Sullivan’s Unheard Voices is where kindness meets unfiltered truth. Host Shawn Sullivan sits down with people who have survived trauma, those who have been marginalized, and those who are silenced or ignored in mainstream media — and gives their stories the space and respect they deserve.
Instead of dwelling on pain for shock value, each
Sullivan’s Unheard Voices is where kindness meets unfiltered truth. Host Shawn Sullivan sits down with people who have survived trauma, those who have been marginalized, and those who are silenced or ignored in mainstream media — and gives their stories the space and respect they deserve.
Instead of dwelling on pain for shock value, each episode focuses on how guests found their strength, reclaimed their narrative, and turned hardship into purpose, offering listeners hopeful, practical insight for their own journey. The conversations are raw but never cruel, honest but never exploitative — driven by compassion, curiosity, and a deep belief that every unheard voice matters.
If you’ve ever felt othered, misunderstood, or written off, this podcast is your reminder that you are seen, valued, and not alone. Tune in, listen with an open heart, and discover how authenticity can change lives — one story at a time.
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Sullivan's Backstage Pass: Raphael Tranquilino
In this episode of Sullivan’s Backstage Pass, Shawn Sullivan sits down with guitar powerhouse Rafael Tranquilino for a deeply personal and inspiring conversation about music, family, and the long road to becoming an artist. Rafael shares how growing up in a musical family in Mexico City shaped his path, how his father and mother both helped spark his early love of music, and how he began playing piano at six, guitar at nine, and performing live by age 12.
He also reflects on the importance of discipline, music school, and the sacrifices that came with pursuing a professional music career. The conversation goes beyond technique and fame, highlighting Rafael’s humility, his love of live performance, and his belief that music is about connection, not ego. He talks about building a band where every musician shines, the importance of professionalism and respect on stage, and how audience energy shapes each performance. Rafael also shares advice for younger musicians: focus on the process, keep learning, and never stop dreaming. The episode closes with excitement about his upcoming July 2 performance at the Waterfront Blues Festival in Portland, where he’ll share the stage with Paul Gilbert, Kevin Self, and others.
Sullivan's Unheard Voices 144: Karolle Hughes
In this episode of Sullivan’s Unheard Voices, Shawn sits down with Karolle Hughes, owner of Books-N-Time, an independent bookstore in Silverton, Oregon, for a conversation about books, reading, local business, community support, and the importance of shopping local. This episode is perfect for viewers searching for Oregon podcasts, bookstore interviews, small business stories, independent bookstore content, community-based podcasts, and local business support.
Karolle shares how a lifelong love of books led her from volunteering at the shop to becoming the owner of Books-N-Time, and how the bookstore has become a welcoming space for readers, neighbors, and families in Silverton and the surrounding Oregon community.
The conversation explores why independent bookstores matter, how personal customer service sets local shops apart, and why supporting small businesses helps keep money in the community. This episode also dives into reading for children, graphic novels for reluctant readers, book recommendations, books that change lives, and the lasting impact of reading on young minds. Karolle talks about the joy of discovering new authors, the value of hardbacks and trade paperbacks, and the unique role bookstores play in preserving local culture and connection.
Capturing Moments: The Sullivan's Unheard Voices Podcast Photo Gallery
Sullivan's Backstage pass - your source for a musician's per
Sullivan's Backstage Pass
Sullivan’s Backstage Passtakes you beyond the spotlight and behind the scenes with the artists who make the music you love. Hosted by Shawn Sullivan, each episode gives you an insider’s look into a musician’s world — when their journey began, what drives their creativity, and how their passion for music connects them to their fans. From raw beginnings to on-stage triumphs, you’ll hear the real stories, inspirations, and heart that fuel today’s most passionate performers. Whether you’re a musician yourself or just love great music, this is your all-access pass to the soul of the industry.
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We would love to hear from you if you have stories about acceptance and inclusion for a future podcast. If you need an autism advocate, contact the Autism Society of Oregon.
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