In this episode of 'Keep Expecting Miracles', hosts Ilissa and Jessica explore the theme of spiritual nourishment, discussing how it intertwines with emotional health, personal growth, and the importance of connection. They share personal experiences, including birthday celebrations, the significance of nourishing the spirit through prayer and meditation, and the challenges of grief and betrayal. The conversation emphasizes the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit, and the necessity of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in fostering spiritual health.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Updates
07:46 Nourishing the Spirit: An Overview
18:44 Recognizing Spiritual Disconnection
26:26 Spirituality vs. Religion: Understanding the Difference
27:14 Reconnecting with Source
30:24 Synchronicities and Spiritual Guidance
32:52 Embracing Joy and Spiritual Health
35:31 Emotional Intelligence and Self-Reflection
40:26 Navigating Grief and Relationships
46:37 Betrayal and Self-Honor

In this episode of 'Keep Expecting Miracles', hosts Ilissa and Jessica reflect on their Easter celebrations, emphasizing the importance of family and the essence of renewal. They delve into the significance of nourishing the mind through meditation, sharing personal experiences and insights on how meditation has transformed their lives. The conversation shifts to the importance of listening to one's intuition and the power of manifestation, particularly in the context of their podcast's growth. They explore the benefits of passionflower as a spiritual ally and conclude with a guided meditation, encouraging listeners to connect with their inner selves.

Chapters
00:00 Celebrating Easter: Family and Traditions
03:47 The Essence of Easter: Life and Renewal
06:42 Nourishing the Mind: The Importance of Meditation
12:49 Meditation in Daily Life: Practical Applications
18:39 Listening to Your Body: Intuition and Meditation
23:24 Understanding Resonance and Divine Action
25:04 Manifesting Our Podcast's Future
27:03 Gratitude for Growth and Authenticity
30:02 Embracing the Journey of Podcasting
31:27 Exploring the Power of Passionflower
40:00 Guided Meditation: Listening Within

In this episode, Ilissa and Jessica explore the theme of nourishment, discussing the importance of nourishing our bodies, minds, and souls. They reflect on their weekends, emphasizing the significance of local farms and the power of fresh produce. The conversation delves into herbalism, self-care, and the cultural perspectives on food, highlighting the need for community and connection. They also touch on manifestation and the spiritual aspects of nourishment, featuring the herb nettle as a powerful tool for health and protection. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage in their own nourishment practices and build community around food.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
02:17 Celebrating Nourishment and Connection
07:17 The Importance of Nourishing Our Bodies
13:34 Empowerment Through Local Food Sources
19:26 Cultural Perspectives on Food and Nourishment
26:17 Exploring Plant-Based Proteins
28:53 Nourishing Yourself: The Importance of Self-Care
30:28 Manifestation and Intentions for Success
33:11 The Power of Nettle: A Deep Dive into Herbal Benefits
43:56 Witchy Intentions: Speaking Life into Herbs and Food
49:02 Community and Gardening: Growing Together

Summary
In this episode, Ilissa and Jessica explore the themes of voice, empowerment, and identity through the lens of Disney's The Little Mermaid. They discuss Ariel's journey of sacrifice and the implications of giving up one's voice, as well as the cultural significance of music and voice in shaping identity. The conversation delves into personal stories of finding one's voice, the impact of family dynamics, and the complexities of villainy as represented by Ursula. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes the importance of reclaiming one's voice and the healing power of expression.

Chapters
00:00 Rediscovering Ariel: A New Perspective on The Little Mermaid
03:33 The Power of Voice: Attraction and Influence
06:49 Music's Impact on Culture and Identity
09:46 The Role of Voice in Relationships
12:46 Cultural Exposure Through Music
15:45 The Strength of Expression in Storytelling
17:35 The Power of Authenticity and Truth
18:42 Understanding Relationship Patterns
20:14 The Role of Communication in Relationships
22:31 Exploring Family Dynamics and Betrayal
24:27 The Consequences of Voice Suppression
26:34 Manifestation and Personal Growth
28:42 The Journey of Reclaiming One's Voice
31:19 The Healing Power of Connection
32:37 Conclusion and Listener Engagement
33:36 Grounding Rituals for Voice Empowerment

