In this conversation, Dayna Del Val, Anna Wasescha, and Ben Schierer explore the concept of middle ground in rural America, emphasizing the importance of local governance, community engagement and inclusion. They discuss the unique role of the West Central Initiative in Minnesota, the legacy of Rudy Perpich and the challenges of navigating polarization in today's society. The dialogue highlights the significance of civic participation, the complexities of rural identity and the optimism that arises from community connections.
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Brave Middle Ground | Jody Slaughter
Season 02, episode 5. November 9, 2025 Originally recorded April 4, 2025 SPEAKERS Dayna Del Val and Jody Slaughter SUMMARY In this conversation, Dayna Del Val and Jody Slaughter explore the profound themes of death, grief and the importance of being present in the face of loss. Jody, a compassionate pastoral counselor and death doula, shares her insights on the sacredness of the dying process, the role of a death doula and the necessity of having open conversations about death. They discuss the fear surrounding death, the significance of honoring both joy and sorrow and the creative ways to navigate grief. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of being present for…
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Why Stories Matter More Than Facts: Building Connection in a Polarized World
Season 2, episode 5 October 26, 2025 Originally recorded April 30, 2025 SPEAKERS Dayna Del Val and Carter Headrick SUMMARY In this engaging conversation, Dayna Del Val and Carter Headrick explore the concept of ‘middle ground’ in communication, the evolution of technology and its impact on society, and the power of storytelling in creating change. They discuss the challenges of finding common ground in a divisive political landscape, the importance of authenticity, and the role of community in overcoming obstacles. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, they emphasize the need for understanding, empathy and action in fostering connections and addressing societal issues. KEYWORDS arts, community, creativity, economic security, human rights,…
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Brave Middle Ground | Kara Haug
In this conversation, Dayna Del Val and Kara Haug explore the concept of ‘Brave Middle Ground,’ discussing the importance of navigating judgment and curiosity in our lives. They delve into the role of community, the significance of listening and the complexities surrounding sexual health and agency. The discussion touches on the impact of purity culture, the journey to sexual education,and the need for open conversations about sexuality. They emphasize the importance of reframing narratives around pleasure and consent, while also addressing the grief associated with missed opportunities. Ultimately, they advocate for creating a new normal in sexual health education that empowers individuals to embrace their bodies and experiences.
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Brave Middle Ground | Dr Timothy Downs
Season 2, episode 2. September 28, 2025 Originally recorded April 29, 2025 SPEAKERS Dayna Del Val and Dr Tim Downs SUMMARY In this engaging conversation, President Tim Downs discusses the challenges and opportunities in higher education, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, humility and community. He reflects on the changing landscape of academia, the value of a liberal arts education, and the need for institutions to adapt while maintaining their core values. Downs also addresses the significance of diversity, equity and inclusion, and the role of leadership in navigating these complex issues. Ultimately, he advocates for a supportive environment that fosters student success and encourages open dialogue. LISTEN ON SPOTIFY LISTEN…
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Brave Middle Ground | Women Redefining Venture Capital: Collaboration, Community & Middle Ground with Emmeline Ventures
Season 2, episode 1. September 14, 2025 Originally recorded on March 19, 2025 SPEAKERS Dayna Del Val, Azin Radsan van Alebeek, La Keisha Landrum Pierre SUMMARY In this conversation, Dayna Del Val speaks with Azin Radsan van Alebeek and La Keisha Landrum Pierre about their experiences in venture capital, the importance of defining middle ground and the empowerment of women in business. They discuss the challenges and opportunities within the venture capital space, emphasizing the need for community, collaboration and the breaking of stereotypes. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of venture capital, particularly regarding women-led funds and the impact of investing in diverse businesses. KEYWORDS venture capital, women in…
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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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Embrace change: Work toward your Spark in May
2016 Dayna Del Val would ruefully laugh in your face if you showed her this blog post. That year, only months before Mazz got sober, I was, again, contemplating how to leave him, how to walk away from what felt like an endless, slow, sad spiral to a bottom I couldn't see and didn't understand. There was no indication that anything was going to get better or ever be different.
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Birthing your dream
My carefully constructed blueprint might not have all the details I will discover or dream up. Plans I'm sure will work now might prove to be unusable when tasked with carrying this memoir from start to finish. Hopefully I'll conceive of ideas that are more valuable than anything I've yet imagined at this early juncture.
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Join the Spark movement: Let’s collaborate and grow together
For close to four years, I've been offering various opportunities for people to say yes to Spark work. I've loved the hundreds of people I've worked with in all these many ways we've engaged in this joyful work together, but it's time for me to change it up.
