Episode 11: John Noltner challenges stereotypes and fosters dialogue by helping communities tell their stories

In the final episode of Side by Side's first season, Ellen talks with photographer John Noltner, founder of ‘A Peace of My Mind,’ a storytelling project that captures personal stories and portraits to foster dialogue across divides. John discusses the human tendency to avoid challenging preconceived notions and how storytelling deepens our understanding of each other and breaks down stereotypes. John reflects on his experiences from Skid Row in Los Angeles to the deep South of Mississippi and border towns in Texas, highlighting the interconnectedness of rural, urban, and suburban communities and the immense pride that individuals have for their communities.

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Episode Highlights:
03:44 John's Background and Origins of "A Peace of My Mind"
07:51 The Impact of Feeling Seen
10:50 Common Ground in Rural and Urban Communities
18:46 The Danger of a Single Story
20:40 Surprising Stories from Mississippi and LA
27:45 Sharing Stories and Creating Impact



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Episode 11: John Noltner challenges stereotypes and fosters dialogue by helping communities tell their stories
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