Fault Lines

The Corporate Takeover of Social Welfare | Anne Kim, author of "Poverty for Profit"

In this episode of Trust Be Told, Anne Kim, a journalist, lawyer, and public policy expert, discusses the complexities of poverty in America and the systemic issues that perpetuate inequality. She examines how corporate interests in social services profit from public programs, the challenges low-income individuals face in accessing benefits, and the growing problem of youth disconnection from education and employment opportunities.
The conversation also underscores the pressing need for empathy, transparency, and trust in government institutions, highlighting the importance of addressing systemic failures in building a more equitable and sustainable society.
Takeaways
Anne Kim’s dual background as a journalist and lawyer shapes her perspective on public policy.
The earned income tax credit has unintentionally created industries that profit from low-income individuals.
Complex government systems often exploit the poor through inefficiency and private intervention.
Privatization of social services has enabled corporate control over welfare programs.
Youth disconnection is a rising crisis fueled by systemic neglect.
The term “abandonment” reflects society’s failure to protect vulnerable populations.
Empathy and human connection are essential for rebuilding trust in institutions.
Public misunderstanding of the role of bail bonds highlights gaps in the justice system's awareness.
Corporate interests often outweigh individual welfare in the policymaking process.
Rebuilding trust requires accountability, transparency, and systemic reform.
Trust For Thought
"Poverty for Profit""We don't trust poor Americans.""Corporate poverty is a reality."
Keywords
public policy, poverty in America, corporate welfare, youth disconnection, trust in government, social services, investigative journalism, Ann Kim, economic inequality, anti-poverty programs, systemic failures, welfare reform, access to benefits
Stay Connected
If this episode resonated with you, here are a few ways to stay connected and go deeper:
📩 Substack – Read essays and reflections that expand on each episode at Trust Be Told on Substack.
▶️ YouTube – Watch clips, shorts, and full conversations on the Trust Be Told YouTube channel.
📲 Instagram – Join the conversation and see behind-the-scenes stories at @trustedpod.
🌐 Website – Explore resources and download The Trust Toolkit at Trusted Arc Labs.
And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast wherever you listen. Thank you for your support!

The Art of Storytelling: Building Trust Through Visuals | Bernadette Marciniak, Solhaus Media

In this episode of Trust Be Told, Bernadette Marciniak shares her journey from journalism to founding Solhaus Media, a creative agency that specializes in storytelling for nonprofits and social impact organizations. The conversation explores the power of storytelling in building trust, the systemic trust challenges faced by nonprofits, and the role of media in shaping public perceptions and trust dynamics.
Bernadette also discusses the balance between authenticity and aesthetics in visual storytelling, the shifting landscape of journalism, and the growing importance of authentic communication in an oversaturated creative market. Listeners will gain insight into how creatives and storytellers can influence broader conversations about trust, leadership, and social change.
Takeaways
Storytelling is crucial for fostering trust within society.
Vulnerability is a critical component of building authentic trust.
Nonprofits often face systemic trust challenges with stakeholders.
Media can shift trust dynamics through impactful and ethical storytelling.
The guest’s career reflects a deep-rooted passion for narrative and social impact.
Founding Soul House Media was a natural extension of their storytelling journey.
Leading with integrity is vital in today’s competitive creative market.
Authenticity must not be sacrificed for aesthetics in storytelling.
Humor and lightness can play a role in restoring trust in institutions.
Creatives have a responsibility to utilize storytelling to drive social impact and foster trust.
Trust For Thought
"I love the idea of a survivor wealth summit.""Memes are storytelling.""I think vulnerability is a part of trust."
Keywordsstorytelling, brand trust, nonprofits, social impact storytelling, media and trust, creative agency, photography, journalism, authenticity in leadership, vulnerability, visual storytelling, creative entrepreneurship
Stay Connected
If this episode resonated with you, here are a few ways to stay connected and go deeper:
📩 Substack – Read essays and reflections that expand on each episode at Trust Be Told on Substack.
▶️ YouTube – Watch clips, shorts, and full conversations on the Trust Be Told YouTube channel.
📲 Instagram – Join the conversation and see behind-the-scenes stories at @trustedpod.
🌐 Website – Explore resources and download The Trust Toolkit at Trusted Arc Labs.
And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast wherever you listen. Thank you for your support! 
 

