エピソード

  • Consciously Cannabis - Using Cannabis to Balance Business, Community, and Personal Wellness with Christina Betancourt Johnson
    2024/11/20
    Christina's journey with cannabis is anything but ordinary. Growing up in Washington DC and initially shying away from the plant due to severe reactions, she never imagined it would play a pivotal role in her life. Yet, as she stepped into the cannabis business world, she rediscovered cannabis through a lens of wellness and mindfulness. Together, we unravel how understanding dosages and product sources transformed her perspective and how staying true to one's mission can guide intentional and meaningful cannabis use. The ever-evolving concept of wellness takes center stage as we explore its intersection with the cannabis industry. Drawing from my experiences with Conscious Capitalism and the founding of Rooted Therapeutics, we reflect on how business can indeed be a force for good. We also spotlight the efforts of Standard Wellness in Maryland, as we discuss the importance of empathy, open-minded parenting, and how personal definitions of wellness can shift over time amidst commercial pitfalls. Cannabis is more than just a plant; it's a tool for creativity and stress relief, especially within Black and Latino communities facing historic challenges. Christina and I delve into how changing the narrative can promote participation and self-expression in these communities. We also tackle leadership challenges, particularly the balancing act between personal wellness and organizational demands. From making tough decisions to maintaining community connections, we highlight the necessity of intentional wellness efforts, supportive networks, and the ongoing journey of achieving balance in a demanding world. Guest Bio: Christina Betancourt Johnson is the founder and chief executive officer of Standard Wellness Maryland (SWM), the first African American and Latina majority-owned vertically integrated cannabis company in the United States, and the first vertically integrated social equity licensee to launch in Maryland. Christina brings more than 15 years of executive leadership to the cannabis industry and holds leadership roles on the U.S. Cannabis Council and the National Hispanic Cannabis Council’s Board of Directors. In Maryland, she serves as Vice Chair of The Maryland Wholesale Cannabis Trade Association (CANMD) and was recently appointed by Governor Wes Moore to the Advisory Board on Medical and Adult-Use Cannabis. Christina is passionate about developing young women and is committed to identifying strategies for wealth-building and wellness in Black and Brown communities. https://www.standardwellness.com/maryland https://theforestdispensary.com/baltimore-md Thanks for listening to another episode. Follow, review, and share to help Consciously Clueless grow! Connect with me: https://www.consciouslycarly.com/ Join the Consciously Clueless community on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/consciouslycarly Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consciously.carly/ Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/consciously.carly.blog Music by Matthew Baxley
    続きを読む 一部表示
    48 分
  • Activism Unleashed: The Power of Youth Voices in the Fight for Collective Liberation with Cami & Onyx
    2024/11/13
    Could young activists hold the key to a more liberated world? Join us on Consciously Clueless as we chat with Cami and Onyx from the Raven Corps, a nonprofit that's redefining activism by integrating veganism with social and environmental justice. From their beginnings as a high school animal rights club, they've grown into a force that tackles systemic issues like capitalism, consumption, and commodification. Discover the unique insights young minds bring to these complex problems, and how their fresh perspectives are challenging societal norms and inspiring change. Cami and Onyx open up about their personal journeys toward veganism, exploring how privilege and societal expectations can shape our choices. They discuss the importance of building inclusive spaces that empower youth activists and recognize the intersections of their identities. Through powerful campaigns like "Operation Mind Over Milk" and "Operation 13," the Raven Corps is not only advocating for plant-based milk in schools but also shining a light on the exploitative practices in the animal agriculture industry. These initiatives are a testament to the power of community-driven activism that seeks both immediate and long-term solutions. As we wrap up, we tackle the often-unspoken challenges of activism: burnout and mental health. Our guests candidly share their struggles and the coping strategies that have helped them maintain balance. Whether it's overcoming addiction or finding solace in animal sanctuaries, they highlight the crucial role of community support in sustaining their commitment to activism. If you're keen to understand the dynamic world of youth activism or are searching for