Centered Strategy, visit us online at https://human-centeredstrategy.com/contact/ Purchase the Merch Stickers, mugs, and touchstones can be purchased here https://human-centeredstrategy.com/gifts/

  7. May 12

    “Stand in the &” the Song & Storytelling about Writing It

    In this episode Heather sits down with long-time friend and singer songwriter Eric Erdman for storytelling around Eric’s background and the experience of writing the song Stand in the & together. They chat about “the ANDs” in a career within music and in the song writing journey. Through stories of co-creating music in real time, they highlight the messiness, patience, trust, courage, and vulnerability required to bring something new into the world. You’ll hear all the background and next steps (sort of), and at the end of the episode you’ll hear Eric sing and share “Stand in the &” recorded for the first time.  Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations. Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC  Guest: Eric Erdman, Owner & Magic Maker, Eric Erdman Music Resources Eric Erdman’s Website Eric Erdman’s Instagram Connect About the Podcast Email us with your ideas and feedback: connect@standintheand.com Visit the Podcast for more episodes See what we’re up to on Instagram with all things “&” To request strategy partner & facilitation support from Human-Centered Strategy, visit us online at https://human-centeredstrategy.com/contact/ Purchase the Merch Stickers, mugs, and touchstones can be purchased here https://human-centeredstrategy.com/gifts/

  8. Mar 31

    Leading (Others & Ourselves) with Empathy & Accountability

    In this episode, Heather and Kirsten explore the intricate dance between empathy and accountability in leadership, team dynamics, personal relationships, and with ourselves. They discuss the importance of connection, clear expectations, and the necessity of pre-work in preparing for difficult conversations. They emphasize the value of curiosity, care, and the normalization of discomfort in fostering trust and effective communication all while finding the balance between being empathetic and holding ourselves and others accountable. Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations. Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy  Guest: Kirsten Cone, Executive Director, Givens Estate Resources "Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High" by Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, Ron McMillan "Crucial Accountability: Tools for Resolve" by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, David Maxfield, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler Connect About the Podcast Email us with your ideas and feedback: connect@standintheand.com Visit the Podcast for more episodes See what we’re up to on Instagram with all things “&” To request strategy partner & facilitation support from Human-Centered Strategy, visit us online at https://human-centeredstrategy.com/contact/ Purchase the Merch Stickers, mugs, and touchstones can be purchased here https://human-centeredstrategy.com/gifts/

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Stand in the & is a gathering designed to support curiosity, connection, & courage. This podcast is a series of conversations, with people across human-centered industries and life experiences, where we talk about showing up in the complexity of the human experience, where we get stuck, and how we find forward. Whether it’s the squeeze between empathy & accountability, structure & flexibility, hope & frustration, fear & excitement, us & them, or countless other “ands” we encounter. We’re leaning into the messiness. This podcast is a joyful & honest exploration around the nuance and possibility that exists within & among us. I hope you’ll join us!

Information

  • Creator
    Heather Gates
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Stand in the & with Heather Gates
  • Show Website
    Stand in the & with Heather Gates