Stand in the & with Heather Gates

The Making & Financing of Mission-Driven Business

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Heather and Adrienne Ammerman explore the journey of building Arclet, a public health tech platform, from an early idea into a sustainable business. Adrienne opens up about the tension between mission & margin, and challenges of funding a tech start up that is operating “in the &” of public health & tech innovation. Together Heather and Adrienne share their experiences with navigating and learning more about the funding side of their passions, while reflecting on what helps support them in sustaining the work and themselves in the messy “not yet” of it all; in the space between surviving & thriving. This episode also includes a deep dive into the ways that Arclet is using AI with intention, while acknowledging the complexities in the context.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employees, clients, or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy
Guest: Adrienne Ammerman, Founder & CEO, Arclet

Resources
Arclet - Public Health Tech Platform
Elevate Program – Asheville
Center for Humane Technology

Connect About the Podcast
Email us with your ideas and feedback: connect@standintheand.com
Visit the Podcast for more episodes
See what we’re up to on Instagram with all things “&”

To request strategy partner & facilitation support from Human-Centered Strategy, visit us online at https://human-centeredstrategy.com/contact/

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Wired for Connection: The Neuroscience of Our Collective Experience

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Heather and Dr. Ahmad Hariri explore the neuroscience of human connection – how we are wired for both connection and “othering”, what neuroplasticity is, and a consideration of the collective value of neurodiversity. They discuss how understanding this can empower and support us in fostering relationships and personal growth that align with the values & intentions we hold.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employees, clients, or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy
Guest: Dr. Ahmad Hariri, Professor of Psychology & Neuroscience, Duke University

Resources

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Considering Individual & Collective Responsibility in Creating Change

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Heather Gates and Meg Koepke explore the power of individual and collective responsibility in creating systemic change, especially within healthcare and collaborative improvement. They discuss how small groups, agency, and curiosity can drive meaningful progress despite large systemic challenges and share some of their own experiences about things that we can do or seek to help us get there.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employees, clients, or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC
Guest: Meg Koepke, Co-Founder, Coral Health Advisors

Resources
Coral Health Advisors
Pop Health Podcast

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The Art of Holding Both Ambition & Contentment

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, small business founders, Heather and Erica, explore the intricate & imperfect balance between ambition and contentment, sharing personal insights, practical tools, and cultural reflections. As ambitious entrepreneurs with families, they discuss navigating the rhythms of life and work, emphasizing the importance of self-defined success, noticing little moments of contentment, trusting your intuition, and building supportive community.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employees, clients, or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC
Guest: Erica McArthur Allison, President & CEO, Formation PR + Brand

Resources
Formation PR + Brand
Chad Littlefield Group Activities

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Our Brains in the &: Fear, Reward, and Human Behavior

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 10:00:00 -0400

On this “expert in the &” episode, Heather and Dr. Ahmad Hariri, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Duke University, unpack some complexities of the human brain and how understanding it can help us live more intentional lives. Dr. Hariri shares some brain-circuit basics, along with details on how our neural architecture influences behavior and emotional regulation. This episode also includes a few reminders and tools to help us all hold ourselves with compassion and support us in thriving individually & collectively. Send us your questions… we’re doing a Part 2!

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC
Guest: Dr. Ahmad Hariri, Professor of Psychology & Neuroscience, Duke University

Resources
Michael Pollan on Psychedelics
Secret of Secrets by Dan Brown
Whole Brain Living by Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor
Looking Inside the Disordered Brain by Ahmad Hariri
Dr. Dan Siegel “Brain in the Hand” model
Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers by Robert Sapolsky's

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Unlocking Human Potential: The Dance Between Control & Surrender

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 10:00:00 -0400

On this episode, Heather Gates and Meghan O'Malley explore the nuanced dance between control, surrender, and agency. This conversation delves into how embracing paradoxes, regulating our nervous systems, and fostering connection can unlock human potential and foster authentic leadership.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC
Guest: Meghan O'Malley, MS, Author, Speaker, Coach & Consultant

