I was joined by the incredible activist, Kaia Allen-Bevan, to discuss the deeply interconnected nature of social justice, education, and wellness. Kaia, who identifies first and foremost as an activist specialising in racial justice and racial equity, shared her insights on how systems of oppression are perpetuated and how we can work towards collective liberation.
We delve into the quietest Black History Month in five years , why activism and social justice cease to be "trendy" and the essential nature of intersectionality when discussing global struggles like those in Congo, Sudan, and Palestine. Kaia powerfully unpacks the colonial structures embedded in the education system , and we discuss how wellness has been co-opted by capitalism and white supremacy6666. Crucially, Kaia highlights the importance of radical hope and community action as tools for genuine resistance against systems designed to foster despair and isolation.
🔑 Key Takeaways
Social Justice is Interconnected: Global struggles for liberation, such as those in Congo, Sudan, and Palestine, are deeply connected by the actions of bigger powers and the global north exploiting the global south.
Education is Not Neutral: Education systems were set up to manufacture compliant workers and uphold a social hierarchy, not necessarily to inspire dreams or critical thinking.
Wellness Must Be Decolonised: Wellness defined by indulgence, consumption, and white, thin bodies is merely capitalism.
Hope is an Act of Resistance: The empire actively tries to shut down hope to make people susceptible to propaganda and opt out of change.
Confronting Fragility is Essential: Progress in social justice requires confronting personal fragility—be it white fragility or discomfort—by sitting with the resulting emotions.
📌 Episode Highlights
03:51 The reason Black History Month felt quietest in five years is because it is "no longer trendy" after the global phenomenon of the BLM movement plateaued.
04:36 Kaia explains how the disconnection from the ongoing picture of revolution and the lack of immediate gratification caused engagement with the movement to drop.
07:44 Discussing the interconnectedness of global struggles: the liberation of Congo and Sudan is linked to the liberation of Palestine.
23:25 Kaia's definition of wellbeing: not looking away from the world's injustices, but being well enough to show up to the fullest and take informed action.
37:05 Challenging the "higher self" or "best version of yourself" narrative, which is often a cog in the wheel of capitalism that creates a sense of inadequacy.
44:59 Kaia defines and discusses the necessity of confronting white fragility to navigate conversations about racial injustice.
👤 About the Guest: Kaia Allen-Bevan
Kaia Allen-Bevan is an activist specialising in racial justice and racial equity, working with schools, youth, and through diversity and inclusion consultancy. She is also a trustee and creative.
Instagram: @kaia.ab
🔗 Episode Links: Resources Mentioned
Fernando Deveras: Educator and advocate
Kimberlé Crenshaw: Coined the term "intersectionality" in 1989
audre Lorde: Writer, activist, and quoted on the importance of self-care and practices as resistance
맺 End Credits
Connect with Megan:
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (http://lucylucraft.co.uk )
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!
Would you like me to find out more about any of the resources or people mentioned in the show notes?
I was truly grateful to welcome Charles Myssy, founder of the Shadow Mastery Institute and a spiritual satirist, to the show. We delved into his profound work on shadow integration, his use of the trickster archetype to challenge the spiritual ego, and his recent shift toward discussing urgent global issues. Charles, who is based in Australia and has Lebanese heritage, shared his journey of reclaiming his cultural identity, confronting internalised shame, and understanding the intergenerational trauma passed down through his family, which survived genocide and civil war.
Our conversation evolved into a crucial discussion about spiritual bypassing, the activation of the warrior archetype in response to collective trauma, and the imperative for the wellness community to move from personal healing to collective spiritual revolution.
Key Takeaways:
The Role of the Trickster: Spiritual satire, or the trickster archetype, is essential for challenging an inflated ego.
Healing Intergenerational Trauma: Individual healing can involve reclaiming suppressed parts of our identity.
Challenging Spiritual Bypassing: The belief that collective problems can be solved purely through 'praying for peace' and 'love and light' is often a form of spiritual bypassing and delusion.
The Future of Wellness: A mature, authentic, and potent era of wellness and spirituality will reject the age of gurus.
Episode Highlights:
01:45: Charles introduces his work, including running shadow integration retreats, founding the Shadow Mastery Institute, and his 'Shadow Alchemy' workshop tour around Australia.
03:19: Discussion on the trickster archetype's function to laugh at ourselves, keep the ego grounded, and unveil shadowy attachments within the spiritual community.
09:47: Charles shares his personal journey of confronting the internalized shame of his Lebanese heritage and reclaiming his identity, linking this to understanding intergenerational trauma and historical conflicts
14:55: Discussion on the intergenerational trauma loop in the Middle East and how Charles had to deprogram prejudice towards different groups to observe the situation with clarity.
20:53: The shift in focus and the activation of the warrior archetype (discernment and protection) in response to global events, and the necessity to challenge the 'love and light bubble'.
27:54: Exploring what is missing in the spiritual space and the necessary leap from personal healing to a collective spiritual revolution, incorporating archetypes like the Warrior and Magician.
35:05: Charles expresses his strong view against the idea of 'praying away' collective problems and the necessity of confrontation, especially when faced with injustice.
