'Sharing Kindness, Finding Peace, & the Art of Storytelling' with Ivy Charmatz

Welcome to episode 37 of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.

This week my guest is Ivy Charmatz. Ivy is an Emmy Award Winning Executive Producer & Writer.

Ivy grew up in Westfield, NJ where as a child she had thoughts of becoming a radio host. Actually as a child she shared that she played guest and radio host because she loved the thought of sharing others stories. She did not realize that her decision to tell stories was influenced by what her grandfather experienced as a holocaust survivor. He never let that experience define him and had a large influence on Ivy's life.
 
Ivy wanted to be a writer and in college she had an internship with a TV station. One day after she wrote a story and gave it in to them,  it wound being shared on TV just an hour later. It stunned her how quickly things can happen. Ivy shares that media gives people a platform and allows voices to be amplified. That is so intriguing to her and truly powerful when it is used for good.

In her current role as Executive Producer she books segments, works on specials focused on specific issues or topics, and loves going out in the field to share stories. Every day is different in her line of work. She shares a story about how listeners at times reach out to her and tell her how grateful they are for the stories that are shared because they have helped them in some way.

Ivy talks about how women need to allow themselves to be truly authentic.  When we try to fit in or become something we are not – we de-value who we are. Ivy goes on to talk more about how we need to be true to ourselves and not conform. This is a must listen to part of the interview.

Ivy shares that she is a shy extrovert. She feels that asking people about themselves sparks things that both can relate to.

Together we talk about vulnerability, grief, peace, connection, and how everyone we meet, we meet for a reason.

Several years ago, Ivy started #KindLikeMike Day, which occurs annually on March 28th.The day encourages people to do random acts of kindness in honor of her brother, Michael, who passed away in 2004. I truly hope if you are reading this that you will mark your calendar and do something kind to help someone and #KindLikeMike. 

Listen to Ivy's answer to the question of 'if I knew then, what I know now'.

This interview really showcases a few common themes, and that is about the importance of connection and being authentic.

Next week, I welcome Laurie Landy - Founder, & Susie Rehr - Executive Director of Special Strides. Together, they talk about the incredible programs that Special Strides provides through their adaptive riding center.

Please subscribe to the Today is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel stream this podcast on all streaming sites . Like us on FB and Instagram at Today is the Day Live it. I am the CEO and Cofounder of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation a not-for-profit organization that is making a difference in the lives of children with financial barriers who are looking for an ongoing creative connection through the performing arts.  Please visit applaudourkids.org for more information. For more information about my coaching and consulting services visit today is the day liveit.com

Have a great week everyone!