Human in Progress (HIP)

keywords

Spain, travel, culture, adventure, personal growth, identity, mental health, exploration, Cordoba

summary

In this episode of the Human in Progress podcast, Jen shares her transformative journey to Southern Spain, exploring the cultural richness and personal insights gained throughout her travels. From the initial need for an escape following the 2024 presidential election to the challenges faced during travel, Jen reflects on the importance of self-care, the beauty of local cultures, and the lessons learned about identity and safety. The trip serves as a backdrop for deeper discussions on personal growth, relationships, and the desire to return to Spain for further exploration.

route

1. Malaga: airport and car rental

2. Espejo: Stayed 2 nights at Casa Almara in this white village with a very small town vibe. We had a traditional breakfast of café and tostada on our last morning in Espejo. We loved it!

3. Córdoba: Toured this historic city with a guide and enjoyed the Jewish District, the Roman Bridge, the Mosque-Cathedral, the culture, the food, the people, and so much more. We want to go back to Córdoba.

4. Écija: Drove through this city with an old town and more modern residences and retail stores.

5. Carmona: Stayed 1 night at Hotel Servilia located on the busy town square of this bustling white village. Met an 8 year old boy who wanted to practice speaking English. The ancient ruins and architecture are incredible.

6. Seville: We loved this big city! Enjoyed Metropol Parasol after dark, a breezy boat ride, walking by the river, and so much more.

7. Jerez de la Fronterra: We stayed 2 nights at B&B Hotels where we had a very basic, stark white room with an emerald green tile bathroom complete with an oversized bathtub and a rolling cart. Breakfast was 10/10!

8. Morón: Visited the military base where Brian was stationed after 9-11. Met Pilar and Concepcion, two local women who told me to take it "poquito a poco" or "little by little".

9. Rota: Visited the military base to check out the services we could use if we moved to the region. Had lunch at a local restaurant on the beach - best pizza and salad we have ever had, including Italy. Burrata cheese, sundried tomatoes, roasted cherry tomatoes, basil, balsalmic, olive oil.

10. Tarifa: We loved being in the wind capital of the world and seeing dozens of wind surfers! Walking across the pier to the ruins felt like we were in a sandblaster! The Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean and the stark difference in colors is visible. SO COOL!

11. Punta Carnero: We stayed 2 nights in this tiny coastal neighborhood. From the balcony of the hotel we could see the northern coast of Africa. At night we could see the lights of Ceuta (a Spanish city) and the lights of Morocco. They are separated by a mountain range the locals call "The Sleeping Lady".

12. Algeciras: We visited the mall and enjoyed people watching. People of all ages gathered in the mall -- the place was hoppin at 10PM!

13. Gibraltar: We had a great view of the rock of Gibraltar from our hotel and we saw it close up as we drove through Algeciras. We opted not to visit because of the weather, the cost, and the reports of aggressive monkeys. :) Next time...

14. Marbella: We drove through this playground of the rich and semi-famous, but we did not stop. We aren't much for exclusivity.

15. Málaga: We were unable to get last minute tickets to the Picasso Museum, so we will have to go back. :) Lunch and people watching on our last day in Spain. We checked into the Holiday Inn Express and paid triple the cost of other accommodations because the hotel is next to National Car Rental and they have an airport shuttle. It was a good decision.

Keywords

Centrism, Fascism, Trans Rights, Activism, Difficult Woman, Social Justice, Relationships, Identity, Wealth, Morality

Summary

In this episode of the Human in Progress podcast, Jen Mayo Whittaker discusses her journey of awakening and the necessity of breaking ties with Centrist friends and relatives. She explores the dangers of Centrism in enabling fascism, shares personal experiences related to trans identity and activism, and reflects on the challenges of maintaining relationships with those who do not share her views. Jen embraces her identity as a 'difficult woman' and emphasizes the importance of advocacy, social responsibility, and rejecting exclusivity. She also critiques the misconception that wealth equates to morality and highlights the role of rich individuals in society. Ultimately, she reaffirms her commitment to activism and the legacy of her family's influence.

Takeaways

• It's time to break up with your Centrist friends.
• Centrists make fascism acceptable.
• Every time the left moves toward the right, we make room for fascism.
• I can't find middle ground with far right people.
• I'm a difficult woman, and I embrace that identity.
• Caring about people doesn't have to stop with wealth.
• Rich people get the most handouts of anyone.
• You don't have to live like that to be successful.
• I will not shut up about these issues.
• I'm a human in progress, constantly evolving.

• "I'm a difficult woman."
• "I will not shut up."
• "I'm a human in progress."

Summary

In this episode of the Human in Progress podcast, host Jen Mayo Whittaker shares her personal journey of activism, focusing on her experiences at the Women's March on Washington and her reflections on racial dynamics and personal growth. She discusses the importance of understanding supremacy culture, the challenges of white women's activism, and the need for authenticity in social justice work. Jen emphasizes the significance of speaking up and protesting against injustices, encouraging listeners to question their beliefs and embrace their authentic selves.

Takeaways

The desire to be known and accepted drives personal expression.

Marching for others' rights can lead to personal growth.

Understanding racial dynamics is crucial for effective activism.

Deconstructing supremacy culture enriches life experiences.

White women's activism must include support for women of color.

Authenticity leads to deeper connections and understanding.

Safety built on privilege can hinder personal growth.

Growth often requires stepping out of comfort zones.

Questioning beliefs is essential for personal and social change.

Engaging in activism is a personal journey that requires courage.