About the Guest:
Charles Myssy is the founder of the Shadow Mastery Institute and a teacher/mentor focusing on shadow integration, inner work, and healing. He is also known for his spiritual satire.
Instagram: @charlesmyssy
Connect with Megan:
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (http://lucylucraft.co.uk )
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!
In this deeply moving episode, I have the honour of speaking with Antoine, a survivor of the 1948 Nakba, and his daughter, Yasmine. Recording on the anniversary of October 7th, we contextualise the current genocide in Gaza not as an isolated event, but as the continuation of an incremental process of erasure that has unfolded over the last 77 years.
Antoine shares his personal story of being exiled from his home in Haifa at age seven , and his father’s determination for his children to become "citizens of the world, not refugees". Yasmin speaks to the generational differences in activism, the profound impact of social media in shifting global consciousness, and how becoming a mother has fuelled her fierce advocacy for Palestine.
This conversation is a powerful exploration of Palestinian history, identity, resilience, and the unwavering hope for a free and democratic future for all.
Key Takeaways
Episode Highlights
About the Guest
This episode features Antoine, a Nakba survivor and retired architect, and his daughter Yasmin, a passionate advocate and activist for Palestine.
Antoine's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/antoineraffoul/?hl=en
Yasmin's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sayfitnesspt
Episode Links
Connect with Megan:
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (lucylucraft.co.uk).
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!
In this episode, I speak with "Marnie" (pseudonym for security reasons) who recently returned from volunteering in the West Bank with the International Solidarity Movement (ISM).
Marnie shares her firsthand account of providing protective presence and solidarity to Palestinian families in the Jordan Valley. She describes the daily realities of the occupation, from the psychological impact of checkpoints and a constant military presence to the sharp increase in settler violence since October 7th 2023.
We explore the incredible steadfastness ("Sumud") and community resilience of Palestinians, the complexities of non-violent resistance, and the crucial role of international solidarity in bearing witness and supporting the struggle for liberation.
Key Takeaways:
Life in the West Bank is characterised by a constant state of hyper-vigilance due to the omnipresent threat of settler and military violence, which functions as a form of psychological warfare.
Since October 7th, Israel has used the focus on Gaza as a distraction to significantly increase violence, harassment, home demolitions, and land displacement in the West Bank.
Palestinian resistance is deeply rooted in steadfastness (SUmud) and an incredible sense of community and mutual aid, where survival and liberation are intrinsically linked.
The role of international activists is not to lead or instruct, but to be Palestinian-led, offering solidarity, documenting events, and providing a protective presence that may help deter attacks.
Episode Highlights:
05:29: Marnie describes her initial experiences of the occupation, witnessing militarised checkpoints, the separation wall, and a surreal encounter with a heavily armed young soldier on a public bus.
10:18: An explanation of how Israel is using Gaza as a 'distraction' to intensify attacks, annex land, and displace communities in the West Bank by establishing settlements, outposts, and closed military zones.
24:08: Marnie discusses the concept of Palestinian steadfastness, or Samud, and the powerful resilience and community spirit she witnessed, which stands in stark contrast to the constant psychological pressure of the occupation.
33:40: Marnie explains ISM's core principle of non-violence for internationals, while simultaneously stressing the importance of never telling Palestinians how to conduct their own resistance.
Connect with Megan:
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (http://lucylucraft.co.uk )
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!
In this RELOADED episode, I speak with educator and father, Fernando Deveras, about the fundamental importance of collaboration and community in fostering human progress. Fernando shares his perspective on how we have moved from a collective species to an individualised one, and how systems can benefit from this alienation. We discuss the power of focusing on shared values to create collective change and the relief that comes from deconditioning from the pressure to have all the answers.
Fernando also offers his invaluable experience as an educator and a parent on how to approach difficult conversations with children about complex global and local issues, from poverty and systemic injustice to war and politics. This is a powerful conversation about humanising our discourse, taking responsibility for the knowledge we share, and building a more connected and informed world, one conversation at a time.
Listen to the previous episodes with Fernandas below:
- Why my liberation is bound with yours
Key takeaways:
Humanity’s strength is in collaboration; our progress as a species is rooted in our ability to work together, a collective nature that has been fragmented by systems that benefit from our alienation.
For effective collective change, focusing on shared values and a common vision is more productive than getting caught up in differing methods or opinions.
When discussing difficult topics with children, it is crucial to distinguish between what you want them to know and what they
need to know to navigate their world, considering their age, emotional maturity, and the potential weight of the information.
A vital part of this work involves actively humanising people who are often dehumanised by political rhetoric, reminding ourselves and others of our shared humanity.
Episode highlights:
02:00 The simple but profound power of returning to community and connection as the solution.
03:00 How systems benefit from alienating people, using labour union organising as an example.
08:00 Key questions for parents: Does my child need to know this? Will this information weigh them down?
11:00 Our responsibility to share knowledge and different perspectives to enrich our collective understanding.
About the guest
Fernando Deveras is an educator, parent, and advocate for social change. With a background as a middle school teacher, he focuses on creating resources and conversations that help both adults and children understand and navigate the complexities of our world with compassion and critical awareness.
Instagram: @fernandodeveras
Website: https://latinxparenting.thrivecart.com
Connect with Megan:
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (lucylucraft.co.uk) If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!
