As a child, Michael Boardman's absolute favorite activity was traveling from his home in Connecticut to the Bronx Zoo in New York City. Absolutely captivated by the gorillas and other animals, Michael would return home to draw these animals. His animal and nature drawings have been a passion his entire life, and now Michael inspires others through his majestic watercolors, his teaching at workshops and artist residencies around the country, and the creation of uniquely amazing t-shirts. In … [Read more...]
Teacher
Chomba Kaluba – The Power of Connections
Chomba Kaluba grew up in Zambia, Africa. While Zambia was a peaceful country, it was was surrounded by war and human conflict on the African continent, and he had few possessions in a small village. He often would have to travel about without shoes, had no clock or watch in the house, and all that was eaten was grown on his family's land. Days were measured by the rising and setting of the sun. Attending middle school meant walking 9 miles to/from school each day. A rich connection with a … [Read more...]
Kathy Slack – Teaching and Healing Through Sound
At a young age, Kathy dared to walk the path lass traveled and she has not stopped doing so to this day. At one point in her life, Kathy was living off the grid, and then at another point in her life, she was singing and acting in New York City. What is awesome about Kathy is that she used all of her life experiences, including being a university communications professor, performer, and musician, to co-create a local voice program (317 Main, Community Music Program) which has influenced hundreds … [Read more...]
Jim Peacock – Career Counselor Extraordinaire
'To Live For' interviews Jim Peacock, founder of Peak-Careers, and long time career counselor and career development facilitator. Jim brings a wealth of INSPIRING experience to our interview, working in high schools, colleges, and technical schools. Jim has presented across the country at many conferences and schools. In this interview, we spend some time talking about the different ways Jim provides career services, and we also delve into one of his passions: Moving forward in career … [Read more...]
Thulani Madondo – Kliptown Youth Program
Having grown up in a one room home with his mom and 7 siblings, Thulani knew from an early age that he wanted to help make a difference for youth who grow up in similar challenging environments. In 2007, Thulani co-founded the Kliptown Youth Program (KYP) in Soweto, South Africa, and now Thulani and his colleagues are making a HUGE difference for the children who are growing up in the same neighborhood as he did. In 2012, Thulani was nominated for the CNN Hero of the Year award, and out of … [Read more...]
Kula – Community of the Heart
Spending nearly a month in Costa Rica this past May (with my teachers, friends & colleagues at the Harmony Healing Center yoga teacher training) taught me among many jewels, that Kula means community of the heart. I am truly blessed to have experienced the true meaning of Kula. A safe space was created that invited me to embrace & embody my authenticity, vulnerability & courage. My Kula encouraged & challenged me not to run from my pain. Instead, they held a loving … [Read more...]
Kat Beaudoin – Healing Our Earth and Community
Our interview with Kat deserves much more time, as her story is poignant and sacred. About a year ago, Kat felt called to travel the country and visit the various places where deep and sad trauma was caused to our earth and communities, especially the various mass shootings. By the end of this month, Kat will have sold most of her belongings as she begins the journey of traveling the country with her dog, Nuttah, in an R-Pod (recreational pod). Kat leaves on her remarkable journey … [Read more...]
Bea Bonnaire Blakemore – Dancer Extraordinaire
Bea Bonnaire Blakemore is a bright light amongst many light beings. She lives her passion through her motherhood, deep wisdom, teaching, and dancing. Speaking of dancing, Bea exudes such enthusiasm and joy when she is in front of her students or in front of hundreds of people at a performance. Bea is a blessing to all who know her, and we so excited to introduce her to our audience. … [Read more...]
Interview with Jen Fox – Choosing to Live in Joy
Jen brings deep wisdom and love to those who know her through yoga, teaching, writing, and her way of 'being.' Jen walks her talk, and at the core of her walk, is Jen's unconditional love for everyone, and her authentic choice to live in joy each and every day. … [Read more...]
