Creating Real Change Through Women's Self-Defense: Dr. Tammy Yard-McCracken Pt 2

Good Life Stories

"People come to train out of self-love, not out of fear. They come to train because they recognize their value as a human being."

In this compelling second episode with Dr. Tammy Yard-McCracken, host Tracy Crowley explores the origins and evolution of 500 Rising, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women through self-defense. Dr. Yard-McCracken shares how the initiative emerged from a passionate "rant" during the height of the MeToo movement, fueled by her belief that awareness alone isn't enough to create lasting change in preventing violence against women.

The conversation traces 500 Rising's remarkable growth from a grassroots effort to an international organization with training programs across the United States and Europe. Dr. Yard-McCracken details their three-level training system, which transforms participants into instructors who can spread these vital skills throughout their communities. Despite having no marketing budget, the organization has trained nearly 80 instructors and continues to expand through word-of-mouth and strategic partnerships.

As the episode progresses, Dr. Yard-McCracken shares personal insights about watching her adult sons thrive in their respective life stages and navigating the delicate balance of remaining connected while respecting their independence. She also reflects on the privilege of being invited to share her expertise internationally, including training law enforcement officers in Minnesota and working with self-defense communities in the Czech Republic and United Kingdom.

Throughout the conversation, listeners gain insight into how passion-driven initiatives can grow beyond initial expectations and the importance of teaching self-defense from a place of self-love and personal agency rather than fear.

For more episode info and additional inspiring stories, visit https://www.goodlifestories.com/.