DEIcipher Podcast

Dreams and stories to liberate our collective future.

Episode 19: The Future of DEI - Challenges, Opportunities and Hope as Essential 02/04/2025

Episode 19: The Future of DEI - Challenges, Opportunities and Hope as Essential In this episode of the Deicipher Podcast, Ruthann and Yoli Maya Yeh explore the themes of land acknowledgment, the importance of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) in the current socio-political climate, and the need for active restoration and self-care amidst challenges. They discuss the recent cancellation of federal DEI initiatives and the implications for community care models, emphasizing the importance of hope and localized efforts in driving change. In this conversation, Yoli Maya Yeh and Ruthann explore the complexities of democracy, citizenship, and the historical context of American governance. They discuss the intertwined relationship between big business and politics, the importance of civic engagement, and the need for individuals to understand the mechanisms of their democracy. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of community care, mutual aid, and effective communication skills in fostering a more equitable society. They also highlight the necessity of discovering personal gifts to contribute to collective action and the evolving landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts. Chapters 00:00 Embodied Land Acknowledgment 07:29 Navigating Change and Transformation 09:02 The Importance of DEI in 2025 14:39 Active Restoration and Self-Care 22:17 The Cancellation of DEI Initiatives 30:04 Localized Community Care Models 31:25 Understanding Democracy and Citizenship 32:24 Historical Context of American Citizenship 34:47 The Role of Big Business in Politics 35:36 Engagement in Democracy 36:34 The Importance of Understanding 'How' in Civic Engagement 38:46 Boycotting and Economic Activism 40:50 Community Care and Mutual Aid 43:49 Communication Skills for World Building 45:49 Discovering Personal Gifts for Collective Action 49:02 The Future of DEI and Community Efforts 54:55 Evolving Together in Times of Change /episode/index/show/88ffa2d0-a44e-421f-a49d-b1172791d77d/id/35152100

Episode 18: Conflict Engagement - Fumbling in the Field of Repair 01/27/2025

Episode 17: Conflict Part 4 - How Do We Engage Conflict with Care? 01/06/2025

Episode 17: Conflict Part 4 - How Do We Engage Conflict with Care? In this episode of the Decipher podcast, hosts Ruthann and Yoli Maya Yeh explore the themes of conflict, embodiment, and decolonization. They emphasize the importance of breath and connection, the need for active restoration in conflict engagement, and the role of trust in navigating polarized opinions. The conversation highlights the necessity of integrating mental health into conflict resolution and the potential for conflict to serve as fertile ground for learning and growth. The hosts encourage listeners to engage with their bodies and emotions as they navigate conflict, advocating for a more compassionate and restorative approach to conflict resolution. Takeaways Embodied land acknowledgment is crucial for connection. Breath serves as a tool for grounding and awareness. Conflict engagement requires trust and vulnerability. Active restoration is essential for effective conflict resolution. Decolonization involves integrating indigenous practices into conflict engagement. Mental health must be part of the conflict resolution process. Conflict can be a fertile ground for learning and growth. Trust is built through shared experiences and vulnerability. The body must be centered in conflict engagement practices. Community care is vital for navigating conflict. Chapters 00:00 Embodied Land Acknowledgement and Connection 09:36 Navigating Conflict in a Polarized World 12:57 The Importance of Trust in Transformative Work 18:08 Engaging with Conflict: Tools and Strategies 25:04 Active Restoration and Embodiment in Conflict Resolution 31:13 Restoration and Trust in Conflict Resolution 32:54 The Role of Conflict Transformation 34:31 Navigating Sabotage and Power Dynamics 35:53 The Importance of Rest and Reflection 38:19 Practicing Restraint in Conflict 40:43 Indigenous Tools for Restoration and Decolonization 44:01 Empowerment Through Playfulness in Conflict 48:04 The Need for Integrated Mental Health in Conflict Resolution 52:24 Dreaming New Models for Conflict Engagement 59:31 The Fertile Ground of Conflict for Learning /episode/index/show/88ffa2d0-a44e-421f-a49d-b1172791d77d/id/34738895

Episode 16: Conflict Engagement Part 3 - Models, Styles, and the Way Forward 10/13/2024

