A Soulful Rebellion

In this episode I talk with psychologist and author Dr. Nicole Wordlaw about her memoir Waking Up Alone: Navigating the Narrow Passage Through Master-Slave Narratives. She discusses how what she frames as the master-slave narratives in the book show up in the lives of Black women. She also covers spiritual bypassing, loneliness, rebuilding self-trust, and meeting pain with love.Key TopicsConnecting generational trauma to master-slave narratives, and why these stories are so hard for us to seeWhy we seek spiritual teachers for answers we can find withinThe blind spots of white spiritual teachersThe myth of the “old maid” and overcoming the belief that a woman who is alone is brokenLearning to meet pain with love and, acknowledging the Divine withinKnowing your inherent worthWhy so many men don’t take responsibility for the harm they causeWho Is Dr. Nicole Wordlaw?She is an African American clinical psychologist, a longtime meditator in the Buddhist tradition, spirited coach, and author of Waking Up Alone, Navigating the Narrow Passage Through Master-Slave Narratives.Her training at Stanford University and the University of California at Berkeley honed her thinking mind. But the wisdom she needed did not come from a book, nor did it come fromstaying away from the difficult. The wisdom she needed arose from spirited practice, practices that illuminate the quiet, still voice that always sounds like Love. She lives with her two children and partner on the Indigenous lands of the Monacan people in Virginia.Connect with Dr. Nicole Wordlaw: Substack | Website | Her BookDisclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.

Who Said You Had to Pray Every Day? Building a Sacred Practice After You’ve Burned the Old One DownIn this podcast episode of A Soulful Rebellion, I examine the inherited beliefs that can make spirituality feel rigid or fear-based, and block us from seeking practices that support where we are evolving on our spiritual journey. Especially after we’ve burned down the traditions that no longer serve us.This is for mystical Black, Indigenous, Women and Femmes of Color who are seeking to rebuild a sacred practice now that they’ve moved beyond rigid faith structures. Tune in to learn what it is to rebuild a sacred practice that honors where you are now and how to find the sacred in everyday routines.The central reminder: a practice doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.  What matters is how you honor the sacred, see value in your connection to others, and carry its lessons out into the world.Key TopicsLetting go of inherited beliefs about spirituality and ritualsFinding sacred texts and wisdom across traditionsExploring meditation and embodied practicesMaking room for sustainable rituals that fit your lifeUsing daily routine rituals as a spiritual practiceJoin: A Sacred Alignment Sanctuary Receive The Free Guide: Awaken WithinBooks mentioned: The Day God Saw Me as Black By D. Danyelle ThomasWaking Up Alone: Navigating the Narrow Passage Through Master Slave Narratives By Dr. Nicole WordlawThe Pink Robe Chronicles By Dr. Melva Thompson Braiding Sweetgrass By Robin Wall Kimmerer Indigenous Theology And The Western Worldview By Randy S. WoodleyJoy and Speakable By Barbara A. HomesA quick note: I mentioned links in the episode, but what I meant to say was a list! These are books that I’ve read or am currently reading. I’m not affiliated with the authors, and this isn’t an endorsement.More On The Podcast About Embodied Practices:Episode 70 | From Wrestling with Faith to Inner Peace: A Contemplative Path to Embodied Spirituality With Shannon Savage-HowieEpisode 79 | Self-Care as a Spiritual Practice: Learning to Be a Disciple of Your Body with Cassandra JuniphantWebsite | Newsletter | InstagramDisclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.

