The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages

Melissa Kaye

Real conversations with real people exploring where they’ve belonged, where they haven’t, and how those experiences shaped who they are becoming. Honest stories, gentle curiosity, and a belief that we all belong to each other. 

  1. The Hidden Power of Nature | Belonging, Identity and Healing

    23H AGO

    The Hidden Power of Nature | Belonging, Identity and Healing

    Send us Fan Mail The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages | Frankie Edwards | Episode 21 What happens when humans lose connection with their body, nature, community, and their true sense of belonging? In this deeply emotional and inspiring episode of the Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages, host Melissa Kaye sits down with Frankie Edwards, a nature-based nervous system specialist and founder of Abundance World. Frankie shares their powerful journey growing up in Newfoundland, navigating identity, belonging, elite athletics, grief, concussions, healing, nervous system regulation, and reconnecting with nature. This conversation explores how modern life disconnects us from ourselves and why returning to community, embodiment, mindfulness, and the natural world may be one of the most important forms of healing today. In this episode, you’ll discover: - The true meaning of belonging - How nature calms the nervous system - Forest bathing and mindfulness practices - Healing trauma through embodiment - The emotional impact of losing identity - Queer identity, authenticity, and community - Why humans crave connection and safety - The science behind awe, grounding, and mental health - How nature creates emotional regulation - Powerful reflections on healing and self-acceptance Frankie also shares practical ways to reconnect with yourself through nature, water rituals, grounding practices, and mindfulness techniques that anyone can start today. Follow Frankie: IG https://www.instagram.com/thefrankchapter/ and TIKTOK https://www.tiktok.com/@abundance_world website: https://abundanceworld.today/ If you’ve ever felt disconnected, unseen, overwhelmed, or out of place, this conversation offers hope, healing, and a reminder that you belong. 🌿 Watch until the end for one simple daily practice that can help restore inner peace and emotional grounding. Learn More About Elev8 Villages: Website: https://www.elev8villages.org/ Download your FREE Belonging Kit: https://www.elev8villages.org/FREEkit 💭 If this episode inspires you, don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE! #belonging #naturehealing #mentalhealth #forestbathing #mindfulness #healingjourney #podcast  #nervoussystemhealing #selfhealing #communityhealing #foryou This podcast exists because we believe belonging is not a luxury. It’s a human need. Every story shared here helps us imagine a world where no one has to walk alone.  If this conversation resonated with you, please follow, rate, or share the show with someone who might need it today. To learn more about the movement we’re building (or to get involved) visit Elev8Villages.org. Thank you for joining us for this episode of The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages - where belonging becomes a place we build together.

    41 min
  2. Why Belonging Matters in Politics and Leadership

    MAY 15

    Why Belonging Matters in Politics and Leadership

    Send us Fan Mail The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages | Liana Cassar | Episode 20 In this insightful episode of the Belonging Podcast by Elevate Villages, host Melissa Kay sits down with Liana Cassar, former Peace Corps volunteer in Costa Rica and current advisory board chair of the Oasis Leadership Network. Together, they explore the powerful connection between leadership, democracy, belonging, and community. Liana shares her experiences serving as a community development worker with the Peace Corps, her journey through public service, and the important work Oasis Leadership Network is doing to support women and gender-expansive legislators across the United States. This inspiring conversation explores: • What belonging truly means in leadership • The challenges women face in politics • Power “with” vs power “over” leadership • Creating inclusive communities and democracy • Why representation matters in government • How leaders can create spaces where everyone feels seen • Supporting women legislators through resilience and community If you’ve ever wondered how we can build stronger communities, healthier leadership, and a more inclusive democracy, this episode offers hope, wisdom, and practical insight. Learn more about Liana’s work: https://www.oasisleadershipnetwork.org/ Learn More About Elev8 Villages: Website: https://www.elev8villages.org/ Download your FREE Belonging Kit: https://www.elev8villages.org/FREEkit 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations about belonging, leadership, healing, community, and personal growth. This podcast exists because we believe belonging is not a luxury. It’s a human need. Every story shared here helps us imagine a world where no one has to walk alone.  If this conversation resonated with you, please follow, rate, or share the show with someone who might need it today. To learn more about the movement we’re building (or to get involved) visit Elev8Villages.org. Thank you for joining us for this episode of The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages - where belonging becomes a place we build together.