Episode 15: Conflict Resolution and Decolonization 09/29/2024

Episode 15: Conflict Resolution and Decolonization Wanna join in on the conversation? Head over to to experience this interactive compansion to our podcast In this episode, Ruthann and Yoli continue their conversation on conflict resolution. They start with a land acknowledgement and a focus on connecting to the breath, body, and nature. They discuss how conflict can manifest in the body and the importance of releasing tension in the various places and invite listeners to attune to where tension is held. They explore different approaches to conflict resolution, including consensus decision-making and theater games. They also touch on the cultural differences in conflict resolution and the need for relating and rehumanizing in the process. The episode ends with a reflection on the weaponization of conflict resolution and the exhaustion and apathy it can create. The conversation explores the concept of repair and healing in various contexts, emphasizing the need for the right conditions and atmosphere. It delves into the importance of inner conflict resolution and external expression, as well as the balance between internal and external transformation. The conversation also highlights the impact of cultural paradigms and role modeling on conflict resolution, and the need for decolonization. It discusses the challenges of navigating conflict in a society that promotes individualism and binary thinking. The conversation concludes with reflections on the power of reflection, creativity, and community collaboration in conflict resolution. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Land Acknowledgement 08:11 Reflecting on Conflict in the Body 13:26 Different Approaches to Conflict Resolution 19:43 Cultural Differences in Conflict Resolution 25:06 The Importance of Relating and Rehumanizing 27:28 The Weaponization of Conflict Resolution 30:23 Creating the Atmosphere for Repair and Healing 34:03 The Impact of Cultural Paradigms on Conflict Resolution 37:47 Decolonization and Conflict Resolution 40:52 Navigating Conflict in an Individualistic Society 46:01 The Power of Reflection, Creativity, and Community Collaboration in Conflict Resolution /episode/index/show/88ffa2d0-a44e-421f-a49d-b1172791d77d/id/33251002

Episode 14: Conflict-Resolution: Unlearning, Embodiment, and The Way Forward 09/09/2024

Episode 14: Conflict-Resolution: Unlearning, Embodiment, and The Way Forward This episode focuses on conflict resolution and the need to address it in DEI frameworks. We explore the dominant cultural characteristics that influence our relationship with conflict resolution and the limitations of binary thinking. We discuss the internal conflict that arises in DEI work and the importance of engaging with conflict to unlearn and grow. We highlight the potential for growth, belonging, and connection that conflict offers. Our conversation explores how conflict was role-modeled for both ourselves in our households and how it shaped our approach to conflict resolution. We share the importance of ongoing learning and integration in conflict resolution and the need for community support. Takeaways -Embodied land acknowledgement is an important for rebuilding a partnership with the land and resolving conflict. -Conflict resolution needs to be addressed in DEI frameworks and needs to go beyond binary thinking. -Internal/personal conflict is a crucial aspect of DEI work and requires engagement and unlearning. -Conflict offers the potential for growth, belonging, and connection. -Shame and power dynamics can influence how we internalize conflict. -Ongoing learning, integration, and community support are essential in conflict resolution. -The body's physical sensations and responses provide valuable insights in conflict situations. -Incorporating embodied tools and the body's wisdom is crucial in conflict resolution. -The intersection of DEI and wellness includes recognizing the importance of the body in conflict resolution. Chapters 00:00 Embodied Land Acknowledgement and Reconnecting with the Land 08:45 Introduction to Conflict Resolution 13:20 The Need for Conflict Resolution in DEI Work 18:11 Challenging Dominant Cultural Characteristics in Conflict Resolution 20:27 Conflict Engagement and the Role of Self-Care 28:13 Conflict in Personal Development 29:05 Power Dynamics and Fear of Expressing Conflict 30:14 The Importance of Repair and Ongoing Integration 35:28 Embodied Tools and the Intersection of DEI and Wellness 37:33 Exploring Different Stories and Lenses Around Conflict 53:50 Outro - Conclusion /episode/index/show/88ffa2d0-a44e-421f-a49d-b1172791d77d/id/32973677

