Enlighten: Uplift & Inspire
Dr. Deborah Adamy has conversations with everyday people who inspire, uplift and who are living their lives with vitality and joy. She admires people who can weather adversity and hardship without becoming cynical and bitter; who actually choose to learn, grow and find meaning and purpose in what they have experienced. There are countless ordinary people living pretty extraordinary lives and Deborah wants to shine light on them! Enlighten: Uplift and Inspire includes conversations with a wide variety of people: activists, musicians, shiatsu therapists, circus arts performers, playwrights, directors, psychotherapists, dancers, film makers, yoga teachers, educators, actors and photographers, just to name a few. May you feel inspired and uplifted listening to this podcast. Visit www.enlighten.nyc for more. Enjoy!!
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Episode 314 How To Sit - Part 2
07/22/2024
Episode 314 How To Sit - Part 2
This week I continue to read some practical wisdom from the Vietnamese Buddhist monk, Thich Nhat Hanh. Last week I read the first third of his book “How To Sit”, so this episode includes the reading of the second third of the book. Whether you are new to mindfulness and meditation or a seasoned veteran, may this help you cultivate your inner peace. May this remind us to breathe mindfully. May we drop into the present moment and experience that the present moment contains the whole of life. Happy sitting! Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 313 How To Sit - Part 1
07/15/2024
Episode 313 How To Sit - Part 1
On this week’s episode, in a desire to cultivate inner peace, for myself and my listeners, I offer some wisdom from Thich Nhat Hanh, a Vietnamese Buddhist monk, who has made mindfulness accessible and relatable for millions of people. So whether you are new to mindfulness and meditation or have a seasoned practice, let this serve as an inspiration to deepen your journey. Starting this week, I will read the first third of his book “How To Sit” and hope that it will help you continue to cultivate your inner peace, knowing that your calm, clear centeredness will positively impact you, all those around you and our world. Happy sitting! Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 312 Inner Peace
07/08/2024
Episode 312 Inner Peace
On this week’s episode, I acknowledge all the amplified political chaos that may be upsetting us, triggering outrage and fear. As concerning as Joe Biden’s debate performance was, it doesn’t come close to the continued danger and destruction to our country and democracy that Donald Trump threatens. I outline the clinical criteria of a Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Despite all these disturbing situations, I choose to stay informed, while investing more energy in my inner peace. Cultivating my inner peace, gives me energy to show up for others with kindness, compassion and more integrity. May you invest your thought energy in what calms you. May you know a deeper truth beneath the noise and chaos. May you prioritize cultivating your inner peace. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 311 Sweetness of Water
07/01/2024
Episode 311 Sweetness of Water
On this week’s episode I highlight a few examples of the sweetness of water. Water is such a healing energy; water refreshes us, reminds us to be playful, hydrates us and sustains life! When was the last time you walked, ran or danced through a sprinkler? May we respect the healing power of water. Let water hydrate you. Let water refresh you. Let water quench your thirst. And may you create playfulness and joy with water. May we honor the sweetness of water. Enjoy the podcast!
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Episode 310 Blessed To Be Human
06/24/2024
Episode 310 Blessed To Be Human
On this week’s episode, I share an inspiring excerpt from Mark Nepo’s The Book of Awakening, titled “Precious Human Birth”. Nepo explains how blessed we are - in this time, in this place, to be human beings alive in rare ways we often take for granted. This rareness, preciousness, ushers us into grateful living. I offer three prompts from Nepo’s piece for journaling or reflection. Check out the show notes for a link to Mark Nepo’s book and the Maya Angelou clip I referenced. May we be mindful of how rare it is to be human. May we have a deep appreciation for how blessed we are. May we be ushered into grateful living. May we be a rainbow in somebody else’s cloud. We are blessed to be human! Enjoy the podcast! Links: IG: IG: IG:
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Episode 309 Father's Day
06/17/2024
Episode 309 Father's Day
On this week’s podcast, as busy as the month of June is, I focus on fathers. From the origins of Father’s Day to the fathers who have parented us and partnered with us and all those doing their best to do right by their children, I honor the important role that fathers play in our lives. Check out the show notes (and share with any fathers) for the IG link that I mentioned: “Jimmy on Relationships”, for tangible guidance on cultivating empathy, building trust, healthy ways to resolve conflict and ways to deepen your emotional maturity. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 308 Centering
06/10/2024
Episode 308 Centering
On this week’s episode, I center on center and being centered and centering ourselves. The word center can be a noun, a verb and an adjective. When I feel centered, I feel connected to the core of my being - my soul, my heart, my consciousness. And of course that then connects me with all beings and Divine Source. Being centered, feeling connected, is calming, quieting and also expansive and mystical. I lead a simple centering practice, so take a minute to pause and find your center. May you know the peace and serenity of being relaxed and centered. May feeling centered bring you home to the center of your being and let you rest in a depth of love that knows no bounds. Enjoy the podcast!