    35 min
  3. What Is Ethical Leadership? And Why It Matters More Than Ever

    APR 30

    What Is Ethical Leadership? And Why It Matters More Than Ever

    Send us Fan Mail The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages | Episode 019  Guest: Rebecca Justus, Ethical Leadership Coach and Mentor In this episode, we explore one of the most important and often misunderstood topics of our time, Leadership. But not just leadership… 👉 Ethical Leadership Melissa sits down with Rebecca Justus, a coach and mentor in ethical leadership, to unpack what it truly means to lead with integrity, intention, and care in today’s complex and divided world. 💡 In this conversation, you’ll learn: What leadership really means (and why most people get it wrong) The difference between leadership and ethical leadership Why leadership often turns into control or harm How power changes people (and how to stay grounded) The role of curiosity in great leadership How to create safe spaces and belonging in teams What inclusive leadership looks like in real life This episode will challenge the way you think about influence, power, and responsibility. Follow Rebecca Websites: https://www.rebeccajustus.com/ https://www.reproductiveautonomy.org/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/therebeccajustus/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-justus/ If you lead in any way, at work, in your community, or even in your family, this conversation is for you. This podcast is made possible by the generosity of our patron: Deana Laughlin.  Thank you Deana!! Learn More About Elev8 Villages: Website: https://www.elev8villages.org/ Download your FREE Belonging Kit: https://www.elev8villages.org/FREEkit This podcast exists because we believe belonging is not a luxury. It’s a human need. Every story shared here helps us imagine a world where no one has to walk alone.  If this conversation resonated with you, please follow, rate, or share the show with someone who might need it today. To learn more about the movement we’re building (or to get involved) visit Elev8Villages.org. Thank you for joining us for this episode of The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages - where belonging becomes a place we build together.

    22 min
  4. From Foster Care to Success: The Power of Human Connection

    APR 15

    From Foster Care to Success: The Power of Human Connection

    Send us Fan Mail Episode 018 Guest: Just in Time for Foster Youth, San Diego, CA There’s a difference between being supported… and truly belonging. In this episode of The Belonging Podcast, Melissa sits down with Diane and Don from Just in Time for Foster Youth to explore what happens when young people are given something many have never experienced before: consistency, care, and a place where they don’t have to leave after making a mistake. Through powerful stories and lived experience, this conversation reveals how early instability shapes behavior and how belonging has the power to rewrite those patterns. This isn’t just about foster youth. It’s about all of us. What becomes possible when someone stays? When mistakes don’t mean rejection? When people are seen, supported, and given space to grow? This episode is a glimpse into what it looks like to move from survival… into wholeness. 💡 Key Topics: Life after foster careThe importance of belongingMental and emotional challengesHow mentorship changes livesBuilding real human connectionThe joy and wholeness of belonging This episode will open your eyes and touch your heart Just in Time Website: https://jitfosteryouth.org/ BOOK: Life Changing Choices https://jitfosteryouth.org/book-lifec... If you’ve ever wondered how one relationship can change a life, this episode is a must-watch. This podcast is made possible by the generosity of our patron: Deana Laughlin Thank you Deana!! Learn More About Elev8 Villages: Website: https://www.elev8villages.org/ Download your FREE Belonging Kit: https://www.elev8villages.org/FREEkit 💭 If this episode inspires you, don’t forThis podcast exists because we believe belonging is not a luxury. It’s a human need. Every story shared here helps us imagine a world where no one has to walk alone.  If this conversation resonated with you, please follow, rate, or share the show with someone who might need it today. To learn more about the movement we’re building (or to get involved) visit Elev8Villages.org. Thank you for joining us for this episode of The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages - where belonging becomes a place we build together.

    58 min
  5. How to Create Belonging in a Divided World | Joseph Yoo on Faith, Foster Care and Love

    APR 1

    How to Create Belonging in a Divided World | Joseph Yoo on Faith, Foster Care and Love

    Send us Fan Mail In this powerful and deeply human conversation, Melissa sits down with Joseph Yoo, a Korean American priest, storyteller, and advocate for belonging. They explore what it truly means to feel seen, loved, and accepted. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why many people feel like they don’t belong The real meaning of peace (beyond silence) How to stay open in difficult conversations The difference between fitting in vs belonging What unconditional love really looks like How to create safe spaces for others You’ll also hear a moving story about foster care and adoption. How one child transformed his understanding of love, presence, and belonging forever. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t quite fit in… this conversation is for you. A big thank you to our patron, Deana Laughlin, for making this podcast possible. Melissa's fav Rev. Yoo post:    • Peace, biblically, goes deeper and further...  Website: https://josephyoo.com/ BOOK: https://a.co/d/0b0Eyw1W In Pearland, Texas?? Visit Mosaic Church: https://www.mosaicpearland.org/ Learn More About Elev8 Villages: Website: https://www.elev8villages.org/ Download your FREE Belonging Kit: https://www.elev8villages.org/FREEkit 💭 If this episode inspires you, don’t forget to This podcast exists because we believe belonging is not a luxury. It’s a human need. Every story shared here helps us imagine a world where no one has to walk alone.  If this conversation resonated with you, please follow, rate, or share the show with someone who might need it today. To learn more about the movement we’re building (or to get involved) visit Elev8Villages.org. Thank you for joining us for this episode of The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages - where belonging becomes a place we build together.

