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What if the stories we tell could reshape our understanding of the world and our place within it? Award-winning children's book author Alyssa Reynoso-Morris joins us to discuss the transformative power of storytelling, particularly within Black, brown, and Afro-Latinx communities. Through her journey, we gain insights into the challenges faced by diverse voices in the publishing industry and how effectively reaching diverse audiences can create a more inclusive narrative landscape. Alyssa shares how her storytelling is inspired by her abuela, whose tales of joy, love, and resistance are a testament to the healing power of authentic narratives.

Storytelling isn't just a means of expression; it's a crucial tool for empowerment, education, and connection. Alyssa emphasizes the importance of cultural representation and personal storytelling, highlighting how these narratives shape our identities and connect us to our ancestors. We explore the role of creativity and entrepreneurship in passing down legacies through generations, underscoring how stories can inspire change and foster a deeper understanding of our cultural heritage. From fiction to nonfiction, we examine how stories convey profound truths and empower communities to challenge exclusionary narratives.

In an era where authoritarian influences loom large, the role of storytelling becomes even more vital. Through anecdotes and cultural lenses, like the significance of food and critical thinking, we discuss how storytelling helps maintain control over our narratives and fosters community pride. Alyssa's experiences demonstrate how children can be encouraged to take pride in their heritage and think critically about the world around them. Join us as we celebrate the joy and resilience of living with cultural pride, advocating for empathy, unity, and the importance of remembering and sharing our hidden histories.

How to connect with Alyssa and her resources:

Alyssa's Website: alyssaauthor.com

Resources to help you on your publishing journey

Books

• Platanos are Love is a picture book about how plantains shape Latinx culture, community, & family, told through a young girl’s experiences in the kitchen with her abuela.
• Los plátanos son amor (Spanish)
• The Bronx Is My Home is a LOVE letter to The Bronx! A picture book celebration of the history, landscape, cuisines, cultures, and activities unique to this vibrant community.
• Gloriana Presente: A First Day of School Book is a joyful story of growth that will help new students find their voice with themes around overcoming fears, love & immigration.
• Gloriana, presente. De República Dominicana al Bronx (Spanish)
• Bold, Brilliant and Latine Meet 52 Latine and Hispanic Heroes from Past and Present

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Join us as we explore the fascinating world of spirituality in the modern age, focusing on the concept of toxic spirituality and the rise of spiritual influencers. We examine how social media has led to a surge in spiritual influencers, many of whom may not always have the best intentions. Drawing from personal experiences, we discuss the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in spiritual leaders and highlight the potential dangers posed by unethical gurus exploiting those seeking guidance. This conversation also touches on the traditional role of religious institutions like the Catholic Church and contrasts it with the new wave of influencers claiming to have exclusive spiritual insights.

Our discussion continues as we address the realistic approach to spiritual influence, particularly on platforms like Instagram. We emphasize the importance of not idolizing these influencers, as they too are navigating their human journeys. Through insights from our research, we reveal how some listeners find certain influencers less relatable due to unattainable lifestyles. We critique the simplistic notion that positive thinking alone can solve life's challenges and instead promote the value of introspection and understanding one's feelings as crucial to personal growth and processing life's ups and downs.

Finally, we explore the delicate art of providing emotional support and the importance of setting boundaries. Whether it's understanding when to listen or when to offer advice, the conversation provides practical guidance on navigating these complex interactions. We delve into how balancing personal intuition with external ideologies is key to a fulfilling spiritual journey, advocating for a personalized approach that resonates with your unique path. Tune in to discover how embracing both the light and shadows of life can lead to true healing and empowerment.

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As we watched our mother, lost within the depths of dementia, respond with sheer joy to the beats of bachata and merengue, a profound truth unraveled before us: movement is a powerful healer. Our latest episode invites you to witness the transformative power of dance and movement, which transcends mere physical benefits. Through stories from our own lives, we highlight how reconnecting with ancestral rhythms can release stagnant energy and address unresolved emotional burdens. Movement, as we discuss, becomes a bridge to joy and healing, especially for those within the diaspora, where dance naturally offers solace and release.

The journey continues as we explore how intentional actions, like joyful movement and healthy eating, bolster our well-being. Small, incremental changes can lead to significant improvements in our physical and mental health. Sharing a family member's experience, we reveal how dancing led to unexpected benefits such as weight loss, reduced joint pain, and an uplifted mood, even amid the challenges of arthritis and dementia. We shed light on how movement offers a sense of purpose and connection, helping manage feelings of depression and anxiety, and providing a path to mental well-being.

With a touch of humor, we recount our adventures in an advanced African dance class, underscoring the importance of choosing activities that truly resonate with us. By reimagining exercise as an enjoyable endeavor, we unlock its potential to reduce tension and prevent chronic diseases. Whether it's the soothing flow of yoga or the gentle energy of Qigong, finding joy in movement is essential.

Asian Squat Somewhat explained

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We welcome constructive feedback and topic ideas, so please shoot us an email at www.imnotyelling.co/contact-us.

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