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Episode 307 Brian Cockerham, musician
06/03/2024
Episode 307 Brian Cockerham, musician
My guest today is Brian Cockerham. Brian is a gifted bass player, most notably laying down the soulful low notes for the incredible Shayna Steele and multi-Grammy Award winning artist, song-writer and producer, PJ Morton. In fact, Brian has been playing with PJ for almost 20 years, acknowledging that their musical collaboration has helped shape him. Brian describes the incredibly profound impact a drummer named Larry had on him, certainly as a musician, but more importantly as a human being. Brian embodies positivity, kindness, and one of the most generous hearts I know. Check out the show notes for links to connect with Brian on social media and see Brian perform live with PJ Morton at the Beacon Theater in NYC on Saturday August 3rd. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 306 The Possibility of Peace
05/27/2024
Episode 306 The Possibility of Peace
Today is Monday May 27th, Memorial Day. As important as it is to remember those who have died while serving in the military, I also like to imagine a world without war. We humans seem wired for war, but I want to remember that peace is also a possibility. The possibility of peace includes inner peace, peace in our dynamics with others and a vision for world peace. Can we soften that which is rigid in our hearts? Can we have the strength to forgive those who have hurt us? Can we let go of grudges, animosity, stubbornness, defensiveness, and the need to be right? On this Memorial Day, may we also remember that peace is a possibility and it starts with our own hearts. Enjoy the podcast!
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Episode 305 Rituals: Celebrating Life!
05/20/2024
Episode 305 Rituals: Celebrating Life!
On this week’s episode, I look at the power of rituals. All known human societies create rituals. Rituals mark time, create time, and help define beginnings and ends of life’s phases and transitions. Two weeks ago, Paul and I hosted a birthday party for my Dad’s 94th birthday! My father, Stephen Kerry Carr, turned 94 on April 30 and it was pure joy to host a party for him the following Sunday. Gathering a circle of loving relatives into our home reminded me that these rituals actually do help make life worth living. Whether you are creating your own rituals for your daily spiritual practices, for your weekly circles/meetings/classes, time with friends and family or attending a wedding, graduation or funeral, see the ritual as a loving punctuation mark for the people being honored, celebrated or memorialized. A celebratory punctuation mark to emphasize that rituals help us celebrate life!! Enjoy the podcast!
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Episode 304 Sensitivity with Mother’s Day
05/13/2024
Episode 304 Sensitivity with Mother’s Day
On this week’s episode, I acknowledge all the gratitude and love that I feel from Mother’s Day, both connecting with my own children and expressing appreciation to the women in my life who have been mother-mentors for me. And I emphasize how important it is to be sensitive on Mother’s Day, knowing how emotionally charged, for a variety of reasons, this day can be. I share a poignant poem, representing Birth Mothers who had to give up their children, written by Mary Jean Wolch-Marsh called “Breaking the Silence”. Please listen and allow this poem to deepen your sensitivity and compassion for those who had been silent about their motherhood for years. May we open our hearts, in solidarity with these Birth Mothers, to bring about collective healing on Mother’s Day. Enjoy the podcast!