    50 min
  6. How to Build Deep Friendships as an Adult

    MAR 23

    How to Build Deep Friendships as an Adult

    Send us Fan Mail The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages with Cullen Wallace | 016 This episode of the Belonging Podcast is a deeply honest and powerful conversation about loneliness, mental health, and what it truly means to belong. Cullen Wallace shares his life growing up in Alaska, the importance of deep friendships, and the reality of struggling silently. From dealing with depression and vulnerability to finding “3AM people," the kind of friends who truly show up. This episode is filled with raw truth and life-changing insights. In this episode, we explore: • What belonging really means in life • Why most people feel alone (even when they’re not) • The importance of having “3AM people” • Mental health struggles and opening up • How to build deep, honest friendships • Learning to be present and value time • Finding purpose during difficult seasons If you’ve ever felt lost, disconnected, or unsure of your path, this conversation is for you. You are not alone. Check out “Today’s Thought Worth Thinking About” and follow Cullen here: https://www.facebook.com/cullenwallacerealtor https://www.instagram.com/cullenwallace.fairbanks/ Learn More About Elev8 Villages: Website: https://www.elev8villages.org/ Download your FREE Belonging Kit: https://www.elev8villages.org/FREEkit The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 OR DIAL 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline This podcast exists because we believe belonging is not a luxury. It’s a human need. Every story shared here helps us imagine a world where no one has to walk alone.  If this conversation resonated with you, please follow, rate, or share the show with someone who might need it today. To learn more about the movement we’re building (or to get involved) visit Elev8Villages.org. Thank you for joining us for this episode of The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages - where belonging becomes a place we build together.

    45 min
  7. From Iran to Rebuilding Life: Courage, Belonging, and Financial Freedom

    MAR 17

    From Iran to Rebuilding Life: Courage, Belonging, and Financial Freedom

    Send us Fan Mail The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages with Behi Shafiei | 015 This episode of the Belonging Podcast is one of the most powerful and emotional conversations we’ve had. Behi Shafiei shares her incredible journey. Growing up in Iran, losing her sister in a fight for justice, and rebuilding her life in a new country. From surviving oppression to creating financial freedom, her story is a testament to courage, belonging and purpose. In this episode, we talk about: • What it’s really like growing up as a woman in Iran • The emotional impact of losing a loved one fighting for justice • Immigration, identity, and finding belonging • Why financial literacy is the key to freedom • How to stop trading time for money • Building wealth as a woman and immigrant This is more than a story, it’s a wake-up call! If you’ve ever felt lost, stuck, or unsure about your future, this conversation will inspire you to take control of your life and build your own path. Follow Behi’s journey: Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/behi-shafiei/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behishafiei/ Read more about Behi in her new Bestselling Book: https://a.co/d/0g39A8HM Live in Canada? Work with Behi and learn how to grow your wealth: https://wealthbridgeto.ca/ Learn More About Elev8 Villages: Website: https://www.elev8villages.org/ Download your FREE Belonging Kit: https://www.elev8villages.org/FREEkit This podcast exists because we believe belonging is not a luxury. It’s a human need. Every story shared here helps us imagine a world where no one has to walk alone.  If this conversation resonated with you, please follow, rate, or share the show with someone who might need it today. To learn more about the movement we’re building (or to get involved) visit Elev8Villages.org. Thank you for joining us for this episode of The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages - where belonging becomes a place we build together.

    55 min
  8. Belonging After Everything Falls Apart | Divorce, Cancer, and Finding Love Again

    MAR 12

    Belonging After Everything Falls Apart | Divorce, Cancer, and Finding Love Again

    Send us Fan Mail The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages with Maria Travieso | 014 In this powerful episode of the Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages, host Melissa Kaye sits down with Maria Travieso, Christian influencer, content creator, minister, and cancer survivor. Maria shares her deeply personal story of navigating divorce, identity loss, and a life-changing cancer diagnosis, and how faith, resilience, and community helped her rebuild her life. This honest and inspiring conversation explores: • Life after divorce • Surviving cancer and rebuilding identity • Faith and personal relationship with God • Soul ties and emotional healing • Building healthy relationships • Finding belonging and purpose Maria also shares how her journey led her to become a podcaster and social media content creator, helping women heal and rediscover their strength. If you’ve ever struggled with heartbreak, loss, illness, or searching for your purpose, this episode will remind you that healing and transformation are always possible. Visit us at church: https://www.rockfaithcenter.com/ https://www.palestinechurch.com/ Connect with Maria here: https://stan.store/MariaTraviesa Learn More About Elev8 Villages: Website: https://www.elev8villages.org/ Download your FREE Belonging Kit: https://www.elev8villages.org/FREEkit 🔔 Subscribe for more powerful conversations about faith, healing, relationships, and belonging. This podcast exists because we believe belonging is not a luxury. It’s a human need. Every story shared here helps us imagine a world where no one has to walk alone.  If this conversation resonated with you, please follow, rate, or share the show with someone who might need it today. To learn more about the movement we’re building (or to get involved) visit Elev8Villages.org. Thank you for joining us for this episode of The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages - where belonging becomes a place we build together.

    54 min
See All (20)

About

Real conversations with real people exploring where they’ve belonged, where they haven’t, and how those experiences shaped who they are becoming. Honest stories, gentle curiosity, and a belief that we all belong to each other. 

Information