Perspectives on Peace: Transforming Tomorrow

Dominic Barter returns to Perspectives on Peace: Transforming Tomorrow to discuss his work with Restorative Practices in schools and prisons. In this episode, Dominic sits down with Erin to share insights from his recent research and experiences in schools and prisons worldwide, including a visit to Padilla High School in Rochester. He explores the parallels between schools and prisons, the role o...

Discover how to foster more authentic, courageous, and nonviolent interactions in this episode of the Gandhi Institute podcast, 'Perspectives on Peace, Transforming Tomorrow.' Host Erin Thompson discusses the release of Culture Shift: Nonviolence at Work with its author, Institute Director Emeritus Kit Miller. The conversation covers the inspiration behind the book, its significance in p...

Ever wondered how a simple garden in a vacant lot can transform a community? Today, you'll uncover the multifaceted magic behind community gardens with our special guest, Christopher Widmaier. Chris, an educator and the driving force behind Rochester Ecology Partners , shares his inspiring journey from teaching science to fostering vibrant community hubs through gardening. Listen as he recoun...

Discover the transformative power of community gardens and the joy of local engagement as we chat with Jordan, who supports School 19, as he shares his inspiring journey with restorative practices. You’ll hear firsthand about the magic of choosing plants and the pivotal role of programs like 4-H and Food Link in fostering connections among students and residents. Let Jordan's adventures in de...

Our conversation on Perspectives on Peace Transforming Tomorrow unravels Dr. Rashid Muhammad’s story, revealing how a military career can forge a path to championing interfaith dialogue and peacemaking.  Rashid's deep dive into the narratives of women interfaith leaders during his doctoral research isn't just academic rhetoric; it's a compelling chronicle that breathes life into his...

When Erin Thompson's home was burglarized, it wasn't just his sense of security that was stolen—what he gained was an unexpected path to peace through the power of restorative justice. His transformative experience led him all the way to the helm of the Gandhi Institute, where he now serves as the executive director. Our conversation with Erin takes you through the corridors of nonviolen...

Grief affects every one of us. But it doesn't need to be isolating, and you don't need to be a professional to give support. This episode welcomes Bianca Pointner and Matthew Liston from the MK Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence. They join us to shed light on the transformative journey through grief and its intersection with nonviolence. Since grief can easily lead to depression and isolat...

Imagine unraveling the intricate web of gun violence in our society. Promise us your ear, and we'll guide you through the maze of perspectives and experiences related to guns and violence, the prevalent issues casting a long shadow over our communities. You’ll find yourself immersed in a profound discussion on our societal identity and the urgent need for its realignment. Our dialogue highlig...

Our world steeped in large and small conflicts. And each day we find a way to navigate these conflicts as best as we can. Dominic Barter, our guest for today’s episode, found his purpose in uncovering how we as a community solve conflicts in a way that meets people's basic human needs. Dominic started this in Brazilian shantytowns - transforming conflict and creating meaningful change through...

This Black History Month-oriented episode considers the Gandhi Institute's 4 Pillars, and how Rochester leaders have embraced and employed them over time.

In the second episode , we look at our education system, the Rochester City School District. To get some insight on the state of schooling in the Flower City, we interviewed  English Language Arts Specialist, Brandon White and current RCSD students, Brielle & Corey on their views on the role of education, RCSD and racism within schools. We are committed to highlighting, inspiring, & creati...

In the pilot episode of "Perspectives on Peace: Transforming Tomorrow," we interview Gwen Olton & talk about our aspirations for the podcast. Rooted in Nonviolence and based in Rochester, New York, Our Mission is to highlight, inspire, & create a more nonviolent, sustainable, and just world. We discuss this general feeling and our motivations in a round-table talk. We interview a...