Enlighten: Uplift & Inspire

On this week's episode I reflect on the history and meaning of Labor Day, and the labor of love it takes to live by our values. I try to stay mindful of the companies that take advantage of their employees and avoid doing business with them. It's challenging to always take that stand, knowing these companies lure us in with cheaper prices and convenient shipping, but at what cost? Sometimes it is a labor of love to stay true to our values. As much as I can, I want to live by my values, knowing that it can be a labor of love to honor those values. So belated Happy Labor Day and may we all invest in the labor of love that honors ourselves and all beings. Enjoy the podcast! Links: History of Labor Day

On this week's episode, I honor Bert Hughes, a kind, generous, inspirational man who died on August 16th, touching those of us living in Nyack and well beyond. Bert lived a full, meaningful life, leaving a profound impact on the lives of thousands of people, through music, social justice and his gracious heart. Please check out the links below to two organizations that Bert cared so deeply about: Helping Hands of Rockland, an interfaith volunteer organization that provides support for people who are homeless and Midnight Run, a volunteer organization dedicated to finding common ground between the housed and the homeless. Let's honor Bert and help keep his large heart alive in our hearts by making a donation in Bert Hughes' memory to either or both organizations. Thank you so much! Enjoy the podcast! Links: Bert's Obituary Helping Hands Midnight Run

My guest today is Lynn Sinclair. Lynn is my aunt, married to my mom's younger brother, a mother of 3, grandmother of 6 and great grandmother of 2. Even though we rarely see each other, Lynn listens to my podcast and emails me notes of acknowledgement, support or thanks. It's a meaningful way to stay connected despite the 3,000 miles between us. Now it's my turn to shine some light on this kind, gracious elder, who has given me so much. At the age of 88, and dealing with her fourth cancer diagnosis, Lynn, reflects on what is most meaningful to her and the anchors to windward that steer and steady her. Enjoy the podcast!

On this week's episode, I share a recent experience of being struck by the power of the sun's brilliant rays of light. Those rays of light, illuminated the woods, penetrating everything around me and reminded me to honor the title of my podcast. I recall the origins of my podcast and how ENLIGTHEN came to be. May this episode remind you to claim your light. May you honor the light within you, even when it is not visible. May you radiate your light today and enjoy shining your light on the light of others. Enjoy the podcast! Links: www.enlighten.nyc IG: @indiaarie IG: @asoulcalledjoel

On this week's episode, a man named Jim offers me gems every time I see him. These gems come in all sizes, shapes and colors. Sometimes we exchange words, sometimes gestures of kind acknowledgment, sometimes I simply watch Jim from a far and witness his slow, peaceful, meditative presence. Jim's essence exudes humility and light and I walk away from an interaction with Jim feeling soothed, calmer and more aligned.

Even though Jim has declined my invitation to have him as a guest on my podcast, I feel drawn to express how grateful I am for Jim and the many gems he offers, simply by being himself. You may have someone in your life that offers gems like Jim. Feel the gratitude course through you. Find your own way to thank them. Enjoy the podcast!

On this week's episode, I talk about that feeling, as a parent, of bursting with pride when your kids are doing what they love, aligned with their gifts and thriving. I share why I am currently kvelling about my daughter, Julia, who is on a world tour with Sam Smith. Next week, on August 8th and 9th, she will be performing with Sam Smith at NYC's Madison Square Garden. The outpouring of love from so many of her friends, our friends and family who have bought tickets to see her in their cities, all across the country, truly humbles me. Check out the links below for Sam's tour schedule & more. Thanks for letting this proud mama kvell!!! Enjoy the podcast. Links:

Sam Smith Tour

Julia w Sam Smith TV Appearance

SS Instagram

SS YouTube Channel

Julia's IG

On this week's episode, I talk about my natural tendency to be a "human enthusiast". You'll know a "human enthusiast" when you see one - they are eager to interact with strangers, friends and family, they look for the best in others, are outgoing and comfortable initiating connections. Ironically, the day after recording this episode I found myself in a group situation that had me feeling the exact opposite. In honoring my intuition, I pulled away from the socializing and noticed my need to turn inward. So as much as my natural tendency is to be a "human enthusiast", I honor the settings, where withdrawal and solitude are aligned with my inner truth. Enjoy the podcast!

On this week's episode I describe what my daily walks in the woods mean to me. Of course I am entertained and engaged with the creatures and elements, but when I commune with nature, I return home to myself and feel connected to the sacred.

With the intensified fires, flooding and record-breaking heat this summer, making its way more directly into our lives, my walks in the woods allow me to deepen my respect and reverence for the planet. It's important for me to show up and build a healthy, loving relationship with nature. May you be inspired to find your own ways of communing with nature. May we all contribute to restoring the health and vitality of our planet.

Enjoy the podcast!

When an issue hits us personally, we are more likely to get behind it and do what we can to raise awareness and rally others to get on board. Well, that's what I am doing today, because our dear friend Wayne Warnecke has been diagnosed with ALS. I want everyone to understand what ALS is and do what we can to fund more research, expand access to care and contribute to the possibility of a cure. Please consider making a donation, of any amount to ALS. See the link below to do so and make the donation under Wayne Warnecke's name and indicate you are an "Enlighten" listener. Heartfelt thanks for caring about something that has hit me personally and for bringing hope to those living with this disease. Enjoy the podcast! Links:

ALS Association of NY - Donation Link

Wayne's Enlighten Podcast Episode

Vaneese's Enlighten Podcast Episode

My guests today are Art Bridgman and Myrna Packer, an inspiring couple who have collaborated in choreography and performance since 1978. As co-directors of their own dance company, Art and Myrna embody the depth and breadth of collaboration, curiosity and creativity. I've witnessed their performances for 40 years and marvel at their tenacity and innovation as true dance artists. I trust their stories will fascinate you, motivate you to see Art and Myrna perform, be one of their students, or collaborators, maybe even be moved to produce or connect them with a producer to help get their recent piece "Ghost Factory" presented around the country. Check out the links below for Art and Myrna's website to see their touring schedule and watch a few videos of their captivating work. Enjoy the podcast! Links:

Art & Myrna's Web Site

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