inspiration to drive change in your community, this episode promises valuable insights and encouragement. Guest Bios: Cami (they/them) is the former Youth Director and Campaign Coordinator at The Raven Corps. They've been involved with the organization since 2018 and are a passionate advocate for total liberation. Onyx Helper is a youth collective liberation activist and Conspirator at The Raven Corps. They focus a lot on animal liberation campaigns as well as various other liberation struggles, such as the fight for Palestinian liberation. Onyx studies philosophy at SUNY Cortland, but you can also probably see them at a local NYC fur protest. Thanks for listening to another episode. Follow, review, and share to help Consciously Clueless grow! Connect with me: https://www.consciouslycarly.com/ Join the Consciously Clueless community on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/consciouslycarly Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consciously.carly/ Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/consciously.carly.blog Music by Matthew Baxley
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間 5 分
  • Hurricane Helene: A Journey Through Climate Justice, Mutual Aid, and Speciesism with Calen Otto
    2024/10/30
    Join me for a not-so-solo episode as Calen Otto helps us explore the profound impacts of Hurricane Helene on North Carolina. Calen shares their personal experiences during the hurricane and reads a poignant essay weaving themes of climate change, speciesism, and social justice. Calen shared this essay on their podcast and I instantly knew Consciously Clueless listeners needed to hear! Calen sheds light on the work being done by organizations like Beloved Asheville and Ziggy's Refuge, emphasizing the crucial role of local mutual aid organizations in disaster relief. They challenge us all to reflect on their connections to these global issues and consider how they can contribute to ongoing recovery efforts. As Calen recounts community resilience in the face of disaster, we question the roles of various societal players in perpetuating environmental harm and stress the interconnectedness of all living beings. In their powerful essay, Calen shares on the importance of personal and systemic actions for sustainability, urging us to push for change even when the path seems daunting. We wrap up with practical resources and ways for listeners to take action, from personal lifestyle changes to supporting initiatives like A Well-Fed World. Listen in for a conversation that inspires reflection and action in the pursuit of a sustainable future. Guest Bio: Calen Ann Otto is a queer, anti-speciesist travel blogger who explores the big wide world on a very small budget. After completing a solo trip across the USA at the age of 19 with only $300 and a bike, Calen discovered that there are so many alternative ways to travel that cost less. Inspired by their love of meeting strangers and sharing their incredible stories, Calen created the Unruly Travel blog. There they share photos, videos, articles, and podcast episodes from their unique travels in hopes of inspiring others to get out and grow. Calen has been to 5 continents, 35 states, 20 National Parks, and more than 30 countries as a vegan and is passionate about doing the least amount of harm wherever they go. They wrote and published 'The Art Of Unruly Travel On A Budget' travel guidebook to make travel more accessible to all. Helpful Links from Calen: Hurricane Helene Essay: wanderwoman.online/index.php/2024/…north-carolina/ Donate to mutual aid orgs in WNC: preview.mailerlite.io/preview/757985…69466110330501 Episode #24 on Hurricane Florence: Unrulytravel-podcast – Modern-love-story-pig-rescue-hurricane-florence-north-carolina Thanks for listening to another episode. Follow, review, and share to help Consciously Clueless grow! Connect with me: https://www.consciouslycarly.com/ Join the Consciously Clueless community on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/consciouslycarly Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consciously.carly/ Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/consciously.carly.blog Music by Matthew Baxley
    続きを読む 一部表示
    34 分
  • Vegan Soul Food: Connecting Cultural Identity, Ethical Eating, and Spirituality with Christopher Carter
    2024/10/23