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Episode 303 Anne Carpenter, singer and photographer
05/06/2024
Episode 303 Anne Carpenter, singer and photographer
My guest today is Anne (or Annie) Carpenter. Anne is a singer, photographer and I would add a beautiful writer, plus a new kindred spirit! I’ve heard Anne sing and was moved deeply. Although she grew up in a family of singers, was immersed in a choral mindset from middle school through college, I was surprised to learn that it’s only been about ten years since Annie stepped into singing professionally. Her honesty about the career choices that didn’t line up, her gratitude for all the people who lifted her up and encouraged her to trust both herself and her voice more fully, comes through in our conversation. It’s an honor to shine light on this humble, gracious, woman of wonder, curiosity and compassion. Check out the show notes for a link to Anne’s beautiful website, IG and FB accounts to see where she is performing next. I’ve also included a link for a Living Music Event at the Westchester Collaborative Theater in Ossining, NY this month, fusing theater and music, where Anne will be the featured vocal artist. Even though we didn’t discuss that in our conversation, I’d love to help promote this unique event. We just got our tickets for opening night on May 10th and hope to see you there! Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 302 Cherry Blossoms
04/29/2024
Episode 302 Cherry Blossoms
This week’s episode serves as a BLOOM ALERT! I share my appreciation of the cherry blossoms that are now blooming in the New York area. These vibrant pink blossoms make me smile and apparently shift the mood in others, making us a little lighter, happier and cheerier! Check out the show notes for a link to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden so you can experience their incredible Cherry Walk in full bloom. Otherwise, look for the cherry blossoms in your neighborhood. Soak in the fragrance, smile as you immerse yourself in the awesomeness of those vibrant pink blossoms. Allow yourself to be uplifted and inspired by this awesome gift from nature. Enjoy the podcast! Links: IG:
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Episode 301 The People of Bali
04/22/2024
Episode 301 The People of Bali
On this week’s episode, I describe how moved I was by the people of Bali. The warmth, kindness, and humility of the Balinese people we met and interacted with was so striking. From casual greetings to exuding compassion in an interaction that could have incited annoyance and impatience, the people from Bali taught me a meaningful lesson. Am I letting my words, gestures and responses reflect and radiate compassion? The Balinese people embodied such a sincere compassion, it was if they were vibrating on a higher frequency. May the light embodied in the Balinese people penetrate the light in me, the light in all of us, to absorb their patience, kindness and wisdom. Blessings to the wise people of Bali. Enjoy the podcast!
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Episode 300 Celebrating 300!
04/15/2024
Episode 300 Celebrating 300!
Today marks our 300th episode! I am so happy to celebrate this milestone with you! We started this podcast in January of 2018 and have released an episode almost every week for over 6 years. I am deeply grateful for the 160 guests and 140 stories that capture my own personal reflections and observations, that help me evolve spiritually. Even in the midst of political unrest, personal and collective trauma, chaos, hatred, violence and war, I marvel at the human spirit: the ability of people to find ways to live from compassion, forgiveness, connection and gratitude. So thanks for listening, for supporting my desire to focus on people and stories that uplift and inspire. Thanks for joining me in focusing our energy on that which heals and sustains us on our life journeys. Honored to partner with you as we each radiate love and light out into the world. Enjoy the podcast!
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Episode 299 Bali Bound
04/01/2024
Episode 299 Bali Bound
When I wrote this week’s episode, my husband Paul and I were Bali Bound. We are visiting our son Wil and his girlfriend Shannon, who have been in Bali for the past 3 months. We are thrilled to experience first hand all the beauty, spirituality, creativity and magic they have felt there. There will NO episode next week April 8th, but feel free to scroll through previous episodes and catch up on episodes you’ve missed. My next episode will be released on April 15th, which marks our 300th episode! Please tune in to celebrate 300 episodes of Enlighten: Uplift and Inspire! Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 298 More Women
03/25/2024
Episode 298 More Women
As we close out the month of March, Women’s History Month, I want to honor a few more women. Some include women who have died before I launched this podcast and some who are still alive but they're uncomfortable being a guest, so I couldn’t shine light on them here. And one is a woman I do not know personally but my respect and gratitude for her is immense. New York State Attorney General Letitia James is not only protecting the vulnerable, she is effectively holding Donald Trump accountable for his deceit, fraud and years of cheating lenders, insurers, the government and the public. She stands by her principle that “No one is above the law!” There are certainly more women to acknowledge and honor, but start with one or two. Who has uplifted you, inspired you, given you hope? In this last week of Women’s History Month, take a moment to express directly or indirectly your gratitude to a woman you admire. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 297 The Women