Remembering Your Worth: Black Womanhood, Spirituality, and Healing Trauma with Nichole WashingtonIn this heartfelt conversation, Nichole Washington discusses spiritual awakening, healing, Black womanhood, and self-worth. Nichole shares her journey of confronting trauma, embracing authenticity, and redefining spirituality as an ongoing practice supported by therapy, community, and self-care. They explore the effects of racism, colorism, and beauty standards on identity and how self-love, boundaries, and creative expression can help reclaim personal power. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder that worthiness is inherent, and that choosing love, joy, and connection is an essential part of healing.In This EpisodeSpiritual awakening as a lifelong processMeditation as a doorway to self-discoveryHealing from trauma through therapy and self-careBlack womanhood, colorism, and beauty standardsHair, identity, and reclaiming the narrativeSelf-worth, inner child healing, and boundariesLove, joy, and transformation in difficult timesWho is Nichole Washington? Nichole Washington is a multidisciplinary artist offering an authentic and heartfelt exploration of creativity as a path to emotional and spiritual well-being. She creates works over a variety of mediums, exploring identity and spirituality. Her work has been featured on HBO and in The New Yorker, and she has collaborated with companies such as Shea Moisture and Black Girls Code. Nichole is also very passionate about mental health, spiritual well-being, and connecting with your inner truth. Her unique presence and energy have led her to speak at universities, galleries, and established institutions across the United States. She aims to inspire others to live confidently and boldly from the inside out.Connect with Nicole WashingtonWebsite: NicholeWashington.comNewsletter: Awaken Your MagicInstagram: @NicholaWolaReferences About The Origin of HumanityNature Portfolio | Homo sapiens-specific evolution unveiled by ancient southern African genomesTime Magazine | Science: Everyone's Genealogical MotherNational Museum of African American History & Culture | Tignon LawsDisclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.

Reclaiming Ancestral Wisdom: The Spiritual Practice Colonialism Tried to Erase with Dayle McLeod (Nyoko Yumpula)Discover the profound journey of connecting with ancestral traditions and spirituality with multidisciplinary artist Dayle McLeod, also known as Nyoko Yumpula. This episode explores the depths of indigenous practices, the impact of internalized racism, and the power of authentic cultural reconnection.This episode provides valuable insights into indigenous spiritual traditions, decolonization of practices, and personal healing through ancestral reconnection. It’s a meaningful listen for anyone exploring their roots or interested in holistic healing.The importance of decolonizing spirituality and honoring indigenous African traditionsHow systemic oppression and internalized racism hinder ancestral connection and self-empowermentPractical steps to begin ancestral exploration: research, altar creation, and respectful engagementThe significance of ritual, community, and body connection in indigenous healing practicesThe journey of healing past wounds through ancestral work and reclaiming cultural identityWho is Dayle Mcleod?Dayle McLeod is a de-colonial dream weaver using performance, Storytelling, Poety, Music & film to inspire visions of what liberation could look like. Her Memoir, the 'Big Dream; My terrifyingly Beautiful Shamanic Initiation into the Arts’ describes the beginnings of her spiritual journey and what led her to create her first documentary; Day of my Death a  short, personal doc  that follows her initiation as a sangoma in South Africa, commissioned by the Toronto Arts Council and Canada Council for the Arts, premiering February 5 2026.As an actor you've seen her on Amazon's 'The Expanse', Orphan Black ‘Echos’ & StarTrek; Starfleet Academy. Her folk music albums 'In Bloom' and 'Snakes' have been featured in a number of film and television productions including 'Kims Convenience', 'Charlie Says’ the  award winning web series 'Avocado Toast’. Resources & Links:Documentary Film | The Day Of My DeathMemoir |  The Big Dream: My Terrifyingly Beautiful Shamanic Initiation into the ArtsConnect with Dayle McLeod:InstagramWebsiteDisclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.

Understanding Ancestor Veneration: Unpacking Myths and Embracing My HeritageIn this episode, I explore how ancestor veneration has been widely misunderstood and often demonized, particularly through Christian and colonial influences. I share what honoring my ancestors truly means, why it holds deep cultural and spiritual significance, and how I intentionally incorporate these practices into my spiritual journey with clarity, reverence, and purpose.Key Topics:The difference between ancestor worship and venerationHistorical influences that led to the demonization of ancestor practicesPersonal journey from misconceptions to re-engagement with ancestor honoringThe spiritual cosmology connecting ancestors, deities, and the divinePractical steps to honor ancestors: family research, altar creation, offerings, visits, and acts of serviceThe overlap between societal and religious practices of ancestor reverenceHow colonialism and Christianity have shaped perceptions around ancestral practicesThe importance of decolonizing our mindset and reclaiming spiritual ritualsJoin: Sacred Alignment Sanctuary Connect With Anekia Nicole: Website | Newsletter | InstagramDisclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.

