Sagely Speaking® with Mary Bono

This episode of Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono, Mary sits down with an undercover investigator, “Lisa," from Shepherd's Watch Foundation to explore the hidden realities of human trafficking. They discuss the role of technology, the urgent need for legislative change, and the vital importance of community action. From the challenges law enforcement faces to the essential support provided by nonprofits, this conversation hig...

This week on Sagely Speaking® with Mary Bono, we welcome Admiral James Stavridis - a remarkable military leader who transcends traditional stereotypes. As a four-star naval officer and global strategist, he offers nuanced perspectives on international challenges by blending personal storytelling with deep geopolitical insights. His approach emphasizes collaboration, cultural understanding, and forward-thinking leadership. Through h...

This week Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono® welcomes Admiral James Stavridis - a remarkable military leader who transcends traditional stereotypes. As a four-star naval officer and global strategist, he offers nuanced perspectives on international challenges by blending personal storytelling with deep geopolitical insights. His approach emphasizes collaboration, cultural understanding, and forward-thinking leadership. Through his boo...

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono® welcomes Dr. Joseph Lee, the president and CEO of the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. They discuss Dr. Lee's inspiring journey in addiction medicine and the critical role of community in recovery. The conversation highlights Betty Ford's advocacy for addiction awareness and the importance of family dynamics in treatment.

Dr. Lee shares insights from his book, Recovering My Kid, and emphasizes the ne...

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes retired Admiral Eric Olson, a former Navy SEAL and distinguished leader with a wealth of experience in the U.S. Navy, particularly in Special Operations. Admiral Olson shares his reflections on pivotal military events, including the Battle of Mogadishu, and discusses how Special Operations Forces have evolved to meet contemporary challenges.

Admiral Olson emphasizes the critical importance of...

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono® welcomes Admiral Eric Olson who shares his experiences as a highly decorated Navy Admiral, discussing pivotal moments in military history, particularly the Battle of Mogadishu, where he was awarded the Silver Star Medal, for valor in combat. Admiral Olson reflects on the evolution of Special Operations Forces, their strategic importance in modern warfare, and the character traits essential for succes...

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono® welcomes Sarah Murphy, a first-generation bison rancher who transitioned from a corporate marketing career to ranching with the purchase of 15 bison and a daring passion to try something new. In their conversation, Sarah discusses the challenges and rewards of her new lifestyle, emphasizing the vital role community support plays in her journey. She highlights the ecological benefits of bison in regen...

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Scott Strode, the founder of The Phoenix who shares his inspiring journey of recovery and discusses the mission of his nonprofit organization. The Phoenix provides a free, sober, and active community for individuals overcoming addiction, emphasizing the transformative power of community support. Scott highlights the importance of addressing relapse with compassion rather than stigma and advoc...

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Michael Lopéz-Alegría, the chief astronaut at Axiom Space, who shares his inspiring journey from aspiring astronaut to seasoned space traveler. He discusses his experiences aboard various spacecraft, the emotional aspects of space travel, and the vital role of training in managing fear and uncertainty. Michael Lopéz-Alegría highlights Axiom Space's mission to build a commercial space station,...

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono®  welcomes Professor Robin Fivush, a psychologist from the Samuel Candler Dobbs Center at Emory University who discusses how family storytelling strengthens connection, memory, and identity. She and Mary explore its role in processing experiences, fostering communication, shaping generational identities, and its cultural and healing significance, especially in dementia and community settings. This is ...

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono® welcomes Marisa Wayne, who reflects on her father, John Wayne, his legacy, and their work with the John Wayne Cancer Foundation. Marisa shares fond memories, including family traditions, her father’s humor, and their time together on their boat. She discusses the foundation’s efforts in cancer research, prevention, and treatment, as well as the creation of the John Wayne Museum. Marisa also opens up ...

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Emmy-winning actress Eileen Davidson who shares her journey from starting her acting career in her late teens to becoming a beloved figure in daytime television, particularly known for her role as Ashley Abbott on The Young and the Restless. Eileen reflects on the hurdles she overcame, including the emotional toll of rejection and the mentors who helped her stay grounded, emphasizing the impo...

Sagely Speaking With Mary Bono welcomes Cammie Wolf Rice, a dedicated philanthropist and activist. Cammie shares her personal story of loss from the opioid crisis and her journey of resilience. She is the founder of the Life Care Specialist Program, which provides vital support and education to hospital patients about opioid use. Cammie stresses the importance of prevention, education, and community mobilization in combating substa...

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes Scott D. Payne, a retired FBI agent with 28 years of law enforcement experience, who shares insights on the evolving challenges in policing. He discusses the dynamic nature of smuggling, emphasizing that demand influences supply and methods, while expressing concern about the impact of open borders on national security. Payne highlights ongoing challenges in interagency collaboration since 9/...

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono® welcomes Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41). They cover key issues like border security, immigration reform, and the fentanyl crisis. The Congressman discusses his advocacy for the Legal Workforce Act, which mandates E-Verify for new hires, emphasizing strong border policies for a secure workforce. He addresses the fentanyl crisis as a critical national security issue, calling for a comprehensive respon...

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono® welcomes Dr. Aaron Weiner, a psychologist and addiction specialist. They explore the complexities of addiction, its psychological underpinnings, and the societal factors contributing to its prevalence. They also discuss the biopsychosocial model of addiction, the impact of technology and social media, and the role of various industries in promoting addictive behaviors. The conversation delves into pu...

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono® welcomes Virginia's Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security, Terrance "Terry" C. Cole. He reflects on the significance of September 11, emphasizing the sacrifices made by Virginians and the ongoing threat of terrorism as a national security concern. He pointed out the challenges posed by trafficking, particularly from Mexico and China, which are exacerbated by a porous southern border exploi...

Sagely Speaking with Mary Bono welcomes William C. Moyers, the Director of Public Relations and Communications at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. He is also the author of two insightful books that chronicle his personal recovery journey. In this episode, he sheds light on the foundation's vital efforts to combat the stigma associated with seeking help for addiction. Moyers introduces his innovative concept of the Individual Rec...