03/18/2024
Episode 297 The Women
March is Women’s Month so on this week’s episode, I honor the women in my life who have believed in me, supported me, challenged me and continue to make such profound impacts on me. I share the back story of how International Women’s Day came to be and eventually grew into a month-long celebration called Women’s History Month. There are so many women who have been trailblazers, who have shattered barriers, defied expectations, and paved the way for future generations! I honor my relatives, the women whose shoulders I stand on and the women I stand beside and hold hands with, including a number of sacred circles of soul sisters. May we continue to strive for progress and equality for all. May we lift each other up throughout the month of March and beyond. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 296 Geraldine Anello, Author and Musician
03/11/2024
Episode 296 Geraldine Anello, Author and Musician
My guest today is Dr. Geraldine Anello. Geraldine is a pianist, conductor, music director and author. She just recently launched her book The Pulse of the Musician: Connecting Sound, Soul and Stories: Navigating a Successful Music Career. We discuss what motivated her to write this insightful, illuminating book, her hopes that it becomes a required text book in music education, and the calling, passion, identity and sacrifice embedded in a musician’s path. I also inquired about Geraldine’s own passionate journey as a successful musician, her strategies of risk-taking, networking, discipline and creative visualization. Raised in France and on Reunion Island, before her fated move to the US at age 20, Geraldine embodies her multicultural, multi-ethnic origins, as she is a natural collaborator and harmonizer of multiple music genres. It is truly uplifting to be in the presence of such a warm, compassionate, wise woman. Check out the links below to Geraldine’s website and book. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 295 Winter Cleaning
03/04/2024
Episode 295 Winter Cleaning
On this week’s episode, I share a cathartic experience of some winter cleaning. I know we typically wait for the springtime for these kinds of cleanings, but I am here to say, winter cleaning was just as satisfying! What cabinets, closets, dressers, shelves of yours might need some de-cluttering? I encourage you to give yourself the gift of a cleaning - at any season of the year. Enjoy the sense of accomplishment and the freedom of lightening your load. Happy Winter Cleaning. Enjoy the podcast!
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Episode 294 Black Futures
02/26/2024
Episode 294 Black Futures
As we come to the end of the month, I highlight the concept and philosophy of Black Futures Month. In addition to honoring people and movements that enrich Black History Month, the emphasis on Black Futures is “a visionary, forward-looking spin on celebrations of Blackness in February; a time to consider and celebrate our radical Black history and to dream and imagine a world in which all Black people are free.” May we all understand and respect that our past directly impacts the present and future. May we all educate ourselves on the compelling stories from Black people, learn about the struggles and sacrifices, the aspirations and achievements. May we imagine a revolutionary transformation of the beliefs, norms, and systems that reject anyone’s humanity. May we embrace the abolitionist’s vision that our future can be grounded in trust, collective care, that prioritizes the dignity and empowerment of Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and therefore the dignity and empowerment of all of us! Happy Black Futures Month! Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 293 Rustin
02/19/2024
Episode 293 Rustin
As we continue to honor Black History Month, I encourage you to see the movie "Rustin”. I was so deeply moved by the movie, this man Bayard Rustin and the instrumental role he played in creating and implementing the March on Washington. In addition, the brilliant performance of Colman Domingo embodying Rustin was electrifying. The movie, produced by Michelle and Barack Obama, sheds light on an important man and a critical time in our history. May we be well-informed about our history, grounded in our present and inspired to contribute to a more just, compassionate future. Enjoy the podcast! Links: IG: IG: IG: IG:
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Episode 292 The Greensboro Four
02/12/2024
Episode 292 The Greensboro Four
On this week’s episode, I highlight and honor the Greensboro Four: Jibreel Khazan, Joseph McNeil, Franklin McCain and David Richmond. Sixty-four years ago these four African American college freshman sat down at a place where African Americans were not allowed to sit. Their act of non-violent protest and the publicity they received ignited a national sit-in movement, that initiated desegregation actions and laws. I wanted to learn the names of the Greensboro Four and learn how their lives had unfolded since their 1960 college days. Thank you Jibreel, Joseph, Franklin and David. I am glad to know you by name. I am sorry for the hatred and discrimination you experienced, leading up to your protest and in the years that followed. I honor you, respect you and express my sincere gratitude for your courageous, inspiring legacy. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 291 Origins of Black History Month
02/05/2024
Episode 291 Origins of Black History Month