In this episode, Ilissa and Jessica explore the emotional transitions many are experiencing, particularly in the context of spring and personal growth. They discuss the state of food systems and the importance of community reliance, as well as the power of voice and expression in healing. The conversation shifts to manifestation, where Ilissa shares her personal journey of obtaining a scholarship for nursing school, emphasizing the importance of belief and intention. They also delve into herbal wisdom, focusing on elecampane as a tool for healing grief and trauma. Finally, they discuss the significance of words as spells, highlighting how language can create and transform our reality.

Chapters
00:00 Navigating Emotional Transitions
05:43 Shifts in Relationships and Personal Growth
10:33 Food Systems and Community Reliance
15:27 The Power of Voice and Breath
20:28 Emotional Expression and Parenting
25:38 Connection Between Voice and Body Systems
31:02 Catalysts for Change: Heartbreak and Healing
36:12 The Power of Expression: Unlocking Your Voice
39:54 Releasing Energy: The Importance of Sound
43:47 Emotional Health and Physical Well-being
45:36 Manifestation Success Stories
53:08 The Power of Belief and Affirmation
56:19 Herbal Insights: elecampane
01:01:32 Words as Spells: The Power of Language

In this episode, Jessica and Ilissa explore the themes of voice empowerment, ancestral healing, and self-discovery. They discuss the importance of finding one's voice, the impact of cultural influences, and the physical manifestations of voice suppression. The conversation also touches on grounding rituals, the role of forgiveness in healing, and a listener's manifestation story. Additionally, they delve into the healing properties of ginger and its connection to emotional well-being.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates
02:50 Transitioning to New Series: The Power Within
05:40 Finding and Using Our Voices
08:49 The Impact of Parenting on Voice
11:39 Physical Manifestations of Voice Suppression
14:43 Connecting Voice to Health and Healing
17:18 The Importance of Self-Expression
20:15 Cultural Influences on Voice
23:11 Listening and Responding to Children
26:19 Awareness and Growth in Finding Voice
29:13 The Connection Between Voice and Identity
34:06 The Power of Authentic Communication
41:22 Manifestation Stories and Personal Growth
50:31 Herbal Wisdom: The Benefits of Ginger
58:22 Grounding Rituals for Voice Empowerment

Summary
In this episode, Jessica and Ilissa delve into the themes of ancestral connections, spirituality, and personal growth. They discuss the significance of Sankofa, the importance of grounding in ancestral work, and the challenges they face in their spiritual journeys. The conversation also touches on the power of dreams, intuition, and the need for families to develop deeper spiritual practices. Throughout the episode, they share personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the importance of being open to spiritual guidance and the lessons learned from their ancestors. In this conversation, Ilissa and Jessica explore the themes of spiritual awakening, the impact of colonialism on indigenous cultures, and the importance of personal spiritual practices. They discuss the healing power of authentic conversations and shared experiences, emphasizing the need for individuals to develop their own spiritual practices and embrace their leadership roles in the community. The discussion also touches on the collective energy of manifestation and the significance of connecting with nature and spirituality.


Chapters
00:00 The Power of Names and Personal Identity
01:19 Healing Through Authentic Conversations
04:56 Embracing Authenticity in Storytelling
07:08 Experiencing Historical Trauma
10:25 Manifestation and Spiritual Teachings
13:04 The Legacy of African Spirituality

Summary
In this episode of 'Keep Expecting Miracles', hosts Jessica and Ilissa explore their personal journeys of self-discovery, the challenges they face in their podcasting journey, and the importance of ancestral connections. They discuss the significance of spiritual practices, insights from the book 'Of Water and Spirits', and the cultural reflections that shape their identities. The conversation emphasizes the need for deeper spiritual practices and the importance of connecting with one's roots to foster personal growth and empowerment.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates
02:36 Navigating Technical Challenges and Growth
05:09 Exploring Ancestral Connections
08:02 Experiencing Ancestral Visitations
10:53 Developing Spiritual Practices
13:40 Understanding the Impact of Colonialism
16:47 Connecting with Spirituality and Ancestry
30:44 Cultural Identity and Pride
33:48 Reconnecting with African Heritage
35:41 The Impact of Colonization on Identity
37:36 The Power of Names and Personal Identity
40:45 The Legacy of African Spirituality