Trust and Betrayal in Entrepreneurship | Michelle Thielen, Founder of YogaFaith

In this episode of Trust Be Told, Michelle shares her entrepreneurial journey with Richard. It's a journey that began with the founding of a yoga school in 2012. She reflects on the challenges, betrayals, and lessons that shaped her understanding of trust, leadership, and discernment.
Michelle explores the intersection of yoga and Christian spirituality, highlighting the transformative impact of forgiveness, emotional healing, and the creation of safe spaces for personal and community growth. She highlights how leadership rooted in reflection, accountability, and spirituality can empower individuals to overcome adversity and pursue their purpose.
Takeaways
Michelle’s entrepreneurial path began in 2012 with the launch of a yoga school.
Trust is foundational in both business and personal relationships.
Forgiveness is a powerful lesson that emerges from experiences of betrayal.
Discernment in leadership is key to making wise and ethical decisions.
Yoga can serve as a tool for healing, empowerment, and transformation.
Safe spaces are essential for trauma recovery and community care.
Strong leadership begins with self-reflection and accountability.
Integrating Christian spirituality and yoga supports deeper personal growth.
Every experience, even hardship, can be used as a foundation for growth.
Community and collaboration are vital for lasting change and progress.
Trust For Thought"I never looked back.""Nothing is ever wasted.""Posture matters."
Keywordsentrepreneurship, trust in leadership, betrayal, yoga, and spirituality, Christian spirituality, discernment in leadership, forgiveness, healing through yoga, community building, faith and business, leadership growth, safe spaces for healing
Stay Connected
If this episode resonated with you, here are a few ways to stay connected and go deeper:
📩 Substack – Read essays and reflections that expand on each episode at Trust Be Told on Substack.
▶️ YouTube – Watch clips, shorts, and full conversations on the Trust Be Told YouTube channel.
📲 Instagram – Join the conversation and see behind-the-scenes stories at @trustedpod.
🌐 Website – Explore resources and download The Trust Toolkit at Trusted Arc Labs.
And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast wherever you listen. Thank you for your support!

Apocalypse and Attention: What Medieval Literature Teaches About Climate Change | Shannon Gayk

Richard Roman sits down with his former professor, Shannon Gayk, to explore her latest research on the intersection of medieval literature, environmental justice, and climate change. Her latest book, Apocalyptic Ecologies, explores the ethical implications of these connections. They discuss how medieval texts provide valuable insights into apocalyptic narratives, catastrophe, and community care, offering parallels to today’s climate crisis.
The conversation highlights the importance of trust, attention, and sustainability in navigating a fragile world, and how literature can enhance our understanding of disaster, resilience, and the ethics of care. Drawing on both scholarship and lived experience, Richard and Shannon reflect on mortality, community trust, and environmental stewardship, urging listeners to consider how the arts and humanities can shape responses to the climate emergency.
Takeaways
The arts and humanities play a vital role in discussions of climate change.
The environmental catastrophes of the 14th century resonate with today’s climate issues.
Medieval literature provides insights into apocalyptic, resilient, and disaster writing.
Words like “apocalypse” hold dual meanings: revelation and emergence.
Trust in the community and care for the marginalized are essential in times of crisis.
Facing mortality can lead to a more meaningful life and increased environmental awareness.
Attention and care are critical for building sustainable communities.
Reimagining biblical and literary narratives provides new perspectives on today’s crises.
The practice of deep attention fosters stronger engagement with the environment.
Simple acts, such as walking in nature, can reconnect us with our ecological responsibility.
Trust For Thought
"Trust is built through attention and care.""We need to learn to die to live better lives.""Leave your phone at home and take a walk."
Keywords
climate change, medieval literature, environmental justice, apocalypse, apocalyptic literature, ethics of care, sustainability, community, trust, mortality, humanities and climate, environmental catastrophe, ecological storytelling
Stay Connected
If this episode resonated with you, here are a few ways to stay connected and go deeper:
📩 Substack – Read essays and reflections that expand on each episode at Trust Be Told on Substack.
▶️ YouTube – Watch clips, shorts, and full conversations on the Trust Be Told YouTube channel.
📲 Instagram – Join the conversation and see behind-the-scenes stories at @trustedpod.
🌐 Website – Explore resources and download The Trust Toolkit at Trusted Arc Labs.
And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast wherever you listen. We appreciate your support!

