A Soulful Rebellion

Who Said You Had to Pray Every Day? Building a Sacred Practice After You’ve Burned the Old One Down

In this podcast episode of A Soulful Rebellion, I examine the inherited beliefs that can make spirituality feel rigid or fear-based, and block us from seeking practices that support where we are evolving on our spiritual journey. Especially after we’ve burned down the traditions that no longer serve us.

This is for mystical Black, Indigenous, Women and Femmes of Color who are seeking to rebuild a sacred practice now that they’ve moved beyond rigid faith structures. Tune in to learn what it is to rebuild a sacred practice that honors where you are now and how to find the sacred in everyday routines.

The central reminder: a practice doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.  What matters is how you honor the sacred, see value in your connection to others, and carry its lessons out into the world.

Key Topics

• Letting go of inherited beliefs about spirituality and rituals

• Finding sacred texts and wisdom across traditions

• Exploring meditation and embodied practices

• Making room for sustainable rituals that fit your life

• Using daily routine rituals as a spiritual practice

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Books mentioned: 

• The Day God Saw Me as Black By D. Danyelle Thomas
• Waking Up Alone: Navigating the Narrow Passage Through Master Slave Narratives By Dr. Nicole Wordlaw
• The Pink Robe Chronicles By Dr. Melva Thompson 
• Braiding Sweetgrass By Robin Wall Kimmerer
•  Indigenous Theology And The Western Worldview By Randy S. Woodley
• Joy and Speakable By Barbara A. Homes

A quick note: I mentioned links in the episode, but what I meant to say was a list! These are books that I’ve read or am currently reading. I’m not affiliated with the authors, and this isn’t an endorsement.

More On The Podcast About Embodied Practices:

Episode 70 | From Wrestling with Faith to Inner Peace: A Contemplative Path to Embodied Spirituality With Shannon Savage-Howie

Episode 79 | Self-Care as a Spiritual Practice: Learning to Be a Disciple of Your Body with Cassandra Juniphant

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Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.

Remembering Your Worth: Black Womanhood, Spirituality, and Healing Trauma with Nichole Washington

In this heartfelt conversation, Nichole Washington discusses spiritual awakening, healing, Black womanhood, and self-worth. Nichole shares her journey of confronting trauma, embracing authenticity, and redefining spirituality as an ongoing practice supported by therapy, community, and self-care. They explore the effects of racism, colorism, and beauty standards on identity and how self-love, boundaries, and creative expression can help reclaim personal power. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder that worthiness is inherent, and that choosing love, joy, and connection is an essential part of healing.

In This Episode

• Spiritual awakening as a lifelong process
• Meditation as a doorway to self-discovery
• Healing from trauma through therapy and self-care
• Black womanhood, colorism, and beauty standards
• Hair, identity, and reclaiming the narrative
• Self-worth, inner child healing, and boundaries
• Love, joy, and transformation in difficult times

Who is Nichole Washington?

 Nichole Washington is a multidisciplinary artist offering an authentic and heartfelt exploration of creativity as a path to emotional and spiritual well-being. She creates works over a variety of mediums, exploring identity and spirituality. Her work has been featured on HBO and in The New Yorker, and she has collaborated with companies such as Shea Moisture and Black Girls Code. Nichole is also very passionate about mental health, spiritual well-being, and connecting with your inner truth. Her unique presence and energy have led her to speak at universities, galleries, and established institutions across the United States. She aims to inspire others to live confidently and boldly from the inside out.

Connect with Nicole Washington

• Website: NicholeWashington.com
• Newsletter: Awaken Your Magic
• Instagram: @NicholaWola

References About The Origin of Humanity

• Nature Portfolio | Homo sapiens-specific evolution unveiled by ancient southern African genomes
• Time Magazine | Science: Everyone's Genealogical Mother

• National Museum of African American History & Culture | Tignon Laws

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.

Reclaiming Ancestral Wisdom: The Spiritual Practice Colonialism Tried to Erase with Dayle McLeod (Nyoko Yumpula)

Discover the profound journey of connecting with ancestral traditions and spirituality with multidisciplinary artist Dayle McLeod, also known as Nyoko Yumpula. This episode explores the depths of indigenous practices, the impact of internalized racism, and the power of authentic cultural reconnection.