Episode 13: DEI is not D-E-A-D (Dead) 08/25/2024

Episode 12: Hammam Dreaming with Sojourner Zenobia 08/13/2024

Episode 12: Hammam Dreaming with Sojourner Zenobia Welcome to Episode 12, inspired by the creative dreamy space experienced in the hammams of Fes, Morocco (one of Yoli's absolute favorite places to be). In this episode, we host our wonderful friend and colleague Sojourner Zenobia to discuss the magic of rest, creativity, and connection to the body. We delve into the power of collective rest, creativity and the transformative experiences that can arise from immersive artistic practices. Our conversation flows into the importance of accessing the wisdom and creativity that already exists within the body and the potential for healing and liberation that comes from embracing rest and self-expression. We play with the concept of a 'design-less design' where slowing down and resting allows for new discoveries and experiences. Our conversation concludes with the need for resources that center BIPOC, queer, and femme voices and the importance of creating spaces for rest and healing for these identities. We had such a powerful experience with Sojourner sharing our experiences with creativity, storytelling, and the power of intimate connections and hope you enjoy hearing about them. About Sojourner Zanobia: Sojourner Zenobia (they/them), Sojourner has completed decades of somatic performance training at Marymount Manhattan, Pearl Ubungen’s BFA at Naropa University, The School at Steppenwolf and Pantheatre’s Roy Hart school in Paris. They have trained in connecting with ancestors, nature and the spirit world and healing facilitation at Life Force Arts in Chicago, they trained in circle keeping with Circles and Ciphers and Kay Pranis, and in 2021 they completed Tracee Stanley and Chanti Tacoronte-Perez’s yoga nidra Training. Sojourner found spirituality through the practice of presence as a performer. This portal of presence opened up the Buddhist path to them and the Buddhist practice opened the healing of connecting with the earth. They became the spider that they were terrified of as a child and began to weave together everything that gave them feelings of trust, hope and freedom. They are now an embodied sacred space facilitator, through their LLC By Moonlight and their current multidisciplinary performance practice includes installation art with raw materials such as earth, shells, stones and flowers, experimental vocal work and structured improvisations as a mover. For the past 13 years Sojourner has held a meditation and ritual space called “Stillness,” where they have guided hundreds of BIPOC queer folks in deepening their connection with ancestors, nature and personal spiritual gifts. Sojourner is currently exploring stillness by trusting the wisdom that emerges in their body in quiet pauses and by trusting the relationships in their life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Embodied Land Acknowledgement 06:43 Introducing Sojourner Zenobia and Their Creative Journey 09:37 Yoli's Inspiration for the Podcast and Winter Cave 14:01 Exploring Rest and Sensuality in Creative Practices 23:28 Individualized Creativity vs Collective Creativity 29:10 Winter Cave and Rediscovering Rest 32:56 Challenging Societal Programming and Gaining Perspective 36:25 The Power of Collective Creativity 39:04 The Importance of Rest and Healing 40:55 Centering BIPOC, Queer, and Femme Voices 44:04 Intimate Connections and Storytelling for Transformation /episode/index/show/88ffa2d0-a44e-421f-a49d-b1172791d77d/id/32561407

Episode 11: The Power of Liminal Space: A Catalyst for Transformation 06/13/2024

Episode 11: The Power of Liminal Space: A Catalyst for Transformation In this episode, we explore the concept of liminal space, which refers to the spaces in between, such as the space between thoughts, sleep and wakefulness, and doing and not doing. Liminal space is a state of consciousness that allows for rest, rejuvenation, and creativity. The conversation also touches on the colonization of sleep and the importance of rest to build a new world of equity. We share our favorite liminal space practices, such as walking and engaging in self-styled retreats. In this conversation, and the concept of liminal space and its importance in personal growth and transformation. We explore the idea of structured and unstructured liminality and how it can be integrated into daily life. We also discuss the potential challenges of integrating liminal experiences back into regular life and the importance of embracing the liminal as a catalyst for change. The conversation highlights the need for liminal space in designing a world where everyone's needs are met and where leadership is decentralized. They encourage listeners to start their own liminal rest journey, even if it's just one small step at a time. A few takeaways: -Liminal space refers to the spaces in between, such as the space between thoughts, sleep and wakefulness, and doing and not doing. -Liminal space is a state of consciousness that allows for rest, rejuvenation, and creativity. -The colonization of sleep has led to the devaluation of rest, but rest is essential for our well-being. -Engaging in liminal space practices, such as yoga nidra, walking and self-styled retreats, can help us tap into our creativity and find moments of rest and rejuvenation. Liminal space is a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation. -Integrating liminal experiences back into regular life can be challenging but is essential for growth. -Embracing the liminal can lead to a change in life design and a commitment to personal growth. -Liminal space is not a luxury but a necessity for creating a better world. -Start your own liminal rest journey, even if it's just one small step at a time. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Liminal Space 07:48 The Power of Belonging and Community in Liminal Space 28:45 The Power of Liminal Space 36:41 Designing a Better World through Liminal Space /episode/index/show/88ffa2d0-a44e-421f-a49d-b1172791d77d/id/31732717

