Hopeology

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Embark on a journey of cultural immersion and resilience with our latest podcast guest, Jose from the podcast, Finding Arizona. Moving back from the East Coast to the Hopi reservation,  Jose's story is a vibrant tapestry of tradition and transformation. His tale is punctuated by the rhythmic beat of running, a legacy of his Hopi heritage, that became his conduit for community connection and an incredible tool for personal development. As Jose opens up about his family's influence on his life choices, we are reminded of the web of decisions that shape our futures such as the move that brought him closer to his roots, further enriching his world view.

We delve into the age-old tradition of storytelling, with Jose illustrating how narrative resilience have been instrumental in his life and podcasting journey. The episode draws to a close with an invitation to our listeners to embrace their own stories and legacies, and to recognize the universal human experience that connects us all. Join us as we celebrate the powerful lessons in perseverance, cultural pride, and the enduring bonds formed through the art of the spoken word.

To learn more about Jose, visit: https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/

Socials:
Instagram: @findingarizonapodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/findingarizonapodcast
YouTube

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Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast

Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

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Imagine being uprooted from your homeland as a child, thrust into an entirely new culture without the ability to communicate. This was the reality for Tomoko, whose heartfelt journey from Japan to the United States unfolds before us. Joining us as she shares her narrative of culture shock, adjustment, and the power of resilience. Her experiences are a beacon for anyone grappling with change, illustrating that with self-compassion and mindfulness, we can find a path to inner peace and growth.

As our conversation with Tomoko deepens, we explore the thorny pathways of healing from trauma. She bravely recounts her own steps toward recovery, emphasizing the pivotal role of shifting perspectives through mindfulness and the additional complexities introduced by parenthood. Tomoko's insights are a testament to the human spirit's remarkable ability to heal and transform, offering hope to those touched by similar challenges. Her personal evolution is not just inspiring; it's a guidepost for others on the journey of healing, highlighting the importance of calming the nervous system and finding fulfillment in helping others.

Wrapping up this profound episode, Tomoko's dedication to community service and her entrepreneurial spirit come to light. Her work with Spill the Tea Cafe supports the LGBTQ and gender-diverse community, illuminating how her own resilience now fuels her passion for aiding others. Listeners are encouraged to engage with Tomoko's story and share their own tales of overcoming adversity. As we anticipate the release of her upcoming book, her journey stands as a reminder that every challenge we face is an opportunity to build a stronger, more resilient self.

Information on where you can find us. 

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast

Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

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This interview with Kiki Walter is both heart retching and uplifting, one that explores the intimate corridors of the personal narrative and its therapeutic impact. Kiki, the editor behind Medium publications such as The Memoirist, Age of Empathy, and Black Bear, shared her experience with her mental health journey, revealing how her dance with depression became one of the cornerstones of her writing.

During this episode we explore the profound healing that comes from sharing and connecting through stories. The journey we discuss in this session is one of transformation – how seeking help at critical junctures can be a beacon of hope, and how community support becomes an integral part of personal growth. Kiki offers insight into bioenergetic therapy and somatic practices, showcasing the liberation these methods can bring.
 
Finally, we grapple with the complexities of privacy versus openness in personal essays and memoirs. Kiki's anecdotes paint a vivid picture of the delicate decision-making process behind anonymity, and the potential influences these stories can wield on personal relationships. This episode is a tribute to the silent strength that grows within us – a towering sequoia of hope – as we all continue to paint the canvas of our lives with each stroke of resilience and expression.

Find some of her publications here:
Age of Empathy
Black Bear
The Memoirist 

Information on where you can find us. 

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast

Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

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Have you ever wondered if the family you're born into is the only one that can shape your life? Brittian Rivington Blackman joins us to share his heartwarming journey through the twists and turns of being part of a blended, military family, and how this experience grounded him. Growing up in the small town of Snowflake, Arizona, Brittian's life was anything but static, with frequent relocations painting a vivid backdrop to his childhood. His stepfather,  emerges as a central figure, offering emotional adoption and a sense of unwavering stability that fosters resilience. Our conversation stretches beyond family bonds to how the routines and relationships within them can serve as a cornerstone for personal growth and well-being.

Navigating the currents of life's expectations versus our dreams can be tough, but Brittiann exemplifies the courage it takes to chart a unique course. This episode is a tribute to independent thinking, the guts to chase your dreams, and the transformative experience Brittiann had when he switched gears from merely saving money to crafting a financial plan that underpins his aspirations.  Brittiann shares tales of taking calculated risks, the kind that propels us to pursue what we truly want in life.