In this urgent and timely episode, I am joined by Mary, the national lead for the UK delegation of the Global Sumud Flotilla. Mary provides a direct update on the recent drone strike against one of the ships and shares the core objectives of this nonviolent humanitarian mission.
We discuss the international legal context surrounding the flotilla, the historical significance of this action, and why ordinary citizens are stepping up where governments have failed. This conversation is a crucial resource for understanding what is happening at sea and how we, as a global community, can support the call to end the siege on Gaza.
Key Takeaways:
A Nonviolent Mission: The flotilla is an unarmed, nonviolent, citizen-led mission with three clear aims: to break the illegal siege of Gaza, open a humanitarian corridor for aid, and call for an end to the genocide.
Government Inaction: The mission is a direct response to the inaction of world governments to uphold international law and protect civilian life in Gaza.
The Power of Ordinary People: The flotilla is comprised of ordinary citizens from around the world, including builders, nurses, and accountants, who are putting their bodies on the line to stand for our collective humanity.
Upholding International Law: The naval blockade imposed by Israel on Gaza is unlawful. The flotilla operates with the legal right to deliver aid to a starving population, challenging the dangerous precedent set by ignoring international maritime laws.
Episode highlights:
02:41: Mary provides an update on the drone strike that hit the family ship.
05:41: An outline of the flotilla's three main objectives.
13:46: The historical context of this flotilla as a continuum of an 18-year maritime effort to break the siege. 9
19:25: A breakdown of the international legal right for this humanitarian mission to sail to Gaza.
30:35: Mary details the tangible actions listeners can take to support the mission from home.
About the guest: Mary is the national lead for the UK delegation of the Global Sumud Flotilla. She has been involved in work around Palestine for many years.
Website: Freedom Flotilla Coalition
Instagram: @freedomflotilla
Connect with Megan:
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (lucylucraft.co.uk)
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review.
In this episode, I have a powerful and moving conversation with the wonderful Illiyin Morrison. Illiyin is a midwife, author, and birth debrief facilitator who specialises in processing difficult and traumatic perinatal experiences. We explore the crucial difference between being 'nice' and being 'kind,' and why she doesn't care about being liked. Illiyin shares her personal birth experiences, how they became a catalyst for her work, and her mission to change the narrative around birth from a passive experience to one of active participation. We also discuss the crisis of apathy, the vital role of community, and why the silence from many maternal spaces on global issues is not surprising, but is rooted in capitalism and a conditioned desire for palatability.
Key Takeaways:
Kindness Over Niceness: Niceness can be a currency used to conform and remain compliant. Kindness, however, is about being generous and well-intentioned, and doesn't require you to be palatable to the status quo.
Active Participation in Birth: It's important to shift the narrative from birth being something that happens to you, to something that happens with you. Recognising your own power and agency is key to being an active participant in your own perinatal experiences.
The Antidote to Apathy is Community: Society's glorification of individualism can lead to apathy. The antidote is to connect with community, which stimulates empathy, compassion, and a collective force for change that is feared by those in power.
Privilege and Selective Empathy: The reluctance of some mothers to engage with global suffering is a form of privilege. We are capable of handling more than we've been told, and exposing ourselves to the reality of others' pain is how we develop compassion, empathy and humanity.
Episode Highlights
10:00: Illyin explains the difference between being kind and being nice, describing "niceness" as a currency that keeps people compliant.
11:00: Illyin speaks to the unspoken promise adults make to children to provide physical, emotional, and mental safety for them to develop.
18:00: Challenging the narrative that birth is something that happens to us, and instead viewing it as a process we are active participants in.
28:00: Illyin discusses why many in the 'birth business' have remained silent on global atrocities, linking it to capitalism and the need to remain palatable to sustain their income.
39:00: The glorification of individualism intentionally creates a society of selfish goals; the antidote to the resulting apathy is finding community.
About the Guest:
Illyin Morrison is a midwife, author of The Birth Debrief, and a birth debrief facilitator. She helps people process difficult perinatal experiences and also ventures into grief processing. You may also recognise her from the Great British Bake Off.
Instagram: @illyin_morrison
Website: mixingboil.com
Connect with Megan:
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (lucylucraft.co.uk)
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!
This week's episode is recorded with Olive Gray, the Protecting Children in Crisis Squad Lead at Save the Children UK.
In this episode we discuss the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where children are facing extreme physical, mental and emotional distress and starvation due to ongoing escalation of the past 22 months. Olive highlights the organisation's efforts to provide essential support, including mental health services and advocacy for children's rights. She emphasises the importance of public mobilisation and government accountability in addressing the crisis and campaigns conducted by Save the Children UK at this time. She also shares her personal experiences of the need to prioritise physical, mental and emotional wellbeing as campaigners and advocates for global issues. The conversation concludes with a message of hope and the call for continued action to support the children of Palestine.
About Olive Gray:
Olive Gray works at Save the Children UK as the Protecting Children in Crisis Squad Lead, leading their campaigns for children in the occupied Palestinian territory.
