One Voice Evolving | Kim Brassor

I’m tired. Deep-in-my-bones tired. As a white woman navigating the complexities of racial equity in a space that often feels isolating, I’ve come to understand this exhaustion as part of the journey—but it doesn’t make it any easier.

I call myself a “blue dot in red America.” It’s not just about politics; it’s about standing for something that feels bigger than me, in places where it’s not always welcome.

This podcst is about evolving—learning, unlearning, and showing up imperfectly but authentically. And the truth is, so much of what I’ve learned has come from the wisdom, resilience, and relentless grace of Black women in activism. Their voices have shaped me, challenged me, and given me the courage to keep going.

Today, I’m showing up raw and real. No scripts, no solutions—just honesty. Because sometimes, the best we can do is admit where we are and let that be enough.

If you’ve ever felt the weight of this work, the pull of growth, or the ache of exhaustion, this one’s for you.

Let’s keep learning. Let’s keep evolving. Even when it’s hard.

Subscribe to the podcast for more real, unfiltered conversations about racial equity, personal growth, and the lessons that keep shaping us. -Kim

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I share my post-election thoughts as we move from denial to acceptance. These 5 stages will be your guide as you navigate through any post-election grief you may be experiencing.

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Growing up in a predominantly white neighborhood, I often felt like a chameleon, constantly shifting my identity to fit into different spaces. This week, with guest Hailey Pilgrim, we explore the profound intersections of multiracial identity and the social constructs that shape them. We share stories of navigating complex racial dynamics and discuss the unique opportunities for collaboration between white and Black women during election cycles.

Through candid conversations, we unpack the shift from allyship to advocacy and how societal changes impact how multiracial individuals perceive their identities. As we journey into the lives of second-generation multiracial individuals, we bring to light the concept of racial imposter syndrome—where the feeling of not fully belonging haunts many. We explore the evolving racial hierarchy in the United States, where 'honorary white' status presents both opportunities and challenges.

This discussion emphasizes the power of acknowledging and leveraging privilege while keeping strong ties to diverse cultural heritages, offering insights on how these complex identities shape our understanding of race. Our dialogue expands into the world of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work, acknowledging the burnout many face in these roles. We share strategies for maintaining energy and momentum, even in systems resistant to change.

Additionally, we delve into the intricacies of community building and allyship, highlighting the importance of trust between Black and white women. We round off with resources for those grappling with identity issues, celebrating the profound connections made through our work and the collective journey towards understanding and empowerment.

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In this enlightening episode, Kim speaks with Amita Sharma, co-founder of NourishDoc, a groundbreaking platform dedicated to empowering women through the often overlooked stages of menopause.

Amita shares her personal journey from corporate America to becoming a champion for women’s holistic wellness. Our discussion takes a unique turn as it integrates the principles of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) into the conversation about women's health, revealing how racial and ethnic backgrounds influence the menopausal experience.

Amita shares critical insights into the age of onset, symptoms experienced, and the broader implications of these hormonal changes, particularly for women of diverse ethnicities.

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Join Kim as she beautifully imparts her personal vision regarding the 2024 election and the role we play in be change agents for good.

Women are taking a stand in the 2024 election, channeling their fierce instincts to protect rights and future generations. As transformative leaders, they refuse to be sidelined, mobilizing with passion and purpose.

This movement is unstoppable; get ready to fight for what's ours.

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Global DEIB strategist and TikTok sensation Noelle Johnson graces our podcast to share her insights on fostering inclusive workplaces where every voice matters. Noelle's unique approach to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) is transforming industries worldwide. With a focus on promoting self-advocacy and accountability without shame, she is a guiding force in the realm of allyship and career advancement for marginalized communities. Join us as she unpacks her strategies for creating spaces where employees feel valued, her dynamic training methods, and her vision for a more equitable workplace.

This episode offers a thoughtful exploration into the journey of becoming an effective ally and advocate, particularly for white women committed to racial equity. Noelle takes us through the essential first step of self-reflection and truth-telling, setting the stage for genuine change. Her empowering perspective encourages listeners to embrace their ability to impact society positively. Whether you're an industry leader or an individual striving for personal growth, Noelle's insights are a beacon for those dedicated to fostering inclusivity and equity in all aspects of life. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from a renowned expert who's making an indelible mark on workplaces and communities alike.

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White privilege isn't just a buzzword—it's a reality that demands our attention and action. Through candid discussions about personal journeys and the societal structures that perpetuate inequality, we promise you'll gain a deeper understanding of systemic racism and the barriers that often hold white women back from engaging in these crucial conversations. Rejecting the outdated notion of being "colorblind," we emphasize the importance of recognizing privilege and the courage it takes to confront our own biases.