We wrap up with a look at the importance of a mindset geared toward success and the practical steps to build a sound financial future. Brittian's story doesn't shy away from the realities of chronic illness or other barriers that hinder our financial goals, but instead offers a beacon of hope through different strategies. Join us as we explore the power of opportunity, the significance of goal-setting, and how each of us can embrace the abundance of possibilities awaiting our action. This episode is an invitation to rise, participate, and discover the life you're meant to lead.

More about Brittian:
Instagram: @brittianrivington
Website: https://wealthwave.com/

Information on where you can find us. 

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast

Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

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We are going to be taking a break for December. In the meantime, listen to past episodes, leave reviews, share episodes, buy me a coffee...and have a wonderful holiday season. 

See you in 2024!

Information on where you can find us. 

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast

Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

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Navigating the complex intersection of cultural identity and mental health can be a challenging journey. Listen to our fascinating conversation with esteemed psychologist, Pauline Yeghnazar Peck, MA, MMFT, PhD as she unearths the often hidden struggles and victories of the decolonization therapy movement. Dr. Yeghnazar Peck shares her personal experiences as a daughter of Middle Eastern immigrants and how her journey propelled her to address the gaps in mental health support for children of immigrants. This episode is a candid exploration of the realities involved in bringing cultural awareness into therapeutic spaces.

As a daughter of immigrants, Pauline wrestles with the persistent gaps embedded within the field of psychology. She shares her narrative of confronting feelings of shame and unworthiness while trying to fit into a mold that didn't reflect her cultural background. How can one unlearn these learned behaviors and incorporate diverse voices into a practice? We explore this question in-depth, and we hope our candid discussions will resonate with others, offering a sense of community and connection, an ongoing theme of every podcast episode.

Our conversation also delves into the crucial role personal experiences and biases play in a therapeutic relationship. We examine the impact of white supremacy culture on therapy, the importance of recognizing and honoring cultural differences, and the power of community in healing. It's time we moved away from the traditional "blank slate" approach and embraced a more holistic, inclusive approach in therapy. Together, we can start exploring the profound potential for collective healing and generational transformation. Tune in for a transformative discussion that reviews the role of cultural identity within the field of psychology and the profound potential for collective healing.

Learn more about Dr. Yeghnazar Peck:
https://linktr.ee/paulinethepsychologist

Resources:

• Group Practice Website
• ww.noortherapyandwellness.com
• Free Translation Guide for Communicating with Your Immigrant Parents
• https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62a3ca9c2970eef0ed10ffbd
• -this gives them access to my newsletter where I dive deeper into many of the topics I address on social media for the daughters of immigrants and mental health
• Free CULTURED Book Club: monthly curated picks on all things children of immigrants x mental health (e.g., intergenerational trauma, immigration, cultural identity development)
• https://view.flodesk.com/pages/63d7f220b4f015f30446e28f
• Two support groups
• My “Khâhar” (sister): A Therapy Group for the Daughters of Immigrants 
• https://www.noortherapyandwellness.com/services/group-therapy 
• “Birds of a Feather”: A BIPOC Clinicians Support Group

Information on where you can find us. 

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast

Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

Send a text

Addiction grips your life and drowns you in turmoil, but you find a lifeline in a place least expected – the military. Meet Jamie Hairston, a living testament to the power of transformation and resilience. Jamie takes us on her journey from a life marred by meth addiction, through her time in the military, to her career transition into writing. This episode is a deep dive into Jamie's life, where fiction serves as a medium to uncover her raw, authentic truth.

 Jamie’s story is a fascinating exploration of this incredible transformation. Jamie not only battled addiction but also completed her bachelor's and master's degrees. She shares poignant insights from her time working with inmates in a state prison and offers a sobering perspective on the high cost of drugs behind bars. This episode is a testament to Jamie's unyielding spirit and her ability to turn adversity into a life dedicated to helping others.

Changing careers is daunting, especially when it's a leap from a traditional job to becoming a writer. Jamie opens up about her decision to pivot, the challenges she faced, and her journey towards embracing her lifelong dream of writing. As she charts her future plans and discusses the importance of discernment and consistency, she gives invaluable advice to those considering a similar path. So, if you're ready to be inspired, join us as Jamie takes us through her extraordinary life journey, from addiction to redemption and beyond.

Buy her books
Medium

Information on where you can find us. 

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast

Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

Send a text

Have you ever wondered about the powerful role community plays in the journey of sobriety? Our enlightening conversation with Sonia, founder of Everbloom, shines a revealing light on this often overlooked factor.  Sonia's personal journey of recovery from alcohol dependence, fraught with challenges, highlights the critical role of a robust support system and that ultimately led to the creation of Everbloom, a platform providing that much-needed community for those battling similar struggles.

