Sullivan's Unheard Voices

Shawn Sullivan and Ish Phoenix explore the transformative power of music, the journey of finding one's authentic voice, and the dynamics of being part of a band. They discuss the healing aspects of music, the importance of community support among musicians, and the personal growth that comes from embracing one's true self. Ish shares insights on maintaining vocal health, the challenges and rewards...

In this conversation, Shawn Sullivan shares the journey of Peter Woodside establishing Portland Goat Parties, a unique farm experience that combines animal therapy with fun interactions with goats. He discusses the daily operations of the farm, the care and management of goats, and the importance of companionship among these animals. The conversation also touches on the therapeutic benefits of int...

Johnny Wheels is a talented musician. Johnny shares his journey into music, the influence of his family, and how he uses music as a form of escapism and healing. The discussion delves into the importance of live performances, the dynamics of building a band, and the collaborative spirit within the music community. Johnny also reflects on the realities of being a disabled musician, the need for acc...

Andréa Tolbert is on the board of directors of PHAME, a school of the arts and performance specifically designed for people with disabilities.  Thier classes range from musical theatre to song writing, from digital photography to poetry.  The performance program puts students in front of audiences in Portland and beyond. In this podcast Andrea talks about her personal journey through disability, a...

In this conversation, Shawn Sullivan interviews Ron Khut, the owner of Mekong Bistro, who shares his journey from Cambodia to the United States and his commitment to building a community-focused restaurant that supports local culture and music. Ron discusses the importance of creating a safe space for diverse communities, the impact of COVID-19 on his business, and his philanthropic efforts throug...

Shawn Sullivan interviews Dawn Gunn about her journey as a writer, her experiences living on a fixed income after retirement, and her insights on community, health care, and the challenges of modern life. Dawn shares her creative process in writing her books, the eerie tales surrounding the Old OIT campus, and her reflections on the karaoke scene. The discussion also touches on the impact of polit...

Timmer Blakley started Lightning in a Bottle Records, a Portland-based recording label focused on the blues. Timmer is also a phenomenal bass player in several blues bands. Timmer talks about his journey as a musician and record producer, the challenges of touring, and the creation of Lightning in a Bottle Records. Timmer shares insights into the competitive music industry, the importance of empow...

In this conversation, Shawn Sullivan and Dr. Jami Heyting delve into the complexities of autism diagnosis, sharing personal experiences and professional insights. They discuss the importance of neuroaffirming assessment tools, the challenges of accessibility and affordability in autism assessments, and the nuances of communication and social interactions for autistic individuals. The conversation...

In this conversation, Shawn and Grey explore the complexities of gender identity, the journey of transitioning, and the importance of support systems. Grey shares personal experiences of gender dysphoria from a young age, the significance of found family, and the challenges faced during the transition process, including top surgery and recovery. They discuss the importance of mental health support...

In this conversation, Shawn Sullivan interviews independent publisher Katherine Munson, who shares her journey into publishing and her experience with talking about miscarriages, the creative process behind writing, and the flaws in traditional publishing. Katherine discusses her community-based publishing model, which aims to support authors and produce high-quality literature, particularly in ch...

In this conversation, Shawn Sullivan speaks with Jen, the executive director of Adaptive Sports Northwest, about the vital role of community support in adaptive sports. They discuss the various programs offered, the importance of inclusivity, and the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Jen shares insights on the evolution of adaptive equipment, the significance of mentorship, and th...

In this enlightening conversation, Shawn Sullivan interviews Selena, the Green Witch, who shares her journey into witchcraft, the misconceptions surrounding it, and the importance of authenticity and ethical practices. Selena discusses her connection to nature, the significance of Mother Earth in her rituals, and the accessibility of witchcraft for everyone. She emphasizes the need for ethical sou...

In this conversation, Dr. Jami Heyting, a naturopathic physician, shares her journey into the field of naturopathic medicine, emphasizing the importance of understanding neurodivergence and trauma in patient care. She discusses her unique approach to healthcare, which includes active listening and trauma-informed care, and reflects on her personal experiences with neurodivergence and the challenge...

In this conversation, Shawn and Holly explore the complexities of friendships within the neurodivergent community. They discuss the challenges of finding friends, the importance of communication, and the emotional dynamics that come into play. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-awareness, understanding emotional responses, and the significance of building healthy friendships. They also...

In this conversation, Shawn Sullivan and Allison discuss the multifaceted world of firearms, touching on personal experiences, community engagement, and the importance of training and education in firearm safety. They explore the nuances of self-defense, the role of competition shooting, and the journey to proficiency. The dialogue also delves into broader societal themes, including acceptance, ki...

In this conversation, Shawn Sullivan, Nicole Burdsall, and Aimee Fritch discuss the challenges and opportunities within various social movements, emphasizing the importance of solidarity, intersectionality, and creating inclusive spaces. They explore the complexities of individual experiences, the need for cultural change, and the role of feedback in community support. The discussion also touches...

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Sullivan interviews Trystan, a passionate blacksmith who shares his journey into the craft, the techniques he employs, and the importance of supporting local artisans. Trystan discusses his experiences on the show 'Forged in Fire', the intricacies of blacksmithing, and the community aspect of craftsmanship. The conversation highlights the significance of safety...

In this conversation, Shawn Sullivan and Pam Smith discuss the importance of early intervention for children on the autism spectrum, emphasizing individualized approaches to understanding and supporting each child's unique needs. They explore the significance of communication, the diagnosis process, and the role of positive reinforcement in behavioral therapy. The discussion also covers recognizin...

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Sullivan interviews artist Samuel Hoskins, who shares his artistic journey from childhood storytelling to mastering oil painting in Florence, Italy. Samuel discusses the importance of community support, the challenges of navigating the art world, and the significance of education in developing artistic skills. He emphasizes the need for a sacred mindset in the...

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Sullivan and Amy Shutz Berry explore the intricacies of music perception, particularly in relation to hearing impairments. They delve into their musical backgrounds, discussing transitions from classical to rock music, the creative process behind songwriting, and the evolution of music across generations. The conversation also touches on personal experiences in...

In this engaging conversation, Shawn Sullivan interviews Quick and Morgan, the owners of 'I've Got Rocks in My Head,' a unique rock, fossil and meat store in Silverton, Oregon. They discuss the origins of their business, the transition from a focus on farming and the study of birds to owning a business, and their commitment to community engagement and education. The conversation also t...

In this conversation, Shawn Sullivan and Nikki Jones, lead singer of the Nikki Jones Band, discuss the importance of mental health support and the lack of resources for individuals with mental illness. They share personal experiences with depression and the challenges they faced in seeking help. They also talk about the stigma surrounding mental health and the need for open conversations. The conv...

Jane Malone, a stand-up comedian, shares her journey in comedy and the challenges she faces as a female comedian. She discusses how she got started in comedy and the adrenaline rush she experienced during her first open mic. Jane also talks about the intersection of her day job as a graphic designer and her night job as a comedian. She shares her thoughts on dirty jokes, cancel culture, and the im...

In this conversation, Shawn Sullivan interviews Katie Combs, a florist who works for Pemberton's Flowers in Salem, OR, to discuss the art and techniques of floral arrangements. They cover topics such as the skills required for floral design, the importance of replicating nature in arrangements, the different approaches to creating arrangements based on customer preferences and budgets, the use...

Summary The conversation between Shawn Sullivan and Holly Nunn revolves around the topic of neurodivergency. They discuss the different perspectives and experiences of neurodivergent individuals, the broad range of conditions that fall under the umbrella of neurodivergency, and the challenges faced in communication and social interactions. They also touch on the importance of acceptance and unders...