With special guest Mary Rarick, we dive into the roles white women can play in dismantling racism and the power of collective action for meaningful change. Mary is a caffeine-addicted super connector, former managing editor and digital communications consultant turned political activist. Leveraging her guilt and rage hangover from 2016, Mary stepped out of her introverted shell and began showing up at grassroots political events in 2019. Since then she's learned that even when she's terrified, there's a huge payoff in showing up, making mistakes, and doing her best. Today she communicates fearlessly to make connections, build trust and be a catalyst for change.

Social media isn't just for selfies anymore—it's a powerful tool for advocacy and change. This episode explores the transformative power of TikTok and other platforms in amplifying voices and fostering allyship. Curated videos are more than just entertainment—they're a medium for shared experiences that resonate deeply with audiences. We delve into the nuances of privilege, allyship, and the discomfort of being called out, offering a roadmap for using our platforms and voices to empower others. We also highlight the varied ways individuals can engage in activism, whether through direct actions or quieter support efforts, all while respecting personal limits and strengths.

Online activism is a double-edged sword, offering both opportunities for impactful collaborations and challenges like dealing with trolls. We discuss how digital communities can build meaningful relationships and drive social and political causes, with a nod to inspiring initiatives like the "Friday Power Lunch" Zoom calls. The importance of self-care in activism to prevent burnout is also a key focus, underscoring the need for balance. This episode doesn't just talk the talk; it walks you through resources like "Sundown Towns" and "The Color of Law" to provide a well-rounded perspective on tackling racism. Listen in as we celebrate the power of unity, learning, and the relentless pursuit of equity.

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Meet an extraordinary mystic and intuitive in her eighth decade, taking us through a rich tapestry of experiences that have shaped her understanding of growth, identity, and race. Growing up in Brooklyn and Long Island, Aubrye Arbe was deeply influenced by her mother's teachings on equality and justice, which set the foundation for her lifelong journey.

Her vivid reflections on the racial dynamics of her early years and the transformative era of 1960s New York City offer a unique perspective on embracing diversity and staying true to oneself amidst societal pressures. 

As we navigate this enlightening conversation, Aubrye shares insights from her seminars on self-love and the distinction between the soul essence and ego personality. At 82, she continues to work on self-growth with the aid of a protective prayer, underscoring the importance of evolving at one's own pace.

She challenges conventional ideas like being "colorblind" and asks us to truly see and appreciate the diversity of racial identities and experiences. Through her lens, we explore the power of authentic connections and the ongoing commitment to societal change, including pressing issues like white privilege and reparations. 

This episode closes with a heartfelt exploration of community, gratitude, and wisdom as we consider the future of our world. Aubrye reflects on the beauty of personal expression and the deeper meanings behind what we choose to reveal, urging us to foster resilience and adaptability for future generations. It's a call to embrace unity and authenticity, leaving listeners with a warm and hopeful outlook for what's to come.

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Mary Jo Honiotes (Honey-Otis) comes to us from Denver, Colorado and joins us this episode to highlight the importance of moving past superficial conversations to truly understand the barriers faced by marginalized communities. She owns and operates a medicaid agency, helping people who are living in poverty find affordable, independent housing. Prior to this work, and continuing through this work, Mary Jo is a mindfulness educator and student. She has a BA in communications and an MA in Consciousness Studies. She is a gifted facilitator, an experienced public speaker, spiritual coach and director. People are the spice of her life and she comes from a legacy of "equity" for all.

Through her role at Centers for Spiritual Living and involvement with the RAARE Women Collective, she has learned the value of listening and building trust within multicultural settings. We discuss how white women can become safe spaces for authentic discussions about racism and equity, and the necessity of integrating racial equity into our daily lives. We shared a moment of reflection on Kamala Harris's nomination and the growing responsibility of white women to step into spaces of racial equity, even when it means confronting our own fears of making mistakes.

We then focus on the distinction between being an ally, advocate, and operative, and how active engagement in support roles can drive meaningful change. Together, we explore practical strategies for civic engagement, the importance of support systems, and building trust through tangible actions. By embracing uncharted territories with courage, we illustrate the potential for unprecedented learning and growth. Join us on this heartfelt journey towards collective success, grounded in the bravery required to venture into new paths.

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Join us on this transformative journey as we explore the "messy middle" of life's significant transitions.

In this episode, I share personal stories of perseverance, touching on the challenges of burnout and depression that often accompany career changes, relationships, and personal projects. We examine the unique ways men and women handle midlife changes and the power of taking small, steady steps toward progress, even when it feels overwhelming. Amid the current political climate, we emphasize the importance of staying engaged and proactive as we approach a crucial election. Discover the transformative power of patience, resilience, and collective action.

We also explore the emotional rollercoaster that white individuals may experience as they confront the loss of perceived privileges. The host discusses the stages of grief and the importance of finding supportive communities. She shares her journey with the RAARE Woman Collective (R-A-A-R-E) and highlights the upcoming town hall summit featuring Dr. Nikki Lanier, which aims to equip white women with the tools and knowledge to take meaningful action ahead of the November 5th election.

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