It's finally here! My 100th episode. In honor of this momentous occasion, I invited my most favorite guest back on the show to celebrate with me. Join us for a conversation about what's been going on in our lives, what stands out to us most over the past 100 episodes, and changes that are coming to the show. We're talking about the enneagram, side hustles, parenting, social media, karaoke, and putting the seat down. You don't want miss it! Connect with Mackenzie:  Instagram: @theheartfelthippie // @the.enlightenme.podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/ (https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/) Website: http://www.heartfelthippie.com (www.heartfelthippie.com) Email: mackenzie.heartfelthippie@gmail.com

The Enlighten Me Podcast

100: All Good Things...

Our kids are getting exposure - wouldn’t we rather it be from us instead of other kids at school? This is true of so many things, and trafficking is one of them. Actually, our youth are the biggest targets and victims of trafficking globally. Equipping them with the knowledge of what trafficking looks like is one of the most powerful things we can do to help fight it! That’s what Rasha and Youth Underground are here to do. Last week, Rasha, the founder and CEO of the Youth Underground organization, came on the show to educate us about all things trafficking. We discussed the different forms that trafficking takes and who the victims and the perpetrators are. Something that I learned is that trafficking does not discriminate against age, gender, race, or geographical location - this is taking place all around the globe to all kinds of people! Now, Rasha is back to give us the information we need to fight this heinous crime. And guess what? The solution starts with us! The more we know, the more we can do to prevent human trafficking, and the more we can share with those around us on how to do the same. Rasha has some great advice on educating ourselves and the youth in our lives so that we can actually make a difference. Links from the show: Goods & Better Store: https://www.goodsandbetterstore.com?ref=mackenzieneally (https://www.goodsandbetterstore.com?ref=mackenzieneally) “A Man” by Oriana Fallaci https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/82895.A_Man (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/82895.A_Man) “One HundredYears of Solitude” by Gabriel Garcia Marquez: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/320.One_Hundred_Years_of_Solitude?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=oakl58zIr8&rank=1 (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/320.One_Hundred_Years_of_Solitude?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=oakl58zIr8&rank=1) “Across Boundaries” by Mamphela Ramphele: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1266550.Across_Boundaries?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=xsBjc6db6U&rank=4 (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1266550.Across_Boundaries?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=xsBjc6db6U&rank=4) “The Wisdom of Trauma” documentary: https://thewisdomoftrauma.com/ (https://thewisdomoftrauma.com/) “The Father” Film: https://www.amazon.com/Father-Anthony-Hopkins/dp/B08Z8BMXD3 (https://www.amazon.com/Father-Anthony-Hopkins/dp/B08Z8BMXD3) “At the Heart Of Gold” documentary: https://www.amazon.com/At-Heart-Gold-Gymnastics-Scandal/dp/B07R6YQCGZ (https://www.amazon.com/At-Heart-Gold-Gymnastics-Scandal/dp/B07R6YQCGZ) Focus Forward Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/focus-forward-the-rayanne-k-irving-podcast/id1535583404 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/focus-forward-the-rayanne-k-irving-podcast/id1535583404) Good Karma Oat Milk: https://goodkarmafoods.com/ (https://goodkarmafoods.com/) Connect with Mackenzie:  Instagram: @theheartfelthippie // @the.enlightenme.podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/ (https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/) Website: http://www.heartfelthippie.com (www.heartfelthippie.com) Email: mackenzie.heartfelthippie@gmail.com Connect with Rasha: Website: www.youth-underground.com Instagram: @youth.underground Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YouthUnderground.CH/ Twitter: @youthUNDG

