Brave Middle Ground

In this engaging Brave Middle Ground conversation, Dayna Del Val and Cat Greenleaf explore the concept of ‘middle ground’ in various contexts, from personal growth and stoicism to the complexities of the prison system and the nature of forgiveness. They reflect on their life experiences, the challenges of navigating personal beliefs and the importance of understanding different perspectives. The d...

In this Brave Middle Ground conversation, Megan Porta and Dayna Del Val explore the concept of finding balance in life, emphasizing the importance of intentionality and creating space for yourself amidst the chaos of daily life. They discuss the challenges of managing digital distractions, the significance of morning routines and how disconnecting from technology can lead to greater creativity and...

In this enlightening conversation, Dayna Del Val and Tammy Gooler Loeb explore the concept of 'middle ground' in various aspects of life, particularly in career choices and personal growth. They discuss the importance of navigating the messy middle, the significance of working from the inside out and how to find purpose and engagement in one's work. The conversation also touches on the chaos of mo...

In this conversation, Jackie Pflug shares her harrowing experience of facing a life-threatening situation involving a gun. She reflects on the inner strength that guided her through the ordeal and the profound impact it had on her life. The discussion delves into themes of trauma, survival and the journey towards healing and empowerment. She also shares about her new book, Wake Up.

In this Brave Middle Ground conversation, Scott and Dayna explore the themes of courage, vulnerability, and the importance of finding a brave middle ground in life. They discuss how small actions can lead to significant changes, the power of community, and the impact of open-ended questions in fostering connection. Scott shares personal stories and insights from his book, Scare Your Soul, emphasiz...

In this conversation, Dayna Del Val and Nina Manolson explore the complex relationship women have with their bodies, discussing the cultural pressures that lead to body shame and criticism. They delve into the concept of ‘body peace’ as a healthier alternative, emphasizing the importance of nurturing a positive relationship with oneself. Through poetry and personal stories, they highlight the jour...

In this Brave Middle Ground conversation, Dr Jacqueline Bussie shares her profound journey through grief after the sudden loss of her husband, Matt. She reflects on the complexities of navigating life’s challenges, the importance of community support and the transformative power of living in the present. Jacqueline discusses how her experiences have reshaped her identity and purpose, leading her t...

In this Brave Middle Ground conversation, Dayna Del Val and Oona Metz explore the complexities of finding middle ground during divorce. They discuss the emotional journey of healing, the stigma surrounding divorce and the importance of support groups. Oona shares insights on the reality of celebrity divorces, the shame and isolation often felt by those going through divorce and the need for open c...

In this conversation, Kate Kayaian discusses her journey from a successful music career to becoming a coach and author. She reflects on the significance of defining 'middle ground' in life, especially as one approaches midlife. The discussion covers themes of personal growth, the impact of COVID-19 on career choices, the importance of hobbies and the emotional toll of performance. Kate emphasizes...

In this conversation, Dayna Del Val, Anna Wasescha, and Ben Schierer explore the concept of middle ground in rural America, emphasizing the importance of local governance, community engagement and inclusion. They discuss the unique role of the West Central Initiative in Minnesota, the legacy of Rudy Perpich and the challenges of navigating polarization in today’s society. The dialogue highlights t...

In this conversation, Dayna Del Val and Jody Slaughter explore the profound themes of death, grief, and the importance of being present in the face of loss. Jody, a compassionate pastoral counselor and death doula, shares her insights on the sacredness of the dying process, the role of a death doula, and the necessity of having open conversations about death. They discuss the fear surrounding deat...

Carter Headrick and Dayna Del Val discuss the concept of "middle ground" as finding shared values, even in times of deep division. Carter emphasizes the importance of strategic communication, noting that fear is a prime motivator and personalized news hinders common understanding. He shares his experience combating big tobacco, highlighting the power of personal stories like Jack and Kathy's. They...