Our discussion transcends the usual, focusing on creating genuine connections within the sobriety community. Sonia shares how she uses technology to craft a unique approach, going beyond the traditional drop-in model to match users with similar experiences. The idea of a virtual network is particularly significant for those in rural areas where physical support networks may be sparse. Sonia also takes us through the common barriers to achieving sobriety, from societal stigma to fear of judgment, and the connection  that "hustle culture"  can have to substance misuse.

This episode isn't just about the struggles; it's about transformation, self-discovery, and most importantly, finding hope. Sonia shares invaluable insights into her journey, the role of self-care, and the need to foster a hopeful outlook on the future.

We also discuss the various levels of Everbloom membership, the importance of engagement, and how the platform fosters a safe, non-judgmental space for users to explore their relationship with alcohol.

Come join us in this captivating conversation that not only explores the journey of recovery but examines the role of culture, technology, and community in this path to wellness.

https://www.joineverblume.com/

https://www.instagram.com/joineverblume/

https://www.facebook.com/EverBlume

https://twitter.com/EverBlume

https://medium.com/@everblume

https://www.tiktok.com/@everblume

Information on where you can find us. 

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast

Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

Send a text

What if the theatre had the power to not only entertain, but to also enact change on societal norms ? Welcome to a riveting conversation with Lillian Isabella, a remarkable Cuban-American playwright, actor, and the first playwright with the rare disorder Phenylketonuria (PKU). Our dialogue explores Lillian's latest play, Primordial, a documentary theater piece on the topic of pregnancy and childbirth. We delve into her creative process, the inspiration behind her work, and how theatre can be used as a mechanism to instigate meaningful change.

As we journey through the narrative of Primordial, we unmask societal norms around childbirth and the marginalization of certain bodies and experiences. This eye-opening conversation covers the significance of initiating dialogues around birth, empathizing with diverse birthing experiences, and acknowledging the individuals who bring life into this world. While discussing Lillian's contributions, we also tackle the overarching theme of the resilience of individuals whom she interviewed.

This episode is a thoughtful and insightful exploration of theatre, society, and the power of birth that is sure to leave you with a great deal to ponder.

TW: Talks of miscarriage and stillbirth.

Lillian Isabella is a Cuban-American playwright and actor. She is the first known playwright with the rare disorder Phenylketonuria (PKU). Her plays have been produced and developed in NYC at The Tank, Cherry Lane Theatre, Metropolitan Playhouse, NYC Fringe Fest, Nuyorican Poets Cafe, and the United Nations. She grew up in The Bronx, NY and has a BFA in Theatre from NYU, Tisch School of the Arts.

Lillian's plays include, PRIMORDIAL, THAT'S HOW ANGELS ARRANGED, HOW WE LOVE/F*CK (Finalist, Screencraft Film Fund) and CONVO-GENEOLOGY. Lillian is a member of the Dramatists Guild.

Lillian has acted in numerous independent films and NYC Theatre productions and is a proud member of the acting unions: SAG-AFTRA and AEA. More at lillianisabella.com

Information on where you can find us. 

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast

Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

Send a text

Fear and anxiety, are two emotions often associated with the dark side of parenting, specifically motherhood, which become the catalyst for an enlightening conversation in our latest episode. 

We're thrilled to welcome Yael Goldstein-Love, acclaimed author of the suspense-packed novel, The Possibilities, a discussion that promises an exploration into the heart of motherhood, where resilience and hope shine brighter amidst the shadows of fear. 

Join us as we journey through Yael's experiences of motherhood that inspired her thrilling tale and examine the liberating power of navigating parenthood through the lens of fear and anxiety.  In our chat, we dissect the implications of these themes on parenting, exposing the profound insights they offer into our minds, interactions with our offspring, and stress management tactics. Yael ingeniously draws from her novel, shedding light on how her protagonist seamlessly balances these intense emotions and parentage. Together, we unravel the risks of despair and ponder on the prospects of transformation even in the most challenging circumstances.

 We delve into the emotions that emerge when we, as parents, confront the uncertain futures of our children. Yael's book is a treasure trove for parents seeking to understand and embrace the depth of their emotions and discover the powerful message of resilience and hope.

TW: Infant loss/death

Information on where you can find us. 

Support the show

Follow us on Instagram: @hopeologypodcast and the host @writerchristinamckelvy
To support the show, go to: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hopeologypodcast

Disclaimer: The views reflected by any of the guests may not reflect the views of the podcast host. Some topics may be difficult for some viewers, so proceed at your own risk. This podcast does not replace psychotherapy or advice and is for entertainment purposes only.