99: Enlighten Me on Human Trafficking - Part 2

“Sunlight is the best disinfectant.” That’s why I’ll keep talking about modern day slavery until I’m blue in the face, as long as anyone will listen! If you’ve been a long time listener, you’ve probably heard me cover sex slavery before. But did you know that that’s just one of many forms of human trafficking? It’s the year 2021 and yet, the trafficking and sale of human beings is at an all-time high. It’s for this reason that it’s vital for us to continue the conversation! As our guest today will share, education is the best way to empower ourselves and those around us - especially the youth, who are the most common victims of trafficking. Rasha Hammad figured this out early on, and that’s what inspired her to start the organization called Youth Underground. Through this nonprofit, Rasha and her team are equipping tweens, teens and young adults with the information they need to prevent human trafficking in their communities and their own lives. Today in Part 1, Rasha is telling us what human trafficking looks like in all its ugly forms and who the victims and perpetrators of trafficking are. Next week in Part 2, we’ll talk more specifically about what Youth Underground does and how we can help to be part of the solution. Let’s keep this conversation going and keep letting in the sunlight! Links from the show: Shop Paper Culture: Connect with Mackenzie:  Instagram: @theheartfelthippie // @the.enlightenme.podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/ (https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/) Website: http://www.heartfelthippie.com (www.heartfelthippie.com) Email: mackenzie.heartfelthippie@gmail.com Connect with Rasha: Website: www.youth-underground.com Instagram: @youth.underground Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YouthUnderground.CH/ Twitter: @youthUNDG

98: Enlighten Me on Human Trafficking

Essential oils can replace a lot of things in your home, whether it’s cleaning products, cosmetic products, or even some medicinal products! But there’s a problem - not all oils are created equally. Essential oils are a somewhat unregulated industry, so it’s important to know what to look for in the oils that you’re buying. That’s what Christa - the mom, wife, and essential oil expert - is back to tell us about today! Last week Christa Pettit came on the show to tell us all about these little bottles of magic that have taken over her life. The best part is, they’re not magic! These babies are completely plant-powered, making them safe and effective for so many things in life. In that episode, Christa shared about the benefits of essential oils and all the different ways to use them. Today, she’s back to tell us even more! I really wanted Christa to help those of us who are beginners in Part 2. If you’ve ever gone oil shopping, you know that it can get overwhelming quickly because of how many different oils there are to choose from! Where does one begin?! Christa’s answering that (and more) today and also sharing how to pick brands that we can trust and how to handle the different price points. My favorite tip from today is to start slow - you don’t have to own all the oils right now! Instead, figure out one place you can start and don’t hesitate to dive in. Links from the show: NuLeaf Naturals - Use code HIPPIE20 for 20% off: https://nuleafnaturals.com/shop/ The Reference Guide App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ref-guide-for-essential-oils/id937793199 “How to Talk so Little Kids Will Listen” by Joanna Faber and Adele Faber: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29430725-how-to-talk-so-little-kids-will-listen (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29430725-how-to-talk-so-little-kids-will-listen) Organic Olivia Podcast: https://blog.organicolivia.com/podcast/ Find The Magic Podcast: https://www.findthemagic.co/ Osea Hyaluronic Sea Serum: https://oseamalibu.com/products/hyaluronic-sea-serum Connect with Mackenzie:  Instagram: @theheartfelthippie // @the.enlightenme.podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/ (https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/) Website: http://www.heartfelthippie.com/ (www.heartfelthippie.com) Email: mackenzie.heartfelthippie@gmail.com Connect with Christa: Instagram: @wizardingworldof_oils Email: christar93@gmail.com

97: Enlighten Me on Essential Oils - Part 2

Coming at you today with all sorts of OILY goodness! You’ve probably heard of essential oils before as their popularity continues to grow. But, these are much more than a wellness trend. Did you know essential oils have actually been around for centuries?? These plant-powered oils have a lot of uses and benefits, and I wanted to get someone on the show who could teach us more about them! Christa Pettit is a mom to two littles and is passionate about reducing toxins for her family. Essential oils have allowed her to do just that! This momma went from using Clorox wipes on the reg to switching out nearly ALL of her household products for oil-based ones. In Part 1 today, Christa is telling us about how she started using oils and all the different methods for their use. I really wanted to know if it’s possible that something as gentle and natural as OILS could really pack the cleaning power us mom’s need - turns out, they can! This is a big conversation and I had so many questions for her, but wait - this is just the first half! Next week Christa will be back for Part 2 to tell us all about where we can start - how do we know what oils to buy? How do we know what brands we can trust? What do we do with the oils that are sitting on our shelf? This is the guide to essential oils 101 that you’ve been waiting for, so make sure you come back for Part 2 next week! Links from the show: Shop Redeemed With Purpose (Use code MACKENZIEN for 15% off!): https://redeemedwithpurpose.com/ Thieves vs. Raw Chicken: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-y3im1fYf7A (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-y3im1fYf7A) Connect with Mackenzie:  Instagram: @theheartfelthippie // @the.enlightenme.podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/ (https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/) Website: http://www.heartfelthippie.com (www.heartfelthippie.com) Email: mackenzie.heartfelthippie@gmail.com Connect with Christa: Instagram: @wizardingworldof_oils Email: christar93@gmail.com