Resources
•Meghan O’Malley Coaching
•“Unstuck Yourself: Thrive Beyond Burnout & Discover Your True Purpose” by Meghan O'Malley MS, Laura Cardwell
•“Unshakeable: The Power of Connection When Everything Is Crumbling” by Meghan O’Malley, TedXAsheville
•The Imaginal Change Podcast
•Dr. Lisa Miller - researcher, professor and published author at Columbia University who studies the brain as it relates to spiritual connection

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The Balance of Acceleration & Stewardship within Tech Innovation

Fri, 15 May 2026 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Heather Gates and Daniel Carnegie explore the importance of balancing acceleration and stewardship in tech and data innovation. They discuss the critical role of listening, the challenges of implementing technology, and the need for humility and curiosity in fostering effective communication. Through personal anecdotes and insights, they highlight the lessons learned from past innovations and the importance of creating a culture that values inquiry and collaboration. They discuss the importance of defining success in tech solutions, the complexities of innovation, and the necessity of incorporating human elements into deployment. The dialogue emphasizes the need for open communication, judgment in decision-making, and the challenges of navigating complexity in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC ()
Guest: Daniel Carnegie, MD, MPH, MBA Chief Data Officer, North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services

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“Stand in the &” the Song & Storytelling about Writing It

Tue, 12 May 2026 13:00:00 -0400

In this episode Heather sits down with long-time friend and singer songwriter Eric Erdman for storytelling around Eric’s background and the experience of writing the song Stand in the & together. They chat about “the ANDs” in a career within music and in the song writing journey. Through stories of co-creating music in real time, they highlight the messiness, patience, trust, courage, and vulnerability required to bring something new into the world. You’ll hear all the background and next steps (sort of), and at the end of the episode you’ll hear Eric sing and share “Stand in the &” recorded for the first time.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC
Guest: Eric Erdman, Owner & Magic Maker, Eric Erdman Music

Resources
Eric Erdman’s Website
Eric Erdman’s Instagram

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Leading (Others & Ourselves) with Empathy & Accountability

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Heather and Kirsten explore the intricate dance between empathy and accountability in leadership, team dynamics, personal relationships, and with ourselves. They discuss the importance of connection, clear expectations, and the necessity of pre-work in preparing for difficult conversations. They emphasize the value of curiosity, care, and the normalization of discomfort in fostering trust and effective communication all while finding the balance between being empathetic and holding ourselves and others accountable.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy
Guest: Kirsten Cone, Executive Director, Givens Estate

Resources
"Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High" by Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, Ron McMillan
"Crucial Accountability: Tools for Resolve" by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, David Maxfield, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler

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The Messy Middle: Going Inward & Artward in Creativity & Strategy

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, business owners and makers, Heather and Erin explore the intricate relationship between our internal narratives and the work to make our visions real in the world. They discuss the practice & challenges of moving from imagination to reality, the duality of anchoring and expanding in the creative process, and how fear can serve as a passageway. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of choice, the messy middle of creativity (in the broad sense), and the feeling of fierce responsibility to create meaning in our lives. Through their shared experiences, they highlight the interconnectedness of our “inward & artward” journey of inside reflection AND external creation and connection. The conversation honors an inclusive understanding of creativity and community, with a nudge to continue making what we can imagine as possible.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC
Guest: Erin Hallagan Clare, founder of Story Parlor

Resources

The Story Parlor
Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar
The Inward & Artward School of Creativity
Yoga with Adrienne
“Daring Greatly” by Brene Brown
“Beauty” by John O'Donohue, Irish Philosopher – The Approach of Reverence
“Writing Down the Bones” by Natalie Goldberg
"Pedagogy of the Oppressed" by Paulo Freire
"Teaching to Transgress" by Bell Hooks
"The Anti-Racist Writing Workshop" by Felicia Rose Chavez