    What if embracing veganism could also be an act of solidarity with marginalized communities? In this episode, Dr. Christopher Carter guides us through the multifaceted intersections of veganism, race, and spirituality. Christopher shares a deeply personal narrative that connects their transformative path to veganism with their family's historical struggles, drawing powerful parallels between the exploitation of migrant farm workers today and the harsh realities of the Jim Crow South. As we explore these connections, we challenge listeners to rethink ethical eating as a profound statement of unity and resistance against systemic injustices. We further untangle the complex threads linking cultural identity and dietary choices, shedding light on how historical diets have been manipulated to signify sophistication and power. Through engaging stories of resilience and adaptability, we discover the rich tapestry of vegan soul food and its ability to nourish both body and heritage. Inspired by the work of earlier trailblazers, our conversation emphasizes that aligning one's cultural identity with vegan values doesn't mean losing touch with one's roots but rather finding innovative ways to celebrate them. The episode also takes a deep dive into the radical compassion inherent in Christianity, questioning if teachings can inspire a modern spiritual path of inclusivity and justice. By drawing on the legacies of Cesar Chavez and Martin Luther King, we discuss how religions can be reclaimed from oppressive narratives to create communities grounded in empathy and understanding. This discussion invites listeners to embrace personal growth, self-care, and community engagement, all while reflecting on the interconnectedness of life through the lens of radical veganism. Guest Bio: Rev. Dr. Christopher Carter’s teaching, research, and activist interests are in Black, Womanist, and Environmental ethics, with a particular focus on race, food, and nonhuman animals. He is the co-creator of Racial Resilience, an anti-racism and anti-bias program that utilizes the combined insights of contemplative practices and critical race theories. His academic publications include “Blood in the Soil: The Racial, Racist, and Religious Dimensions of Environmentalism” in The Bloomsbury Handbook on Religion and Nature (Bloomsbury, 2018), The Spirit of Soul Food (University of Illinois Press, December 2021), and “Race, Animals, and a New Vision of the Beloved Community” in Animals and Religion (Routledge, 2024). Currently, he is an Associate Professor of Theology, Race, and Ecology at the Methodist Theological School of Ohio, a Faith in Food Fellow at Farm Forward, and lead pastor of The Loft at Westwood UMC, in Westwood California. Thanks for listening to another episode. Follow, review, and share to help Consciously Clueless grow! Connect with me: https://www.consciouslycarly.com/ Join the Consciously Clueless community on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/consciouslycarly Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consciously.carly/ Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/consciously.carly.blog Music by Matthew Baxley
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間 1 分
  • Consciously Cannabis - Redefining Cannabis: From Misconceptions to Mindfulness with Lulu Tsui
    2024/10/16
    Growing up in Eugene, Oregon, Lulu Tsui experienced a unique perspective on cannabis, where it was as common as backyard barbecues. This early exposure shaped her understanding of how cannabis perceptions could differ vastly from mainstream narratives. Lulu's journey led her to co-found On the Revel in 2016, a series of events challenging the status quo of New York City's cannabis industry. Her mission? To foster authentic connections and create a community where diversity and genuine conversation flourish beyond the typical trade show atmosphere. In this episode, host Carly Puch and Lulu dive into a fascinating conversation, exploring personal anecdotes and professional insights that reveal how early exposure and family acceptance can influence one's path in the cannabis sector. Lulu shares invaluable lessons learned along the way, including how humor and strategic media campaigns like "I'm High Right Now" are crucial in reducing stigma and shifting public attitudes toward cannabis. Carly and Lulu explore the importance of building diverse teams and prioritizing self-care in the dynamic field of cannabis. As we move through themes of personal growth, authenticity, and the importance of self-governance, Lulu reflects on how these principles guide her actions and decisions in both business and life. This episode offers juicy insights for anyone interested in the transformative potential of the cannabis industry or who just wants to level up in life, Lulu will inspire. Guest Bio: Lulu Tsui is the co-founder and chief experience officer at On The Revel, the parent company for a collection of curated educational and networking experiences that democratize information for those interested in the regulated cannabis industry. On The Revel events, known as Revelry, are conferences aimed at fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and flourishing cannabis sector. These regular in-person events along with On The Revel’s Dope People online membership community, podcast, and virtual experiences, celebrate the diverse people that have been and are currently building the cannabis industry in the aim of developing its gold standard, with opportunities for all. Lulu is seasoned in Experience Design (XD) and User Experience (UX) with 15+ years of experience leading research, strategy, and design