96: Enlighten Me on Essential Oils - Part 1

Continuing education - have you heard of it? This term typically refers to careers like nursing or teaching to make sure professionals can stay up-to-date with the latest methods involved in their line of work. But, in my opinion, it’s something we ALL need, no matter the type of work we do! It’s been proven time and time again that continuing to learn, especially from people who are unlike us, is good for us! Kate Neally is back this week to tell us more about the research she’s been doing to support that theory. Last week, my sis-in-law, Kate, FINALLY made her debut on the podcast. I say finally because we’d talked about getting her on the show for years once she’d done some of her doctoral research and could share with us about it. Well, her defense date is approaching later this month so it’s only fitting that we lined this up in honor of that milestone! We always have fun together, but this time was especially great to sit down and talk about some of our shared passions and what she’s been researching about them. In today’s episode, Kate is telling us about the rest of her findings and also what implications they hold for both educators and the general public. I think what she shares today is of particular importance for parents or those who work with youth, but we can all glean something from what she tells us about diversity, representation, and equality. She also has some really simple steps we can take (like watching an award-winning movie!) to work towards some of these things. Sign me up for an easy task like that any day! Links from the show: Shop Mighty Nest: https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=211428&u=2650427&m=25667 (https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=211428&u=2650427&m=25667) The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32075671-the-hate-u-give (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32075671-the-hate-u-give) Uncomfortable Conversations With a Black Man by Emmanuel Acho: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54130173-uncomfortable-conversations-with-a-black-man?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=6eQF8IE6QV&rank=1 (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54130173-uncomfortable-conversations-with-a-black-man?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=6eQF8IE6QV&rank=1) How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40265832-how-to-be-an-antiracist?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=HcXNo7kCYM&rank=1 (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40265832-how-to-be-an-antiracist?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=HcXNo7kCYM&rank=1) White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43708708-white-fragility?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=UJAscLcpiz&rank=1 (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43708708-white-fragility?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=UJAscLcpiz&rank=1) Nice White Parents Podcast: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/23/podcasts/nice-white-parents-serial.html (https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/23/podcasts/nice-white-parents-serial.html) No Tox Life: https://notoxlife.com/ (https://notoxlife.com/) Connect with Mackenzie:  Instagram: @theheartfelthippie // @the.enlightenme.podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/ (https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/) Website: http://www.heartfelthippie.com (www.heartfelthippie.com) Email: mackenzie.heartfelthippie@gmail.com Connect with Kate: Instagram: @kate.seibring.neally

95: Enlighten Me on Diversity in STEM - Part 2

Let me start by telling you that this show is many years in the making! Ever since I first met Kate, she and I have shared a passion for social justice, celebrating diversity, and all things education. Today, those three things are colliding as we talk about what Kate has been researching the past few years as she works on her doctorate, specifically looking at diversity in the STEM education fields. No, we’re not talking about stem cell research here… STEM actually refers to Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Even if those disciplines don’t appeal to you, Kate is teaching us today why representation matters in all of these fields. As a high school math teacher, Kate has been an educator for many years now. After an array of experiences at different kinds of schools, she has become passionate about figuring out why STEM teaching tends to be such a field dominated by white males. She actually chose this as her main research topic for her dissertation and is here today to smash some stereotypes and share with us what her research has shown her. In Part 1, you’ll hear us cover things like microagressions, representation, and stereotypes. As you can probably guess, these things have implications that go far beyond STEM - and that’s why research like this is so important! In Part 2 next week, we’re talking more about Kate’s research findings and how we, no matter what kind of field we work in, can learn from it. I’m so thankful for people like Kate who are doing the behind-the-desk research to solve issues of racial inequality, and I’m also pretty thankful that I get to call Kate a sister and have her on my show before she goes big as a published researcher! Shop Chews Happiness: https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1709783&u=2650427&m=101836&urllink=&afftrack= (https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1709783&u=2650427&m=101836&urllink=&afftrack=) Connect with Mackenzie:  Instagram: @theheartfelthippie // @the.enlightenme.podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/ (https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/) Website: http://www.heartfelthippie.com (www.heartfelthippie.com) Email: mackenzie.heartfelthippie@gmail.com Connect with Kate: Instagram: @kate.seibring.neally