This episode provides valuable insights into indigenous spiritual traditions, decolonization of practices, and personal healing through ancestral reconnection. It’s a meaningful listen for anyone exploring their roots or interested in holistic healing.

• The importance of decolonizing spirituality and honoring indigenous African traditions

• How systemic oppression and internalized racism hinder ancestral connection and self-empowerment

• Practical steps to begin ancestral exploration: research, altar creation, and respectful engagement

• The significance of ritual, community, and body connection in indigenous healing practices

• The journey of healing past wounds through ancestral work and reclaiming cultural identity

Who is Dayle Mcleod?

Dayle McLeod is a de-colonial dream weaver using performance, Storytelling, Poety, Music & film to inspire visions of what liberation could look like.

Her Memoir, the 'Big Dream; My terrifyingly Beautiful Shamanic Initiation into the Arts’ describes the beginnings of her spiritual journey and what led her to create her first documentary; Day of my Death a  short, personal doc  that follows her initiation as a sangoma in South Africa, commissioned by the Toronto Arts Council and Canada Council for the Arts, premiering February 5 2026.

As an actor you've seen her on Amazon's 'The Expanse', Orphan Black ‘Echos’ & StarTrek; Starfleet Academy. 
Her folk music albums 'In Bloom' and 'Snakes' have been featured in a number of film and television productions including 'Kims Convenience', 'Charlie Says’ the  award winning web series 'Avocado Toast’. 

Resources & Links:

• Documentary Film | The Day Of My Death
• Memoir |  The Big Dream: My Terrifyingly Beautiful Shamanic Initiation into the Arts

Connect with Dayle McLeod:

• Instagram
• Website

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.

Understanding Ancestor Veneration: Unpacking Myths and Embracing My Heritage

In this episode, I explore how ancestor veneration has been widely misunderstood and often demonized, particularly through Christian and colonial influences. I share what honoring my ancestors truly means, why it holds deep cultural and spiritual significance, and how I intentionally incorporate these practices into my spiritual journey with clarity, reverence, and purpose.

Key Topics:

• The difference between ancestor worship and veneration

• Historical influences that led to the demonization of ancestor practices

• Personal journey from misconceptions to re-engagement with ancestor honoring

• The spiritual cosmology connecting ancestors, deities, and the divine

• Practical steps to honor ancestors: family research, altar creation, offerings, visits, and acts of service

• The overlap between societal and religious practices of ancestor reverence

• How colonialism and Christianity have shaped perceptions around ancestral practices

• The importance of decolonizing our mindset and reclaiming spiritual rituals

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Connect With Anekia Nicole: Website | Newsletter | Instagram

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.

In this episode, I explore the concept of spiritual freedom, emphasizing the importance of building a personal spiritual practice that honors my ancestors and cultural heritage. I share my journey of reconnecting with my roots and the challenges I faced while embracing spiritual practices outside of traditional church teachings. Throughout the conversation, I highlight the significance of liberation theology and the need for ethical discernment in spiritual work, ultimately encouraging listeners to reclaim their spiritual sovereignty and create rituals that truly resonate with their personal beliefs.

Key Takeaways

• Building a spiritual practice is a personal journey.

• Honoring ancestors can deepen spiritual connections.

• Spiritual freedom allows for personal expression of faith.

• Liberation theology challenges systemic oppression.

• Spiritual practices should honor body and culture.

• Fear can hinder the exploration of spiritual freedom.

• Spiritual freedom is about reclaiming what was lost.

Join: Sacred Alignment Sanctuary 

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Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area

In this episode, I explore what it’s like to learn how to trust my body after leaving the church. I talk about why embodied discernment and listening to intuitive signals matter, and how psychological barriers can disconnect us from our bodies. I focus especially on the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and women of color mystics , who often carry additional layers of trauma that make this reconnection more complex. I also invite listeners to reconnect with ancestral wisdom and share practical exercises that have helped me strengthen self-trust and intuition.

Key Takeaways

• Trusting your body is essential for spiritual growth.
• Embodied discernment helps in recognizing intuitive signals.
• Many teachings discourage trusting our bodies.
• Racialized trauma complicates the relationship with intuition.

• Ancestral wisdom is embedded in our bodies.
• Intuitive signals can be confused with trauma responses.
• Self-trust is often undermined by hierarchical systems.
• Meditation is key to developing body awareness.

