Weaving Threads of Tradition | Samuel Beautysta on Zapotec Weaving, Symbols, and Ancestral Story

In this episode of The Observatory, Samuel Beautysta joins the show to discuss the ancient art of Zapotec weaving and the living stories carried in each thread. Samuel, a traveling weaver from Oaxaca, Mexico, shares how his curiosity about identity and lineage led him deep into the Benizaa tradition, uncovering the meanings behind patterns, the natural colors drawn from the earth, and the symbols that honor life, death, and ancestry. He reflects on his family’s response to his search for knowledge, his experiences traveling and teaching, and how weaving becomes a language that connects cultures and generations. Timestamps[02:31] How Scott and LaRae first met Samuel Bautista[05:36] Samuel’s background information on the weaving culture and tradition[13:33] How things unfolded for Samuel after the curiosity of wanting to know who he is[19:02] Samuel’s experience in the United Kingdom[20:10] The similarities of Samuel’s culture to that of other cultures during his research[25:46] How Samuel’s parents reacted to his journey of seeking knowledge about their tradition [29:11] How Samuel discovered the natural colours of weaving[38:43] Samuel’s episode on The Reluctant Traveler Show about the Day of the Dead[49:27] Connecting to one another and the Mother Earth[55:34] How Samuel created a community of collaboration and co-creationNotable quotes:“History is always written with an agenda and a hidden power, like governments and institutions. It’s up to us to answer questions for ourselves, who we are, our lineage, and our story.” - Samuel Beautysta [11:59]“When we start to discover that we are more similar than we are different, it changes our whole perspective on what our parents taught us.” - LaRae Wright [25:46]“To survive the hottest days of summer, you have to feed your roots, your ancestors, and remember your teachings.” - [43:25]“For us, instead of fearing death, we embraced it and added it to our symbols and rituals.” - Samuel Beautysta [50:38]“All the knowledge is lying dormant within you, just like a seed that is buried in the ground and ready to sprout. ” - Samuel Beautysta [01:07:42]Relevant links:Samuel Beautysta Website: https://dixza.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sam_dixza/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/dixzarugsSubscribe to the podcast: Apple PodcastsProduced by NC Productions

In this episode of The Observatory, Gina Scarpino joins the show to discuss her journey as a psychic medium, the reality of communicating with the other side, and how emerging mediums can confidently develop their gifts. Gina is a Psychic Medium & Spiritual Life Coach who has dedicated her life to uplifting the spirits of others. She shares her first telepathic connection with her grandfather after his passing, how her calling unfolded, and why she feels compelled to support others on a similar path. Timestamps[02:00] Gina’s Journey to being a Psychic Medium[04:20] The telepathic connection that Gina had with her dead grandfather[07:57] Gina’s why in her Psychic Medium work[09:46] Gina's experience with other mediums in England[13:00] What ‘Psychic’ and ‘Medium’ means[20:54] Gina’s biggest lesson of healing[22:17] How Gina engages with people spiritually[30:11] Gina’s experience of teaching 30 students while grieving[34:41] How does medium training look?[38:13] The things that Gina loves doing that keep her energized[44:39] The ‘Charmed to Life Project’ Podcast[54:05] Balancing the feminine and masculine[55:40] Gina’s revelation about Scott and LaRae WrightNotable quotes:“The term 'medium' means you can communicate with people that have crossed over to the other side.” - Gina Scarpino [13:09]“Where there is a will, there is a way, and you’re always guided to where you need to be.” - Gina Scarpino [36:40]“When you bring in the science element to all the spiritual subjects, it gives you something concrete when the spiritual aspect is more fluid.” - Gina Scarpino [46:52]Relevant links:Gina Scarpino Website: https://www.ginajulianscarpino.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GinaScarpinoPsychicMediumPodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-charmed-life-project/id1829457788Subscribe to the podcast: Apple PodcastProduced by NC Productions