94: Enlighten Me on Diversity in STEM - Part 1

Before you go any further, ima need you to do me a favor and let your guard down. Some of the contents of today’s show might lead you to feel the need to get defensive. Friend, you have nothing to prove here. The fact of the matter is that we’re all imperfect - we all have stereotypes, we all have biases, and we all make mistakes. In other words, we’re all human! So if you can remember that no one’s here to judge you or condemn you, you’re going to enjoy today’s episode a lot more! Back to enlighten us all is Jackie Ferguson, one of the co-founders of The Diversity Movement. Through her company, Jackie consults with business leaders to show them how true dedication to diversity, equity and inclusion (as opposed to a once-yearly online training required by HR) is good for business and good for us all! Jackie, who I consider an expert on all things DEI, came on the show last week to teach us what these terms really mean and how we can implement them in our own lives, no matter where we’re at in the working world. In today’s episode we’re continuing that conversation and she’s also teaching us some other important concepts to be aware of, like privilege and allyship. I love Jackie’s message that we can use the privileges we’ve been granted to help those around us - what a positive and inspiring perspective as opposed to proclaiming that we don’t have any privileges! So, here’s to letting our guard down and getting vulnerable together. Links from the show: Shop Pela Case: https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1216646&u=2650427&m=81303&urllink=&afftrack= (https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1216646&u=2650427&m=81303&urllink=&afftrack=) Harvard Implicit Association Test: https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/takeatest.html (https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/takeatest.html) The Mis-Education of the Negro by Carter G. Woodson: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/242936.The_Mis_Education_of_the_Negro (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/242936.The_Mis_Education_of_the_Negro) 13th Documentary: https://www.netflix.com/title/80091741 (https://www.netflix.com/title/80091741) Summersault Swimwear: https://www.summersalt.com/collections/swimwear (https://www.summersalt.com/collections/swimwear) Connect with Mackenzie:  Instagram: @theheartfelthippie // @the.enlightenme.podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/ (https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/) Website: http://www.heartfelthippie.com (www.heartfelthippie.com) Email: mackenzie.heartfelthippie@gmail.com Connect with Jackie: Website: https://thediversitymovement.com/ (https://thediversitymovement.com/) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejackieferguson (https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejackieferguson) Podcast: https://thediversitymovement.com/podcasts/ (https://thediversitymovement.com/podcasts/)

93: Enlighten Me on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion - Part 2

You know that feeling when you say a word so often that it starts to sound weird and you question what it even means? I think it’s fair to say that “diversity” has become one of those words for many businesses out there who are trying to stay relevant. This term is used so often that it’s easy to lose sight of what it even means! But, here’s an answer to that problem: The Diversity Movement. This consulting firm is working with businesses to achieve genuine diversity, equity and inclusion throughout their organizations so that they can become a safe space for all. Jackie Ferguson from The Diversity Movement is here today to remind us, or perhaps teach us for the first time, what diversity, equity and inclusion are and how they are distinctly different from one another. She’s also teaching us about other common terms we may hear, like unconscious bias, and how we can incorporate them into our lives whether we’re a CEO or a stay-at-home parent. I love Jackie’s message that this is about all of us. Diversity isn’t just about people of color or gender minorities - we actually all have diverse things about our personalities. And when we acknowledge and embrace those things, we all can thrive! So let’s not be like Blockbuster - let’s learn, let’s adapt, and let’s be open to change so that we don’t get left behind! Links from the show: Shop Babo Botanicals: https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=615496&u=2650427&m=53896 (https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=615496&u=2650427&m=53896) Inclusive Language Guide: https://thediversitymovement.com/say-this-not-that/ (https://thediversitymovement.com/say-this-not-that/) Connect with Mackenzie:  Instagram: @theheartfelthippie // @the.enlightenme.podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/ (https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/) Website: http://www.heartfelthippie.com (www.heartfelthippie.com) Email: mackenzie.heartfelthippie@gmail.com Connect with Jackie: Website: https://thediversitymovement.com/ (https://thediversitymovement.com/) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejackieferguson (https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejackieferguson) Podcast: https://thediversitymovement.com/podcasts/ (https://thediversitymovement.com/podcasts/)