• Your body carries the memory of survival and wisdom.
• Practical exercises can help reconnect with your intuition.

Join Sacred Alignment Sanctuary: ⁠Click Here⁠

Resources

• My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Mending of Our Bodies and Hearts by Resmaa Menakem, MSW, LICSW, SEP
• The Pain We Carry: Healing from Complex PTSD for People of Color (The Social Justice Handbook Series) by Natalie Y. Gutiérrez LMFT 
• Decolonizing the Body: Healing, Body-Centered Practices for Women of Color to Reclaim Confidence, Dignity, and Self-Worth by Kelsey Blackwell 
• Video | Healing Racialized Trauma: A Conversation with Resmaa Menakem and Tara Brach
• Video | Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome by Joy DeGruy (Also has a book with the same title)

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.

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From Black Pentecostalism to Mystical Wisdom: Deepening Our Understanding of the Sacred

In this episode, I explore the reclamation of ancestral practices that have often been demonized by the Black church, sharing my personal journey from mystical Christianity to embracing African spirituality. I discuss the deep-rooted connections between African traditions and contemporary spiritual practices, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and honoring these ancestral legacies. I also delve into the challenges of embracing mystical wisdom, the significance of self-trust, and the potential for liberation through understanding one’s spiritual path. The conversation culminates in a call to reclaim Christianity in a way that honors ancestral traditions while fostering personal spiritual growth.

Takeaways

• The importance of reclaiming ancestral practices..

• The practices in the Black church often have deep ancestral roots.

• Many church rituals can be traced back to African traditional religions.

• The concept of divination is prevalent in both African spirituality and church practices.

• The historical context of spiritual practices being demonized.

• Internalized racism surrounding ancestral practices.

• The importance of self-trust in one's spiritual journey is emphasized.

• Exploring spiritual paths without fear.

• Considering a more expansive understanding of spirituality.

You Might Also Be Interested In: Episode 48 | How religious beliefs impact your intuition development

Resources

• Tacky’s Revolt: The Story of an Atlantic Slave Wa by Vincent Brown (A Sample but this an entire book)

• Tacky's Revolt: The Story of an Atlantic Slave War | Vincent Brown with Matthew Parker | YouTube

• Slave Religion: The 'Invisible Institution' in the Antebellum South" by Albert J. Raboteau

• Obeah, Race and Racism: Caribbean Witchcraft in the English Imagination By Eugenia O’Neal
• The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching: Transforming Suffering into Peace, Joy, and Liberation by Thich Nhat Hanh 

Join: Sacred Alignment Sanctuary - Good news! Podcast listeners can still join for Free through January 30th.

In this episode of A Soulful Rebellion, I share my personal journey of spiritual awakening and faith deconstruction. I reflect on my upbringing, mystical experiences, and the challenges I've faced while navigating my beliefs. I discuss the importance of creating a supportive community for women of color who are exploring their spirituality outside of traditional religious structures. I also announce a new direction for the podcast, focusing on mystical wisdom, embodied discernment, and spiritual freedom.

Join: Sacred Alignment Sanctuary

Learn More About A Soulful Rebellion: ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Coaching

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Robert Casey Forman — mysticism scholar, 12-time author, and spiritual explorer of 55+ years. His latest book, Christianity Reimagined, guides those navigating a spiritual shift or re-evaluating their faith.

We explore why doubt can deepen, not threaten, faith, and discuss mystical experiences — moments of presence and peace that transcend doctrine and appear across religions. Dr. Forman also addresses Christianity’s harms, the enduring beauty of ritual and community, and how we can reimagine a faith that honors intellect, humanity, and connection.

This honest, expansive conversation offers insight, compassion, and a path forward for anyone deconstructing, rebuilding, or curious about their spiritual journey.

In this episode, we discuss:

• • Doubt is not a failure of faith, it's the doorway to a deeper, more honest spirituality.

  •  Mystical experiences are more common than we think.

  • You don’t have to abandon intellect to embrace faith.

  • Christianity can be reimagined in a way that is inclusive, compassionate, and non-dogmatic.

  • Ritual and community still have value — if they’re aligned with your growth.

  • You are allowed to keep the parts of Christianity that nourish you.

  • Jesus’ teachings on love, compassion, and presence remain powerful guides — even outside of traditional belief systems.

