In today’s episode, recorded live in Sedona, I have the absolute pleasure of welcoming the incredible Roanna Jackson, a beautiful Hopi elder, to share her insights, experiences and teachings from her home on the first Mesa of the Hopi Reservation with us. 

Born, raised and schooled on the reservation, Roanna offers us a rare and intimate perspective on Hopi traditions and ways of life. 

We dive into the profound teachings of Grandmothers Flordemayo and Grandmother Mona Polacca, founding members of the International Council of 13 Indigenous Elders, whom we were supporting together when we met.

From traditional practices to the importance of honoring elders, this episode is a heartwarming celebration of indigenous wisdom and cultural heritage.

What you’ll discover:

1. Honoring Elders: Learn about the significance of actively listening and learning from elders of different traditions, as Roanna and Robyn express their admiration and gratitude for the teachings of the grandmothers.

2. Cultural Traditions: Explore the rich cultural traditions of the Hopi people, including the significance of pottery-making, language, and the traditional wedding process, offering a unique insight into indigenous heritage.

3. Spiritual Teachings: Discover the powerful Hopi tradition of isolation for women after childbirth, fostering a deep connection to the earth and spirit, as Roanna shares her experiences and the strength derived from women's society teachings.

Thank you for tuning in to The Robyn Ivy Podcast, where we celebrate the wisdom and traditions of indigenous elders, spiritual guides, creative mentors and thought leaders who embrace the beauty of cultural heritage. 

If you enjoyed this episode, you will also like:

Episode #21: Erin Sharaf: The Intersection of Mindfulness and Magic

Episode #96: Grandmother Flordemayo:  Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living

Episode #97: Grandmother Esperanza: Embracing the Spiritual Journey

MORE ABOUT ROANNA JACKSON:

Roanna Jackson is the Grandmother of the Walpi Village on Hopi First Mesa. She is from the Sand Clan and was born, raised and schooled traditionally on Hopi land. Grandmother Roanna is also a healer, a midwife, a storyteller and artist, carving Sacred Kachina Dolls.  She is very active in the Woman's Society and loves to feed everyone. Grandmother Roanna is full of affection, joy, and enthusiasm as she shares her magical teachings on her traditions and the spirituality of the Hopi People.

This episode was recorded LIVE, together in real life, back in October 2022  in Sedona Arizona. I was on a month-long camper van experiment out West but that’s a story for a different day. 

This week’s guest, Erin Sharaf,  is both a scientist and a mystic. A former primary care provider and university professor who became a mindfulness expert and shaman. 

Erin now helps cultivate healing for people and the planet through enhancing the connection between mind-body-spirit and nature. Her work draws on both traditions of modern science and ancient wisdom.

We met up for a hike amongst Sedona’s red rocks, then sat down to talk about how her own mindfulness journey from a new student, a few decades ago, led her to become a fierce advocate for the planet. 

“I sit so we all can rise”. Let that sink in. Magic.

What do we do with all that we become aware of when we get still, meditate and can see clearly once the dust of our minds settle? 

Do we have a responsibility to do anything about that which we see?

For Erin, this is where her passion for social justice, peace and kindness came alive.

Mindfulness Teacher 🌿Plant Powered Creatrix | Peaceful warrior | Health enthusiast | Shamanic Practitioner 🌟lover of life.

An internationally certified mindfulness instructor, she has been creating transformative workshops for over a decade. Featured on NPR, in Mindful magazine and at conferences like SXSW, her greatest joy is getting to share transformative, heart-opening practices with others in the hopes that people will expand their circle of compassion to include all living beings.  

A free spirit, she splits her time between MA, Sedona and Hatteras Island. You can often find her gazing at the night sky, wandering slowly through the woods or dancing up a storm.  

Join her Mindfulness & Magic community at www.erinsharaf.com

This week’s episode is a must listen. Back in 2022 I sat down with Doniga Markegard, a visionary in regenerative ranching, as she shared her holistic approach to revitalizing the land, staying true to the teachings she learned in her youth from Lakota elder Gilbert Walking Bull and how we can use these principles to empower both our communities and restore ourselves.