Please visit: www.savethechildren.org.uk
In this conversation:
01:28 Introduction to Save the Children and Olive Gray's Role
02:45 Current Situation in Gaza: A Humanitarian Crisis
06:40 Psychosocial Support for Children and Staff
12:00 Campaigning for Palestinian Children's Rights
14:52 Public Mobilisation and Advocacy Strategies
17:58 Challenges in Campaigning and Public Support
19:46 Taking Action: How to Support the Cause
23:14 Self-Care in Advocacy Work
28:24 Hope Amidst Despair: Finding Motivation
32:45 Looking Ahead: The Future for Palestinian Children
In today's episode we're going to do something a little different, by having a core theme that has run through many conversations. This theme is "where are the men?" This is a conversation that was ignited by activist, photographer and film-maker Misan Harriman on his social media last October, which started an ongoing inquiry and exploration behind closed doors with my husband and with other great men who have graced the podcast this year.
As a little context, this video by Misan, included at the start of this episode, draws attention to the under-representation of men in a lot of spaces for social change. Certainly those amongst a certain demographic which are in fact the men as Misan puts it, "sit closest to the levers of power". Certainly there are many men notably from black or brown communities or from margnalised identities such as the LGBTQA+ communities advocating for equality and justice and doing incredible work. Yet the question remains of "Where are the men?" especially those of relative comfort, safety and influence.
In this episode you'll hear from my husband, Caspar, then from photographer, film-maker and activist Misan Harriman, community-organisers Fernando Deveras and Kevan Smith. I encourage you to listen to each of these individual episodes too:
Misan Harriman: "Let's Make Moral Clarity the vibe"
Fernando Deveras: "Why Your Liberation is bound with mine"
Kevan Smith: "Allyship begins where your comfort zone ends"
In this episode:
03:58 Misan Harriman's share on "Where are the men?"
08:25 In conversation with my husband, Caspar
18:27 In conversation with Misan Harriman
30:15 In conversation with Fernando Deveras
33:46 In conversation with Kevan Smith
I'd love to hear what you think and keep this important question going with curiosity and openness.
In this conversation, I speak with Dr. Mohammed Mustafa @beastfromthe_middleeast about the ongoing crisis in Gaza, the urgency of action and the resilience of the Palestinian people who have captured the hearts of the world.
Dr. Mustafa shares his experiences serving in Gaza and the ongoing challenges faced by healthcare workers and the importance of ongoing solidarity. He emphasises the need for continued advocacy and his plans for a mobile hospital to support the rebuilding of Gaza's healthcare system.
The discussion highlights the growing global movement for Palestine and the power of humanity in the face of oppression.
About Dr Mohammed Mustafa:
An English-Australian emergency physician trainee and humanitarian of Palestinian heritage, Dr Mo served in Gaza’s Nasser and European hospitals providing critical emergency care amid escalating violence in 2024 and 2025. He returned to Gaza in March of this year, arriving just as a fragile ceasefire collapsed. His raw, live reporting from inside emergency departments brought the scale of the increasing devastation to millions worldwide.
Since leaving Gaza, Dr Mo has been advocating tirelessly across countries, connecting with international governments, broadcasters and media platforms to protect the children of Gaza. On other episodes such as The Muslim Pound and Owen Jones Podcast you can hear his personal experiences of providing medical care in Gaza, the likes of which it is almost impossible to comprehend let alone be prepared to experience first-hand. He continuously centres the commitment of Palestinian doctors, nurses and medics, the ones who tirelessly risk their lives every day to do their jobs and who deserve our continual support and solidarity.
In this episode:
- The urgency for immediate action in Gaza
- Dr Mo's experiences in Gaza 2024-25
- Healthcare workers in Gaza as the most courageous of those who walk amongst us
- Finding what unites us rather than divides us
- Media narratives that have continued to dehumanise Palestinians over the decades and the slipping of the propaganda veil
- The growing shift in questioning our misinformed views of Muslims, Islam and Arab culture
- How Palestinians may be losing daily battles but have won their way into people's hearts due to their courage, grace and resilience amidst such suffering
- The inevitability of success in the global movement for Palestine however long it takes
- Hope for the future lies in rebuilding and supporting Gaza's healthcare system.
- The importance to continue doing what we are doing
Please continue to follow Dr Mohammed Mustafa via his social media and continue to do all you can to support our brothers and sisters in Palestine.
Episode Highlights:
08:45: The importance of showing grace to people new to the movement who are unlearning decades of propaganda.
11:30: Why Gaza is the intersection of major global issues like capitalism, colonialism, human rights, and racism.
23:25: How the profound humanity of the Palestinian people has created a global movement of support and love.
39:50: A simple piece of advice for everyone: no matter how hopeless you feel, just keep going. Every small action contributes to the tipping of the scales.
42:25: The vision for a mobile children's hospital, not just to treat patients, but to rebuild hope, expertise, and the future of Gaza's healthcare system.
Connect with Megan:
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: http://www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (http://lucylucraft.co.uk )
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review
IF YOU MISSED IT THE FIRST TIME, IT'S BACK! A deep dive with Keri Jarvis taken from the full episode we recorded together last summer.
In this insightful discussion, Kerry, an intersectional feminist coach and activist, explores the necessity of restructuring societal systems that perpetuate inequality.
Reflecting on her journey from motherhood to her current advocacy for intersectionality, Keri addresses the interconnectedness of white supremacy, capitalism and systems of injustice and inequality.