In this episode, I explore the concept of spiritual freedom, emphasizing the importance of building a personal spiritual practice that honors my ancestors and cultural heritage. I share my journey of reconnecting with my roots and the challenges I faced while embracing spiritual practices outside of traditional church teachings. Throughout the conversation, I highlight the significance of liberation theology and the need for ethical discernment in spiritual work, ultimately encouraging listeners to reclaim their spiritual sovereignty and create rituals that truly resonate with their personal beliefs.Key TakeawaysBuilding a spiritual practice is a personal journey.Honoring ancestors can deepen spiritual connections.Spiritual freedom allows for personal expression of faith.Liberation theology challenges systemic oppression.Spiritual practices should honor body and culture.Fear can hinder the exploration of spiritual freedom.Spiritual freedom is about reclaiming what was lost.Join: Sacred Alignment Sanctuary Website | Newsletter | InstagramDisclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area

In this episode, I explore what it’s like to learn how to trust my body after leaving the church. I talk about why embodied discernment and listening to intuitive signals matter, and how psychological barriers can disconnect us from our bodies. I focus especially on the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and women of color mystics , who often carry additional layers of trauma that make this reconnection more complex. I also invite listeners to reconnect with ancestral wisdom and share practical exercises that have helped me strengthen self-trust and intuition.Key TakeawaysTrusting your body is essential for spiritual growth.Embodied discernment helps in recognizing intuitive signals.Many teachings discourage trusting our bodies.Racialized trauma complicates the relationship with intuition.Ancestral wisdom is embedded in our bodies.Intuitive signals can be confused with trauma responses.Self-trust is often undermined by hierarchical systems.Meditation is key to developing body awareness.Your body carries the memory of survival and wisdom.Practical exercises can help reconnect with your intuition.Join Sacred Alignment Sanctuary: ⁠Click Here⁠ResourcesMy Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Mending of Our Bodies and Hearts by Resmaa Menakem, MSW, LICSW, SEPThe Pain We Carry: Healing from Complex PTSD for People of Color (The Social Justice Handbook Series) by Natalie Y. Gutiérrez LMFT Decolonizing the Body: Healing, Body-Centered Practices for Women of Color to Reclaim Confidence, Dignity, and Self-Worth by Kelsey Blackwell Video | Healing Racialized Trauma: A Conversation with Resmaa Menakem and Tara BrachVideo | Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome by Joy DeGruy (Also has a book with the same title) Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.Website | Newsletter | Community

From Black Pentecostalism to Mystical Wisdom: Deepening Our Understanding of the SacredIn this episode, I explore the reclamation of ancestral practices that have often been demonized by the Black church, sharing my personal journey from mystical Christianity to embracing African spirituality. I discuss the deep-rooted connections between African traditions and contemporary spiritual practices, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and honoring these ancestral legacies. I also delve into the challenges of embracing mystical wisdom, the significance of self-trust, and the potential for liberation through understanding one’s spiritual path. The conversation culminates in a call to reclaim Christianity in a way that honors ancestral traditions while fostering personal spiritual growth.TakeawaysThe importance of reclaiming ancestral practices..The practices in the Black church often have deep ancestral roots.Many church rituals can be traced back to African traditional religions.The concept of divination is prevalent in both African spirituality and church practices.The historical context of spiritual practices being demonized.Internalized racism surrounding ancestral practices.The importance of self-trust in one's spiritual journey is emphasized.Exploring spiritual paths without fear.Considering a more expansive understanding of spirituality.You Might Also Be Interested In: Episode 48 | How religious beliefs impact your intuition developmentResources Tacky’s Revolt: The Story of an Atlantic Slave Wa by Vincent Brown (A Sample but this an entire book)Tacky's Revolt: The Story of an Atlantic Slave War | Vincent Brown with Matthew Parker | YouTubeSlave Religion: The 'Invisible Institution' in the Antebellum South" by Albert J. RaboteauObeah, Race and Racism: Caribbean Witchcraft in the English Imagination By Eugenia O’NealThe Heart of the Buddha's Teaching: Transforming Suffering into Peace, Joy, and Liberation by Thich Nhat Hanh Join: Sacred Alignment Sanctuary - Good news! Podcast listeners can still join for Free through January 30th.

