In this episode of Moving Forward: Conversations on Culture, Identity, Healing, and Hope, Linda Anderson talks with award-winning historian and author Ann Bausum about her powerful new book, White Lies: How the South Lost the Civil War, Then Rewrote the History.

Ann grew up in Lexington, Virginia—the heart of Lost Cause mythology—and the daughter of a college history professor. Surrounded by monuments and messages that glorified the Confederacy, she spent her childhood reading, writing, collecting stories, and developing a fascination with history and current events. Those early experiences—segregated schools, integrated classrooms, and a front-row seat to the civil rights era—sparked a lifelong commitment to uncovering truth and creating books that challenge inherited myths.

With seven starred reviews, White Lies exposes the most successful propaganda campaign in American history and reveals how distorted narratives about the Civil War continue to shape textbooks, monuments, and national identity.

In our conversation, we explore:

• How Ann’s Southern upbringing inspired this book
  

• The 20 “white lies” at the heart of the Lost Cause
  

• Why myths like “the Civil War was about states’ rights” persist
  

• How misinformation shapes young people and communities
  

• What personal reckoning looks like when history contradicts family tradition
  

• Where Ann sees examples of truth-telling, healing, and hope
  

White Lies is written for teens but essential for readers of every age who want to understand how history gets rewritten—and how truth can help us move forward

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Music by Maksym_Dudchyk from Pixabay

Podcast produced by Ury Gonzalez

In this episode of Moving Forward: Conversations on Culture, Identity, Healing, and Hope, Linda Anderson sits down with Dr. Anthony Muhammad—one of the most influential voices in education and organizational culture.

A former teacher and award-winning principal, Dr. Muhammad helped transform Levey Middle School into a National School of Excellence, where student proficiency more than doubled in five years. Today, as CEO of New Frontier 21 Consulting, he supports schools and organizations across the globe in building healthier, more inclusive cultures.

Together, we explore:

• What healthy culture looks like—and why it matters in every field
  

• How leaders can heal divisions and rebuild trust
  

• The role identity plays in creating belonging
  

• Practical strategies for collaboration and equity
  

• What gives Dr. Muhammad hope about the future of leadership
  

Whether you’re an educator, a leader, or someone committed to building stronger communities, this conversation offers powerful insight into how real change happens—and how each of us can begin moving forward with courage, clarity, and hope.

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Instagram: @lluande1

Facebook: @Linda Unrath-Anderson

LinkedIn: @Linda Anderson

Music by Maksym_Dudchyk from Pixabay

Podcast produced by Ury Gonzalez

Guests: Norma Rodarte, School Counselor Vidushi Agrawal, High School Senior and Student Leader

“The seeds we plant—through service, hope, and care—continue to grow long after we’ve moved on.”

🌿 Episode OverviewIn this heartfelt episode, host Linda Anderson reconnects with two inspiring changemakers—Norma Rodarte and Vidushi Agrawal—whose shared vision transformed an idea into a sanctuary of belonging. The Wellness Room at Oliveira Elementary School was once a dream Linda envisioned during her time as principal: a space where students and staff could pause, breathe, and heal. That dream has taken shape through the compassionate collaboration of Norma and Vidushi.

Together, they share how empathy, mentorship, and student leadership can create ripples of healing that extend far beyond the classroom.

💬 In This Episode

• How a high school student and a school counselor partnered to bring a dream to life
  

• The “Through Your Lens” philosophy and its power to honor every individual’s story
  

• The role of culture, identity, and compassion in creating inclusive school communities
  

• Lessons on trust, teamwork, and growth across generations
  

• How student voice can lead lasting change in education
  

🌸 About the GuestsNorma Rodarte is a compassionate school counselor at Oliveira Elementary, known for her “Through Your Lens” approach to supporting students and staff. Her work centers on empathy, belonging, and emotional wellness—helping children see themselves as valued and capable.

Vidushi Agrawal is a high-school senior whose leadership, creativity, and commitment to service have inspired peers and mentors alike. Her Gold Award project brought the Wellness Room to life, blending her passions for science, service, and the arts into a lasting contribution to her community.

💫 Key Themes

• Culture & Identity: Understanding how lived experiences shape connection and inclusion.
  

• Healing & Hope: Creating physical and emotional spaces that nurture resilience.
  

• Mentorship & Student Voice: The transformative power of intergenerational collaboration.
  

🕊️ Closing ReflectionAs Linda shares in the outro, “Even in retirement, seeing this vision come to life reminds me that the seeds we plant continue to grow long after we’ve moved on.” This episode reminds listeners that purpose transcends position—and that when we lead with compassion, we create spaces that heal hearts and inspire others to do the same.

Follow us on:

Instagram: @lluande1

Facebook: @Linda Unrath-Anderson

LinkedIn: @Linda Anderson

Music by Maksym_Dudchyk from Pixabay

Podcast produced by Ury Gonzalez