All About Change • Jay Ruderman

In the latest episode of "All About Change," host Jay Ruderman sits down with Oscar-winning Deaf actor Troy Kotsur to discuss the impact of American Sign Language (ASL) and the importance of authentic representation in the entertainment industry. Kotsur shares his personal journey, from his early years of harnessing ASL to overcome language deprivation to his historic Academy Award triumph that has paved the way for more inclusive opportunities in film and television.

This episode not only delves into Kotsur's own challenges and successes but also sheds light on the broader struggles and achievements of the Deaf community. He highlights the fundamental contribution of schools for deaf children, the transformative potential of Deaf West Theatre's inclusive productions, and the evolution of the entertainment industry as it adapts non-traditional roles for Deaf actors. With candid insights and heartfelt advocacy, Kotsur's conversation with Ruderman is a deep dive into the ongoing quest for onscreen authenticity and the significance of such milestones for future representation.

Dive into a compelling narrative with "All About Change," as Tsakane Nxumalo and Jay Ruderman unpack the remarkable story of the Black Mambas, a trailblazing all-female anti-poaching unit guarding the wildlife of Greater Kruger National Park. Since their inception in 2013, these dedicated women have been on the frontline, not only to protect rhinos and elephants from the brink of extinction but also to shatter the prevalent gender biases in the field of conservation.

Their efforts extend beyond the physical patrols and into the hearts of local communities with the Bush Babies Environmental Education program, fundamentally shaping environmental awareness among young children. The Black Mambas’ innovative approach to conservation includes unarmed patrolling, empathy for poachers' circumstances, and initiatives like their food parcel program to address the socio-economic roots of poaching. Witness how this courageous group, driven by a vision of a world without poaching, meshes courage with compassion to pave the way for sustainable coexistence between humans and wildlife.

Explore the journey towards a more inclusive entertainment landscape with Bobby Farrelly and Jay Ruderman on the "All About Change" podcast. Bobby Farrelly, one half of the directing duo known for blending humor with inclusivity, delves into his pioneering efforts to diversify Hollywood casting. The episode covers Farrelly's motivation, tracing it back to the influence of his childhood friend Danny Murphy, and discusses the initial challenges he faced from studios uncertain about audience reactions. Learn how Farrelly’s dedication to authentic representation is changing the industry, one role at a time, and discover the steps being taken to ensure that actors with disabilities are no longer sidelined in film narratives.

In particular, Farrelly shares insights into the groundbreaking "Champions," a film with an all-disabled lead cast, offering behind-the-scenes details of the casting process and the positive audience response it garnered. As "Champions 2" beckons, with its cast returning for new adventures, Farrelly sheds light on the state of Hollywood's inclusion efforts. Despite advancements, he underscores the need for continuous improvement in authentic representation. This episode brings to the fore the importance of diversifying the cinematic world to reflect the rich tapestry of human experiences, as well as the nuances of what true inclusion in the media looks like. Join Farrelly and Ruderman as they unpack the realities and aspirations of a more inclusive Hollywood.

Dive into the complexities of international aid and the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in conflict zones with the latest episode of "All About Change." Michael Maren, a seasoned Peace Corps veteran, alongside Jay Ruderman, unpacks the unforeseen repercussions of U.S. food aid programs on local agriculture and governance in this thought-provoking discussion. The conversation sheds light on how these well-meaning initiatives can inadvertently diminish local food security and empower corrupt power structures instead of supporting the communities they aim to help.

The discussion extends into the realm of journalism, where Maren shares his experiences and convictions about reporting in war-torn areas. He emphasizes the importance of objectivity and the responsibility of journalists to protect their local counterparts as they strive to present unbiased truth. The episode prompts listeners to consider the broader implications of international policies on food aid and the moral responsibilities of those who report on humanity's most challenging situations.

Dive into the latest episode of "All About Change," featuring Julianna Margulies and Jay Ruderman, as they explore the poignant and personal journey of an acclaimed actress who channels her family history into a powerful educational mission. Margulies, best known for her iconic role in "ER," has leveraged her past and her prominence for a cause close to her heart—Holocaust education and the fight against anti-Semitism.

Amidst reflections on her own upbringing and the challenges of reinvention that would later serve her acting career, Julianna discusses the profound impact her grandmother, a law graduate and a suffragette, had on her perspective and purpose. Beyond the glamour of the screen, Margulies has founded a significant program dedicated to teaching the Holocaust in schools. This initiative, starting with an intensive eight-day teacher training module, extends to immersive museum experiences and partnerships, aiming to instill in young students the wisdom to challenge prejudice and misinformation, regarding not just history but the world they inhabit.