We met over 20 years ago in Washington State, when Doniga was only 16. Hear how her journey from a teen nature enthusiast to a global advocate for regenerative living can motivate us all to make more conscious choices, reminding us of our potential impact as caretakers of our planet.

Together we explore how connecting deeply with nature can transform our lives and the planet and how each of us can adopt a regenerative paradigm for our own lives, increasing personal and global wellness. This discussion isn't just about agricultural methods; it's about a holistic lifestyle that respects and enhances natural cycles and processes.

You will feel so inspired by Doniga’s story of resilience and change. 

Innovative Ranching Techniques: Learn about Donga's use of regenerative agricultural practices that not only enhance soil health and biodiversity but also actively combat climate change. Discover the cutting-edge methods she employs to restore the land she tends and the crucial role this plays in her mission.

Spiritual and Community Growth: Dive into the rich tapestry of historical and spiritual lessons that have influenced Donga’s philosophy and techniques. Gain insight into how her work with sacred indigenous wisdom, especially from revered elder Gilbert Walking Bull guides her efforts in nurturing both land and community.

Deepening Connection to Mother Earth: Experience the transformative power of forming a deeper bond with our environment. This episode delves into how Donga’s daily interactions with nature foster a profound sense of place and purpose, offering listeners pathways to their own connection with Mother Earth.

This episode is more than just a captivating story of personal and professional evolution; it’s a call to action for each of us to consider our roles as caretakers of our planet. It serves as a powerful reminder of our interconnectedness with nature and the responsibility we bear to foster its health and our own.

Connect with Doniga Markegard here:

• Website:: https://www.markegardfamily.com/
• Instagram:: https://www.instagram.com/dawn.again/

Quick note, I just want to say thank you for listening to this episode. I know it means a lot to myself and my guests. 

MORE ABOUT DONIGA MARKEGARD:

Doniga Markegard is a wildlife tracker, regenerative rancher, speaker, and author of Dawn Again: Tracking the Wisdom of the Wild and Wolf Girl: Finding Myself in the Wild. Her teen years in nature school started her on a path that led to a career in animal tracking and then permaculture and ranching in at her farm in California, Markegard Family Grass-Fed, where she works to regenerate both soil and community through farming. Using the innovative, carbon-storing methods of regenerative ranching, she’s restoring the land she tends, bringing native grasses and wildlife back. Doniga is a consultant and guest instructor at Nature Awareness Programs around the country, has led retreats in places such as 1440 Multiversity, Canyon Ranch and is a regular speaker at events such as the Bioneers Conference, Food Inspiration Trendsummit, and The Grassfed Exchange. She is a certified educator with Holistic Management International. She has worked with companies such as Patagonia, Tesla and Google, and has been featured in articles from Civil Eats, FastCompany, GreenBiz, The San Francisco Examiner, and NPR. Most recently she has been featured in the film Kiss the Ground available on Netflix. 

In this episode, allow me to take us on a reflective road trip from South Carolina to Miami, sharing upcoming travel plans brimming with workshops on indigenous wisdom in Sedona and an apprenticeship in Germany. The narrative weaves through the my thoughts on converting an SUV into a camper, reminiscing about past travel escapades, and the anticipation of attending a healer school in Santa Fe.

Themes of simplicity in travel, adaptability, and the beauty of embracing uncertainty resonate throughout this episode. My musings touch on overpacking woes, the importance of aligning pace with intention, and the challenges of battling perfectionist tendencies while on the move. And our conversation expands to encompass individual perspectives, diversity, and alternative lifestyles, offering personal anecdotes that highlight the value of self-awareness and gratitude.

Listeners are invited to embark with me on a journey of self-discovery and exploration, as the text encourages creating a sanctuary for self-reflection, confronting fears, and nurturing curiosity. Deep listening practices, collective breathing exercises, and the art of taking small steps into the unknown authentically are championed as pathways to growth and fulfillment.

As the episode draws to a close, I'll drop some hints at the podcast’s upcomming episodes, diverse content offerings, and exciting Patreon announcements. Be prepared!

Subscribers are urged to join the community, subscribe, and share their reviews to stay connected and engaged in this enriching journey of discovery and self-realization.

Connect with Robyn Ivy

• Website:: https://robynivy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robynivy
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robynivy

Quick note, I just want to say thank you for listening to this episode. I know it means a lot to myself and my guests. 

In this special 100th episode of the Robin Ivy Podcast, I want to expresses deep gratitude to the loyal listeners and inspiring guests who have been part of this incredible journey. The milestone marks a moment of reflection and celebration as we look back on the evolution of our podcast and the impactful conversations it has hosted.

Growth through Conversations and Personal Development Throughout the Robyn Ivy podcast series, the focus has been on fostering growth through engaging and insightful conversations with a diverse range of guests. From discussing camper conversions to exploring indigenous spiritual healers in Sedona workshops, the podcast has delved into various topics related to personal development and self-exploration.

Highlighting Meaningful Experiences and Unexpected Opportunities Our podcast has been a platform for sharing experiences on topics ranging from grief, suicide, creativity, spirituality, and personal growth. The host emphasizes the importance of building relationships and community through these meaningful conversations that inspire personal growth and positive change.

New Adventures Exciting plans are in store for the future, I'll be announcing the launch of a YouTube channel and a Patreon account for a two-month adventure with indigenous spiritual healers. While upcoming travel plans are on the horizon, I also will be focussing on the importance of taking breaks for family time and community involvement.

Celebrating Milestones and Building Relationships As the Robin Ivy Podcast reaches its 100th episode, I want to reflect on the journey so far, emphasizing the power of silence, introspection, and celebrating milestones.

Connect with Robyn Ivy

• Website:: https://robynivy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robynivy
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robynivy

Quick note, I just want to say thank you for listening to this episode. I know it means a lot to myself and my guests. 

Ever wondered what it takes to live life on your own terms? Join me  as I chat with Chris Colbourn, whose journey from the skate parks of Vermont to professional skateboarding offers invaluable lessons on pushing through failure and embracing your unique path. 

P.S. Spoiler alert! He’s also my cousin. So we talk shop, pro skating, living life on your own terms and dish a bit on all things family. 

Three important takeaways for you. 

• Embrace Failure: Chris shares how each fall and failure wasn't a setback but a stepping stone to greater achievements. His story is a testament to the fact that resilience can transform dreams into reality.
• Courage to Step Out: Discover the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone. Chris's experiences remind us that real growth begins at the end of our comfort zones.
• Living Unconventionally: Chris's life exemplifies the beauty of choosing an unconventional path. It's a call to listeners to pursue their passions boldly, irrespective of societal norms.

This episode doesn’t just share a story; it invites you to reflect on your own journey, encouraging you to embrace resilience, welcome challenges, and pursue your passions with unwavering dedication. Chris's experiences offer invaluable lessons on not just surviving but thriving by staying true to oneself.

🛹❤️ Tune in to be inspired to skate through your own life's challenges. Be sure to join me again for more inspiring conversations and valuable insights on The Robyn Ivy Podcast!

Connect with Chris Colbourn:

Website: https://www.chriscolbourn.com/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriscolbourn/
• 
  

If you enjoyed this episode, you will also like:

Episode #39: Raghunath: Love and Service with a Punk Monk Mentor

Episode #61: Robyn Ivy: Curious and Excited

Episode #84: Nancy Barile: Get Schooled: Life Lessons From a Punk Maven

MORE ABOUT CHRIS COLBOURN

Professional skateboarder from Vermont, currently living in San Diego, California. Also a passionate graphic design artist, nature enthusiast, foodie, and health conscious human.

When things get extra busy and I start to feel the overwhelm kick in, I thrash around, lose the thread, and then…I always turn to my momentum planner and Charlie Gilkey. 

A friend, productivity expert, former military strategist and compassionate mentor to the disorganized who crave feeling productive and want to get stuff done but in a way that feels sane and realistic. He’s my go to when I need to re-center the externals in my life.

I have really been feeling caught in the swirl lately.  So many things and plans changed after meeting the Grandmother’s that I got a bit lost in it all. It was time to sort myself out and create a schedule for the next 90 days. Stress less and enjoy more.

Since I was listening to this episode from my 2021 Inspired to Life Summit with Charlie today anyway to help myself, I figured I’d offer it up here again to you, as a rerun, in case you also could use a little reorienting of your life.

Enjoy this insightful and practical conversation about how to manage the challenges of today’s productivity, navigate all the personal growth options, and reclaim your personal power to feel sane, sovereign and productive. 

You’ll discover:

1. It's okay to prioritize your well-being. Learn the importance of setting boundaries, identifying your needs, and managing your time effectively to prioritize your personal well-being and fulfillment.

2. It's all about creating a successful support network. Understand the roles of mavens, connectors, and salespeople, and learn how to ask for and receive help without feeling indebted.

3. Let's redefine what productivity and success mean to us. Challenge the traditional notions of productivity, embrace the art of letting go, and find meaningful choices that align with your personal aspirations and values.

Thank you so much for tuning in. Be sure to join me next time for more inspiring conversations and valuable insights on The Robyn Ivy Podcast!

Connect with Charlie Gilkey:

• Website:: https://www.productiveflourishing.com/

If you enjoyed this episode, you will also like:

Episode #96: Grandmother Flordemayo:Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living

Episode #55: Jerry Colonna: Leading with Kindness

Episode #79: Susannah Conway: Creating Joy

MORE ABOUT CHARLIE GILKEY

Charlie Gilkey has advised hundreds of teams, from Fortune 100 companies to tiny nonprofits, through Productive Flourishing, the coaching and training company he founded. Charlie is the author of the critically acclaimed Start Finishing: How to Go From Idea to Done and his current book, Team Habits: How Small Actions Lead to Extraordinary Results. He is also a former Army logistics officer and a near-PhD in Philosophy. Charlie lives in Portland, OR.

In this heartfelt episode of The Robyn Ivy Podcast, we're honored to have Grandmother Esperanza here to share her enlightening journey into spirituality and connection with the unseen and natural world. 

Listen to her tell the story of her many powerful and rich life experiences as a medium from Central America. A 12th generation Mayan curandera espiritu, single mother and full time seamstress at Macy’s still at 89;  her valuable insights into embracing your own spiritual path might just change your life.Here are three important takeaways for you:

• Embrace your dreams and intuition: Grandmother Esperanza reveals how dreams and intuition are vital tools for spiritual discovery. Her personal anecdotes about receiving premonitory dreams from a young age inspire us to explore and trust our inner guidance.
• It’s never too late for spiritual awakening: Regardless of age, the journey to spiritual awakening is boundless. Grandmother Esperanza's story is a powerful reminder that we can embark on or deepen our spiritual journey at any stage of life, uncovering profound truths and gifts along the way.
• Connect with nature's wisdom: A touching theme of our conversation, Grandmother Esperanza highlights the importance of our bond with nature. From speaking with plants to acknowledging animals as messengers, she invites us to recognize the intricate web of life and its spiritual teachings.

Dive into the wisdom of Grandmother Esperanza as we explore what it means to live a spiritually enriched life, reminding us of the importance of intuition, the timeless nature of spiritual growth, and the profound connections we share with the natural world.

Learn more about:

Upcoming Workshops in Sedona: 

December Trip to Peru with Grandmother Flordemayo and the Shift Network

Connect with Grandmother Esperanza

• Website:: https://givebutter.com/KebeDi
• Her Online Shop: https://www.loveandlightllc.net/
• Wikipedia:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Council_of_Thirteen_Indigenous_Grandmothers

Quick note, I just want to say thank you for listening to this episode. I know it means a lot to myself and my guests. 

If you enjoyed this episode, you will also like:

Episode #92: Robyn Ivy: Part 1 of My Miami Road Trip

Episode #93: Robyn Ivy:Part 2 of My Miami Road Trip

Episode #94: Grandmother Moetu Taiha: Nurturing Authentic Connection

Episode #95:Robyn Ivy:Wisdom From Our Elders

Episode #96: Grandmother Flordemayo:Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living

MORE ABOUT ESPERANZA

Abuela Esperanza is an Intuitive and Dream Interpreter. As a dream intuitive, she can see and interpret dreams and has the ability to see other realms of color, light, and sound. In addition, she has the ability to see the effects of existing imbalances on the physical, emotional and spiritual realms within a person's energy system. Esperanza will empower you to begin the self awareness and self discovery of allowing yourself to become more in tune with your dreams. 

She was born in highlands of Central America in Nicaragua and is the oldest of 15 children. She is Grandmother Flordemayo’s oldest sister. Abuela Espranza is also a gifted garment designer, and designs all of Grandmother Flordemayo’s dresses and clothing. 

Esperanza has been designing women’s and men's garments and accessories for more than 60 years. As a young woman she discovered that she had the talent to create and design exciting designs using a needle and fabric. Esperanza studied with her mentor Mrs. Adele Adams, a German Master designer, in the early 70's. Esperanza’s vast professional experience has earned her the respect of many classic designers from across the country, including New York.

Support Our Grandmothers' Pilgrimage to Peru

bit.ly/GrandmothersPeru

https://givebutter.com/GrandmothersPeru

Grandmother Moetu Taiha or listen to our podcast episode here

In this special episode of The Robyn Ivy Podcast, we journey into the heart of ancient wisdom with the extraordinary Grandmother Flordemayo. As a revered Curandera espiritu, spiritual elder and member of the Council of 13 Indigenous Grandmothers, she brings to us insights from a life dedicated to spirituality, healing with ancient practices, and the profound power of self-love.

Three Valuable Takeaways for you:

• Embracing Simplicity:Learn the profound value of simplifying life and living in the present moment, away from the distractions of the modern world. Grandmother Flordemayo's wisdom sheds light on the importance of finding contentment through simplicity and connecting with the innate wisdom of our ancestors.
• Cultivating Self-Love: Dive deep into the practices that foster self-love and healing. From the "murmurio" technique to "practica" exercises, learn how to connect deeply with your inner self and harness your innate energy source for personal growth and transformation.
• Connecting with Ancient Wisdom:Tapping into Ancient Knowledge: Gain insights into indigenous healing traditions, the art of curanderismo, telepathy, and the innate capacity for connection present in all of us. Explore the profound teachings of the Council of 13 Indigenous Grandmothers and their mission to be a voice for the voiceless, protect the Earth, and bring people together in sacred circles for prayer.

Uncover the timeless teachings that Grandmother Flordemayo offers, guiding us toward a life marked by deeper self-understanding, compassion, and connection to the world around us. Embrace this opportunity to shift your perspective and step into a space of healing and love.

Learn more about:

Upcoming Workshops in Sedona: 

December Trip to Peru with Grandmother Flordemayo and the Shift Network

You're invited to join us in the Sacred land of Peru ! Watch this beautiful video from Grandmother Flordemayo and Grandmother Moetu-Taih as they invite you to join them in Peru ! Watch here : https://vimeo.com/916068568/7612d46b06

Embark on a journey of healing, self-discovery, and transformation. Imagine reaching the frontier of your consciousness, opening your heart to new depths, and propelling your life to extraordinary heights by collaborating with sacred plant spirits, while retreating in a natural mountain sanctuary.

Support Our Grandmothers' Pilgrimage to Peru

bit.ly/GrandmothersPeru

https://givebutter.com/GrandmothersPeru

Grandmother Moetu Taiha or listen to our podcast episode here

Connect with Grandmother Flordemayo

• Website: https://www.grandmotherflordemayo.com/
• Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/grandmotherflordemayo/
• Her Online Shop: https://www.loveandlightllc.net/
• Wikipedia:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Council_of_Thirteen_Indigenous_Grandmothers

Quick note, I just want to say thank you for listening to this episode. I know it means a lot to myself and my guests. 

If you enjoyed this episode, you will also like:

Episode #94: Grandmother Moetu Taiha: Nurturing Authentic Connection

MORE ABOUT FLORDEMAYO

Grandmother Flordemayo, born in the highlands of Central America as the youngest of 15, discovered her gift of Sight at an early age. Trained in curanderismo from childhood, she learned herbal healing and women's medicine from her mother, a midwife and healer. Now residing in New Mexico, Flordemayo is a renowned Universal Healer and speaker at global conferences. Founder of The Path, a 501(c)3, she preserves traditional knowledge and heritage seeds, emphasizing their vital role in our future. As the keeper of her family's sacred staff for 12 generations, Flordemayo travels the world, sharing healing gifts and fostering spiritual unity, contributing to various indigenous organizations.

Today’s episode marks the culmination of my incredible 6 week road trip from Providence to Miami and back. More importantly, you’ll hear me share many of the lessons taught to me by a few powerful Wisdom Keepers who are teachers, healers and indigenous Grandmothers from around the world.

Part adventure, part magic carpet ride, part grind. This journey was rich in synchronicities, a newfound sense of belonging, unexpected encounters with sacred elders and spiritual mentorship from the most generous women.

is not just an end but the beginning of an incredible chapter where I'll be touring extensively with the indigenous grandmothers throughout the year to support their work. It’s a mix of reflection, celebration, and anticipation for the wisdom we’re set to unfold together.

The 3 main takeaways for you to consider:

1. The Value of Slowing Down and Living with Intention: Discover the transformative power of slowing down and learn how living intentionally nurtures deeper connections, brings clarity, and cultivates tranquility in your life.
2. Connecting to Higher Power and Living through Love: Hear insights about how impactful acknowledging a higher power of your choosing, on the daily, can be and how love is a powerful conduit for strength and spiritual connection.
3. Acknowledging Personal Gifts and Limitations: Uncover the transformative power of self-care, embracing personal strengths, and acknowledging limitations as catalysts for growth and self-empowerment.
4. Also I celebrated my 50th birthday while in Miami and I share what this milestone moment in my life is opening me up to and I know it will you too.

Thank you for tuning in to "The Robyn Ivy Podcast!" I hope these insights inspire you to embrace positive changes and connect with your own inner wisdom. Stay tuned for more heartfelt and transformative discussions – there's so much more to come!

Learn more about:

Alissa Barry of Bella Cucina 

Grandmother Moetu Taiha or listen to our podcast episode here

Grandmother Flordemayo

Connect with Robyn Ivy

• Website:: https://robynivy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robynivy
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robynivy

Quick note, I just want to say thank you for listening to this episode. I know it means a lot to myself and my guests. 

If you enjoyed this episode, you will also like:

Episode #20: Alisa Barry: Curating a Beautiful Life

Episode #19: Dave Conley: Love, Loss and a Fake Shark Attack

Episode #94: Grandmother Moetu Taiha: Nurturing Authentic Connection

MORE ABOUT ROBYN IVY

Robyn Ivy sees people for a living.

Artist, coach, podcast host and trusted intuitive Robyn is a masterful guide for soulful growth. 

She helps you get powerfully unstuck and more deeply connected, as she teaches you how to ride the magic carpet of your life.

Having spent over 20 years as a commercial photographer she offers a unique toolkit to shift your internal and external lenses to look at things differently.

Inner leadership comes from deep practices in mindfulness, creativity, shifting mindset and connecting deeply with nature.

She mentors select clients 1:1, hosts the Robyn Ivy Podcast, offers private intuitive sessions, leads groups, circles and retreats. She has been hosting circles since 1998. robynivy.com