Revisiting one of our most powerful and unforgettable conversations — our interview with Betsy and Gentry Mikesell. These inspiring entrepreneurs, known for creating Beddy’s, the bedding company that transformed how families make their beds, open up about more than business success in this episode. They share the life-altering plane crash that reshaped their family forever — and the profound gratitude that came from surviving the unimaginable. As we enter the Thanksgiving season, their story is a reminder of what truly matters: family, faith, resilience, and the ability to find gratitude even in the hardest chapters of life. Their words still echo with one of the most powerful lines from the episode: “It was the worst thing to happen to our family… and yet the best.” This is an episode that will warm your heart, move you deeply, and inspire you to reach out to the people you love with a little extra gratitude today.Timestamps[2:56] Being an entrepreneur and the start of Beddy’s [10:43] Snapshot of what Beddy’s looks like today [17:10] The plane crash[21:33] Gaining consciousness [27:20] Having to wait for Gentry to heal [37:42] Fearing he might not make it [41:20] Learning to not be judgmental or critical [42:51] Where Alyssa was and how this experience touched her [49:35] Moving to Tennessee and how life was later [53:51] One final nugget of truth Notable quotes:“There were just so many things that came into place, like if we had crashed 20 seconds earlier, we wouldn’t have crashed near campers. We would have been so remote that nobody could get to us. So we feel super lucky for the way it turned out.” [20:11]Relevant links: Subscribe to the podcast: Apple PodcastProduced by NC Productions!

In this episode of The Observatory, Jake Orak joins the show to discuss his journey of self-discovery, spirituality, and what it truly means to live authentically. From his early years in drumming to life-changing experiences in Vietnam, Switzerland, Bali, and Nepal, Jake shares how travel, entrepreneurship, and personal breakdowns opened the door to deeper self-awareness and intentional living. He reflects on closing one chapter of his life through a powerful completion ceremony, the origins of his meditation and inner work, and how these threads eventually wove into his book, Threads of Change.Timestamps[02:02] Jake Orak’s background in drumming[03:00] Jake’s background information[06:00] Jake’s experience in Vietnam and Switzerland[14:07] Jake’s entrepreneurial journey[23:57] The completion ceremony that Jake did with his ex-wife[27:28] How Jake nurtured his self-awareness and intentionality[29:40] The nervous breakdown that Jake had in Bali[37:30] The genesis of meditation and personal work[47:57] How Jake’s trip to Nepal influenced his life[01:08:45] Jake's connection with Utah[01:17:20] Jake’s journey of writing the book: Threads of Change[01:21:28] How Jake met his partner, Adrian[01:24:57] The Inner Circle Stewards Drum Session[01:30:41] Developing your spirituality[01:35:24] The difference between living in the space of being and the space of doingNotable quotes:“When you start doing things consciously for yourself and developing your own flavor of spirituality, that’s when things start to unfold, especially when you are able to share that openly within a group.” - Jake Orak [01:30:41]Relevant links: Jake Orak Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jakeorak/?hl=enSubscribe to the podcast: Apple PodcastProduced by NC Productions!

In this episode of The Observatory, Scott and LaRae Wright share the timeless wisdom they would impart to their younger selves. Through reflection and heartfelt honesty, they explore three powerful lessons each has learned along the way. LaRae opens up about embracing changing perspectives, nurturing her gifts, and cherishing time spent with elders. Scott shares the importance of self-compassion, respecting the earth and all living things, and honoring the feminine on a deeper level. Timestamps[02:50] LaRae’s first advice: It’s okay for your perspective to change[04:11] The biggest contributing factor to LaRae not being open to perspective change[11:11] Scott’s first advice: Don’t be so hard on yourself [19:02] LaRae’s second advice: Nurture your gifts and talents [26:57] The book: The Artist’s Way[28:33] Scott’s second advice: Respect the earth and all living things on earth[35:39] LaRae’s third advice: Spend more time with the older people [38:45] Scott’s third advice: Have a deeper respect  for the feminineNotable quotes:“For us to have the fully human experience that we are meant to have, allow and expect your perspective to change, and it’s okay.” - LaRae Wright. [03:52]“You should question everything because it gives you a deeper understanding, commitment, and a deeper sense of knowing.” - LaRae Wright. [07:05]“Learn to be in a relationship, not just for physical reasons but for emotional, mental, and spiritual reasons.” - Scott Wright [43:04]Relevant links:Subscribe to the podcast: Apple PodcastProduced by NC Productions!