The Art of Storytelling in Marketing | Sonia Baschez, Founder of Yapping as a Service (YAAS)

In this episode of Trust Be Told, Sonia Baschez shares her career journey in marketing and brand strategy, highlighting the importance of storytelling and authentic communication in building long-term brand trust. She examines how marketing strategies have evolved, the role of culture in shaping consumer behavior, and why vulnerability is crucial for fostering genuine connections with audiences.
Sonia also examines the challenges of navigating marketing trends in the digital age, the rise of social media branding, and how startups can successfully engage consumers through empathy-driven approaches. By emphasizing authenticity and cultural relevance, Sonia makes the case for a more empathetic and transparent approach to marketing that resonates with today’s audiences. For more about Sonia and her work, visit Yapping As A Service (YAAS). 
Takeaways
Sonia has served as a fractional CMO for startups for nearly a decade.
Effective marketing requires clear communication and emotional connection.
Brands must understand their audience’s needs to create meaningful engagement.
Storytelling in marketing is key to conveying authenticity and trust.
The rise of social media has reshaped consumer expectations.
Transparency and vulnerability can strengthen brand trust.
Cultural relevance is essential for effective marketing strategies.
Brands should avoid chasing trends without ensuring a genuine connection.
Consumer behavior is unpredictable, necessitating that marketers adapt quickly to meet changing needs.
Building trust in marketing requires understanding and empathizing with audiences.
Trust for Thought
"I'm good at convincing people to like do stuff.""The vibes economy matters.""Don't just say things to say things."Stay Connected
If this episode resonated with you, here are a few ways to stay connected and go deeper:
📩 Substack – Read essays and reflections that expand on each episode at Trust Be Told on Substack.
▶️ YouTube – Watch clips, shorts, and full conversations on the Trust Be Told YouTube channel.
📲 Instagram – Join the conversation and see behind-the-scenes stories at @trustedpod.
🌐 Website – Explore resources and download The Trust Toolkit at Trusted Arc Labs.
And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast wherever you listen. I appreciate your support! 
Keywords
marketing, storytelling in business, brand trust, consumer behavior, marketing culture, marketing trends, authentic communication, startup marketing, marketing strategies, vulnerability in leadership, empathy in marketing, social media branding

The Pandemic's Lasting Impact on Academia | Dr. Kevin McClure

In this episode of Trust Be Told, Dr. Kevin McClure reflects on his unexpected journey into higher education leadership and the lessons learned from navigating the challenges of the pandemic. He discusses his book, The Caring University, and how COVID-19 has amplified workload pressures, faculty burnout, and staff stress, all the while accelerating the ongoing effects of the Great Resignation in academia.
Dr. McClure emphasizes the critical importance of trust, organizational care, and employee well-being in shaping a sustainable workplace culture. He also shares examples of colleges and universities that are successfully adopting caring practices, illustrating how prioritizing faculty and staff wellbeing directly supports student success. This conversation highlights the need to reassess organizational values, compensation, and culture for the future of higher education.
Episode Takeaways
Dr. McClure’s entry into higher education was unplanned but transformative.
The pandemic increased stress among faculty and staff, reshaping workloads.
The great resignation continues to impact higher education institutions.
Trust in leadership is essential for building healthy workplace cultures.
Employee well-being must be prioritized for organizational success.
Institutions need to rethink compensation and organizational care.
Change in higher education is happening, though at a slow pace.
Faculty and staff well-being has a direct link to student outcomes.
Organizations must act in alignment with their stated mission and values.
There are successful examples of institutions implementing caring university models.
Trust for Thought 
"We could be seeing a lot more of this.""Trust is basically everything.""Change is happening all the time."
Keywords
higher education, Dr. Kevin McClure, The Caring University, pandemic and higher education, great resignation in academia, trust in organizations, employee wellbeing, organizational care, faculty burnout, student success, workplace culture, higher education leadership
Stay Connected
If this episode resonated with you, here are a few ways to stay connected and go deeper:
📩 Substack – Read essays and reflections that expand on each episode at Trust Be Told on Substack.
▶️ YouTube – Watch clips, shorts, and full conversations on the Trust Be Told YouTube channel.
📲 Instagram – Join the conversation and see behind-the-scenes stories at @trustedpod.
🌐 Website – Explore resources and download The Trust Toolkit at Trusted Arc Labs.
And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast wherever you listen. Thank you for your support! 
 

