Season 01, episode 06 March 23, 2025 Originally recorded on February 19, 2025 Speakers: Dayna Del Val & Pastor Paula Mehmel SSUMMARY In this conversation, Pastor Paula Mehmel shares her journey from being a pastor in North Dakota to her current role in Connecticut, emphasizing the importance of finding middle ground in discussions about faith, politics and community. She reflects on her diverse friendships and the significance of shared values despite differing beliefs. The dialogue explores the challenges of navigating Christian nationalism, the radical nature of faith and the necessity of compassionate conversations to foster understanding and connection among individuals with varying perspectives. In this conversation, Dayna and Paula explore…
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Brave Middle Ground | Naomi Vladeck
Season 01, episode 05 March 9, 2025 Originally recorded Feb 14, 2025 64 minutes This episode of Brave Middle Ground is brought to you by The Prosper Network and their upcoming summit, The Smart Woman’s Secret to Networking for Lasting Profits and Purpose on March 12. Learn more here. SPEAKERS Dayna Del Val, Naomi Vladeck SUMMARY In this engaging conversation, Dayna and Naomi explore the concept of ‘middle ground’ and its significance in personal and creative growth. Naomi shares insights from her book, Braving Creativity, discussing the five pillars of transition: liberation, navigation, play, empowerment and flourishing. They delve into the importance of embracing fear and excitement, the role of…
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Welcome to the Audaciously Curious Exchange
Welcome to the Audaciously Curious Exchange (ACE), a 4-week program designed to foster bold, meaningful conversations beyond echo chambers. In a world where quick answers replace deep discussion, ACE challenges participants to ask better questions, engage with opposing viewpoints and embrace curiosity as a tool for growth. The first Exchange will explore The Death of Politics by Pete Wehner, with discussions held via Zoom. The goal isn’t to be right—it’s to understand, to listen and to evolve. If you’re ready for thought-provoking dialogue, this is your invitation to step into the middle ground.
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Brave Middle Ground | ND Senator Josh Boschee
Season 01, Episode 04 February 23, 2025 Originally recorded January 04, 2025 51:48 minutes SPEAKERS Dayna Del Val & Senator Josh Boschee SUMMARY In this conversation, Josh Boschee discusses the importance of finding middle ground in politics, particularly in the context of North Dakota’s evolving political landscape. He reflects on the historical significance of compromise and the challenges posed by extremism in contemporary politics. The discussion also touches on the legacy of the Nonpartisan League, the dynamics of working within a super majority and the importance of engaging with constituents to foster a more inclusive political environment. Josh and Dayna discuss the challenges and dynamics of governance in North Dakota,…
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Brave Middle Ground | Sheri Salata
Season 01, episode 03 February 9, 2025 Originally recorded January 14, 2025 58:28 minutes SPEAKERS Sheri Salata, Dayna Del Val SUMMARY In this conversation, Dayna and Sheri Salata explore the concept of middle ground, the importance of community through the Prosper Network and the transformative power of storytelling. They discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by women in the middle of life, the changing landscape of media representation and the significance of personal narratives in shaping one’s identity and experiences. In this engaging conversation, Dayna and Sheri explore themes of justice, happiness, self-discovery, spirituality and the power of daydreaming. They reflect on the importance of managing one’s energy and mood,…
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Brave Middle Ground | Dr Adi Jaffe
Season 01, Episode 02 Jan 26, 2024 Originally recorded on December 6, 2024 68 MINUTES SPEAKERS: Dr Adi Jaffe, Dayna Del Val SUMMARY In this conversation, Adi Jaffe, PhD, and Dayna explore the complexities of addiction, mental health and societal definitions of normality. They discuss the stigma surrounding addiction, the fluidity of what is considered normal and how these concepts impact individuals, especially children. The conversation delves into the relationship between substance use and underlying mental health issues, emphasizing the importance of understanding the root causes rather than merely labeling behaviors. In this conversation, Adi explores the complexities of addiction, emphasizing the interplay between biological factors and environmental influences. He…
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Brave Middle Ground | Pete Wehner
Season 01, Ep 01 January 12, 2025 Originally recorded December 06, 2024 53:03 minutes SPEAKERS: Pete Wehner, Dayna Del Val SUMMARY In this conversation, Dayna and Peter Wehner explore the concept of middle ground, emphasizing its importance in today’s polarized society. They discuss the virtues of moderation, the pursuit of truth and the role of literature in fostering understanding. The conversation highlights the need for trust and empathy in political discourse, advocating for meaningful conversations that seek common ground despite differing beliefs. In this conversation, Peter Wehner and Dayna explore the complexities of political figures, the importance of civility in political discourse and the challenges of navigating personal relationships…
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Reflect, Celebrate, Release: Let’s Close the Year Feeling Extraordinary
As 2024 ends, I’m reflecting on the moments that shaped me—like finishing my memoir and attending a transformative writing retreat. This year reminded me that extraordinary doesn’t always look big; it’s found in small wins and facing challenges with courage. What are your reflections? What are you proud of? What have you let go of? As we look to 2025, I’m excited to flourish—hosting Spark events in Florence and launching Brave Middle Ground. Here's to closing the year with gratitude and stepping into a new one with purpose and joy!
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Shake it off: Speak up, stand out and face the noise
Taking a risk, speaking up, or trying something new can feel exhilarating and terrifying all at once. When the critics—strangers or loved ones—chime in, it's easy to feel deflated. But ask yourself: do their voices matter more than your own? The truth is, while haters are going to hate, the real challenge is choosing to stand firm in who you are. So, as the wise Ms. Swift reminds us, sometimes you’ve just got to shake it off—and keep moving forward.
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Turning Anger into Action: Finding Connection in a Divided Nation
In a time of extreme division and isolation, how can we turn anger into positive action? Join me in exploring ways to foster civil discourse, bridge divides, and build communities of empathy and connection.
