The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages

Melissa Kaye
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Society & Culture

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. Aug 28

    An Unlikely Friendship

    Send us Fan Mail What becomes possible when two families choose curiosity, courage, and connection in a time of deep racial division? In 1959, Roselyn Davids, a white farmer’s wife in Spring Valley, Minnesota, heard David Sims, a Black father and civil rights advocate from South Bend, Indiana, speak on a national radio program. When David shared that he had never been welcomed into a white family’s home, Roselyn responded with an invitation. That single letter began a friendship between the Davids and Sims families that would span miles, generations, and some of the most turbulent years of the Civil Rights era. In this episode, Melissa speaks with Eric Christianson, co-author of South Bend to Spring Valley: The Davids–Sims Story. Eric shares how this remarkable friendship shaped his late wife, Joyce; why she later became the only white student to graduate from Huston-Tillotson College; and how the two families reunited on the original Davids farm nearly 50 years after their last gathering. Eric also reflects on David Sims’s devotion to his family and community, the extraordinary welcome Eric experienced after marrying into the Davids family, and the promise he made to Joyce before her death. Writing the book became more than a way to preserve her family’s history—it gave Eric renewed purpose, helped him move through grief, and restored his hope. This is a conversation about interracial friendship, faith, family, civil rights, grief, legacy, and the enduring power of opening our lives to one another. It reminds us that belonging begins when we become curious about the people we have been taught to keep at a distance—and discover what becomes possible when love leads the way. Read South Bend to Spring Valley: The Davids–Sims Story https://a.co/d/0dtgj2gK  Learn more about the work of Elev8 Villages: Website: https://www.elev8villages.org/  Help us expand our work: https://givebutter.com/Z0LM5V 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.

    An Unlikely Friendship

  2. Aug 26

    The Loneliness Crisis: Why We Need Human Connection More Than Ever

    Send us Fan Mail What happens to our humanity when the world keeps moving faster and technology begins to imitate companionship? Returning guest Jim Morris joins Melissa Kaye for a deeply personal conversation inspired by his new book, Connect or Die: How to Survive AI. Jim opens up about writing through the painful memories of his parents’ OxyContin addiction—and the healing he discovered when he revisited those experiences with the strength, relationships, and self-understanding he has today. Together, Jim and Melissa explore the myth of self-sufficiency, the transformative messiness of relationships, the power of intergenerational community, and why our greatest achievements become more meaningful when we have people beside us to share them. Jim also walks alongside Melissa in imagining an Elev8 Village designed for genuine connection and belonging. His vision centers on making time for deep, compassionate conversations and helping young people develop the relational tools to support one another. He shares one beautifully simple practice we can all begin using: ask whether someone wants to be heard, hugged, or helped. This episode is an invitation to put energy into the relationships that shape us, carry us through difficult seasons, celebrate our victories, and remind us that we never have to navigate life alone. 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.

    The Loneliness Crisis: Why We Need Human Connection More Than Ever

  3. Aug 14

    You Belong Anywhere: The Power of Curiosity & Human Connection

    Send us Fan Mail What if belonging begins with something as simple as returning to the same coffee shop until someone recognizes you? Wesley Warshawer spent five years as a digital nomad, living throughout the United States, Latin America, and Africa. Along the way, he discovered that unfamiliar places become personal through repeated presence, genuine curiosity, and the courage to begin conversations with people whose lives may look very different from our own. In this episode, Wesley joins Melissa Kaye to explore the invisible “bubbles” we each inhabit and what becomes possible when we step outside them. He shares humorous and humbling moments from South Korea, Togo, Kenya, and small-town America that challenged his assumptions and helped him see both his country and himself with fresh eyes. Wesley also offers a hopeful perspective on America’s presumed divisions. When we move beyond political labels and ask people to “paint a picture” of the future they desire, he believes we discover far more shared values than the loudest public narratives suggest. Together, Melissa and Wesley explore becoming recognizable, creating connection in unfamiliar places, approaching difference without judgment, and choosing to belong wherever we find ourselves. His closing invitation is timely and powerful: reject the culture of ridicule. When we stop using other people’s mistakes and differences to feel superior, we make room for humility, conversation, and belonging. Read Wesley’s travel reflections at https://wesleywarshawer.substack.com/ and learn more about Elev8 Villages at https://www.elev8villages.org/. The Belonging Podcast is generously underwritten by Deana Laughlin. 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.