She critiques the oversimplification and harmful narratives prevalent in the wellness industry and underscores the importance of inclusivity and recognising the complexities of individual experiences.
Kerry emphasises the need for continuous unlearning and self-interrogation to foster genuine change and inclusivity in various spaces.
In this episode:
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:19 Personal Journey and Intersectional Feminism
03:34 Challenging Existing Systems
05:05 Wellness Industry Critique
08:15 Relational Beings and Self-Compassion
12:03 Strategies for Inclusivity
21:57 Economic Disparities and Inclusivity
For full episode, scroll back to July 2024.
In this episode, I am joined by the insightful Kevan Smith, a content creator and the founder of the community interest company, Brighton United. Kevan shares his profound perspectives on the crucial difference between merely welcoming people and creating a true sense of belonging.
We explore his concept of 'Human Alchemy'—a framework for innovation and collaboration built on shared values, vision, and voice. Kevan speaks to the power of cross-pollination between social change movements and the responsibility we all have to step up for causes beyond our own immediate communities. The conversation also navigates the complexities of male presence in activist spaces, the importance of men as allies, and the collective need to become comfortable with being uncomfortable to foster genuine unity and progress.
Key Takeaways
Welcome vs. Belonging: There is a fundamental difference between welcoming someone into a pre-existing space and creating an environment where they feel they truly belong. Belonging implies ownership and the power to co-create the space, which requires established groups to relinquish some control and embrace growth.
Human Alchemy: True innovation and solutions to societal discord can be found through "Human Alchemy". This involves first understanding your own values, clarifying your vision for the future, and then learning to use your voice to communicate and connect with others who share that vision, even if they come from different backgrounds.
The Power of Adjacent Allies: The most impactful change can occur when you set your own grievances aside to fight for a cause that is not directly your own. When individuals, such as men supporting women's rights, use their position to advocate for others, their message can have a unique and powerful influence.
Male Responsibility in Social Change: There is often a deficiency of male presence in spaces dedicated to social change and activism. It is crucial for men to become introspective about the energy they bring into spaces, to challenge the toxic aspects of patriarchy, and to cultivate the resilience and responsibility to show up as better allies.
Episode Highlights
09:45: Kevan explains the critical distinction between making people feel welcome and ensuring they feel a true sense of belonging.
13:30: The breakdown of "Human Alchemy," a three-part concept for connection and innovation based on values, vision, and voice.
24:40: Kevan discusses the power of putting your own grievances aside to fight for a cause that is not your own and shares his experience at an International Women's Day event.
48:00: Reflecting on a difficult personal experience, Kevan discusses how men can unwittingly bring a toxic or conflict-based energy to otherwise harmonious spaces and why that might lead to their exclusion.
01:10:30: Kevan suggests that it often takes a man to challenge a man, highlighting the need for allies and ambassadors to call out problematic behaviour and model a different way of showing up.
About the Guest
Kevan Smith is a content creator and founder of Brighton United, a community interest company dedicated to fostering inclusive representation and belonging in business and cultural spaces. His work focuses on the power of communication and connection to drive positive change.
Brighton United Website: https://www.brightonunited.co.uk/
Epiphany Content Website: https://www.epiphanycontent.com/
Episode Links
A Seat at the Table: https://www.instagram.com/a_seat_at_the_table_btn/
Misan Harriman: https://www.misanharriman.com/
Sam Thomas (Men's Mental Health Advocate): https://www.linkedin.com/in/samthomasmentalhealth/
Connect with Megan
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (http://lucylucraft.co.uk ).
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!
In this episode, I speak with Fernando Deveras, an educator, community organiser, and social media activist. Fernando shares his personal story, from his family's immigrant roots to becoming a middle school teacher and using his platform to educate on complex social issues.
We delve into the importance of understanding history, the lonely yet vital work of fighting for justice, and the concept of "revolutionary optimism". Fernando discusses the power of community, how to organise effectively, and the role of education as a tool for either conformity or freedom.
This is a powerful conversation about finding our shared humanity and taking collective responsibility in a world that profits from our division.
Key Takeaways
The fight for justice is often not a popular movement in its own time; it is carried by the love and passion of a few who persist despite a lack of widespread support.
A true understanding of interconnectedness means recognising that our comforts and privileges can come at the expense of others' suffering, which creates a moral responsibility to act.
"Revolutionary optimism" is the idea that we can draw strength and hope from the legacy of past generations who fought against and overcame immense struggles, reminding us that change is possible even if we do not see it in our lifetime.
Effective community organising is built on finding common goals and connecting on a human level through shared joy, not just shared problems. It’s about reclaiming our natural, collective way of being.
Education is never neutral. It can either be an instrument for conformity, reinforcing the dominant worldview, or a tool for freedom that encourages critical thinking and the imagination of a different world.
Episode Highlights
03:23: Fernando talks about his background, from his family's roots in Mexico to his work as a middle school teacher and community organiser in Santa Ana, California.
11:53: Fernando unpacks the meaning behind a James Baldwin quote about love and freedom, and what it says about the nature of social justice work.
20:30: In response to a student's question, Fernando explains why he speaks out on issues that do not directly affect him, highlighting the concepts of interconnectedness and collective liberation.