The Trust Factor: Building Relationships in Business | Gal Borenstein, CEO of The Borenstein Group

In this episode of Trust Be Told, the conversation explores the vital role of trust in business and marketing, examining how it drives both relationships and long-term success. Richard Roman chats with Gal Borenstein to discuss the founding of The Borenstein Group, highlighting the innovative branding and marketing strategies that set it apart in the competitive digital marketplace.
They also address the challenges of adapting marketing approaches across industries, emphasizing the importance of understanding client culture and customer needs. The role of AI in marketing is explored, with insights on how artificial intelligence can enhance human decision-making rather than replace it. The discussion concludes with a focus on building authentic connections, transparency, and trust in the digital age, offering practical takeaways for business leaders, marketers, and entrepreneurs.
Takeaways
Trust is the foundation of business success and personal credibility.
Vulnerability fosters stronger connections and more robust client relationships.
Understanding client culture is essential for effective marketing strategies.
AI in marketing should be used as an assistive tool, not a replacement for human judgment.
Building trust requires a deep understanding of clients and their evolving needs.
Effective marketing strategies must be adaptable across various industries.
Authentic and transparent communication builds long-term brand trust.
The digital age requires focusing on genuine relationships over vanity metrics.
Metrics of success should extend beyond likes and clicks to tangible business outcomes.
Continuous learning, adaptation, and innovation are vital in a changing marketplace.
Trust For Thought
"We need to figure that out pretty quickly.""AI is not a replacement for human judgment.""The ad is not the product."
Keywordstrust in business, marketing strategies, AI in marketing, Bornstein Group, business communication, digital marketing, vulnerability in leadership, innovation in marketing, client relationships, branding strategies, authenticity in business, digital transformation
Stay Connected
If this episode resonated with you, here are a few ways to stay connected and go deeper:
📩 Substack – Read essays and reflections that expand on each episode at Trust Be Told on Substack.
▶️ YouTube – Watch clips, shorts, and full conversations on the Trust Be Told YouTube channel.
📲 Instagram – Join the conversation and see behind-the-scenes stories at @trustedpod.
🌐 Website – Explore resources and download The Trust Toolkit at Trusted Arc Labs.
And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast wherever you listen. Thank you for your support! 

A Journey of Trust: From Corporate Ladder to Beyond Bedtime | Genevieve Pitturo, Founder of Beyond Bedtime

In this conversation, Richard Roman and Genevieve Pitturo connect to discuss her fascinating journey from a corporate executive to the founder of the Pajama Program, emphasizing the importance of trust, vulnerability, and compassion in leadership. She discusses the challenges of stepping away from a successful career to pursue a mission that aligns with her heart's calling, the significance of building trust with donors and partners, and the impact of human connection in fostering a positive organizational culture. Genevieve also highlights the lessons learned from her experiences and the importance of leading with love and empathy.
Takeaways
The moment of inner truth can change your life.
Trusting yourself is the biggest hurdle in leadership.
Building trust requires vulnerability and compassion.
Leadership should focus on inspiring others, not controlling them.
Creating a culture of trust enhances team dynamics.
Personal stories can foster deeper connections in leadership.
Empowerment stems from understanding and supporting one another.
The nonprofit sector operates with the same business principles as the corporate sector.
Leading with love can transform workplace culture.
Legacy is about the impact you leave behind.
Trust for Thought"I felt like I was channeling her.""I teach leading with love.""People want to have fun at work."
Keywords
trust, leadership, self-discovery, nonprofit, Pajama Program, vulnerability, compassion, human connection, legacy, empowerment
Stay Connected
If this episode resonated with you, here are a few ways to stay connected and go deeper:
📩 Substack – Read essays and reflections that expand on each episode at Trust Be Told on Substack.
▶️ YouTube – Watch clips, shorts, and full conversations on the Trust Be Told YouTube channel.
📲 Instagram – Join the conversation and see behind-the-scenes stories at @trustedpod.
🌐 Website – Explore resources and download The Trust Toolkit at Trusted Arc Labs.
And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast wherever you listen. Thank you for your support! 