92: Enlighten Me on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion - Part 1

The future of thrifting is here, and I couldn’t be more excited! Payton, Brigit, and the entire Fomeno team are innovative business women and I’m stoked to see where this venture takes them. But, they’re also visionaries for much more than their business - I’m inspired by these ladies to pursue my passions, even if it does challenge some societal norms! Last week Payton and Brigit came on the show to tell me more about their award-winning business and how they are making secondhand fashion more accessible for all. Their app is getting ready to launch this fall - consider me first on the list to download it! This week, they’re telling me more of the background story (like how they got the name you’re probably wondering about) and also how they stay motivated to keep hustling even while balancing busy school and athletic schedules. You came here for the thrifting info, but you’re going to leave feeling motivated to pursue your wildest dreams. This is women inspiring women (and men!) and I am allll about it. Make sure you follow along with the Fomeno journey so that you can thrift Fomeno soon AND so you can keep being encouraged! Links from the show: Reel Products: https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1396355&u=2650427&m=90534 (https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1396355&u=2650427&m=90534) “The Secret” by Rhonda Byrne: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52529.The_Secret (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52529.The_Secret) “Tattoos on the Heart” by Gregory Boyle: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7090193-tattoos-on-the-heart?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=ybb4GMfF9g&rank=1 (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7090193-tattoos-on-the-heart?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=ybb4GMfF9g&rank=1) “How I Built This” Podcast: https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510313/how-i-built-this (https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510313/how-i-built-this) Package Free Shop: https://packagefreeshop.com/ (https://packagefreeshop.com/) EARTHLY For The Planet: https://www.earthlyfortheplanet.com/ (https://www.earthlyfortheplanet.com/) Patagonia Worn Wear: https://wornwear.patagonia.com/ (https://wornwear.patagonia.com/) Connect with Mackenzie:  Instagram: @theheartfelthippie // @the.enlightenme.podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/ (https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/) Website: http://www.heartfelthippie.com (www.heartfelthippie.com) Email: mackenzie.heartfelthippie@gmail.com Connect with the Fomeno team: Website: https://thriftfomeno.com/ (https://thriftfomeno.com/) Instagram: @thriftfomeno Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fomeno (https://www.linkedin.com/company/fomeno)

91: Enlighten Me on Thrifting Made Simple - Part 2

Scholars, collegiate athletes, secondhand fashion experts, AND business owners…how do they do it all?! That’s the question you’ll be asking yourself after listening to Brigit Blote and Payton Ryz today. These USD Coyote’s didn’t expect to be running a brand new small business before even graduating with their undergraduate degrees, but thanks to a campus competition focusing on sustainability, their wildest entrepreneurial dreams are coming true! Brigit and Payton, two of the three co-founders for Fomeno, are here today to tell us their story and why a business like this one is necessary in our world of fast fashion and online shopping. If you’ve been listening to the show for a while now, you know that secondhand fashion is a passion of mine. That’s why my Uncle (a fellow Coyote) sent me an article on Fomeno when he heard about it through his alumni network. I was so excited to see that this all-star team of young women are coming up with a platform that makes thrifting simpler for us all and reached out to them right away! I often hear from people that they’re not “good” at thrifting like I am, or that they just don’t have the time to sift through secondhand clothes at the thrift shop. Well, Fomeno is the answer to a lot of these problems! Today Payton and Brigit are sharing about why they became interested in sustainability, how secondhand shopping can have a huge impact on our planet, and how a global prize has set them up to turn this idea into a real life business. Next week they’ll be back to share more about Fomeno (like how they got the name, which I know you’ve gotta be curious about!), so don’t forget to tune back in for Part 2 on Thursday! Shop Green Kid Crafts: https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2650427&m=40843&b=387394 (https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=2650427&m=40843&b=387394) Connect with Mackenzie:  Instagram: @theheartfelthippie // @the.enlightenme.podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/ (https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/) Website: http://www.heartfelthippie.com (www.heartfelthippie.com) Email: mackenzie.heartfelthippie@gmail.com Connect with the Fomeno team: Website: https://thriftfomeno.com/ (https://thriftfomeno.com/) Instagram: @thriftfomeno Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fomeno (https://www.linkedin.com/company/fomeno)

