Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity | Joy as a Radical Pathway and Practice of Liberation
Season 5, Episode 50
Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari
Guest: Dr. Krista Robinson-Lyles
Overview:
In this inspiring and heart-centered conversation on the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari welcomes Dr. Krista Robinson-Lyles — founder and president of the Joy Hope Collective, creator of the Joy Anyhow platform, and host of the Joy Anyhow Podcast. Together, they explore joy not as a fleeting emotion but as a radical, intentional practice of liberation, healing, and resistance. Drawing from her decades of experience in education and anti-oppression work, Dr. Krista shares how reclaiming joy becomes an act of defiance in the face of injustice and exhaustion. This episode invites listeners to see joy as both a spiritual discipline and a communal strategy for transformation.
Topics Discussed:
Joy as a radical and liberatory practice amid oppression and adversity
The connection between joy, healing, and social justice
How intentional joy challenges systemic burnout and despair
Creating spaces of belonging and community through the Joy Anyhow framework
The importance of self-compassion, rest, and authenticity in collective liberation
Guest:
Dr. Krista Robinson-Lyles
Founder and President of Joy Hope Collective
Instagram: @joyanyhow
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-krista-robinson-lyles-09248120
Websites: joyhopecollective.org and joyanyhow.com
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Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity | Is DEI DOA?: A Pathway Forward
Season 5, Episode 49
Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari
Guest: Rodney Patterson
Overview:
In this compelling episode of the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with Rodney S. Patterson — CEO of The Learner Group, pastor, coach, consultant, and author of Trump and the Race Card and Is DEI DOA?: How to Create Ongoing Success in the Marketplace and Beyond. Together, they explore the state of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in today’s social and professional landscape. Their conversation dives deep into the challenges organizations face when DEI efforts lose direction or become performative, and how leaders can realign with purpose, humanity, and authentic engagement. With decades of shared experience in higher education and leadership development, Rochelle and Rodney bring both insight and heart to the question: Is DEI truly dead on arrival, or can it be reimagined for lasting impact?
Topics Discussed:
The evolution and current challenges of DEI in corporate and institutional spaces
How leadership and engagement connect to authentic inclusion
The risks of performative DEI and how to build sustainable practices
The intersection of faith, leadership, and social consciousness
Practical steps organizations can take to move DEI from stagnation to transformation
Guest:
Rodney Patterson
CEO, The Learner's GroupPastor, Coach, Consultant, Author
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theengagementcoach_/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodney-patterson-5a859710/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEngagementCoachwww.youtube.com/@TheEngagementCoach
Website: www.theengagementcoaches.com
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Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity | From Allyship to Action: How Leaders Build Equity and Justice
Season 5, Episode 48
Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari
Guest: Adam Barney
Overview:
In this energizing and authentic conversation on the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with Adam Barney—energy coach, author, and podcast host—to explore what it means to move beyond allyship into real, sustained action for equity and justice. Drawing from his experience coaching leaders and his work on personal empowerment, Barney shares how optimism, accountability, and integrity intersect with social change. Together, they unpack the challenges of leading with empathy, balancing authenticity with responsibility, and transforming good intentions into meaningful impact within organizations and communities.
Topics Discussed:
Moving from performative allyship to action-driven leadership
How self-awareness and energy management support equitable decision-making
The importance of optimism and resilience in building inclusive spaces
Turning personal values into systemic change in business and education
Strategies for cultivating empathy, accountability, and courageous dialogue
Guest:
Adam Barney
Energy Coach, Author, Podcast host
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adamwbarneyscalesmarter/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adamwbarney/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamwbarney/x
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@adamwbarney-scalesmarter
Website: www.wonderspring.org
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Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity | Identifying Implicit Bias in EducationSeason 5, Episode 47Host: Rochelle Peterson-AnsariGuest: Zakiyyah Boone, MBAOverview:In this inspiring and thought-provoking episode of the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, Rochelle Peterson-Ansari welcomes Zakkiyah Boone, CEO of WonderSpring Early Education, to discuss how implicit bias shapes educational experiences from early childhood through adulthood. Boone draws from nearly three decades of work in youth advocacy and education to share powerful stories about how educators can uncover hidden biases and create more equitable learning environments. Together, they explore the importance of self-awareness, cultural humility, and systemic change in transforming how we nurture every child’s potential.Topics Discussed:Understanding what implicit bias looks like in classrooms and early learning spacesHow educators’ lived experiences and assumptions influence student outcomesThe role of leadership in creating inclusive school cultures and equitable policiesPractical strategies for identifying and interrupting bias in everyday interactionsBuilding accountability, community partnerships, and continuous reflection for lasting changeGuest: Zakiyyah Boone, MBAChief Executive Officer, Wonderspring Early EducationFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/wonderspringECE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wonderspringece/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zakiyyah-boone-mba-1a24874a/ Website: www.wonderspring.org Check out more content and ways to connect with us:➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.comPlease feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!
Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity | Parents Need to Know Their RightsSeason 5, Episode 46Host: Rochelle Peterson-AnsariGuest: Dr. Timberly BakerOverview:In this insightful episode of the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari talks with Dr. Timberly Baker — Associate Professor at Arkansas State University, educational consultant with Equity Educators, and international speaker on school choice and Black education in the American South. Together, they explore why it is vital for parents, especially those in marginalized communities, to understand their educational rights and to advocate effectively for their children. Dr. Baker shares personal stories and professional insights about navigating complex school systems, empowering families through knowledge, and reclaiming the voice of parents in educational decision-making.Topics Discussed:Knowing and exercising parental rights in educationAdvocacy for equity and inclusion in schoolsNavigating school systems and policy barriersEmpowering parents through information and community supportBuilding partnerships between families and educatorsGuest: Dr. Timberly BakerAssociate Professor and Educational Consultant, Arkansas State University / Equity EducatorsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timberly-baker-9406b293/ Check out more content and ways to connect with us:➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.comPlease feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!
Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity | Parenting as Power: The Transformative Wisdom of Black MotherhoodSeason 5, Episode 45Host: Rochelle Peterson-AnsariGuest: Dionna TilleryOverview:In this heartfelt and empowering episode of the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with Dionna Tillery — a Ph.D. student, educator, nonprofit leader, doula, and mama scholar — to explore the transformative wisdom and everyday resilience found in Black motherhood. Together, they discuss how parenting can serve as both a site of power and liberation, where cultural knowledge, spirituality, and love intersect to nurture not only children but also entire communities. Dionna shares insights from her professional and personal journey, offering reflections on the lessons learned from balancing motherhood, scholarship, and advocacy, while Rochelle connects these experiences to broader conversations about identity, healing, and community care.Topics Discussed:Parenting as resistance and liberationThe influence of motherhood on leadership and scholarshipIntergenerational wisdom and cultural traditionsBalancing identity, purpose, and self-careThe power of rest and community supportGuest: Dionna Tillery, MA, MSPhD Student, Educator, Non-Profit LeaderInstagram: @hidionnamichelleLinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/dionnatillery Check out more content and ways to connect with us:➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.comPlease feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!
Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity | Preparing Our Children to Thrive in AmericaSeason 5, Episode 44Host: Rochelle Peterson-AnsariGuests: Ashley and Ismael JimenezOverview:In this powerful and heartfelt episode of the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with Ashley and Ismael Jimenez—partners, parents, and advocates dedicated to raising socially conscious, empowered children. Together, they explore what it means to prepare young people, especially children of color, to thrive in an America still grappling with inequality, inequity and cultural challenges. Drawing from their experiences as educators, community organizers, and parents of four, the Jimenezes discuss how they nurture identity, confidence, and resilience in their children while remaining deeply rooted in love, justice, and community strength.Topics Discussed:The importance of cultural awareness and identity in parentingHow parents can equip children to navigate systemic barriers with confidenceBuilding community-based support systems for families of colorBalancing activism, education, and family lifeRaising children to be compassionate, courageous, and purpose-drivenGuests: Ashley JimenezExecutive Director, Center for HopeIsmael JimenezDirector of Social Studies, School District of PhiladelphiaInstagram: @ishx19X: @teacherishxCheck out more content and ways to connect with us:➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.comPlease feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!
Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity | The Importance of Believing in Yourself
Season 5, Episode 43
Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari
Guest: Karen Smith
Overview:
In this heartwarming and empowering episode of the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari welcomes master percussionist, playwright, and writer Karen Smith. Their conversation weaves together themes of artistry, resilience, and community as Karen reflects on her journey from New York City to the Greater Philadelphia arts scene. With humor and honesty, she shares how trusting her instincts and believing in herself allowed her to turn passion into purpose. The dialogue explores the power of creativity, self-belief, and authentic connections that sustain us through life's transitions and triumphs.
