Gaslighting is a powerful and damaging form of manipulation that makes you question your own thoughts, emotions, and reality. It’s when someone tries to make you feel like your response to their harmful actions is the real issue—when, in truth, their behavior caused the pain in the first place.

Every day, we are bombarded with messages about who we should be. Stereotypes—like being the “quiet one,” the “strong one,” or even the “angry one”—try to box us in and limit our true potential. But you have the power to break free and live your truth. Embracing your authentic self means letting go of these narrow labels and trusting your inner voice.

Media is a major influence in our everyday lives. It shapes how we see the world, ourselves, and those around us. When media includes different voices and stories, it helps everyone feel represented and understood. Inclusion in media means sharing real stories from people of various races, genders, cultures, and backgrounds. This approach not only challenges harmful stereotypes but also educates us about the richness of human experience.

Leadership is one of the most influential forces in any organization, group, or community. The way a leader guides their team can shape morale, productivity, and long-term success. While leadership styles can vary, they often fall into two starkly different categories: Inclusive Leadership and Authoritarian Leadership (Bullying Leadership).

In a world where unethical behavior often goes unchecked, standing up for what’s right is both a challenge and a responsibility. Whether in the workplace, in leadership, or in our communities, we all encounter situations where people act dishonestly, unfairly, or even illegally. The question is: how do we respond effectively? How do we advocate for integrity without putting ourselves in harm’s way?

I’ve been doing a lot of thinking lately, and honestly, I have mixed feelings about the state of the world. I don’t have all the answers, but what I do know is that this country feels more divided than ever. I see hatred coming from people I never expected. I see people clinging to their biases instead of questioning them. And I see white privilege more clearly than ever before.

We live in a world that constantly tells us who we should be. From the moment we’re born, expectations are placed on us—how we should act, what we should believe, and even who we should love. Society tries to mold us into a version of ourselves that fits within its comfort zone, but here’s the truth: You weren’t meant to fit into someone else’s expectations. You were meant to be you.

We’ve all heard the saying, “Hard work pays off.” But what happens when it doesn’t—when, instead of being rewarded, hard workers are labeled as troublemakers? It seems unfair, yet it happens all the time. People who genuinely want to do their jobs well, improve processes, and create a better work environment often face resistance.

Nursing homes are a vital part of Alabama's healthcare system, providing care for some of the state's most vulnerable residents. Yet, the workers who make these facilities run smoothly often face significant challenges. From low wages to unsafe working conditions, the treatment of nursing home workers in Alabama raises questions about how we value those who care for our loved ones.

On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump officially took office, marking the beginning of a presidency already shaping up to have significant implications for transgender individuals and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Within hours of taking the oath, executive orders were signed redefining sex as strictly male or female and dismantling federal DEI programs. These changes bring a wave of uncertainty and fear for marginalized communities, particularly transgender people and those benefiting from DEI initiatives.

Transgender Resources in Alabama

Being a mandated reporter comes with an undeniable responsibility. If you work in healthcare, education, or social services, you are required by law to report any suspicion of abuse or neglect. This responsibility is intended to protect vulnerable people—children, the elderly, and those with disabilities—who might not be able to advocate for themselves. But what happens when reports are made, and nothing changes?