Season 2 Premiere: Trusting What You Can’t Prove | Alex Amorosi, The Subtle Universe

In this episode of Trust Be Told, Alex Amorosi shares his transformative journey from yoga teacher to intuitive healer, exploring the intersection of healing, astrology, energy work, and emotional awareness. That authenticity has now grown into The Subtle Universe. Alex reflects on his experiences with sensitivity, self-trust, and personal transformation, offering insights into how spiritual practices can support growth and well-being.
The conversation highlights the importance of establishing trust with clients, the significance of energetic protection in clearing emotional baggage, and Alex’s transition from skepticism to embracing astrology as a powerful tool for self-discovery and navigating life's transitions. Through his story, Alex illustrates how intuitive coaching can guide individuals through change, providing deeper access to healing and inner wisdom. 
Takeaways
Alex’s journey includes 20 years as a yoga teacher before becoming an intuitive healer.
Identifying as a highly sensitive person shaped his life and work.
Sensitivity can create challenges like anxiety and people-pleasing tendencies.
Astrology helps map out life cycles and transitions as a tool for self-discovery.
Building trust with clients is essential for meaningful and lasting healing.
Energetic protection techniques can help release emotional and spiritual burdens.
Skepticism about astrology can shift through personal growth and experience.
The astrology chart serves as a roadmap for transformation and awareness.
Self-trust is key to personal healing and spiritual development.
Intuitive coaching opens pathways to guidance and deeper self-understanding.
Trust For Thought"I think we all do.""Astrology is really just about cycles.""Trust that I'm worth healing."
Keywords
healing, intuition, astrology, energy work, emotional awareness, personal transformation, trust, self-trust, sensitivity, spiritual coaching, metaphysics, life transitions, intuitive healing, yoga and spirituality, self-discovery
Stay Connected
If this episode resonated with you, here are a few ways to stay connected and go deeper:
📩 Substack – Read essays and reflections that expand on each episode at Trust Be Told on Substack.
▶️ YouTube – Watch clips, shorts, and full conversations on the Trust Be Told YouTube channel.
📲 Instagram – Join the conversation and see behind-the-scenes stories at @trustedpod.
🌐 Website – Explore resources and download The Trust Toolkit at Trusted Arc Labs.
And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast wherever you listen. Thank you for your support! 

Season 1 Finale: A Reflection on Trust, Identity & What’s Next (Solo Episode)

In this episode of Trust Be Told, host Richard Roman shares his personal journey and motivations behind launching the podcast, diving into the importance of trust in institutions, leadership, and community life. Richard reflects on key lessons from past guests, exploring how trust is built, broken, and repaired across organizations and society.
He emphasizes the role of authentic leadership, self-trust, and community engagement in rebuilding public confidence, while addressing the challenges leaders face in earning credibility. Richard also shares the future direction of the podcast, including more solo episodes and personal stories that highlight the everyday dynamics of trust.
Takeaways
Trust shapes institutions, communities, and personal relationships.
Building trust requires intention, consistency, and accountability.
Trust often breaks down in the gap between words and actions.
Trust is a dynamic concept; it requires daily practice and ongoing reinforcement.
Leaders cannot build trust with others without first cultivating self-trust.
Trust is both deeply personal and inherently political.
Authentic leadership is grounded in integrity and self-awareness.
Community engagement is essential for rebuilding trust in institutions.
Trust is not automatic; instead, it is a negotiated space that must be earned.
The podcast is designed to serve as a platform for honest and critical conversations about trust.
Trust for Thought"Trust is a muscle that you have to build.""Trust isn't static; it's always evolving.""Trust is personal; it's political."
Keywords trust, leadership, institutional trust, community engagement, podcast on trust, authenticity, self-trust, social commentary, higher education, personal journey, building trust, organizational leadership
Stay Connected
If this episode resonated with you, here are a few ways to stay connected and go deeper:
📩 Substack – Read essays and reflections that expand on each episode at Trust Be Told on Substack.
▶️ YouTube – Watch clips, shorts, and full conversations on the Trust Be Told YouTube channel.
📲 Instagram – Join the conversation and see behind-the-scenes stories at @trustedpod.
🌐 Website – Explore resources and download The Trust Toolkit at Trusted Arc Labs.
And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast wherever you listen. Thank you for your support!