In this episode of The Observatory, Bennett Maxwell joins the show to discuss his personal path to self-discovery and the deeper meaning of joy and fulfillment beyond success. As the CEO of Franchise KI and founder of Dirty Dough, Bennett opens up about how his entrepreneurial journey became a catalyst for inner growth, teaching him to find peace and purpose even in life’s imperfections. He shares how serving others, exploring spiritual truths, and facing his own challenges led to greater clarity and alignment. Timestamps[02:09] Bennett Maxwell’s background information[06:50] Bennett’s entrepreneurial journey[13:02] What drove Bennett to the self-discovery journey[15:18] Finding joy and fulfilment despite life’s dirtiness[18:25] Finding joy in serving others[23:19] How entrepreneurship has shaped Bennett’s personal life[26:11] How Bennet started the journey of self-discovery[37:12] The thought storm[41:18] How the next 60 years look for Bennett[52:00] True alignment in life[59:36] Bennett’s addiction to nicotineNotable quotes:“Don’t wait for life to be perfect to find that joy and fulfillment.” - Bennett Maxwell [15:22]“Everything is of God or nothing is of God.” - Scott Wright [46:03]“True alignment is having no preference in life.” - Bennett Maxwell [52:00]“All suffering comes from desire. Desire is the root of all suffering.” - Bennett Maxwell [54:22]Relevant links:Bennett Maxwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bennett-maxwell-703717126/ Website: https://bennettmaxwell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bennettmaxwell35Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bennett.maxwell#Subscribe to the podcast: Apple PodcastProduced by NC Productions!

In this episode of The Observatory, Chad Nielsen joins the show to discuss how men can heal past wounds, deepen their understanding of masculinity, and embrace their true sexual power. Chad Nielsen is an intimacy coach who helps men heal and expand their relationship with their Masculinity & Sexuality. Hear Chad’s childhood trauma, his experience with drug addiction, his biggest turning point to getting better, the 12-step heling program and how his kid influenced his emotional growth. You will also learn the importance of acceptance, hope, and community in your healing journey, and how to create a safe space for others. Timestamps[03:29] Chad Nielsen’s background information[07:15] Chad’s memory of his father[11:05] Chad’s childhood trauma[17:03] The importance of hope in healing[22:47] Chad’s experience with drug addiction[27:22] The 12-step healing process[32:22] Chad’s biggest turning point in getting better[37:22] How Chad’s kid influenced his emotional growth[45:28] Chad's sponsor in the healing program that made a huge difference[52:43] How Chad uncovered the unhealed parts of sexuality, masculinity, and intimacy[56:34] Bill Wilson, the author of the book: Alcoholics Anonymous[01:01:25] Learning to hear the voice of intuition[01:04:25] The Hero’s Journey by Joseph Campbell[01:11:34] Building a safe space for others[01:19:56] The importance of community in your healing journey[01:26:11] The secret sexuality coaching for men[01:35:04] The crisis of identity as a manNotable quotes:“There is no place of being too broken to have a happy, joyous, and purposeful life.” - Chad Nielsen [14:24]“When you leave behind something that no longer serves you, it will be painful for a while.” - Chad Nielsen [01:02:27]“You have to jump into the unknown, and it's not going to be easy at first, but you have to do it anyway.” - Chad Nielsen [10:03:43]“You can never give someone anything until you have it for yourself.” - LaRae Wright [01:10:16]“We all have gifts and life experiences that give us a unique ability to help people.” - Chad Nielsen [01:37:25]Relevant links:https://www.instagram.com/safetoloveshowhttps://www.instagram.com/chadonlovehttps://www.instagram.com/aprilbenincosaSubscribe to the podcast: Apple PodcastProduced by NC Productions!

