Nikki Weaver teaches writing, yoga, and self-expression to women in prisons. She is the founder of On The Inside, an organization that builds a creative connection for incarcerated women, both individually and collectively, by telling stories, igniting hearts, and sparking dialogue. They aim to spread creative connections for women on the inside and outside by breaking down the walls that keep us apart.
In this episode, we discuss the transformative power of creativity and poetry, the importance of community and connection, and the need for rehabilitation over punishment in the prison system. Nikki shares her personal journey, the impact of her work on her parenting, and the lessons learned from the women she teaches. The conversation emphasizes the humanity of incarcerated individuals and the potential for healing through storytelling and creative expression.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ontheinside2
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ontheinside.space
Website: https://www.ontheinside.space
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/on-the-inside2/
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CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Creative Healing in Prisons
05:41 The Evolution of Nikki's Work
08:29 Transformative Power of Poetry and Movement
11:26 Personal Growth Through Incarceration
14:30 Understanding Incarcerated Individuals
17:21 Building Community and Connection
20:21 The Importance of Forgiveness and Healing
23:30 Navigating the Prison System
26:23 The Role of Choice and Agency
29:34 Creating a Culture of Care
32:29 The Power of Play in Healing
35:34 Logistics of Teaching in Prisons
38:39 The Impact of Consistency and Reliability
41:35 Empowerment Through Shared Stories
43:12 Empowering Women Through Lived Experience
45:44 The Somatic Experience of Healing
50:37 Finding Voice Through Movement
56:23 Parenting Through Trauma and Healing
01:03:47 The Need for Rehabilitation in Prisons
01:07:19 Stories of Transformation and Healing
01:13:59 Exploring Truth and Survival
01:14:58 Compassion and Connection in Challenging Environments
KEYWORDS: prison education, creativity, healing, poetry, yoga, rehabilitation, women's rights, storytelling, community building