    You Belong Anywhere: The Power of Curiosity & Human Connection

  4. Aug 7

    Belonging Anywhere | Identity, Family, Music & Finding Contentment with Jermaine Ee

    Send us Fan Mail What if being an outsider isn’t evidence that you don’t belong, but part of the path toward discovering who you are? Jermaine Ee attended 14 schools while growing up between cultures, continually learning how to enter unfamiliar places as “the new kid.” Music became one of his first safe places, while the unwavering love of his mother taught him that his worth was never dependent on achievement. In this deeply reflective conversation, Jermaine shares how his immigrant family shaped his understanding of sacrifice, success, identity, and home. He takes us from an American high school music room to USC, from helping immigrant families access financial aid to humanitarian work in Ukraine and ultimately to the creation of HeirLight, inspired by intimate conversations with his mother about mortality, money, and what we leave behind for the people we love. Along the way, Jermaine discovered the power of his own voice and began redefining the identity he once tried to escape: “Being an outsider is where I belong.” Together, Melissa and Jermaine explore what it means to live between cultures, how a parent’s love can anchor us through uncertainty, why clarity can be an expression of care, and whether home is something we find in a place or cultivate within ourselves. This is a conversation about legacy in its most human form: not simply what we leave behind, but how deeply we help others know that they are loved. The Belonging Podcast is presented by Elev8 Villages, a nonprofit creating holistic, resource-rich villages where young adults who have experienced foster care can find stability, opportunity, and—most importantly—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.

    Belonging Anywhere | Identity, Family, Music & Finding Contentment with Jermaine Ee

  5. Jul 30

    The Journey Into Belonging

    Send us Fan Mail Twenty-five conversations. One extraordinary journey. When I began The Belonging Podcast, I thought I was collecting interviews. Instead, I found myself collecting pieces of a puzzle. Over the past six months, I sat down with psychologists, pastors, educators, entrepreneurs, foster care advocates, coaches, and changemakers from many different walks of life. Each arrived with their own story, their own language, and their own understanding of belonging. What surprised me most wasn't their differences. It was how often they finished one another's thoughts. Although none of these guests have ever met, their voices weave together into one continuous conversation about one of the deepest human longings we all share: To know that we matter. The Journey Into Belonging is not a "best of" episode. It is a documentary created entirely from the wisdom of the remarkable people who have joined us throughout this first season. As you listen, you may discover that this isn't simply their journey. It may become your own. Thank you for walking this road with us. And thank you for helping create a world where more people know what it feels like to belong. With gratitude, Melissa Kaye Founder, Elev8 Villages To support this work go to: https://givebutter.com/Z0LM5V To learn more about Elev8 Villages go to: https://www.elev8villages.org/ 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.

