Welcome to Inviting Oneness, a podcast where we explore true stories from friends and members of EquaSion—stories where the illusion of separateness gave way to the deeper truth of our shared humanity. Across traditions, we find affirmations of oneness.

Jim Newby is the Minister and Public Friend at Cincinnati Friends Meeting. In his book, Finding Yourself in Chaos, co-authored with Mark Minear, Jim says, “The ways of the world encourage individualism but growth in the spirit of Christ will accentuate the interconnectedness of all people and the care we should have for one another.”

This week’s storyteller is Deidre Hazelbaker. Deidre will be joining EquaSion as the new Executive Director beginning in July.

Deidre’s personal history embarks on a journey driven by creativity, optimism, and infectious energy. She has nurtured her commitment to community service and making a positive impact over time. Originating from middle-of-nowhere, Ohio, and as she later achieved milestones in marketing and design, her life story metamorphosed into a testament to her unwavering dedication to shattering the glass ceilings that women often encounter.
While staying in state, but far from home, she graduated from Bowling Green State University. Starting off as a graphic designer, she later pivoted to marketing at Perfetti Van Melle, the maker of Mentos and Airheads candy.

While six months pregnant, she started her own digital marketing business. This was the beginning of her journey as a business leader, focused on digital strategy and social media. Working with local brands like Gold Star Chili and Kroger Simple Truth, she learned the value of practical tactics that yield results and truly listening to your clients and customers. She also got involved in important missions, like Quit Culture, which aimed to reduce smoking in Black communities. She sold the business at the end of 2021.

Deidre Hazelbaker is a strategic marketing and communications consultant supporting Wordsworth PR and mission-driven organizations. She leads data-informed campaigns that build awareness and drive engagement, overseeing the development and execution of content strategies across digital platforms. In addition to her marketing work, Deidre provides support in development strategy and board management, helping organizations strengthen donor relationships, increase fundraising capacity, and foster more effective governance.

Her engagement isn't just professional; it extends into the Loveland, Ohio community and her active involvement with Cincinnati Friends Meeting, Loveland Schools, family sports and activities and volunteering. Within her family, she has two happy-go-lucky daughters, a partner who is also her best friend, and an adorable chocolate lab. Their shared love for outdoor activities brings them closer together.

If today’s story moved you, we invite you to keep the conversation going in person at this year’s Festival of Faiths on June 22nd—a day of dialogue, music, and community rooted in compassion and unity. To learn more about the festival, our work at EquaSion, or to share your own story of oneness, visit us at equasion.org. Until next time, may we keep inviting oneness—within ourselves, and with one another.