Episode 10: The Nature of DEI, the DEI of Nature 04/30/2024

Episode 9: Ecology of Belonging and the "B" of DEIB 03/05/2024

Episode 9: Ecology of Belonging and the "B" of DEIB In this conversation, we discuss the concept of belonging and its implications in various settings. We explore the imposition of belonging in DEI initiatives and the challenges of defining and experiencing true belonging. We also discuss the hierarchical nature of organizations and the need for a more inclusive and fluid understanding of belonging. The conversation highlights the importance of self-belonging and connection to nature in fostering a sense of belonging. We share personal experiences of belonging and emphasize the ongoing process of cultivating belonging in different contexts. The conversation explores the concept of belonging and its various dimensions. It delves into the magnetic pull and body knowing that comes with belonging, as well as the joyfulness and rituals that foster a sense of community. The loss of belonging and the grieving process are also discussed, highlighting the bond that is formed within a community. The conversation then examines the role of retreat spaces in creating a sense of belonging and the flaws in the capitalist framework when it comes to fostering true belonging. The importance of belonging in nature and the antidote to toxicity are explored, along with the spiritual journey of belonging. We conclude by emphasizing the need for true transformation and the empowerment that comes with embracing discomfort in the pursuit of belonging. Takeaways Belonging is a subjective experience that cannot be prescriptive or imposed. The concept of belonging is often used in DEI initiatives, but its meaning and implementation vary. Belonging requires a sense of connection to oneself, others, and nature. True belonging is a process, not a finish line, and requires ongoing effort and reflection. Belonging is characterized by a magnetic pull and body knowing. Joyfulness, laughter, and rituals foster a sense of community. The loss of belonging can lead to a grieving process. Belonging in retreat spaces can be powerful but is not necessarily meant to last forever. The capitalist framework often fails to foster true belonging. Belonging in nature is characterized by interbeing and the presence of antidotes to toxicity. Belonging is a spiritual journey that requires embracing discomfort and undergoing true transformation. Chapters 00:00Introduction and Land Acknowledgement 06:46Exploring the Concept of Belonging 12:30The Imposition of Belonging 16:33Belonging in Corporate Settings 21:43The Process of Belonging 23:43Belonging and Connection 25:23Peak Belonging Experience 26:17The Magnetic Pull of Belonging 26:50Joyfulness and Rituals 27:19Grieving the Loss of Belonging 28:12The Bond of Belonging 29:02Belonging in Retreat Spaces 29:56The Flaws in the Concept of Belonging 30:27Belonging and Capitalism 31:30Belonging and Departure 32:22Belonging in Nature 33:21The Antidote to Toxicity 34:17Belonging as a Spiritual Journey 37:04Micro Moments of Belonging 38:22Belonging and the Capitalist Framework 39:01The Fear of Liberation 40:25The Guru Model and Hierarchy 41:19The Need for True Transformation 42:34The Discomfort of Belonging 43:44The Empowerment of Discomfort 45:06The Dangers of Performative Belonging 46:29Belonging as a Devotion 47:09Belonging to Self and Others 47:54Belonging Rooted in the Earth /episode/index/show/88ffa2d0-a44e-421f-a49d-b1172791d77d/id/30244963