    The Journey Into Belonging

  6. Jul 25

    Running Toward Tomorrow

    Send us Fan Mail At sixteen years old, Majd Abdallah entered foster care with nothing more than a backpack and an uncertain future. What he discovered over the years wasn't just safety—it was family, purpose, and a profound sense of belonging. In this powerful episode of The Belonging Podcast, Melissa Kaye sits down with Majd Abdallah, founder of Foster the Bear, to explore his remarkable journey through foster care, healing, identity, and the relationships that transformed his life. Majd shares the unexpected moments that helped him discover who he was meant to become—from finding freedom in early morning runs to realizing, during his high school graduation party, that his foster parents had quietly become his forever family. Together, Melissa and Majd explore what it truly means to belong, why community is essential to healing, and how simple acts of compassion can change the trajectory of a young person's life. This conversation is a moving reminder that belonging is not about where you come from—it's about the people who choose to walk beside you. In this episode you'll discover: How belonging shapes identity and resilienceThe emotional journey of entering foster care as a teenagerWhy relationships matter more than programsHow sports, mentorship, and community create lasting transformationThe inspiring story behind Foster the Bear and its mission to support children and young adults experiencing foster careWhy every young person deserves to know they are worthy, valued, and never aloneWhether you're connected to foster care, work with young people, are a foster parent, or simply care about building stronger communities, this episode offers hope, wisdom, and a fresh perspective on what it means to truly belong. About our guest Majd Abdallah is the founder of Foster the Bear, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children and young adults who have experienced foster care through comfort, connection, scholarships, and community awareness. Drawing from his own lived experience, Majd is helping ensure that no young person feels forgotten as they navigate life's most challenging transitions. If this conversation resonates with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who believes that every person deserves to belong. Learn More:  TedX Talk: https://youtu.be/atEFz5DwkiQ?si=DvLaMMRq12i5KF7C Foster The Bear: https://www.fosterthebear.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 LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE! 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.

    Running Toward Tomorrow

  7. Jul 4

    The Truth About Belonging No One Talks About

    Send us Fan Mail The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages | 025 | Pastor Shawn Have you ever felt like you didn't truly belong anywhere? In this inspiring episode of the Belonging Podcast, Melissa Kay sits down with Pastor Sean to explore identity, neurodiversity (ADHD), belonging, authentic living, faith, leadership, and the power of radical acceptance. Pastor Sean shares his personal journey of never quite fitting into traditional spaces—from church to business—and explains why creating communities built on love, safety, and acceptance is more important than ever. Together they discuss how belonging differs from simply fitting in, why diversity strengthens communities, how ADHD shaped Pastor Sean's life, and what it means to create environments where everyone feels seen and valued. In This Episode: - Belonging vs fitting in - ADHD and neurodiversity - Authentic leadership - Faith and inclusion - Love over division - Building safe communities - Diversity and acceptance - Foster care and belonging - Creating meaningful relationships - Community building If you've ever struggled to find your place, this conversation will encourage you to embrace who you are and help create spaces where others feel they belong too. Follow Pastor Shawn: TACA Church: https://taca.church/ TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnriffraff Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taca.church/ 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 #belongingpodcast #pastorsean #community #authenticity #adhd #neurodiversity #leadership #faith #acceptance #personalgrowth #mentalhealth #podcast #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.

    The Truth About Belonging No One Talks About

  8. Jun 26

    From People Pleasing to Belonging: Healing Codependency, Boundaries and Childhood Trauma

    Send us Fan Mail The Belonging Podcast by Elev8 Villages |Episode 024 | Kathleen White What happens when your need for love, acceptance, and belonging leads you to become a people pleaser? In this powerful episode of the Belonging Podcast, Melissa Kaye sits down with Coach Kathleen White to discuss codependency, toxic relationships, childhood trauma, boundaries, self-worth, and the journey toward healing. Kathleen shares her personal story of growing up in a dysfunctional home, navigating unhealthy relationships, and discovering how to break free from people-pleasing patterns. Together, they explore why so many people struggle to say no, seek validation from others, and lose themselves in relationships. You'll learn practical insights on setting healthy boundaries, building self-confidence, overcoming codependency, and creating genuine belonging in your life. Topics Covered: - Codependency and people pleasing - Childhood trauma and emotional healing - Healthy boundaries - Self-worth and self-respect - Toxic relationships - Foster care and belonging - Personal growth and recovery - Learning to say no - Emotional healing and resilience If you've ever struggled with self-worth, unhealthy relationships, or feeling like you don't belong, this conversation is for you. Connect with Kathleen White: Facebook Business page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573485023496  Instagram Business account: https://www.instagram.com/whtkthln  YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PhoenixRisingLLC-e7y Website: https://phoenixrisingllc.org/ 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.

    From People Pleasing to Belonging: Healing Codependency, Boundaries and Childhood Trauma
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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. 

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