Mixed in the Arts

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What happens when your identity doesn't fit into a single box?  I'm thrilled to welcome Raina LaGrand, a mixed-race somatic therapist and coach, to share her insights on navigating racial identity, neurodivergence, and queerness with grace and authenticity.

Together, Raina and I unravel the complex tapestry of mixed-race experiences, from the challenges of social interactions to professional environments. Raina sheds light on her transformative journey rooted in dance and theater, emphasizing the importance of embracing one's unique experiences. Through shared anecdotes, we explore the intricate themes of belonging, identity, and the pathway to healing from trauma.

Our conversation concludes with resources and support systems for mixed-race artists. Whether you're mixed-race or know someone who is, this conversation offers valuable insights and encouragement for embracing every facet of your identity.

Media Features

These are some of her favorite media features, but you can browse all media features here.​ 

• In between identities, racial trauma and relationships [ spotify ] [ apple podcasts ] @ Complex Trauma Recovery Podcast. 2023.
• Raina LaGrand on Five Things We Can Each Do To Help Solve the Loneliness Epidemic  @ Authority Magazine. 2023.
• Meet Raina LaGrand @ Canvas Rebel. 2022.​

Raina's Links:
Website: https://roottorisesomatics.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roottorisesomatics/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@roottorisesomatics 

Links to resources:
Multiple Overlapping Truths - https://www.neitherboth.com/product-page/multiple-overlapping-truths-ebook-pdf-1
The Politics of Trauma - https://www.stacihaines.com/books
My Grandmother’s Hands - https://resmaa.com/merch/
Militantly Mixed Podcast - https://www.militantlymixed.com/
Mixed in America - https://www.mixedinamerica.org/ 

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Follow me on Instagram & TikTok: @JiselSAyon

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We kick off with my personal journey into the world of DIY nails, a new hobby that's teaching me the profound importance of embracing the learning process and overcoming the fear of failure.

Our discussion then navigates the labyrinth of casting in the entertainment industry as Professor Streeter and I dissect the gritty realities faced by actors of mixed heritage, addressing the tangled issues of representation, colorism, and the label of being "ethnically ambiguous." From the frustrations of fitting into specific ethnic roles to the broader implications for labor and equity, we delve into how these dynamics play out in a capitalist society.

We confront the fragmented sense of self that so many experience, advocating for the necessity of self-love and the embrace of one's entire identity. Highlighting the importance of inclusivity and the interconnectedness of humanity, we reflect on the historical and contemporary significance of mixed-race individuals. This episode is a heartfelt voyage through complex themes, aiming to inspire and challenge our listeners to rethink societal norms and embrace the beauty of diverse identities.

Professor Caroline Streeter - https://english.ucla.edu/people-faculty/streeter-caroline/

Multifacial - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6j1yfUxB0U

Black. White. tv show - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0494185/ 

You Can’t Say You Can’t Play - https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780674965904 

Half and Half - https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/123546/half-and-half-by-edited-and-with-an-introduction-by-claudine-c-ohearn/ 

When Half is Whole - https://www.sup.org/books/title/?id=6620 

The Bluest Eye - https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/117662/the-bluest-eye-by-toni-morrison/ 

Mixed: My Life in Black and White - https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/122129/mixed-by-angela-nissel/ 

Obama’s book Dreams from my Father - https://barackobamabooks.com/dreams-from-my-father 

Support the show

Follow me on Instagram & TikTok: @JiselSAyon

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In this episode, Jisel sits down with UCLA Professor Caroline A. Streeter to discuss the complexities of mixed-race identities.

Professor Streeter offers a nuanced view of navigating identity amidst societal pressures as she shares personal stories from her childhood and examines the influence of popular media on perceptions of beauty and identity. They discuss the unique challenges of growing up in military families, the strategic decisions parents make to protect kids from racial discrimination, the longing for certain physical features, and the impact of mixed cultural heritage.

The episode also covers critical dialogue on mixed-race identities through various historical and academic lenses. We touch on significant milestones like the 2000 U.S. Census and the lifting of anti-Asian immigration barriers in 1965, and how these events have shaped the mixed-race population and identity in America. Professor Streeter shares insights into race and representation in theater and film, and dives into the implications of modern artistic interpretations like "Hamilton: An American Musical." Tune in for the first part of an enriching exploration of race, ethnicity, and cultural representation, and stay tuned for part two of their conversation.

Professor Caroline Streeter - https://english.ucla.edu/people-faculty/streeter-caroline/


NYT Miss Saigon article - https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/17/theater/the-battle-of-miss-saigon-yellowface-art-and-opportunity.html

Mighty Heart casting debate -https://www.seattletimes.com/entertainment/mighty-heart-casting-stirs-debate-over-race/

Changes made to broadway shows article -https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/23/theater/broadway-race-depictions.html

Never Caught - https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Never-Caught/Erica-Armstrong-Dunbar/9781501126413 

Support the show

Follow me on Instagram & TikTok: @JiselSAyon

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Welcome to Mixed in the Arts! with Jisel Soleil Ayon. In this introduction episode, Jisel shares her mixed story, what you can expect from this podcast, and some quotes about perfectionism.


Links:
Brené Brown's podcast Unlocking Us - https://brenebrown.com/podcast-show/unlocking-us/

Her book The Gifts of Imperfection - https://brenebrown.com/book/the-gifts-of-imperfection/ 

Dr. Jen Douglas’ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjenofficial?igsh=OXU0aWtqdXh0cjg2

Dr. Menije’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.menije?igsh=MW5ncXQwNmQ0Yms1aw==

Tabitha Brown’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamtabithabrown?igsh=MW16amtwOTlzbDE0OA==

Support the show

Follow me on Instagram & TikTok: @JiselSAyon

https://www.instagram.com/jiselsayon?igsh=MXV6MXZlNWZtbmN2Mg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

https://www.tiktok.com/@jiselsayon?_t=8nCTNu7tCOs&_r=1

Support/ become a member on Patreon: https://patreon.com/MixedintheArts?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink