Decolonize to Thrive

In this impromptu episode while abroad in Canada, Ina uses Indigenous based resources to explore what it means to decolonize the holidays. By amplifying the voices of the indigenous we learn why we should decolonize the holidays and how to take steps towards unlearning some of the untruths that keep us locked into upholding capitalism, consumerism, and colonialism.

Have you tried to fit into spaces that no longer work for you? How intentionally do you spend your time? How would you describe this past year for yourself? Whether through relationships, careers, or creative outlets - Ina and friend, Rafiqah unpack letting go of what no longer serves them and how they have chosen to reinvent themselves during the year of 2022.

In response to the question from episode 5, “Who inspires you to reach for your life goals?” Listener David Jordan shares how his father taught him to be the man he strives to become.

BOLD, LEADER, AMBITIOUS, PIONEER - all words that describe this amazing 16-year-old entrepreneur who’s determined to change outcomes for young people of color in Chicago and beyond!

Our listener response to the question at the end of episode 4, “What familiar place have you returned to that shows your growth on the journey of self-discovery?” explains how spending time with family during the holidays revealed her growth.

In episode four, we discuss tapping into your divine purpose, becoming a free thinker, and allowing the journey of self-discovery to unfold with educator, artist, and visionary Omolara Mino.

At the conclusion of episode three, listeners were left with the question, "What have you faced where you exercised your voice to inform those around you, or to call out injustices?" Listener Dominique Kauffman wrote in to share her experience with speaking out against colorism in the Black community.

In episode three, we discuss reparations, why Chicago Southsiders should keep hope alive, and how politics can be our power, with district representative Jauwan Hall-Bertrand.

At the conclusion of episode two, listeners were left with the question, "What difference have you tried to mask in the face of whiteness?" Listener Brandon Worix wrote in to share his childhood story.

In episode two, Ina discusses decolonization, herbalism, root working, and connecting with the ancestors with poet, and educator Jasmine Babineaux.

At the conclusion of episode one, listeners were encouraged to reflect on the question, “Where do you feel most tethered to?” Listener Daniel Hagos wrote in to share his personal reflection.

In episode one, host Ina Briggs explores her own identity, sets the intention for the podcast, and develops shared language for the terms colonialism and decolonization. She leaves listeners with questions to investigate and thoughts to ponder.