90: Enlighten Me on Thrifting Made Simple - Part 1

Vulnerable. Brave. Inspiring. Those are just a few words of many I could use to describe Raquel McCloud. Beginning with the day she was born, this woman was not dealt an easy hand of cards. But, just like the story line from so many of her favorite books and movies, she was able to rise above her circumstances and create a beautiful life out of the hard and the messy. And not only that, but she is using the things she has been through and many of the things she is still dealing with to help inspire and teach and encourage others. I’m so thankful that she is willing to share the things she is struggling with and working on so that we can all benefit from it! Last week, Raquel came on the show and shared Part 1 of her Lifetime Original story. That story included some childhood trauma and abuse, experiences with adoption and emancipation, and a romance that began in none other than Taco Bell. Today, we’re continuing that story and hearing about what her family dynamic looks like now. She’s also sharing on the stereotypes of birth moms, rights that birth moms should have, and how we can all be better advocates for such an underprivileged group of women. Adoption and birth stories aren’t the only thing Raquel likes to share about, though. She also gets super vulnerable online sharing about mental health struggles, body positivity and self love, parenting, marriage, and many other hard but beautiful things that we can all relate to! Over the course of her online growth, Raquel has had to endure a lot of critics. But as she would tell you, it’s worth it to reach those who she knows can relate to her struggles. Those who have felt isolated and alone for so long and didn’t know there was anyone else out there who understood how they felt. She has found purpose in her pain and in her journey and isn’t going to let a few online haters stop her from sharing it! Links from the show: Shop greenUP Box: https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1496207&u=2650427&m=95060&urllink=&afftrack=0 (https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1496207&u=2650427&m=95060&urllink=&afftrack=0) “100 Days of Sunlight” by Abbie Emmons: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/45431240-100-days-of-sunlight (https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/45431240-100-days-of-sunlight) “The Green Ember” by S.D. Smith: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23754884-the-green-ember?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=iCamXMW2YH&rank=1 (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23754884-the-green-ember?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=iCamXMW2YH&rank=1) “The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7445.The_Glass_Castle?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=8m5zn106BP&rank=1 (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7445.The_Glass_Castle?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=8m5zn106BP&rank=1) “Blue Miracle” movie: https://www.netflix.com/title/81298682 (https://www.netflix.com/title/81298682) “Secondhand Lions” movie: https://www.amazon.com/Secondhand-Lions-Michael-Caine/dp/B005KSW5PA (https://www.amazon.com/Secondhand-Lions-Michael-Caine/dp/B005KSW5PA) Connect with Mackenzie:  Instagram: @theheartfelthippie // @the.enlightenme.podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/ (https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/) Website: http://www.heartfelthippie.com (www.heartfelthippie.com) Email: mackenzie.heartfelthippie@gmail.com Connect with Raquel: Instagram: @mccloudlife Website: https://www.mccloudlife.com/ (https://www.mccloudlife.com/)

89: Enlighten Me on The Other Side of Adoption - Part 2

“Truly, this child saved my life.” Those are powerful words, especially when they’re coming from an unplanned teen pregnancy… Raquel often gets told that her story sounds like a Lifetime Original. After listening today, you’re going to understand why! Today, Raquel is getting super vulnerable and sharing about her childhood trauma, stories of abuse, and placing her first child up for adoption. We’re also hearing a few of the highlights, including the very romantic story of a Taco Bell boy! Raquel is no stranger to vulnerability. After coming out on the other side of so much trauma, she knew she had to share her story with the hope of helping others in vulnerable situations. What started with local high school ministry has turned into thousands of people, particularly women and fellow birth mothers, following along with her journey. Sometimes Raquel has to endure some online critics, but she pushes through the hate and keeps opening up so that we can learn from her experiences. Sometimes, she also has to do multiple podcast interviews when her interviewer loses the audio files! For that, she is truly a champion in my book! Next week Raquel will be back to talk more about the story of her relationship with her birth daughter, what her family looks like now, and how we can move forward after hearing her story and be better advocates for the vulnerable people around us. Something that Raquel shared with me in this interview is how birth moms can often be vilified in stories of adoption. I hope this episode challenges your perspective (and maybe some stereotypes you didn’t even know you had) and reminds you to listen to untold stories like this one. Shop Simply Straws: https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1583072&u=2650427&m=99518&urllink=&afftrack=0 (https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1583072&u=2650427&m=99518&urllink=&afftrack=0) Connect with Mackenzie:  Instagram & Facebook: @theheartfelthippie Website: www.heartfelthippie.com Email: mackenzie.heartfelthippie@gmail.com Connect with Raquel: Instagram: @mccloudlife Website: https://www.mccloudlife.com/