30:20: Fernando explains the concept of "revolutionary optimism" as a way to find hope and endurance by looking at the legacy of historical struggles for justice.
42:30: We discuss the Malcolm X quote, "We aren't outnumbered, we are just out organized," and Fernando shares his experience on how we can build community and organise effectively.
About the Guest
Instagram: @Fernando.Deveras
Latinx Parenting Instagram: @LatinxParenting
Website: latinxparenting.org
Episode Links
Connect with Megan:
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (http://lucylucraft.co.uk )
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!
In this episode, I have the immense privilege of speaking with Misan Harriman, a photographer, entrepreneur, and social activist whose powerful images have captured global attention. Misan shares his perspective on using his platform to speak out on societal issues, the responsibilities that come with his visibility, and his journey into photography. We discuss the importance of documenting truth, the emotional impact of his work, and his inspirations, including the legendary Gordon Parks.
Misan also offers insights into his creative process, the significance of empathy in his photography, and his role as Chair of the Southbank Centre, all while reflecting on the current state of public discourse and the courage it takes to stand for human decency.
Key Takeaways:
The act of speaking about basic human decency can feel like a lonely space for those with a public profile, highlighting a concerning societal shift.
Photography has a profound power to tell stories, evoke empathy, and document truth, serving as a vital tool for social commentary and change.
Inspiration can be found in the legacy of those who came before, like Gordon Parks, whose work paved the way for future generations of photographers to capture the human condition.
Embracing one's unique path and purpose, even if it means navigating discomfort or criticism, is crucial for authentic expression and impact.
Art and cultural institutions play a significant role in fostering understanding, dialogue, and connection within society.
Episode Highlights:
02:03: Misan reflects on how advocating for basic human decency has, surprisingly, become a distinct and sometimes solitary position for individuals with a public profile.
17:08: I ask Misan how he navigates the intense grief and rage that comes with his work. He describes his voice and camera as a "sword and shield," enabling him to cut through noise and protect the stories of those affected, emphasising composure in his communication.
35:00: Misan shares his experience of the pro-Palestine protests, describing them not as "hate marches" but as profound gatherings "bathing in humanity," representing a diverse and peaceful vision of what society can be.
52:00: We discuss Misan's earlier reflections on "Where are the men?" in social justice and activism, exploring the societal conditioning that may contribute to their relative absence and the importance of men leading with gentle strength and vulnerability.
01:07:00: When asked what he has gained from his unwavering activism, Misan poignantly states, "There is no pillow as soft as a clear conscience," highlighting the profound personal peace that comes from living in alignment with one's values, despite the challenges.
About the Guest:
Misan Harriman is a Nigerian-born British photographer, entrepreneur, and social activist. He is the first black person to shoot a cover of British Vogue in its 104-year history. His photography focuses on the Black Lives Matter movement, celebrity portraiture, and documenting social issues. He is also the Chair of the Southbank Centre, London.
Website: misantharriman.com
Instagram: @misantharriman
X (formerly Twitter): @misanharriman
Episode Links:
Gordon Parks Foundation: gordonparksfoundation.org
Misan Harriman's short film The After (available on Netflix)
**Save the Children: **savethechildren.org.uk
Choose Love: choose.love
Al Jazeera Documentary "My Hijab, My Choice": aljazeera.com
Owen Jones' article on BBC whistleblowers: https://www.thenational.scot/politics/24811008.investigated-bbc-reports-gaza-found/
Nikita Gill (Poet): nikitagill.com
End credits:
Connect with Megan:
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (http://lucylucraft.co.uk )
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!
In this episode, I talk with Paris Abbas, a theosophist and yoga teacher who's work has had a big impact on me over the past couple of years.
Paris shares her insights on the current global landscape, particularly concerning Palestine, and the often-disappointing silence from within the wellness and spiritual communities. She discusses her personal journey of finding her voice, navigating online negativity, and the importance of spiritual practices in grounding activism. We delve into the performative nature of some Western spiritual circles, the collective "soul test" we are facing, and the necessity of reclaiming our full emotional spectrum.
Paris offers a powerful reframing of motherhood as an archetypal force for change and encourages us to reimagine a future rooted in collective care, awareness, and the dismantling of oppressive systems.
Key Takeaways:
The current global crises, particularly the situation in Palestine, serve as a significant "soul test" for humanity, urging us to move beyond superficial spirituality and engage with difficult truths.
True spiritual practice should anchor us in taking action and speaking out against injustice, rather than being a means to bypass suffering or focus solely on personal happiness.
Authentic communication, rooted in soul-level truth, is a powerful tool for connection and change, even in the face of online negativity and censorship.
There is a collective need to move from a "maiden phase" of development, characterized by passivity, to a "mother" archetype, embodying fierce protection, compassion, and responsibility for all.
Reimagining a positive future involves cultivating awareness, challenging the scarcity mindset, fostering community care, and recognising that we have the collective power to create a world where everyone has dignity and basic human rights.
Episode Highlights:
00:03:16: Paris reflects on the impact of her earlier conversation on "Beyond Colonial Spirituality" and how she has "toughened up" over the past year.
00:14:00: A critique of how spirituality in the West can often be about cherry-picking practices for personal happiness, bypassing the world's suffering.
