Now That You Ask

The holiday season brings me such me joy. And it's in the little things. From the excitement of finding surprises for loved ones to the joy of giving and receiving, the holiday season is a time of celebration and togetherness. I just love Thanksgiving and the opportunity it provides to reflect on the things I am grateful for. The small acts of kindness that brighten my day, such as people holding...

As someone who has been both an activist and a spiritual seeker, I desire for humanity to embrace hope, even in the face of current chaos. I believe that personal growth and kindness is important and that our purpose is not just about acquiring material things but evolving into the best versions of ourselves. This episode delves into my evolving understanding of spirituality and the role of humor...

Contemplating age, I realize I have a choice: to define myself by years or by how I truly feel. This awareness becomes crucial in navigating moments of feeling low. Despite occasional dips, I acknowledge the power to decide whether to carry these emotions with me or let them go. From a simpler lifestyle abroad to an introspective journey within, I've learned to appreciate life by slowing down, tak...

With crisis comes lessons. In this episode, I reflect on the lessons I learned and the determination that arose from a medical event I experienced in my twenties. It was scary. It was frustrating. But with that challenge I discovered that I know my body best and made a vow to take control of my healthcare decisions. Please enjoy this intimate exploration of resilience and the power of self-advocac...

I recently had a truly transformative experience visiting Kehinde Wiley's exhibit, "An Archaeology of Silence," at the de Young Museum in San Francisco. In an attempt to capture the profound impact of the artwork, this episode is a heartfelt letter to the artist, expressing my gratitude and awe. Wiley's colossal paintings of young black individuals, both living and deceased, set against nature and...

I'm savoring the first rain of the fall season. Though fall isn't my favorite season, the soft rain nurtures my plants and my spirit, making me grateful. In this episode, I reflect on and find solace in the rain's soothing presence, making me smile and feel happy. Fall's arrival prompts me to appreciate nature's gentle transitions and the gift of continued experiences in life. Now That You Ask is...

What would you do if you only had six months to live? In this episode, I grapple with the profound question of how to make the most of one's time on earth when faced with a limited six-month horizon. Finding joy in everyday moments seems like a good place to start. From laughter to savoring a warm dish and admiring Art Deco jewelry, I share the unique experiences and musings that shape my perspect...

I was raised with strict rules about how to be, how to act, and what to say. But I was born with the instinct to defy societal expectations and strict rules that don't align with my true self. Despite getting caught and facing punishment as a child, I found joy in pursuing activities that resonated with me, ultimately learning the importance of embracing one's authentic self. Today, I look back wi...

Amidst the chaos of today's tumultuous world marked by a pandemic and global challenges, I have discovered the importance of fostering peaceful moments and embracing gratitude and cherished moments. I believe that even when times feel dismal and even dire we can add some some light and positivity to a world forever in flux. What do you think? Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that...

I try to pay attention to messages from the universe before they reach a critical point. I also have a love for shrimp, passed down from my father. Our family business sold shrimp in bulk, but it was rarely on our table. This is a story about how a surplus of shrimp lead to series of eerie events and reminded me to heed the universe's subtle messages ... or else. Now That You Ask is a podcast that...

Recently I've been pondering ways to find deeper rest and contentment. I have managed to find a connection with my passion for football (especially Alabama football) of all things. Yes, watching football, despite not offering deep rest, reconnects me to joy and my family's traditions. While there's a fear of missing out on new experiences, I'm content with my quieter lifestyle, embracing football...

Today I am reflecting on the invaluable gift of deep connections with friends. From cherished childhood companions to the bonds formed in a foreign land, I truly treasure all of the moments of support, understanding, and companionship. Listen in as I celebrate the unique and enduring friendships that remind me of the beauty of vulnerability and the universe's ability to provide us with the gift of...

Today, as I walked around my condo complex, lamenting the lack of amazement in my life, I stumbled upon a remarkable event. A distressed baby deer, trapped in a wrought iron fence, and its concerned mother and sibling became the unexpected stars of my day. This unexpected encounter left me in awe and served as a poignant reminder that amazement can still find its way into our lives when we least e...

I am having a horrible time coming to terms with my age. I constantly find myself grappling with the challenges and changes that come with it. From navigating the physical shifts and discomforts in my body to my ever-changing relationship with the world around me. As I get older, I am realizing that my priorities have shifted towards valuing peace and comfort over adventure. But I feel that findin...

I recently came across two pieces I wrote a while back. The first one is called The Cow and the second one is called Detritus. They have absolutely nothing to do with each other and are completely frivolous but I enjoyed reading them and I hope you'll enjoy listening to them. Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky....

I live by my own personal principles: laugh often, relish simple joys like baby feet and candlelight, and immerse yourself in sensory experiences. Through this I have found there is beauty in the ordinary and also in expressing gratitude for both small and significant things. Join me as I encourage you to discover your guiding tenets and embrace life's moments of wonder and connection. Now That Yo...

Procrastination. Is it a self-sabotaging trait or a hidden source of vitality? The thrill, anxiety, and validation intertwine as I navigate this curious dance. Is it a risky game or a secret to staying young at heart? Time will tell as I continue to balance the edge between punctuality and a controlled delay, finding a unique vitality in life's final seconds. Now That You Ask is a podcast that loo...

Birthday celebrations are memorable occasions to be sure. I personally love an unusual birthday. It all started with my 40th birthday celebration at Rock and Bowl in San Francisco and the memories range from frigid temperatures at Baker Beach, ice cream cake and a bookstore, a lagoon in Larksburg, and even some Kentucky Fried Chicken. This year was a little different. Now That You Ask is a podcast...

I can't control the tears that flow when I am touched by something beautiful or my desire to explore the depths of myself. Fortunately, I have poetry to remind me that I don't have to and that my quest for beauty and connection is part of the path to finding home. Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, A...

I was recently reminded by a friend about a few other parts of my Iran experience - the jewelry, the rugs ... and the drugs. So, here is a snapshot of this other side of Iran. I feel extremely lucky to have lived there during Iran's most recent heyday and when I think of my time in Iran, appreciation is always the word that comes to mind. Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that ran...

I once went to Iran to visit a boyfriend and left 2 1/2 years later at the beginning of the 1979 Iranian Revolution. I didn't realize how lucky I was at the time to have seen Iran in all its glory because gone today is the Iran that I loved so much. This episode is about my love for Iran and how it changed me forever. Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desi...

What does adventure mean to you? For me, adventure means doing something out of the ordinary, something that takes you out of your self and your routine and into a whole new world that's ripe for exploration. Adventure can be held within a single, simple moment or part of a greater collection of moments, but it always captures a part of your spiring and leaves you changed forever. Now That You Ask...

Poetry touches the most tender parts of me. Poetry has a unique way of teaching me about myself. Poetry brings me to my knees with overwhelming gratitude and I know I am blessed because poetry tells me so. Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from death to desire, and from wondrous to downright whacky. Join host, Akasha Halsey as she takes listeners on a journey through he...

I have noticed a funny thing about extending kindness to another person. When I do something unexpected and generous for another person, I often end up feeling grateful myself. While I don't do this for selfish reasons, many times I will still experience a gift of unexpected grace, like a boomerang I didn't know was coming back. Now That You Ask is a podcast that looks at topics that range from de...

I have lived a charmed life and as I publish this 100th episode of the podcast I find myself reflecting on my beautiful existence and this particular concurrence of life and purpose. I am grateful that it happened while I'm still able to appreciate my life and I still feel thrilled to sit down at my computer and let my fingers loose on the keyboard because I know the right words will come. I want...