In this episode of The Observatory, Scott and LaRae share a profound reflection on time—what it means, how it shapes us, and why it might not be as linear as we think. Scott shares how his relationship with time has evolved, leading him to see it as circular rather than sequential. Together, Scott and LaRae explore how letting go of milestones and deadlines allows us to experience life more fully in the present moment. They reveal that everything unfolds when we’re ready, and when time ceases to matter, peace and presence take its place. Timestamps[02:13] How Scott’s relationship with time has changed over the years[03:50] The milestones that we give ourselves[07:00] Scott’s new perspective on time[14:36] Time is circular and not linear[20:00] Time doesn’t matter[23:44] Going back in time by sitting around a fire[36:45] The questions that will help you understand timeNotable quotes:“Time is more circular than it is linear.” - Scott Wright [14:36]“You are always on time if time doesn’t matter.” - LaRae Wright [18:26]“Everything comes when you’re ready. If you try to rush it before you’re ready, you will miss it.” - LaRae Wright [22:23]“Be in your season whenever that season is. There is no time, there is only now.” - Scott Wright [38:24]Relevant links:Subscribe to the podcast: Apple PodcastProduced by NC Productions!

In this episode of The Observatory, Scott and LaRae share powerful insights about breaking through cognitive rigidity and embracing authentic self-expression. LaRae opens up about meaningful conversations with her siblings that sparked deeper reflection, while exploring Dr. Todd Rose's research on how we perceive differences versus similarities in others. They also examine the striking statistic that only 10% of people create 80% of social media content, revealing how cognitive rigidity keeps most of us silent and conforming.Timestamp[07:09] The meaningful interactions that LaRae had with her siblings[08:32] Mel Robbins podcast episode with Dr. Todd Rose[11:00] The statistic of 10% of people sharing 80% of the content on Social Media[13:11] Cognitive rigidity[18:14] The power of authenticity[31:40] The importance of listening and trusting your intuition[35:50] A challenge for the weekNotable quotes:“We are more similar than we are different.” - LaRae Wright [09:44]“Authenticity is compelling because it brings us to our present selves all the time with one another.” - LaRae Wright [19:30]Relevant links:Subscribe to the podcast: Apple PodcastProduced by NC Productions!

In this revisited episode of The Observatory, Bryson Ninow joins the show to discuss his journey through addiction, divorce, and parenting. Bryson shares how he got into drug addiction, how he realized things should change, the recovery process, and how community service has propelled the recovery process. You will also learn how he got into spirituality, his experience with plant medicine, and how it changed how he shows up as a father. Timestamps[03:42] Bryson Ninow’s background information[10:13] How Bryson got into drug addiction[13:39] The day Bryson realized that things should change[14:45] The recovery process[17:50] The therapy that Bryson did with his mom[20:30] How community service propelled Bryson’s recovery process[24:36] How Bryson got into spirituality[27:13] Bryson’s experience with plant medicine[35:00] Growing your creativity[42:40] Scott’s experience with porn addiction[47:54] How spirituality has changed how Bryson shows up as a father[52:19] How Bryson’s journey is impacting the lives of his daughters[58:17] The programming and effects of modern music[01:05:35] Parenting using human design[01:14:09] The healing modalities that Bryson offersNotable quotes:“There is no big or small tea in trauma. We take in different traumas but store them the same way.” - Bryson Ninow [08:34]“Community can get you sober.” - Bryson Ninow [20:43]“The more comfortable we become expressing our creativity and having a community to support it, the bigger the creativity gets.” - Bryson Ninow [35:37]“Vulnerability is the key to happiness.” - LaRae Wright [01:19:42]“Our responsibility as parents is to keep our children’s channel clear by educating them.” - Bryson Ninow [01:07:00]Relevant links:Bryson Ninow Website: https://www.instagram.com/bnins/Subscribe to the podcast: Apple PodcastProduced by NC Productions!