00:19:00: Paris explains her powerful concept of this era being a "soul test" for humanity.
00:30:00: Discussion on the silence within wellness spaces and the idea that "one day when it's safe, everyone will have always been against this."
00:47:00: Paris introduces the idea of the collective silence, especially from women and mothers, as being indicative of a "maiden phase" of development.
About the Guest:
Paris (Pyarvin) Abbas has been a yoga-teacher/ practitioner for over 20 years and a lifelong Theosophist. She was born and raised in Siberia, Russia, where she went to medical school to become a psychiatrist. She is a child of the world, eternal student of the Ancient Wisdom, devotee of the Great Mother and a mom of two amazing boys.
She continues to learn and teach yoga, practices spiritual healing in Therapeutic Touch modality and learns how to grow lush gardens in the rough climate of South Texas.
Instagram: @ParisAbbas108
Fundraiser for a family in Gaza: Check the link in Paris's Instagram bio.
Episode links:
Leah Kim's podcast Voices on the Side: Episode "Beyond Colonial Spirituality"
Connect with Megan:
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (http://lucylucraft.co.uk )
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5 rating and review*
In this episode, I have the honour of speaking with Asma Shuweikh, a columnist, activist, public speaker, and proud British Muslim woman living in Birmingham, UK.
Asma shares her powerful story, from the viral video of her intervening in a racist incident on the London tube, to her experiences growing up in Britain, facing discrimination, and her involvement in a documentary about the lives of Muslim women in the UK. We delve into misconceptions about Islam and wearing the hijab, the importance of integration and understanding between different communities, and Asma's journey of turning personal trauma into a driving force for advocacy and strength.
This is a deeply moving conversation about resilience, identity, and the enduring hope for a more accepting society.
My Hijab, My Choice directed by Samir Mehanovic is available on Al Jazeera English.
Key Takeaways:
The act of intervening in injustice, as Asma did on the tube, stems from a deep-seated belief in standing up against wrongdoing, a principle she feels is part of her faith and personal experience with discrimination.
Many misconceptions exist about Muslim women, particularly regarding the hijab, which Asma emphasises is a personal choice and a source of strength and identity, contrary to the narrative of oppression.
Integration and taking the time to understand people from different backgrounds are crucial for breaking down barriers, challenging prejudices, and fostering a more cohesive society.
Personal experiences of discrimination and trauma, while deeply challenging, can be channelled into resilience and a commitment to advocating for others and creating positive change.
Despite ongoing challenges and feelings of not always belonging, there is a growing sense of empowerment and increased dialogue, offering hope for greater understanding and solidarity in the future.
Episode highlights:
01:25: Asma recounts the 2019 tube incident that went viral and the subsequent media attention.
06:13: Discussing the stereotype of Muslim women as weak and Asma's determination to be seen as strong.
17:39: Asma shares a childhood memory of her mother experiencing racial abuse and the lasting impact of feeling like an outsider.
35:06: Asma offers advice on how to intervene safely and effectively if witnessing harassment.
59:05: Asma's vision for a society built on acceptance and understanding.
About the Guest:
Asma Shuweikh is a columnist, activist, and public speaker. While specific links were not mentioned in this episode, you can look for her work and contributions online, including her appearance in the documentary My Hijab, My Choice directed by Samir Mehanovic is available on Al Jazeera English.
Connect with Megan:
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: http://www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (http://lucylucraft.co.uk )
In this episode, I am joined by Yasmeen Jabri, founder of Amfi Botanicals. Yasmeen shares her deeply personal journey, from navigating an identity crisis rooted in her Palestinian-Syrian heritage and upbringing in Lebanon, to her experiences with activism during the Lebanese revolution. She discusses the intergenerational impact of the Nakba on her family, her path to creating a wellness brand that bridges science and holistic practices, and her powerful perspective on why true wellness must be collective, especially in the face of global and personal traumas.
Our conversation explores the complexities of identity, the inherent nature of activism for those from impacted regions, the challenges of witnessing suffering from afar, and the vital importance of community and aligning one's work with deeply held values.
Key Takeaways:
My existence and the existence of many from regions of conflict is inherently political; activism is often a born-into reality rather than a choice.
Living in the diaspora can lead to a profound identity crisis, but also to a powerful journey of reconnecting with one's heritage and roots.
Community and collective action are essential, especially in times of crisis, offering profound humanity and resilience.
Western wellness culture often promotes hyper-individualism, which can feel detached and exclusive; a more authentic wellness is collective, encompassing community care and social justice.
Episode Highlights:
02:00: Yasmeen introduces herself, sharing her Palestinian-Syrian background, growing up in Lebanon, and the feeling of an ongoing identity crisis.
08:00: Yasmeen discusses the initial shame tied to her roots while attending an American school and the subsequent journey of reconnecting with and feeling proud of her Palestinian heritage.
12:00: Yasmeen explains how activism became an integral part of her life in Lebanon, particularly during the revolution, describing it as a role she and others were almost born into.
26:00: Yasmeen speaks about the immense difficulty of witnessing the ongoing genocide in Palestine, the dehumanising responses from some, and the struggle to cope with the apathy of others.