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Bringing curiosity to the ANDs within us: A conversation about “parts work”

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Brooke Nielsen Yang, a psychotherapist and coach, joins the podcast to discuss the concept of “parts work” and how it can help individuals understand different parts of themselves and manage internal conflicts. Heather and Brooke share examples from their own experiences and tools they use to help engage and navigate their human complexity. The conversation delves into the different types of parts within us, such as authentic self, protector parts, and exile parts, and how recognizing these can lead to living a more authentic life. The discussion also touches on the importance of curiosity in navigating our own internal landscape, and ways that it helps us connect with others too.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC (https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-gates-9a837913/)
Guest: Brooke Nielsen Yang, Therapist, Coach & Educator for Highly Sensitive & Neurodivergent Leaders (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-nielsen-yang-55437313/)

Resources
No Bad Parts By Dick Schwartz
Coming Home to Yourself: Recalibration for Sensitives Workshop
Brookes website: intuitivewarriorway.com

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Tending to Joy even in Adversity

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0500

In this conversation, Heather and Rod explore the “and” of joy & adversity, reflecting on how these two forces shape personal and professional growth. They discuss how joy can be both a fuel for the journey and the reward on the other side of hardship. Rod shares his belief that mastery over adversity brings fulfillment, while Heather notes that joy can also exist in moments, offering connection and buoyancy during tough times. Together, they emphasize the importance of slowing down, being present, and allowing joy, even in challenging seasons.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC
Guest: Dr. Rodney E. Jenkins, Sr., DrPH, MHA, Public Health Director, Durham County Department of Public Health

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Honoring both Gratitude & Grief

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 15:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Heather sits down with Dr. Sarah Banks to explore the lived reality of holding gratitude & grief at the same time—how life can feel full and heartbreaking in the very same breath. Through stories of leadership in crisis, collective loss, and Sarah’s personal experience of losing her father to suicide, they name many of the tangles we don’t usually talk much about: relief alongside guilt, love alongside sorrow, and the pressure to “be okay” when something inside still aches. Together, they offer a simple invitation: let what’s true be true, reach for connection, and remember you don’t have to carry the hard things alone.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the host and the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC
Guest: Dr. Sarah Banks, PhD, RN, CPHN, Public Health Director, Haywood County Health and Human Services Agency

Resources
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
If listeners are outside the U.S. Find A Helpline (global directory)
“The Wild Edge of Sorrow” by Francis Weller

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The Dance of Passion & Pause

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Heather and Willysha explore the balance between passion and pause. They delve into personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of self-care and energy management. The conversation highlights the need for intentional pauses to sustain passion and prevent burnout, offering practical tools and insights for listeners to apply in their own lives.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC

Guest: Willysha Jenkins, MS, CSM, Chief of Staff-Health Portfolio, NC Department of Health and Human Services

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The Art of Being 'Whelmed'

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0500

In this conversation, Heather and Dolly discuss the complexities of life transitions, focusing on the concept of being 'whelmed' and the importance of wringing out ‘our sponge’. They explore the challenges of balancing caregiving roles, personal aspirations, and the need for pauses to manage overwhelm. The conversation emphasizes the value of curiosity and self-awareness in navigating life's pressures – especially during midlife.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC
Guest: Dolly Pressley Byrd, CNM, PhD, Department of OB/GYN Chair, OB/GYN Specialists, MAHEC

Takeaways
•Midlife is a unique time of transition.
•Being 'whelmed' is a state of constant re-balancing.
•Curiosity helps in understanding personal needs.
•Pausing can help manage overwhelm.
•Life transitions sometimes require letting go.
•Decision fatigue can lead to overstimulation.
•Active listening fosters better relationships.
•Leadership involves empowering others.