In this episode, Ilissa and Jessica delve into the theme of ancestral healing, exploring the gifts passed down from ancestors and how they shape our identities and abilities. They discuss personal experiences with cooking, writing, and spiritual connections, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and utilizing these inherited gifts. The conversation also touches on manifestation and the role of ancestors in guiding us through life transitions, including pregnancy and the cycle of life and death. In this engaging conversation, Ilissa and Jessica explore themes of manifestation, gratitude, and the importance of showing up in life. They discuss the power of delusion in achieving one's dreams, the significance of gratitude in business relationships, and the necessity of being open to opportunities. The duo also delves into herbalism and ancestral knowledge, emphasizing the connection to their roots and the healing properties of herbs. They touch on self-discovery through astrology, particularly the significance of understanding one's North and South nodes, and celebrate the journey of personal growth and creativity.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ancestral Healing Series
03:11 Exploring Ancestral Gifts
06:09 Personal Stories of Ancestral Influence
09:10 The Role of Cooking in Ancestral Connection
12:04 Inheriting Talents and Skills
15:12 The Importance of Storytelling and Legacy
18:01 Connecting with Ancestors Through Birth and Life Events
20:57 The Spiritual Connection Between Generations
24:01 Conclusion and Reflection on Ancestral Healing
26:53 The Deep Connection of Family Bonds
29:01 Lessons from Ancestors: Wisdom Passed Down
31:56 Breaking Cycles: Healing from Ancestral Trauma
33:41 Manifestation: The Power of Intent and Awareness
41:06 Success Stories: Manifesting Dreams into Reality
46:05 Herbalism: Rediscovering Ancestral Healing Practices
51:39 Understanding Herbal Knowledge
56:47 The Spiritual Significance of Yarrow
01:01:56 Reclaiming Ancestral Wisdom
01:02:24 Witchy Practices and Healing
01:03:12 Astrology and Self-Discovery
01:10:17 Embracing Our North and South Nodes

In this episode of 'Keep Expecting Miracles,' hosts Ilissa and Jessica engage in a profound conversation with Sara Makeba Daise, a Black, queer, Gullah Geechee writer and cultural worker. They explore themes of ancestor veneration, shadow work, and the healing power of connecting with one's roots. Sara shares insights from her upcoming book, 'Sankofa Shadow Work,' discussing the importance of recognizing and healing ancestral trauma. The conversation delves into the concept of time travel in spirituality, the significance of pleasure practices, and the reclamation of ancestral tools for empowerment. The episode emphasizes the interconnectedness of past, present, and future, and the role of the South as a portal for spiritual exploration and resistance.

Books Mentioned:
Sankofa Shadow Work: Diaries of a Diasporic Diviner (2025) by Sara Makeba Daise
Of Water and Spirit by Malidoma Patrice Some
The Spirit of Intimacy: Ancient African Teachings in the Ways of Relationships by Sobonfu Some

Pre-order Sara's new book here:
https://www.saramakeba.com/store/p/sankofa-shadow-work-diaries-of-a-diasporic-diviner

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Conversation
20:16 Exploring Sankofa Shadow Work Diaries
23:42 The Journey of Healing and Transformation
29:25 Family Dynamics and Spirituality
37:19 The Impact of Gullah Gullah Island
39:13 The Magic Behind the Show's Creation
46:26 Manifesting a New Life
49:40 Embracing All Aspects of Self
51:24 Embracing Identity and Storytelling
52:45 Herbalism and Spiritual Practices
59:04 Exploring Time Travel and Ancestral Connections
01:05:23 Navigating Pain and Pleasure
01:12:40 Closing Reflections and Future Aspirations