Topics Discussed:
How self-belief fuels artistic expression and personal growth
Lessons from navigating the creative journey with courage and authenticity
The influence of family, community, and culture in shaping purpose
Finding strength in vulnerability and staying true to yourself
The transformative power of music, storytelling, and connection
Guest:
Karen Smith
Musician
Facebook: Karen Smith
Instagram: @karensmithdrumsYouTube: @klsmith1931
Website: www.karensmithdrums.com
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Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity | Maintaining Your True Self Throughout Your Career
Season 5, Episode 42
Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari
Guest: Dr. Cherie Crosby-Weeks
Overview:
In this inspiring episode of the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with Dr. Cherie Crosby-Weeks, Program Director of Teacher Education and Chair of Behavioral Sciences and Education at Manor College. Together, they explore what it means to stay grounded in your authentic self while navigating professional growth and leadership roles. Dr. Crosby-Weeks shares her journey as an educator, her passion for developing leaders within teaching, and the challenges of maintaining integrity and purpose across different stages of a career. This conversation reminds listeners that success doesn’t mean losing who you are—it means evolving while staying rooted in your values.
Topics Discussed:
How to stay authentic and connected to your values as your career evolves
The importance of leadership development and mentoring in education
Lessons from building community and fostering diversity in professional spaces
Balancing ambition with personal well-being and self-awareness
The power of intentional reflection in maintaining your true self
Guest:
Dr. Cherie Crosby-Weeks
Professor, Program Director of Teacher Education Programs, and Chair of Behavioral Sciences and Education Cluster at Manor College
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheriecrosby/
Website: www.manor.edu
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Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity | Writing Past The Pain
Season 5, Episode 41
Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari
Guest: Dr. Brian JohnsonOverview:
In this episode of the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with Dr. Brian Johnson, pastor of Revival Tabernacle in Pennsylvania and author of nine books, including the acclaimed historical novels Send Judah First and Free Indeed. Together, they reflect on their 22 years of shared work in diversity and multicultural affairs, and explore the power of writing as a way to move beyond pain and preserve hidden stories of Black history. Dr. Johnson shares how his storytelling uncovers humanity within the legacy of slavery, emphasizing not only the struggles but also the resilience, faith, and victories of those who came before. This conversation highlights the role of faith, history, and storytelling in creating hope, healing, and justice across generations.
Topics Discussed:
The hidden and often overlooked human stories within Black history
Writing as a way to move past pain and reclaim narratives
How slavery is remembered beyond violence and racism, focusing on resilience
The influence of heritage, faith, and legacy on personal perspective
Lessons from decades of diversity and multicultural work
Guest:
Dr. Brian Johnson
Former Diversity Professional, Author and Pastor
Instagram: @dr.briancjohnson
LinkedIn: Brian C. JohnsonX: thereelbrian
Website: johnsonauthor.com
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Overview
In this Rooted2Thrive Podcast episode, Rochelle Peterson-Ansari speaks with guest Justin Green, Real Estate Investor, about the intersections of faith, finance, and fatherhood. Justin shares his personal journey of balancing his spiritual beliefs with the realities of financial responsibility, while also embracing the challenges and rewards of being a father. Their conversation highlights how faith can ground financial decisions, how money management influences family dynamics, and how fatherhood reshapes perspectives on leadership, legacy, and personal growth.
Topics Covered in This Episode:
The role of faith in shaping financial decisions and values.
Lessons on money management, responsibility, and generational wealth.
Challenges and opportunities in fatherhood, including balancing family and career.
Building legacy and instilling values for future generations.
Integrating spirituality, financial literacy, and parenting as interconnected aspects of life.
Guest Information:
Justin GreenOwner/CEO, Green Investment Group LLC
Social Media:
Instagram: @justinismycoach
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinjgreen/
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Overview
In this episode of the "Rooted2Thrive," host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari is joined by Dr. Ranelli A. Williams, a CPA and profit strategist, to discuss financial stewardship as a direct path to empowerment and equity. Dr. Williams shares her personal and professional journey, emphasizing her passion for teaching financial literacy in marginalized communities and helping Christian professionals integrate faith with their finances. The conversation delves into the necessity of moving beyond basic money management to embrace a mindset of stewardship, which involves not just managing but multiplying resources to create generational wealth and a lasting legacy. Dr. Williams uses a personal health analogy to illustrate how overcoming fear and developing discipline are crucial for shifting one's financial story. She offers practical first steps for listeners, such as zero-based budgeting and leveraging life insurance as a powerful tool for sustainable wealth building.