On this week’s episode, at the beginning of February, as we honor Black History Month, I focus on the man behind the origins of this important month. I am embarrassed to admit I did not know the name Carter G. Woodson nor that it was initially celebrated as Negro History Week in 1926. Thanks to Bakari Sellers, who mentioned Woodson’s name in his conversation with Trevor Noah, which ignited my curiosity. I’m grateful to learn more and want to share with you the wisdom, vision and determination of Carter G. Woodson to educate us all. Check out the links below to Bakari Sellers, the Daily Show, and the origins of Black History Month. We must recognize both the pain and triumph of what it means to be Black in America. We each have a part to play to keep Woodson’s legacy alive. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 290 Aliya Sorgen, Transformational Coach and Yoga Instructor
01/29/2024
Episode 290 Aliya Sorgen, Transformational Coach and Yoga Instructor
My guest today is Aliya Sorgen. Aliya is Head of Global Partnerships and Mobility at University of the Arts in London, a Transformational Coach and innovative yoga retreat facilitator. And Aliya happens to be my beloved God-daughter, a bond that allows us to share a special soul connection. Aliya articulates keen insight into her experience of working with artists, how alive she feels when traveling and her openness to learning and growth. She is inspired by the courage it takes to jump into the unknown and surprise ourselves with big changes. Check out the links below for Aliya’s website and learn more about her Coaching practice and Yoga Retreat in Italy this summer. Enjoy the podcast! Links: IG:
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Episode 289 Awaken To Awareness
01/22/2024
Episode 289 Awaken To Awareness
On this week’s episode, I focus on awareness and how important awareness is to help us be present, conscious and responsible. Awareness is the first step in the process of healing. Inspired by a quote from the world renowned yoga instructor, Sarah Powers, I’ve now infused her quote as a prayer to add to my daily practice. May this statement inspire you as well: “I vow now to awaken to awareness, for the benefit of all beings. I recognize its immeasurable value, knowing that it is possible, regardless of circumstances.” May we all awaken to awareness! Check out the links below for my previous episode with Laura Rodgers as well as the website of Sarah Powers. Enjoy the podcast. Links:
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Episode 288 Open House, Open Hearts
01/15/2024
Episode 288 Open House, Open Hearts
Last week I hosted a Ceramics Open House for Josh Yanko, the son of my dear friend, Lisa Green. This Open House opened my heart to Josh, his beautiful pottery, the strong love Lisa has for her son, and the community that showed up to support him. It also opened my heart to the way loved ones who die are orchestrating loving support from their spiritual realm. What an honor to open my home and my heart to the giving and receiving of such warmth and affection. I trust that this is an event we will do again and hope that you can join me, we’ll open our hearts at the next open house! Check out the links below to Josh’s YouTube channel and his IG. Enjoy the podcast! Links:
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Episode 287 Reflections of 2023
01/08/2024
Episode 287 Reflections of 2023
On this week’s episode, as we start off 2024, I acknowledge our 6 year milestone and reflect on this past year. We launched the podcast in January 2018, so here’s to completing 6 years of Enlighten! January 2024 marks the beginning of our podcast’s 7th year! Thank you, 2023 for another year of 9 inspiring guests, a tribute to a local hero who died the past summer and 38 personal reflections and stories. Hoping that my guests and stories this past year have helped to uplift and inspire you along your journey. Blessings for a healing, engaged, empowering year. May you be safe and healthy, and join me in searching for the mysterious, wondrous ways the Universe is conspiring to help us evolve and step more fully into our potential in 2024. Enjoy the podcast!
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Episode 286 Change It Up!
12/18/2023
Episode 286 Change It Up!
On this week’s episode, I focus on the wisdom of changing things up, shifting our perspective and/or routines to open to new possibilities. I share a simple example of a change I made to one of my daily routines that provided a fresh, expansive experience for me. I was surprised by the energy and fun it provided! Change the way you see something and that something changes. May you take one of your daily routines and change it up! Have fun expanding your perspective and seeing things anew! Enjoy the podcast!
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Episode 285 Sparkly Synchronicity
12/11/2023
Episode 285 Sparkly Synchronicity
On this week’s podcast, I share some sparkly synchronicities that delighted me this week. From a Hafiz poem, that reminds us that we are created for Joy, to a yoga community’s dharma talk, to a friend in Maine being inspired to dance, to my Jazz Funk Dance Sistahs keeping joy alive, to a store owner’s sparkly red boots. May we pause and notice the synchronicities, the sparkles, the joy. After all, we were created for joy! Check out the show notes to find links for previous episodes with 4 of the women mentioned here. And for beautiful, creative shopping, please go support Maria Luisa’s boutique filled with fair trade gifts from around the world. Enjoy the podcast ! Links:
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