In this conversation, Dayna Del Val and Kara Haug explore the concept of ‘Brave Middle Ground,’ discussing the importance of navigating judgment and curiosity in our lives. They delve into the role of community, the significance of listening, and the complexities surrounding sexual health and agency. The discussion touches on the impact of purity culture, the journey to sexual education, and the n...

In this engaging Brave Middle Ground conversation, President Tim Downs discusses the challenges and opportunities in higher education, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, humility, and community. He reflects on the changing landscape of academia, the value of a liberal arts education, and the need for institutions to adapt while maintaining their core values. Downs also addresses the sign...

In this conversation, Dayna Del Val speaks with Azin Radsan van Alebeek and La Keisha Landrum Pierre of Emmeline Ventures about their experiences in venture capital, the importance of defining middle ground and the empowerment of women in business. They discuss the challenges and opportunities within the venture capital space, emphasizing the need for community, collaboration and the breaking of s...

In this conversation, Laura Zabel discusses the vital role of arts in building community, the importance of recognizing creativity as a fundamental human right, and the need to demystify and de-hierarchicalize the arts. She emphasizes the significance of economic security for artists and the impact of guaranteed income on creative freedom. The discussion also touches on the commodification of art...

In this conversation, Sally Z and Dayna Del Val explore the complexities of motherhood, the emotional journey of parenting and the importance of supporting children in their identity journeys. They reflect on personal experiences, the significance of Mother’s Day and the challenges of navigating the evolving relationship with their children as they grow. The discussion also delves into the concept...

In this conversation, Dayna and Dorie Clark discuss the concept of middle ground, emphasizing its strength as a compromise and the importance of open-mindedness. They reflect on the challenges of communication in today’s polarized environment and the need for thoughtful dialogue. Dorie also explores the value of a liberal arts education in fostering holistic thinking and the significance of networ...

In this conversation, Dayna and Dr Gena Cox explore the themes of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), emphasizing the critical role of respect in fostering genuine connections. Gena shares her personal journey, highlighting how tragic events like the murders of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd motivated her to advocate for a more inclusive environment. They discuss the importance of understandin...

In this conversation, Pastor Paula Mehmel shares her journey from being a pastor in North Dakota to her current role in Connecticut, emphasizing the importance of finding middle ground in discussions about faith, politics and community. She reflects on her diverse friendships and the significance of shared values despite differing beliefs. The dialogue explores the challenges of navigating Christi...

Naomi Vladeck is a speaker, award-winning author and transformational coach. Helping people turn what scares them into opportunities that excite them. In this engaging conversation, Dayna and Naomi explore the concept of 'middle ground' and its significance in personal and creative growth. Naomi shares insights from her book, Braving Creativity, discussing the five pillars of transition: liberatio...

North Dakota Senator Josh Boschee is one of only 16 Democrats in a legislative body of 141. He was also the first openly gay legislator in North Dakota. To learn more, visit https://daynadelval.com/2025/02/19/brave-middle-ground-nd-senator-josh-boschee/

Sheri Salata is an American author, speaker and producer. She is the former executive producer ofThe Oprah Winfrey Show, co-president ofOprah Winfrey Network (OWN) and Winfrey’sHarpo Productions. Sheri wrote the book The Beautiful No. To learn more, visit https://daynadelval.com/2025/02/07/brave-middle-ground-sheri-salata/

Dr. Adi Jaffe is a renowned mental health expert, addiction specialist and founder of IGNTD Recovery offering innovative, shame-free approaches to overcoming addiction and improving relationships. He is also a best-selling author (⁠⁠The Abstinence Myth⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Unhooked⁠⁠), sought-after speaker and advocate for holistic well-being and personal transformation.

Pete Wehner is a contributing writer at The Atlantic and a senior fellow at the Trinity Forum. His books include The Death of Politics: How to Heal Our Frayed Republic After Trump, City of Man: Religion and Politics in a New Era, which he co-wrote with Michael J. Gerson, and Wealth and Justice: The Morality of Democratic Capitalism. Formerly, Pete was a speechwriter for George W. Bush and a senior...