88: Enlighten Me on The Other Side of Adoption - Part 1

In light of the Olympic Games starting next month and the Paralympics in August, I’ve decided to postpone my regular podcast schedule and instead take the time to share a previously aired episode. This interview was from Episode 2 of the podcast airing in May of 2018 - an oldie but a goodie! So much of this interview is still relevant today and, while we still have a long ways to go, it’s fun to look back and see how far we’ve come. Please take the time to listen with an open mind and remember to tune into the Paralympic Games next month! You can view the show notes for the original episode at this link: https://theheartfelthippie.wordpress.com/episode-notes/episode-2-disability/ Connect with Mackenzie:  Instagram & Facebook: @theheartfelthippie Website: www.heartfelthippie.com Email: mackenzie.heartfelthippie@gmail.com

Recast: Disability and the Paralympics

Pause and consider. Those are two words that really stuck with me after speaking with Dr. Marissa. Pause and consider the impact that your words may have. Pause and consider how the experiences of others may be different than your own. Pause and consider that someone’s pain may be greater than yours. What would the world look like if we paused and considered these things more? Dr. Marissa is back this week with more advice and tools for us on how we can reach solidarity and end hate of all kinds! Last week in Part 1, she shed light on some really devastating types of discrimination that are happening in our country. This week, we’re continuing that conversation but she’s also showing us the ways that we need to work on ourselves first before we can fix any of the problems we see in society. Once again, you’re going to walk away inspired by this motivational speaker! We’re also chatting in this episode about some books and movies that Dr. Marissa is loving, and I finally hear the story about how she was named “The Asian Oprah.” You’re not going to want to leave today without checking out all the goodies she has available online, including some freebies she’s throwing in exclusively for podcast listeners! Connect with her online and listen in to learn more. Links from the show: PlushBeds: https://www.plushbeds.com/?sscid=61k5_mmg8i (https://www.plushbeds.com/?sscid=61k5_mmg8i) A Class Divided: https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/film/class-divided/ (https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/film/class-divided/) 8 Ways to Happiness by Dr. Marissa Pei: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40519864-8-ways-to-happiness (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40519864-8-ways-to-happiness) The Four Agreements by Miguel Ruiz: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6596.The_Four_Agreements (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6596.The_Four_Agreements) 13th Documentary: https://www.netflix.com/title/80091741 (https://www.netflix.com/title/80091741) The United States vs. Billie Holiday: https://www.hulu.com/movie/the-united-states-vs-billie-holiday-6f7be3b0-69c5-49ab-8472-2b5b1dabcfe8 (https://www.hulu.com/movie/the-united-states-vs-billie-holiday-6f7be3b0-69c5-49ab-8472-2b5b1dabcfe8) The Social Dilemma: https://www.netflix.com/title/81254224 (https://www.netflix.com/title/81254224) 21 Day Fast from Complaining: https://www.drmarissa.life/21dayfastfromcomplaining Connect with Mackenzie: Instagram: @theheartfelthippie // @the.enlightenme.podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/ (https://www.facebook.com/theheartfelthippie/) Website: http://www.heartfelthippie.com (www.heartfelthippie.com) Email: mackenzie.heartfelthippie@gmail.com Connect with Dr. Marissa: Website: www.drmarissa.life Book (Mention The Enlighten Me Podcast for some free goodies!): https://www.drmarissa.life/shop Instagram: @docbalance YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2LLjk_JiFCQRtzoxnUnkew

86: Enlighten Me on Ending Asian Hate - Part 2

Learn with me as I get educated on topics that matter. From talking about social justice issues to environmental concerns, my hope is to learn about conscious living in a sustainable way through weekly interviews with cool people who I consider experts on these topics. The Enlighten Me podcast is a fun way to learn about relevant issues that affect each and every one of us, and to do so in a way that is entertaining and practical. If you're wondering how you can make an impact on our world in every day ways, this show is for you.

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The Enlighten Me Podcast

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