Our Stories Matter

Our Stories Matter Podcast
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Brought to you by Trauma Informed Learning Alliance, Our Stories Matter is a podcast celebrating the complex lived experiences of activists and healers by sharing their inspiring stories. Our Stories Matter centers on healing through activism, art, poetry, film, music, breath, movement, and more. Each guest brings a unique story, but one with the global theme of community healing and liberation through storytelling. As journalist Lauren Gilger profoundly states, “the power of the story will save us all.” Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram for updates! 

  1. 07/15/2025

    UNDERCOVER: The Changing Face of Terrorism in the US

    In this riveting episode, we sit down with Lara Burns, a former FBI counterterrorism expert, for a deep dive into the evolution of terrorism—from the attacks of September 11, 2001, to the emerging threats we see on today’s college campuses. With decades of experience tracking radicalization and confronting violent extremism, Lara brings a sharp, informed lens to the disturbing parallels between global terror tactics and the ideological warfare now playing out in academic institutions. Together, we trace the shifting landscape of terrorism, explore how misinformation and propaganda fuel hate movements, and discuss the impact of geopolitical trauma—like the events of October 7—on students, particularly Jewish and  Israeli, that increasingly face intimidation and silencing. Lara’s insights offer a wake-up call: the front lines of extremism are no longer just abroad—they’re here, where the next generation is being shaped. This episode challenges listeners to examine what safety, free speech, and moral responsibility mean in today’s educational spaces.

    57 min

  2. SEASON 6, EPISODE 8 TRAILER

    UNDERCOVER: The Changing Face of Terrorism in the US | Trailer

    Former FBI counterterrorism expert Lara Burns reveals how the radicalization she once tracked overseas is now taking root on America’s college campuses. Full episode premieres on June 26th.

    3 min

  3. 06/19/2025

    A Mother's Fight for Freedom

    Yasmine Mohammed, author of Unveiled: How Western Liberals Empower Radical Islam, shares her harrowing story of escaping religious fundamentalism and an arranged marriage to an Al-Qaeda terrorist. In this episode, Yasmine opens up about risking everything for the safety of her daughter, the emotional toll of living in hiding, and her ongoing fight for human rights. She draws powerful parallels between the extremism she fled and the rising hatred seen on college campuses today. Through her organization, Free Hearts Free Minds, Yasmine supports ex-Muslims facing persecution and advocates for freedom of thought. This conversation explores resilience, liberation, and the urgent need to challenge radicalization in all its forms.

    1h 1m

  4. SEASON 6, EPISODE 5 TRAILER

    A Mother's Fight for Freedom | Trailer

    Yasmine Mohammed escaped religious extremism and now fights for human rights. In this preview, she reflects on the cost of freedom and why her story resonates on today’s campuses. Full episode drops Thursday, June 19th.

    3 min

  5. 06/12/2025

    Silenced for her Identity

    Shoval Tshuva, an Israeli filmmaker, shares her powerful story of resilience, creativity, and the painful reality of being silenced. In this episode, Shoval opens up about her short film Funky, which addresses sexual assault and was gaining recognition at film festivals—until she was abruptly canceled for being Israeli following October 7th. She discusses the disturbing erasure of Jewish and Israeli women’s experiences of sexual violence, despite mounting evidence and survivor testimonies. Shoval reflects on the broader implications of this silencing, particularly on college campuses, where survivors are often met with skepticism or denial. Her story sheds light on the double standards in advocacy, and the urgent need for truth, justice, and the unwavering belief in every survivor’s voice.

    45 min

  6. 06/10/2025

    Silenced for her Identity | Trailer

    Israeli filmmaker Shoval Tshuva shares the story behind her film Funky—and how she was canceled for being Israeli. A powerful episode about silencing, survival, and the fight to be heard. Full episode drops Thursday, June 12.

    2 min

  7. 06/05/2025

    From Saudi Roots to Jewish Allyship

    Loay Alshareef, born and raised in Saudi Arabia, shares his personal journey of breaking free from extremist ideologies after a transformative encounter with a Jewish individual. In this episode, Loay reflects on the emotional and psychological toll of radicalism, the power of human connection, and the moment that sparked his curiosity and change. He also draws parallels between his experience and the rise of radical ideologies on college campuses, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue, critical thinking, and inclusive communities. Loay’s story is one of transformation, unity, and the hope that curiosity and compassion can counteract extremism.

    39 min

  8. SEASON 6, EPISODE 7 TRAILER

    From Saudi Roots to Jewish Allyship | Trailer

    Loay Alshareef’s life changed after a single conversation challenged years of extremist belief. This preview introduces his powerful story of transformation, empathy, and cross-cultural healing. Full episode drops Thursday, June 5th.

    2 min
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About

Brought to you by Trauma Informed Learning Alliance, Our Stories Matter is a podcast celebrating the complex lived experiences of activists and healers by sharing their inspiring stories. Our Stories Matter centers on healing through activism, art, poetry, film, music, breath, movement, and more. Each guest brings a unique story, but one with the global theme of community healing and liberation through storytelling. As journalist Lauren Gilger profoundly states, “the power of the story will save us all.” Follow @TraumaInformedLA on Instagram for updates! 

Information

  • Creator
    Our Stories Matter Podcast
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    91
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Our Stories Matter
  • Show Website
    Our Stories Matter