Chapters
•00:00 Introduction to Life Transitions
•18:25 Balancing Caregiving and Personal Goals
•30:47 The Importance of Pausing
•55:33 Curiosity and Self-Awareness
•57:58 Leadership and Empowerment
•1:02:23 The Concept of Being “Whelmed”

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Flailing & Flying

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 13:00:00 -0400

In this engaging conversation, Heather and Leah explore the themes of community transformation, resilience, and the importance of creating safe spaces for risk-taking. They discuss the metaphor of flailing and flying as a representation of learning and growth, emphasizing the need for leaders to foster environments where individuals can experiment and learn from their failures. The conversation highlights the significance of joy in the process of flailing and the necessity of self-compassion and reflection in personal growth.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC

Guest: Leah Ferguson, DrPH, Executive Director, Thrive Asheville

Takeaways

Flailing is a necessary part of learning and resilience.
Creating safe enough to fail spaces is crucial for growth.
Leadership requires adaptability.
Discomfort is a critical part of the learning process.
Joy can be found in the flailing and experimentation.
Your value is not tied to your productivity.
We must support each other in the flail.

Chapters

02:43 Exploring Community Transformation
05:24 Flailing and Flying: A Metaphor for Resilience
11:33 Creating Safe Enough to Fail Spaces
17:31 The Role of Leadership in Risk-Taking
23:29 Navigating Discomfort and Growth
29:24 The Importance of Joy in the Flail

Quoted Resources & Tools in this Episode

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Leading in VUCA

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the "Stand in the &" podcast, Heather Gates and Lisa Macon Harrison discuss the complexities of public health leadership in a VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) world. They explore the importance of communication, trust, and connection in navigating challenges, emphasizing the need for active hope and collaboration. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding both the external environment and internal team dynamics to foster effective leadership and community engagement.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner of Human-Centered Strategy, LLC
Guest: Lisa Macon Harrison, MPH, Health Director, Granville Vance Public Health

Takeaways
•Public health professionals are navigating increased complexity & uncertainty
•Active hope is essential for effective leadership in public health
•Communication must be clear & frequent to build trust
•Understanding team dynamics enhances collaboration & decision-making
•Trust takes time & is built through consistent engagement
•“VUCA Prime” offers a framework for addressing challenges (Vision, Understanding, Clarity, & Agility)
•Leaders must balance processing & doing in their roles
•Human connection is vital in an increasingly technological world

Chapters
•00:00 Introduction & Background
•08:50 Navigating Complexity & Uncertainty in Public Health
•17:43 VUCA: Understanding & Responding to Challenges
•26:29 Collaboration & Leadership in Public Health
•26:54 The Gift of Collaboration in Public Health
•29:41 Self-Awareness & Team Dynamics
•34:59 The Importance of Communication
•49:08 Navigating Human Connection in a Tech-Driven World

Quoted Resources & Tools in this Episode
Moments of Impact by Chris Ertel & Lisa Kay Solomon
VUCA Prime Framework by Robert Johansson

Hymn for the Hurting by Amanda Gorman
Everything hurts,
Our hearts shadowed and strange,
Minds made muddied and mute.
We carry tragedy, terrifying and true.
And yet none of it is new;
We knew it as home,
As horror,
As heritage.
Even our children
Cannot be children,
Cannot be.

Everything hurts.
It’s a hard time to be alive,
And even harder to stay that way.
We’re burdened to live out these days,
While at the same time, blessed to outlive them.

This alarm is how we know
We must be altered —
That we must differ or die,
That we must triumph or try.
Thus while hate cannot be terminated,
It can be transformed
Into a love that lets us live.

May we not just grieve, but give:
May we not just ache, but act;
May our signed right to bear arms
Never blind our sight from shared harm;
May we choose our children over chaos.
May another innocent never be lost.