Episode 8: Addressing Resistance to Change 02/26/2024

Episode 8: Addressing Resistance to Change Continuing the discussion around our cross-pollinated approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion work, we emphasize the need for rest, restoration, and creativity in the process. In this episode, we address resistance to change and pushback on DEI initiatives, particularly in industries that are inaccessible to marginalized communities. The conversation highlights the importance of decentralized leadership and the need for trust-building and repair. We also discuss the power of active rest and spaciousness in fostering creativity and problem-solving. The episode concludes with a call to action for collaboration and transformation. Takeaways Rest and restoration are crucial in the DEI process, allowing for healing and creativity to emerge. Resistance to change and pushback on DEI initiatives are common, particularly in industries that are inaccessible to marginalized communities. Decentralized leadership is necessary to center marginalized voices and foster creative problem-solving. Active rest and spaciousness are essential for unlocking creativity and finding innovative solutions. Progress in the DEI process requires reflection, learning from failures, and gaining new perspectives. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:07 Introducing DEI Cypher 03:24 Solving the Equity Puzzle 04:06 Resistance to Change 05:10 Pushback on DEI Initiatives 06:39 Inaccessibility in Industries 07:08 The Need for Change 07:59 Rest and Restoration 10:51 Challenges in the DEI Process 11:51 Restoration and Trust Building 12:43 Decentralized Leadership 13:59 Defining Terms: Rest and Restoration 15:26 Active Rest and Spaciousness 20:21 Rest, Restoration, and Repair 28:12 Moving Forward and Failing Forward 29:08 The Need for Retreat and Perspective 31:04 Revisiting Language and Progress 35:24 The Transformative Power of Creativity 36:25 Conclusion and Call to Action deicipher.com [email protected] /episode/index/show/88ffa2d0-a44e-421f-a49d-b1172791d77d/id/30116858

Episode 7: Personal Healing and DEI/Wellness with Consuelo Hernandez 02/12/2024

Episode 6: The Umami of DEI and Wellness 01/25/2024

Episode 5: DEIcipher Domain - Messaging and Integration 01/03/2024

Episode 4: DEI Principles + Marketing 12/05/2023

Episode 3: DEIcipher Domain - Decolonization and Ethics 11/17/2023

Episode 3: DEIcipher Domain - Decolonization and Ethics This conversation explores the concept of decolonization and its importance in creating a more equitable and sustainable future. The discussion then delves into the definition of decolonization and its roots in Indigenous knowledge and practices. The impact of the Enlightenment era and the suppression of intuition are explored, highlighting the need to reclaim non-empirical ways of knowing. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in the decolonization process. It concludes with a call to uplift Indigenous voices and engage in the ongoing conversation around decolonization. The conversation concludes with a closing meditation, inviting listeners to center themselves and focus on their breath Takeaways Decolonization is an embodied practice that involves reclaiming language, spirituality, culture, and land from colonialist systems. Indigenous perspectives and leadership are essential in the decolonization process. The Enlightenment era and the emphasis on reason and scientific thinking have contributed to the suppression of non-empirical ways of knowing, such as intuition. Decolonization requires engaging in acts of futurism and imagining new worlds that are rooted in community, collaboration, and the well-being of the land and its inhabitants. It is important to navigate discomfort and fear when confronting the concept of decolonization and to actively seek out diverse perspectives and voices in the conversation. Chapters 00:00Embodied Land Acknowledgement 07:44Introduction to Decolonization 08:36Defining Decolonization 13:20Indigeneity and Decolonization 17:16The Importance of Embodiment 22:29The Impact of the Enlightenment Era 24:03The Suppression of Intuition 28:12Imagining New Worlds 32:26The Importance of Community 35:24Uplifting Indigenous Voices 39:22Navigating Discomfort and Fear 41:41Engaging in the Conversation 43:07Closing Meditation Head over to deicipher.com to learn more about upcoming workshops, events, retreat and more. /episode/index/show/88ffa2d0-a44e-421f-a49d-b1172791d77d/id/28690513

Episode 2: Soft Life and the Importance of Discomfort 11/07/2023

Episode 1: DEIcipher Domain - Active Restoration 09/20/2023

DEIcipher Podcast

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