Spreading Kindness: Anny Johnson on KIND TV
Anny Johnson, the founder of KIND TV, delivered an inspiring presentation about the mission and impact of her 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Seattle. KIND TV is renowned for its web series dedicated to positive media and finding new lenses to share positivity and kindness. Anny shared the spirit behind their work at KIND TV, emphasizing the importance of staying and creating positive endings to stories, as opposed to highlighting the negative and moving on, as seen in today's media coverage.
KIND TV has been instrumental in helping those who have fallen through the cracks, lifting them back up when they need support the most. Anny highlighted several heartwarming stories, including rescuing a beloved horse from slaughter, fulfilling a young girl's dream of swimming with dolphins despite Treacher Collins Syndrome, reuniting a victim of a hate crime with his family, ensuring a father could take paid leave to be with his daughter before her passing, saving a dog sanctuary from closing, and more.
Anny Johnson, who came from the mortgage industry during a financial downturn, shared her motivation for starting KIND TV. She noticed a focus on “bad” news in the media and felt the need for a platform that emphasizes positive news. Undeterred by initial uncertainties, Anny envisioned a program that not only showcased positive news but also highlighted the community's collective efforts to bring about positive change.
Anny shared a pivotal moment in her journey when a young girl taught her that happiness can be found anywhere, prompting her to reevaluate her definition of success. This realization led her to sell her belongings to contribute more to humanitarian efforts.
She recounted how networks were initially hesitant about a “positive” television network or show as shock, fear, and sensationalism usually dominated the media landscape. Anny's idea was to make the shock factor about the incredible goodness within communities not the tragedy itself. While not every story has a happy ending, Anny believes that everyone deserves happiness, and she has dedicated herself to making a positive impact.
As Anny continued to share stories, she emphasized that life is finite, and happiness should be sought out wherever possible. The presentation highlighted KIND TV's evolution, with the young girl who initially inspired Anny eventually joining her in humanitarian work. Together, they were able to make a positive change in the girl's life, emphasizing the continuous learning and life lessons gained from each person and non-profit encountered.
Anny concluded by emphasizing that we are all on "team human" and encouraged the audience to help one another. She shared a powerful suggestion from a child on how to stop judgment: "ask people what their stories are." This simple act, Anny believes, can prevent people from making hasty judgments.
KIND TV, initially named Talk It Up TV, has transformed into a beacon of positivity. Anny invited everyone to visit kindtv.org, where they can find more about the organization and support their cause by purchasing shirts available on the website. The presentation left the audience inspired to seek out happiness and contribute to positive change in their communities.