In this episode of A Soulful Rebellion, I share my personal journey of spiritual awakening and faith deconstruction. I reflect on my upbringing, mystical experiences, and the challenges I've faced while navigating my beliefs. I discuss the importance of creating a supportive community for women of color who are exploring their spirituality outside of traditional religious structures. I also announce a new direction for the podcast, focusing on mystical wisdom, embodied discernment, and spiritual freedom.Join: Sacred Alignment Sanctuary Learn More About A Soulful Rebellion: ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Coaching

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Robert Casey Forman — mysticism scholar, 12-time author, and spiritual explorer of 55+ years. His latest book, Christianity Reimagined, guides those navigating a spiritual shift or re-evaluating their faith.We explore why doubt can deepen, not threaten, faith, and discuss mystical experiences — moments of presence and peace that transcend doctrine and appear across religions. Dr. Forman also addresses Christianity’s harms, the enduring beauty of ritual and community, and how we can reimagine a faith that honors intellect, humanity, and connection.This honest, expansive conversation offers insight, compassion, and a path forward for anyone deconstructing, rebuilding, or curious about their spiritual journey.In this episode, we discuss:Doubt is not a failure of faith, it's the doorway to a deeper, more honest spirituality. Mystical experiences are more common than we think.You don’t have to abandon intellect to embrace faith.Christianity can be reimagined in a way that is inclusive, compassionate, and non-dogmatic.Ritual and community still have value — if they’re aligned with your growth.You are allowed to keep the parts of Christianity that nourish you.Jesus’ teachings on love, compassion, and presence remain powerful guides — even outside of traditional belief systems.You can find (or create) a spiritual path that fits who you are today.Who Is Dr. Robert K.C. Forman?Dr. Robert K.C. Forman is a scholar, writer, and spiritual explorer whose work has shaped the study of mysticism and spirituality for decades. Growing up in Baltimore, he earned his BA from the University of Chicago and a PhD from Columbia University's Department of Religion, and that honorary doctorate from Sweden’s Lund University.  He became a tenured professor at the City University of New York and pioneered The Perennial Psychology, a groundbreaking approach to mystical experience and religious writings. His eleven previous books, including The Problem of Pure Consciousness and Mysticism, Mind, Consciousness, remain influential classics, earning him an honorary doctorate from Sweden’s Lund University.​After retiring, Dr. Forman founded the interfaith Forge Institute for Spirituality and Social Change, which united leaders across the full range of spiritual and religious traditions for mutual work and support. A lifelong practitioner and certified teacher of Transcendental Meditation, he chronicled his spiritual journey in Enlightenment Ain’t What It’s Cracked Up to Be. Recently, an unexpected shift led him to nine years of weekly church attendance, inspiring his latest book, Christianity Reimagined: A Mystical Approach for Doubters and the Dubious, which explores how liturgy and community can deeply move both believers as well as the confused, the doubting and even the skeptical.Learn More About  Dr. Robert K.C. Forman at  ChristiantyReimagined.orgDisclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.Learn More About A Soulful Rebellion: ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠Newsletter⁠ | ⁠Coaching