Ericka Andersen

Humans of New York (HONY) has taken on a new photography project -- the Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi -- and I'm loving every bit of it. Special Olympics website defines their mission as such: Through the power of sports, people with intellectual disabilities discover new strengths and abilities, skills and success. Our athletes find joy, confidence and fulfillment -- on the playing field and in life. They also inspire people in their communities and elsewhere to open their hearts to a wider world of human talents and potential. HONY has captured athletes from a wide variety of countries, showcasing that disability doesn't discriminate by geography -- and what a powerful way to bring the international community of … [Read more...]

Kira Davis is an outspoken political writer, activist, actress, film writer and director, mom and podcast host. Yes, we've got another woman who keeps busy busy busy with her many passions, which means Kira and I get along great :) Kira says: "The real problem with race relations is the lack of grace. We can never have an honest conversation about race if each party is not willing to come to the table and say, I'm giving my right to be offended." You may recognize her from a couple of viral videos, her online conversation with President Barack Obama or hits on Fox News. But it's not just her spicy takes on political issues that make Kira awesome -- she's the writer and director of a new film about Harriet Tubman, which was … [Read more...]

When I met Jennifer Schubert-Akin, I thought she was one of the kindest, gracious women I'd ever encountered. Little did I know there was much more to her than that. As the founder of the Steamboat Institute, a non-profit policy organization based in beautiful Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Jennifer has proven herself a determined and dedicated warrior for freedom, free speech and Constitutional principles. Quote from Jennifer: We believe the most important thing we can do right is attracting people from all ideologies -- left, right and in between -- to hear reasonable arguments where people don't scream at each other. I like to say, it does not take much intellectual rigor to call someone stupid. It does, however, require … [Read more...]

I first heard today's guest, Linda Znachko, unexpectedly at an event several months ago. She had me in tears within a few minutes of telling her story. The same could be said of our interview today, where Linda joined me at my house to talk about her beautiful ministry, He Knows Your Name. Simply put, this organization gives abandoned babies dignity in death. When a baby is abandoned outdoors or at the hospital in some kind of tragic circumstance, Linda is the one who comes to that baby's side, taking custody of the child, giving them a name, a funeral and a headstone. Her ministry extends beyond just babies, and she's been given the opportunity to help women mourning stillbirths, abo rtions and even the deaths of older … [Read more...]