for enterprise software, Software as a Service (SaaS), mobile, and touchscreen technologies. Lulu applies her vast XD and UX expertise across verticals in the cannabis industry while championing ways to normalize and destigmatize cannabis and entheogens. Lulu has designed entire enterprise systems and introduced cross-platform mission-critical apps for clients Bloomberg LP, Mastercard, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, John Hopkins University, Roche, Thermo Fisher, Pearson, and McGraw-Hill. Lulu designed a software platform with Root Sciences aimed at supporting and standardizing operations and data for cannabis/hemp extraction, distillation, and post-processing. She also served as the principal experience designer for Chill, a cannabis e-commerce order and delivery platform. Along with On The Revel, Lulu serves as President of the Cannabis Media Council, an organization dedicated to destigmatizing and normalizing cannabis using the power of traditional media, and User Experience and Research Advisor at Oakland Hyphae, founders of the Oakland Psychedelic Conference and the Psilocybin Cup. https://ontherevel.com https://www.revelryny.com Thanks for listening to another episode. Follow, review, and share to help Consciously Clueless grow! Connect with me: https://www.consciouslycarly.com/ Join the Consciously Clueless community on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/consciouslycarly Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consciously.carly/ Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/consciously.carly.blog Music by Matthew Baxley
    続きを読む 一部表示
    51 分
  • Veganism as a Lifestyle: Compassion, Cooking, and Connection with Kim Sujovolsky
    2024/10/09
    What happens when compassionate living meets culinary creativity? Join me in this episode as we sit down with the visionary behind Kim Sujovolsky, Brownble, an online sanctuary for vegan enthusiasts, to hear her inspiring journey from discovering veganism to building a community centered on ethical lifestyle choices. Together, we reflect on the profound connections between personal well-being, planetary health, and mindful eating. Hear firsthand how our guest transformed their passion for plant-based living into a thriving business, offering resources and cooking classes that emphasize veganism as a lifestyle beyond just food. Navigating the world of advocacy and communication, we tackle the diverse ways individuals connect with activism, whether through direct confrontation or gentle persuasion. Our conversation touches on the impact of social media in shaping the vegan movement's messaging and the importance of tailoring content to resonate with varied emotional states and experiences. As advocates, we share personal stories of transitioning to veganism driven by emotional sensitivity, exploring the pivotal role of impactful media and a supportive community in fostering lasting change. Discover practical tips for those new to veganism, with insights into mindful cooking practices and kitchen organization to reduce stress and inspire creativity. We also delve into the importance of self-care amidst life's chaos, with personal anecdotes about balancing education, work, and mental health through movement and mindfulness. By embracing authenticity and effective communication, we celebrate the joy of finding kindred spirits in the vegan community. Our discussion underscores the importance of citing sources in conversations to enhance credibility, making each discussion an opportunity for growth and understanding. AND Kim was kind enough to grant listeners a 20% off FOREVER discount code for her online courses. Use code CARLY24 at Brownble. Guest Bio: Kim is a certified plant-based cook and the co-founder of Brownble, an online hub, and online vegan cooking school that has been dedicated to helping people go vegan or make more plant-based choices for over 9 years. She's also the host of the More Plants podcast where she shares resources, gives people support on their vegan journeys, and interviews inspiring guests on the topics of vegan cooking, eating, lifestyle, the psychology of eating, and more. All of Brownble's work is done through an approach that meets people where they are, allowing for flexibility and helping people have a mindful and attuned relationship with food. Kim is also currently getting her degree in psychology, hopefully, to help support people in positive habit changes that align with their values while promoting a positive relationship to food and body. Kim lives in Madrid, Spain with her husband and business partner and their two rescue dogs, and where vegan food is always cooking. Thanks for listening to another episode. Follow, review, and share to help Consciously Clueless grow! Connect with me: https://www.consciouslycarly.com/ Join the Consciously Clueless community on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/consciouslycarly Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consciously.carly/ Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/consciously.carly.blog Music by Matthew Baxley