Keywords

podcast, activism, racial dynamics, Women's March, personal growth, authenticity, supremacy culture, white women's activism, social justice, protest

Chapters

01:44 The March on Washington: A Personal Journey

10:32 Understanding Racism and Personal Reflection

20:34 Authenticity and the Journey of Self-Discovery

27:08 Growth and Acceptance of Personal Change

28:29 The Struggle for Intersectional Feminism

30:19 Navigating White Women's Role in Activism

33:08 The Importance of White Women Teaching Each Other

34:36 Facing Rejection and Learning from Criticism

37:23 Building Authentic Relationships with Black Women

40:09 The Impact of Personal Transformation on Activism

41:44 Reflections on the Women's March and Its Legacy

46:01 Protesting Against the Current Administration

48:43 Understanding Moral Responsibility in Activism

51:16 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth

53:23 Challenging Beliefs and Embracing Discomfort

Keywords

podcast, self-reflection, social media, rage bait, therapy, self-care, privilege, parenting, fear, healing

Summary

In this episode of the Human in Progress podcast, Jen Mayo Whittaker explores various themes surrounding self-reflection, social media's impact on mental health, the importance of therapy, and the journey of letting go of control. She discusses the rise of rage bait content on social media, shares insights from conversations with her granddaughter, and reflects on her experiences as a parent and grandparent. Jen emphasizes the significance of self-care, the privilege of being able to change one's life for better health, and the ongoing journey of healing and acceptance. Throughout the episode, she encourages listeners to embrace their authentic selves and recognize the importance of support in their healing journeys.

Takeaways

• The podcast serves as a personal video journal for self-reflection.
• Feedback from trusted partners is valuable for personal growth.
• Rage bait content on social media can negatively impact well-being.
• The concept of 'Don't Take the Bait' (DTTB) helps manage emotional reactions.
• Develop the ability to pause
• Book recommendation: Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach, PhD.

• Parenting involves learning to let go and accept change.
• Therapy is a crucial part of self-care and healing.
• Privilege plays a significant role in the ability to prioritize health.
• Numbing behaviors can hinder personal growth and healing.
• Fear can be transformed into acceptance and self-compassion.

• Navigating the Abyss of Social Media
• Reflections on Parenting and Growth

Keywords

self-love, personal growth, boundaries, mental health, self-care, emotional healing, joy, relationships, self-acceptance, therapy

Summary

In this episode of the Human in Progress podcast, Jen Mayo Whittaker emphasizes the transformative power of self-love. She shares her journey of learning to prioritize her own well-being over others, explaining how this shift has allowed her to love more generously. Jen discusses practical ways to cultivate self-love, the importance of setting boundaries, and the role of various therapeutic modalities in her healing process. She also reflects on societal and religious teachings about self-love, urging listeners to embrace their individuality and prioritize their happiness as a foundation for loving others.

History Lesson

1. Emmett Till

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emmett_Till

2. Christian Cooper

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Park_birdwatching_incident

Takeaways

• The most important thing you can do is to love yourself the most.
• Loving yourself allows you to love others more generously.
• Treat yourself like a beloved child to cultivate self-love.
• Setting boundaries is a crucial aspect of self-love.
• Self-trust is essential for loving yourself.
• Loving yourself is a prerequisite for loving your neighbor.
• Engaging in self-care activities fosters self-love.
• Therapeutic modalities can aid in emotional healing.
• Recognizing and processing childhood trauma is vital for growth.
• Joy and love for oneself are key to happiness.

• The Transformative Power of Self-Love
• How Loving Yourself Changes Everything

• "Love yourself the most."
• "Treat yourself like a beloved child."
• "Self-trust is loving yourself."

KEYWORDS

personal growth, self-discovery, authenticity, boundaries, rejection, criticism, confidence, self-love, progress, podcast

SUMMARY

In the inaugural episode of the Human in Progress podcast, host Jen Mayo Whittaker shares her personal journey of growth and transformation. She discusses her decision to leave a successful corporate career, the challenges of overcoming rejection and criticism, and the importance of embracing authenticity. Jen emphasizes the significance of establishing boundaries in relationships and prioritizing self-love as she navigates her path of progress. Through her experiences, she invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys of change and growth.

TAKEAWAYS

• I am a person who is always growth focused.
• I left my corporate job because it was wrong for me.
• I want to progress through the barrier of rejection and criticism.
• Progress, not perfection, is what I'm striving for.
• I am existing as my true and authentic self.
• I realized that I am safe with me.
• I have boundaries now that protect my happiness.
• I love myself the most, which helps me love others better.
• Grieving is an important part of my progress.
• I want to inspire others to be themselves.

Welcome to the Human in Progress podcast! I’m your host, Jen Mayo Whittaker, and I’m here to share some real talk. Why? Because I’ve got something to say, and at least for right now, I’m free to say it. Feels good, right?

This podcast is for YOU if you love hearing people’s stories, advice, and ideas. It’s also for you if you’re ready to share your own stories, your wisdom, and your unique perspective. We’re going deep with interviews, insights, advice, and yes—one-on-one moments with me, Jen.

Who am I, you ask? Well, let me give you the scoop. I’m a woman in my 50s, juggling multiple roles as a mom, stepmom, grandmother, friend, partner, mentor, and above all—a truth-teller. I walked away from a successful career in corporate finance because, well... I had “enough.” And now, I’m embracing the next chapter: the phase where I don’t have to work to prove my worth.

I’ve lived through hardship—most of it I created for myself—but through it all, I’ve learned to stand in my truth. And now, I’m here to share that truth with you. You can take it or leave it, but know this: it’s real. It’s raw. And it’s all about progress—human progress.

So, if you’re ready for real conversations, real stories, and a podcast that’s all about embracing the messy, beautiful journey of life—join me by subscribing, downloading, and listening to the Human in Progress Podcast.