38:00: Yasmeen critiques the individualistic nature of Western wellness, advocating for a collective approach, and details how she is embedding social impact initiatives into her wellness brand, Amfi Botanicals.
About the guest
Yasmeen is the founder of Amphi Botanicals, a wellness brand rooted in the belief that wellness is collective. Drawing on her background in Nutrition (BSc) and a master's in Entrepreneurship from UCL, she created Amphi to offer functional blends that support everyday wellbeing through nature and science. Raised in Lebanon by a Palestinian mother and Syrian father, Yasmeen carries a deep appreciation for community and collective healing, values that shape both her business and her everyday life. Amphi began in Beirut and now operates from Brighton, UK.
Episode Links:
Amfi Botanicals Instagram: @AmfiBotanicals
Yasmeen's Personal Instagram: @n0t.yasmeen
Amfi Botanicals
Yasmeen's Nakba Day Run Fundraiser for Medical Aid for Palestine: Yasmeen is running 107km to raise funds. (Link available via @AmfiBotanicals on Instagram)
Cafe Palestina
Medical Aid for Palestine
Revolt Brighton
Empowering Voices Panel
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (lucylucraft.co.uk)
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!
In this reloaded episode, I share a powerful conversation with Fritzi Horstman, founder of the Compassion Prison Project. Fritzi discusses the vital importance of creating trauma-informed prisons and communities. She explains how understanding trauma can shift our perception of incarcerated individuals, seeing them not as inherently bad people, but as individuals who have often endured immense suffering.
Fritzi highlights the interconnectedness of humanity and the impact of our actions on others, emphasising the need for compassion and systemic change to address the root causes of harmful behaviour, ultimately aiming to end child abuse and foster healing within society.
Key Takeaways:
Creating trauma-informed prisons and communities means understanding that individuals, particularly those who are incarcerated or living in poverty, are often dealing with significant past trauma and adversity.
Shifting our perspective to see incarcerated individuals as people who have suffered, rather than simply "bad people," is crucial for fostering compassion and facilitating healing.
We are all interconnected, and our actions and societal structures have a profound impact on individuals' well-being and behaviour. Addressing trauma can lead to a ripple effect of positive change.
The goal of the Compassion Prison Project is to end child abuse by raising awareness of how trauma affects brain development and behaviour, encouraging more compassionate and informed interactions.
Recognising and addressing our own trauma and reactive patterns is essential for personal healing and for contributing to a more compassionate world.
Episode Highlights:
01:00 - Fritzi explains the mission of the Compassion Prison Project: to create trauma-informed prisons and communities.
02:00 - The belief in our interconnectedness and how that understanding shifts perception when interacting with others, including incarcerated individuals.
03:45 - Fritzi shares her personal realisation of how her own past trauma and reactive behaviour impacted her child, highlighting the importance of understanding the effects of our actions.
04:26 - The significance of Bessel van der Kolk's book, "The Body Keeps the Score," in understanding trauma, and the realisation that many in prison are deeply traumatised.
07:08 - Fritzi discusses Tony Crowe's work with Trauma Talks in Belfast, emphasising that societal division often reflects our own internal divides.
About the Guest:
Fritzi Horstman is the Founder and Executive Director of Compassion Prison Project. She is a Grammy-award winning producer for her work on “The Defiant Ones”, has been a producer and post-producer on dozens of television projects and documentaries and has directed several films. She believes it is urgent to bring humanity and compassion to those living behind bars and these acts will help transform our society. She has a Bachelor's Degree from Vassar College.
Episode links:
Tony Crowe episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/39X8en1iTZffmwraDuTizs
End credits:
Connect with Megan:
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: http://www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (http://lucylucraft.co.uk )
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!
In this reloaded episode, I speak with Leah Kim about the pervasive nature of white supremacy and the importance of active disentanglement for everyone, including those who benefit from the system.
Listen to the full episode, How White Supremacy Harms Us All here.
We explored the personal work required to recognise internal biases and privilege, the concept of 'soul loss' in upholding harmful systems, and the challenging but necessary process of decolonising wellness spaces like yoga. Leah shares her perspective on how we can move towards genuine collective liberation by questioning our motivations and committing to real change.
Key Takeaways
White supremacy harms everyone, not just those directly targeted, by potentially bringing out negative responses and hindering connection to shared humanity if not consciously addressed.
Recognising one's own privilege and unconscious biases is crucial work that requires curiosity, willingness, and interrogation of immediate reactions.
True change and participation in liberation require effort, and for those in positions of privilege, it involves some degree of sacrifice and moving beyond binary, 'us vs. them' thinking.
Decolonising practices like yoga demands deep humility, learning from those with ancestral connections, and acknowledging the harm the industry has caused.
Episode Highlights
01:04 Leah discusses how white supremacy can negatively impact white individuals by eliciting unconscious, harmful responses.
05:18 Recognising complicity can bring difficult emotions but is also empowering, offering a path to create balance.
07:33 The immense challenge and humility required to decolonise one's thinking and teaching.
08:58 Questioning the authenticity behind spiritual phrases if not backed by action.
About the Guest: Leah Kim
Connect with Megan:
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: www.higher-love.com
This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (http://lucylucraft.co.uk ).
If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!