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間 12 分
  • Interviews from VegFest 2024: The State Fair for Vegans
    2024/10/02
    Have you ever wondered what it's like to feast freely at the ultimate vegan celebration? Join me, Carly, as I take you through the unforgettable experience of VegFest 2024 in Minnesota! Think of it as the "State Fair" for vegan food lovers, filled with heartwarming connections and inspiring stories. Listen in as festival-goers share their joy and sense of community at this annual event. Be ready to feel motivated by initiatives pushing for plant-based lunches in public schools and get a behind-the-scenes look at the tremendous effort from Compassionate Action for Animals that made this festival a reality. In another captivating chapter, we delve into the personal journeys of attendees at Minneapolis VegFest, revealing the myriad reasons why people choose a plant-based lifestyle. From health transformations and ethical awakenings to the desire to prevent animal suffering, each story is a testament to the diverse motivations behind veganism. Hear from voices who share their life-changing decisions and the impact on their families. From long-term vegans to newcomers, this episode showcases a spectrum of experiences highlighting the compassionate and sustainable benefits of plant-based living. Shout out to everyone who took the time to chat with me at VegFest, it was an incredible day. I can't wait for VegFest 2025! Thanks for listening to another episode. Follow, review, and share to help Consciously Clueless grow! Connect with me: https://www.consciouslycarly.com/ Join the Consciously Clueless community on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/consciouslycarly Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consciously.carly/ Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/consciously.carly.blog Music by Matthew Baxley
    続きを読む 一部表示
    17 分
  • Understanding Carnism: The Hidden Belief System Shaping Our Food Choices with Dr. Melanie Joy
    2024/09/25
    A health scare changed everything for our special guest Dr. Melanie Joy, leading her from a routine, omnivorous life to a transformative vegan journey. In this episode, Melanie shares her powerful story, detailing how a wake-up call for personal health evolved into a deep commitment to veganism and advocacy. We explore the intricate link between individual well-being and the planet's health, revealing how conscious dietary choices can create ripples of positive change. We shine a light on the hidden belief system known as carnism, which conditions us to view certain animals as edible while disconnecting from our natural empathy towards them. Delving into Melanie's influential book, "Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows," we unpack the psychological defense mechanisms that allow compassionate individuals to participate in harmful practices. This chapter serves as a revealing look at societal norms and the cognitive dissonance that underpins our relationships with animals. Moving beyond dietary choices, we discuss the essential role of relational literacy and effective communication in fostering social change. Melanie's academic journey into psychology highlights the importance of understanding the mind to drive lasting behavioral transformations. We also emphasize the need for self-care and community building, offering practical tools and resources to help advocates avoid burnout and maintain emotional well-being. Join us for an eye-opening conversation that blends personal narratives with deep psychological insights, aiming to inspire a more compassionate and mindful world. Dr. Melanie Joy has long been a personal inspiration in my vegan journey, chatting with her was inspirational and an honor. Guest Bio: Dr. Melanie Joy is an award-winning psychologist and educator and she’s the author of seven books, including the bestselling Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows; Beyond Beliefs, and How To End Injustice Everywhere. Her work has been featured in major media outlets around the world, and she has received a number of awards, including the Ahimsa Award – previously given to the Dalai Lama and Nelson Mandela – for her work on global nonviolence. Melanie has given talks and trainings in over 50 countries, and she is also the founding president of the international NGO Beyond Carnism. You can learn more about her work at carnism.org. Thanks for listening to another episode. Follow, review, and share to help Consciously Clueless grow! Connect with me: https://www.consciouslycarly.com/ Join the Consciously Clueless community on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/consciouslycarly Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consciously.carly/ Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/consciously.carly.blog Music by Matthew Baxley
    続きを読む 一部表示
    54 分