Topics Covered in This Episode:
Financial Stewardship and Faith
Empowerment Through Financial Literacy
Overcoming Fear and Negative "Money Stories"
Creating Generational Wealth and Legacy
Practical Strategies for Wealth Building
The Power of Mindset, Discipline, and Vision
Guest Information:
Ranelli WilliamsCPA, MBA, ERJ Services
➡️ Pre-Order Your Copy of WEALTHY Habits Here
Social Media:
Facebook : facebook.com/ranelli.williams
Instagram : instagram.com/drranelliwilliams/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drranelliwilliams/
Youtube Channel : youtube.com/@drranelliwilliams
Website: ERJServices.com
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Overview
In this episode of the "Rooted2Thrive," host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari speaks with Kevin Covington, Assistant Director of Retention and Outreach at Villanova University, about the transformative power of education. Covington shares his personal journey into the field of education, which began with a passion for building character in student-athletes and evolved into a career focused on helping underrepresented students navigate higher education. The central theme is that education is a fundamental key to accessing more choices in life, from career paths and travel opportunities to an improved quality of life. Covington emphasizes the critical role of mentorship, recounting how a fellow student guided him as a first-generation collegian, and stresses that education fosters critical thinking, cultural competence, and the ability to challenge one's own limitations to achieve personal and generational growth.
Topics Covered in This Episode:
Education as a tool for access and choice
The critical role of mentorship in success
Navigating college as a first-generation student
Improving quality of life through education
The link between education, travel, and cultural competence
The power of critical thinking and lifelong learning
Guest Information:
Kevin CovingtonAssistant Director, Retention & Outreach, Villanova University
Social Media:
Instagram : @_KevinCovington
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-covington-m-s-m-5b23414
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Overview
In this episode of "Rooted2Thrive," host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari speaks with Elissa Zylbershlag, an anti-bias educator and leadership coach, about the critical concept of self-awareness. Zylbershlag defines self-awareness using an analogy of "the mirror and the portrait": "the mirror" represents our private self-perception, including our values and intentions, while "the portrait" represents our public impact and how others perceive us. She shares personal and professional stories illustrating how understanding this distinction is vital for personal growth, effective leadership, and elevating humanity by aligning intent with impact. The conversation emphasizes that true self-awareness requires the courage to look at the "portrait" others have of you, even when it's difficult, and highlights practical ways for leaders to grow, such as seeking coaching and recognizing "alarm clock moments" that signal an opportunity for deeper insight.
Topics Covered in This Episode:
Defining Self-Awareness: The Mirror & The Portrait
Aligning Intentions with Impact
Leadership Transformation Through Feedback
The Role of a Coach in Gaining Insight
"Alarm Clock Moments" for Growth
Guest Information:
Elissa ZylbershlagOwner | Facilitator | Creator | Coach
Social Media:
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575085440139
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/workwiselabs/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elissazylbershlag/
Website: www.workwiselabs.com
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Overview
In this episode of the "Rooted2Thrive," host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari speaks with Maya Stewart, Chief of Strategy and Professional Learning at Lee Montessori PCS , about her journey as an educator and the "leadership trifecta": do the thing, say the thing, be yourself. Stewart shares her professional path from Arcadia University to becoming a school principal in Washington, D.C., emphasizing the importance of authentic leadership. She recounts a "season of self-betrayal" where not speaking her truth led to physical and emotional distress , contrasting it with a transformative experience where she directly but supportively confronted a teacher about his fear of Black students. The conversation highlights that creating inclusive and humane environments requires leaders to be courageous, model honesty, and prioritize their own well-being by setting firm boundaries to avoid burnout.
Topics Covered in This Episode:
The Leadership Trifecta
Authenticity vs. Self-Betrayal
Confronting Educator Bias
The Physical Toll of Withholding Truth
Setting Boundaries for Well-Being
Leadership Growth Through Coaching
Guest Information:
Maya StewartChief of Strategy and Professional Learning
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Overview
In this episode of "Rooted2Thrive," host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari interviews author, educator, and her former student, Alyssa Reynoso-Morris, about the power of diverse literature as "love letters to our children." Reynoso-Morris shares that her journey as an author was inspired by her grandmother's storytelling and a desire to see her Dominican and Puerto Rican culture reflected in books, a reality she found lacking. She discusses how her books, such as "Platanos Are Love," are written to be both "mirrors" that allow Black and Brown children to see themselves and feel limitless, and "windows" that help adults and other children build empathy and cultural competence. The conversation also delves into the challenges within the publishing industry, where a lack of marketing and support for diverse authors creates a self-fulfilling prophecy of lower sales, reinforcing the need for authors like her to advocate for their work. Ultimately, both speakers emphasize that reading diverse stories year-round is crucial for developing anti-racist perspectives, understanding universal human themes, and preventing the repetition of historical injustices.
