Alexis Miles

After George Floyd was murdered, I felt very riled up. I wanted to do something that went deeper than just calling my congresspeople, or participating in rallies. And I wanted to do it with other people. So when I heard about this project, I thought “Oh, that could be a way. Because I know the power of stories."

The only hesitation I had was related to interracial groups coming together to have a conversation. I’ve been in such groups that were not well facilitated--despite the best intentions of good-hearted people. But because I'd worked with Johanna before, I knew the container would be a safe one. Johanna understands how to create a safe space and draw out a real story from people. 

Participating in this project gave me the power and confidence of knowing my own story, and knowing how to tell it with a lasting impact that can change lives. I know how to tell more of the truth of my own story. I cherish the relationships I developed with the others in the group. 

Alexis Miles, JD, SPHR, Denver, CO

Shani Raviv

"An intimate, powerful experience of perfect strangers coming together from all walks of life, from all over the country to connect deeply around a helluva hard topic: race. Johanna and Darryl created a fun, nurturing space of talented people whom I grew to I adore. I learned so much about crafting a story and felt proud to share it at the 'show'. 

I loved every minute of this course! Highly recommend it no matter what race you identify with. Every human should do it."

Shani Raviv, "Author of Being Ana: a memoir of anorexia nervosa". Boulder, CO

Kelita Samone

This was a great experience! I learned so much about identity, heritage, tradition, discrimination, symbolism, etc -- all with the thread of race, and how race impacts those concepts so heavily in peoples lives. We got closer and more comfortable every week and we did indeed turn into a family. We looked forward to meetings and would come early and stay late to get extra chat time in. Even when a tricky "assignment" was on deck, we were still happy to help each other through.

Johanna provided clear pathways for us to explore a topic that can be really uncomfortable for most people. Darryl was objective and logical while adding humor to the class. They both were excellent listeners who gave real, relevant, logical, heartfelt feedback to help us shape our stories and message. 

The layout of the sessions gave an opportunity to mix it up with different combinations of people, whether in affinity groups or mixed groups (BIPOC & white), the sessions allowed for deep dives and the opportunity to get to know each other intimately. 

I still haven't met any of these folks in person, but I can't wait for the opportunity to do that!

Kelita Samone, Artist/Educator, Winston-Salem, NC

Patricia Kalma

"This workshop was a life changing experience for me.  Johanna and Darryl did a remarkable job in creating a safe space for authenticity and vulnerability to flow.  I was extremely nervous about sharing my personal story at the final event but the incredible support that Johanna and Darryl provided, as well as the support & encouragement from the group, really helped push me through this process.

Cynthia Andre

Emilie Kay

"When I saw a post about the workshop on Facebook, without any second thought I said "Sign me up!" I really didn't know exactly what I was signing up for, but I knew it was for me.

After our introduction call, I knew this would challenge me in new ways and I was ready to listen and learn. The coolest part was how quickly we became family. The walls came down and the ability to go deep on hard topics with strangers was so so special. There is power in stories. There is so much power in a good question.

It was beautifully facilitated and forever will live in my heart. Highly recommended."

~Emilie Kay, SPHR, HR Director, Raleigh, NC