  • You can find (or create) a spiritual path that fits who you are today.
    

  Who Is Dr. Robert K.C. Forman?

  Dr. Robert K.C. Forman is a scholar, writer, and spiritual explorer whose work has shaped the study of mysticism and spirituality for decades. Growing up in Baltimore, he earned his BA from the University of Chicago and a PhD from Columbia University's Department of Religion, and that honorary doctorate from Sweden’s Lund University.  He became a tenured professor at the City University of New York and pioneered The Perennial Psychology, a groundbreaking approach to mystical experience and religious writings. His eleven previous books, including The Problem of Pure Consciousness and Mysticism, Mind, Consciousness, remain influential classics, earning him an honorary doctorate from Sweden’s Lund University.

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  After retiring, Dr. Forman founded the interfaith Forge Institute for Spirituality and Social Change, which united leaders across the full range of spiritual and religious traditions for mutual work and support. A lifelong practitioner and certified teacher of Transcendental Meditation, he chronicled his spiritual journey in Enlightenment Ain’t What It’s Cracked Up to Be. Recently, an unexpected shift led him to nine years of weekly church attendance, inspiring his latest book, Christianity Reimagined: A Mystical Approach for Doubters and the Dubious, which explores how liturgy and community can deeply move both believers as well as the confused, the doubting and even the skeptical.

  
  

  Learn More About  Dr. Robert K.C. Forman at  ChristiantyReimagined.org

  
  

  Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.

  
  

  
  

  Learn More About A Soulful Rebellion: ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠Newsletter⁠ | ⁠Coaching

In this powerful, healing-centered episode Kelsey Elizabeth Matthews guides us through what it actually takes to move from religious wounding into deep emotional, spiritual, and personal transformation.

Rather than focusing only on the problems within high-control church environments, this conversation centers on how to heal, how to rebuild, and how to reclaim your sense of self after leaving toxic or narcissistic faith systems.

Kelsey breaks down the healing journey with compassion and clarity, helping listeners reconnect with their inner wisdom, reestablish trust in their intuition, and rebuild a healthier relationship with themselves, God, and community.

On This Episode, We Discuss:

• Why many people mistake control for love

• Recognizing the nervous system’s role in staying stuck

• Why true self-love is essential—and not selfish

• What triggers reveal about your inner child and unmet needs

• Grounding practices and emotional regulation tools

• Why your body reacts with fear when you step outside familiar belief systems

• What Christ-like love actually looks like

• How to approach the Bible with new eyes and without fear

• Separating God from the harmful ways religion has portrayed God

• Creating boundaries without guilt

• Healing as a lifelong process—not a destination
  

Mentioned In This Episode: Dawnland Documentary

Additional Resources: | Awaken Your Truth - A free guide for those deconstructing toxic religious 

Who Is Kelsey Matthews

Kelsey Elizabeth Matthews is a first-generation college graduate, published author, advocate, public speaker, coach, trainer, and consultant with a passion for empowering individuals and leaders. Originally from East Haven, CT, Kelsey graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) in 2023, where she was honored as one of 58 Truman Scholars nationwide. 

Kelsey’s professional journey spans multiple sectors, including rehabilitative mental health, non-profit program management, and community engagement, with a focus on mental health, substance abuse, suicide prevention, and animal welfare. A survivor of narcissistic abuse and institutional trauma, Kelsey is driven by her personal experiences to advocate for those affected by emotional and verbal abuse, especially within institutions. Through her own healing, she has developed a deep knowledge of ethics, abuse/power dynamics, and leadership, inspiring her to coach and train others to become healthy, empowered individuals and leaders.

Residing again in her home state of Connecticut, Kelsey is the Founder and CEO of Phoenix Rising Coaching & Consulting, LLC, and a member of the Maxwell Leadership Team. She is a TEDx speaker, having presented "Transformative Leadership: The Power of Love to Change the World" at TEDxUNLV 2024. Kelsey is currently completing her Master of Social Work degree with a concentration in Policy Practice at the University of Connecticut, with plans to pursue a PhD in Social/Personality Psychology.

Learn More About Kelsey: Website | Coaching & Consulting | Kelsey's Ted Talk 

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.

Learn More About A Soulful Rebellion: Website | Instagram | Newsletter | Coaching