Empathetic Witness - Dr. Jennifer Mervyn We’re Not Alone

Apr 12, 2023

Season 2 broadening the conversation to empower the listener

Season One (1) of Empathetic Witness produced seventeen (17) episodes and was my debut into the podcast world. I found the process to be exciting and exhilarating. The podcasts satiated by curious nature, aided me in meeting and getting to know new people, and discovering new knowledge and information. Sharing is an important part of Indigenous Peoples ways of being and doing. I want to share the experience of discovery of new skills and the feeling of purpose and a reason to be and to wake up each day with podcast listeners. Empathetic Witness wants you to challenge assumptions about Indigenous Peoples. It encourages Indigenous and non-Indigenous persons to embrace true reconciliation as we examine truths, explore reparations, and show up in the world willing to learn and accept the responsibility of reconciliation. Empathetic Witness addresses a whole array of topics encompassing the impact of the creation of residential schools, cultural genocide, the Indian Act, mental health, resilience, and survival. The end goal is to have every listener finish the podcast of the day with a sense of hope and optimism no matter how difficult the conversation. Each podcast is an hour long. Listening can occur in a commute to and from work, a road trip, an hour set aside for self actualization, or even while preparing a meal. All podcasts involve conversations with Indigenous people who share their experiences and honour each and everyone of us with their enthusiasm, presence, and wisdom. Season Two (2) has begun with the same enthusiasm and a new focus. The new focus will include generating more podcasts with a larger audience and an expansion of learnings. The initial first season had a vision of supporting Seventh Generation Indigenous Foundation and Training (GIFT) seventhgift.ca and its focus was trauma related. The second season will concentrate solely on Empathetic Witness and its journey. It will include less conversations on addictions and trauma and will concentrate more on triumph and resilience. Empathetic Witness guest will be inspirational First Nation community leaders who will share personal stories that will encourage and motivate listeners to thrive rather than survive. A highlight of season two (2) was a conversation with film producer David Solomon from Adelaide Australia regarding his documentary “Two Brothers Walking found at https://empathetic-witness.captivate.fm/episode/storytelling- with-david-salomon Future episodes will include interviews with a human rights activist from Lima Peru, an Indigenous Musician, a Dene language keeper, a political leader on economic development, exciting and motivating First Nations self-sufficiency narratives, and much more. Grab a tea, listen, and take part in the Empathetic Witness Podcast journey of discovery, excitement, and pride. Mahsi chogh (Thank you!)

43 min