Topics Covered in This Episode:
The role of books as "mirrors" for representation and "windows" for empathy.
Inspiration drawn from family, storytelling, and cultural heritage.
Inequities and marketing challenges for diverse authors in publishing.
Introducing complex social issues to young readers in a hopeful way.
The importance of reading diverse books with universal themes year-round.
Guest Information:
Alyssa Reynoso-Morris
Author, Educator, and Mother
Social Media:
Instagram: @AReynosoMorris
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-reynoso-morris/
Website: www.alyssaauthor.com
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Overview
In this episode of the "Rooted2Thrive," host Professor P (Rochelle Peterson-Ansari) speaks with Yolanda Booker, a mental health therapist and the founder of the nonprofit organization Grief Speaks. Drawing from the profound experience of losing her son to cancer, Booker introduces the often-overlooked stage of grief: insecurity, which arises from the significant life changes and identity shifts that accompany loss. She critiques traditional support groups for sometimes being exhausting and emphasizes her organization's focus on providing tangible coping skills and building a supportive community. Booker advocates for grievers to find personal, practical ways to cope—such as journaling, lighting a candle, or caring for plants—and to embrace vulnerability by articulating their needs. The overarching message is that grief is a continuous journey, and through intentionality, community, and self-compassion, it is possible to grow through the pain and find a meaningful "life after loss".
Topics Covered in This Episode:
Insecurity as an overlooked stage of grief
Navigating the identity crisis that follows a loss
The importance of community and tangible coping skills
Giving a voice to grief beyond emotion
Practical ways to support a grieving person
The role of vulnerability in the healing process
Guest Information:
Yolanda Booker
Mental Health Therapist, & President and Founder of Grief Speaks Non-profit Organization
Social Media:
Facebook : Yolanda Grief Speaks
Instagram : @GriefSpeaks1
Website: www.griefspeaks1.com
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Overview
In this episode of "Rooted2Thrive," host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari speaks with Luca Poxon, Project Coordinator at Temple University and Philly Children's Movement, about the importance of integrating joy and justice-centered practices into education to combat dehumanizing systems. Poxon shares their personal journey, which began with witnessing educational inequities in high school and led to a focus on anti-racism in their studies and work. The conversation explores common challenges educators face, such as large class sizes, scripted curricula, and a lack of community support, which hinder the humanization of both students and teachers. As a practical solution, Poxon details the "Radical Morning Meeting," a framework developed by the Philly Children's Movement that intentionally centers student identity, joy, and justice, even within structural constraints. The dialogue emphasizes that sustainable change comes from long-term, community-based work and that starting small with self-reflection is a crucial first step for educators to foster more inclusive and affirming learning environments.
Topics Covered in This Episode:
Countering Dehumanizing Practices in Schools
The Role of Joy and Justice in Education
Challenges in Anti-Racist Education
The "Radical Morning Meeting" Framework
Sustainable, Long-Term Community-Based Initiatives
The Importance of Educator Self-Reflection
Guest Information:
Luca PoxonProject Coordinator
Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luca-poxon/
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➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com
➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com
Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!
Overview
In this episode of "Rooted2Thrive," host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari speaks with poet, author, and cultural worker, J Mase III about the deep-seated connection between trans solidarity and racial justice. J Mase III argues that these movements are inseparable, tracing the historical erasure of trans and gender-nonconforming leaders in Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities back to colonialism in the 1500s. The conversation unpacks the numerous systemic barriers that prevent trans people, particularly Black and Brown trans individuals, from thriving, including discrimination in housing, employment, education, and healthcare, as well as over-policing. J Mase III asserts that anti-trans rhetoric and legislation ultimately harm all marginalized people, especially Black and Brown cisgender women, and calls for a solidarity that moves beyond low-bar victories like gender-neutral bathrooms toward more radical actions like supporting abolition, reparations, and the direct reallocation of resources.
Topics Covered in This Episode:
Historical Trans Leadership Roles
Colonialism and Trans Erasure
Systemic Barriers to Survival
Anti-Trans Policies and Racial Impact
Actionable Steps for Radical Solidarity
Guest Information:
J Mase IIIPoet/Author/Cultural Worker
Social Media:
Instagram : @jmaseiii
Website: www.jmaseiii.com
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➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com
➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com
Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!