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Balancing Structure & Flexibility

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0400

In this Episode Heather and Rob explore the intricate balance between structure and flexibility in leadership, particularly within the healthcare system. They discuss the importance of human connection, trust, and creativity in navigating complex environments. The dialogue highlights the challenges and opportunities that arise when integrating diverse systems and emphasizes the need for leaders to be authentic and relatable. Through personal anecdotes and insights, they illustrate how effective communication and a willingness to be vulnerable can foster a culture of grace and understanding in organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH
Guest: Rob Fields, MD, MHA, EVP

Takeaways
•Structure and flexibility are both essential in leadership.
•Trust is built through authenticity and vulnerability.
•Human connection is crucial in navigating complex systems.
•Effective communication can ease uncertainty and fear.
•Leaders should embrace their humanity to foster grace.
•Creativity often requires a balance of structure and freedom.
•Integration efforts need thoughtful planning and communication.
•People are generally gracious if given the opportunity to connect.
•The importance of being relatable as a leader cannot be overstated.
•Navigating change requires mindfulness and adaptability.

Chapters
•00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
•07:06 Navigating Structure and Flexibility
•15:35 The Balance of Control and Openness
•24:22 Trusting the Audience and Each Other
•26:17 Creating Structure in Meetings
•29:46 The Balance of Structure and Flexibility
•31:51 Understanding the SCARF Model
•34:00 Integration Challenges in Healthcare
•36:22 Navigating Uncertainty and Change
•40:08 Balancing Local Autonomy and System Efficiency
•43:50 Building Trust Through Human Connection
•50:22 The Creative Process: Structure vs. Flexibility

Quoted Resources & Tools in this Episode
Chad Littlefield
The SCARF Model

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Navigating the Not Yet

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Heather and Ashley explore the themes of fear, anxiety, presence, and patience in the context of personal and professional growth. They discuss navigating the 'not yet' or ‘in the meantime’ phase between what we can imagine and where we are now. The conversation emphasizes curiosity, self-compassion, and support from others as essential tools for overcoming obstacles and achieving goals. They also highlight the significance of celebrating small wins and grounding in purpose and joy.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH
Guest: Ashley Bishop, Operations Manager

Takeaways
•Courage to imagine is a brave step towards improvement.
•Navigating fear and anxiety is a common experience.
•Curiosity and self-compassion can help in getting unstuck.
•A supportive team is a game-changer.
•Finding joy in the journey fuels motivation and progress.
•You're enough already.

Chapters
•00:00 Introduction and Team Dynamics
•03:20 The & Stand: What “&” are you standing in today?
•10:59 Navigating The Not Yet: Embracing the Meantime
•19:44 Getting Unstuck: Tools and Strategies
•25:21 Navigating Frustration and Energy Management
•37:15 Finding Joy in the Journey
•43:59 Nurturing Growth and Progress
•49:58 Embracing the Not Yet and Self-Acceptance

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The Vision & Backstory

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 10:00:00 -0400

In the first episode of the “Stand in the &” podcast, host Heather Gates introduces the concept of embracing the complexity of the human experience. Joined by her son Nash, they discuss the importance of acknowledging the 'and' in life, where multiple truths coexist. Heather shares her journey of creating this podcast as a platform for honest conversations about human complexity, where we get stuck, and how we find forward – individually & collectively. The episode emphasizes the significance of curiosity and the hope that the podcast helps others feel seen and supported.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH
Guest: Nash Gates, Student & Son

Takeaways
•The 'and' represents the complexity of human experience.
•Embracing the 'and' allows for multiple truths to coexist.
•The podcast aims to help listeners feel seen and understood.
•Fear and uncertainty are natural parts of the journey.
•Curiosity helps us navigate complexity and find solutions.

Chapters
•00:00 Introduction to the Podcast & Its Purpose
•02:13 The Journey of Motherhood & Business
•05:56 Embracing the 'And': Understanding Complexity
•13:04 The Origin of 'Stand in the &'
•17:32 Why a Podcast? The Desire to Share and Learn
•27:11 The Role of a Strategy Partner
•33:49 Embracing Uncertainty & Complexity
•39:31 Navigating the Human Experience
•44:48 The Journey of Self-Discovery
•49:09 Connecting with the Audience

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