Sonny Moeckel is a painter, musician, and artist who has called Spokane home since 1996. Originally from Fort Defiance, Arizona, on the Navajo Reservation, Sonny’s artistic journey has been deeply influenced by his heritage and family. In this episode of I’m Human Too, Sonny shares how growing up in a family of artists, particularly his grandmother’s traditional Navajo rug weaving, ignited his passion for art and music, using creativity as a means of survival and self-expression.
After the loss of his father, Sonny shifted his focus from photography to painting, finding solace and healing in the tactile nature of brushwork. Meeting his wife, also an artist, created a powerful partnership that has led to numerous joint exhibitions and public works. Together, they’ve contributed significantly to Spokane’s art scene, even overcoming the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic with resilience and community support.
Now, with a new studio in downtown Spokane, Sonny and his wife continue to inspire through their art, creating space for collaboration and shared creativity. Sonny’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that more people bring more ideas, fostering richer and more meaningful art.
To explore Sonny’s work, visit Moeckel Studio in Spokane or follow him on social media for a closer look at his creative journey.
Tiana Ferrett is the proud owner of The Pilates Ritual, a thriving studio in Spokane that offers a mindful approach to Pilates. In this episode of I’m Human Too, Tiana shares her journey from working as a server in San Francisco to opening her own Pilates studio. Her story is one of passion, perseverance, and the transformative power of mindful movement, showcasing how she turned an unexpected spark of interest into a thriving business.
Tiana’s journey began when an impromptu Pilates class ignited her passion for movement. After dedicating herself to learning through teacher training and mentorship, Tiana knew it was time to open her own studio. With the support of her fiancé, Lucas, she found the perfect space in Spokane’s steam plant building and transformed it into The Pilates Ritual, a sanctuary for full-body connection and mindful practice. Now, her studio is not just a place to work out but a community where clients form deep connections and achieve personal breakthroughs.
Looking ahead, Tiana envisions expanding The Pilates Ritual and continuing to build a space that fosters personalized, mindful Pilates instruction. Whether you’re new to Pilates or a seasoned practitioner, Tiana’s approach creates an environment where everyone feels welcome and supported.
To explore this empowering journey, visit The Pilates Ritual or follow them on Instagram at @thepilatesritual
Tasha Hunter is a licensed therapist and the author of Baby, Tell Me Where It Hurts. In this episode of I’m Human Too, Tasha shares her journey from surviving trauma to thriving, highlighting her new book as a reflection of that transformation. Her work focuses on self-love, healing, and authenticity, offering a deep dive into the emotional processes of recognizing, tending to, and ultimately healing our wounds.
Tasha discusses the importance of self-compassion and how healing is a personal, individualized journey. Her book guides readers through the stages of healing—starting from the recognition of pain, moving through care and nurturing, and culminating in growth and recovery. Tasha also emphasizes the power of vulnerability and how embracing discomfort and grief can lead to deeper self-discovery and empowerment.
In addition to her book, Tasha shares insights into how trauma impacts our ability to experience joy and authenticity, stressing that healing involves understanding and accepting every part of ourselves. Her conversation encourages listeners to embrace their authentic selves and honor their healing process.
To learn more about Tasha’s work and connect with her, visit her social media platforms at @TashaHunterLCSW or find her book on Amazon.
Amanda Manning is a licensed mental health counselor and the founder of Inner Glow Wellness in Spokane, Washington. In this episode of I’m Human Too, Amanda shares her journey as a therapist and yoga teacher, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, holistic approaches, and individualized care in mental health. At Inner Glow Wellness, Amanda and her team work to create a healthier community by integrating therapy with yoga and other holistic practices, ensuring accessibility through insurance options, including Medicaid.
Amanda discusses how yoga plays a pivotal role in mental health, offering a welcoming space for people of all body types and abilities. Unlike mainstream yoga classes that can feel intimidating, her classes are designed to be inclusive and supportive, encouraging personal growth and self-discovery without judgment. She also highlights the importance of embracing vulnerability and authenticity in our personal journeys, advocating for the discomfort that often comes with growth and self-reflection.
In addition to discussing the power of yoga and holistic healing, Amanda shares her insights into trauma, individualized care, and the therapeutic relationship. She speaks on how trauma impacts the brain and hinders our ability to experience joy, while stressing that healing is a unique process for everyone. Amanda’s work fosters a safe, supportive environment for clients to reprocess their trauma and move toward living authentically and joyfully. To learn more about Amanda and her work, visit Inner Glow Wellness.
Tanmeet Sethi is an integrative and psychedelic physician who blends Western medicine with ancient healing practices to emphasize the transformative power of joy in healing. In this episode of I’m Human Too, Tanmeet discusses her approach to well-being, highlighting how joy is a crucial resource for personal and community healing. Her book, Joy is My Justice, Reclaim Yours Now, explores how joy can coexist with pain and deepen our connection to meaning and love.
Tanmeet shares her experience with psychedelic therapy, highlighting its ability to uncover personal narratives and access deeper healing. She distinguishes joy from happiness, emphasizing that joy is an intrinsic, embodied state that enhances mental health, especially in marginalized communities where systemic barriers often hinder access to healing.
Drawing from her own experience with trauma, Tanmeet discusses the importance of self-compassion, gratitude, and the role of psychedelics in unlocking resilience and joy. Her work reminds us that joy is not just an emotion but a tool for empowerment and healing, essential for both personal and collective transformation.
Dimple Dhabalia is a writer, podcaster, and leadership and story-healing coach who founded Roots in the Clouds. In this episode of I’m Human Too, Dimple shares her journey from working on asylum and refugee policies within the U.S. government to becoming an advocate for addressing occupational trauma. Her story highlights the toll of chronic stress and vicarious trauma and the importance of redefining leadership and self-care. Dimple reflects on how two decades in humanitarian work exposed her to vicarious trauma, secondary traumatic stress, and moral injury—experiences often stigmatized in professional settings. She discusses how chronic exposure to trauma affected not just her mental health but her physical well-being, underscoring the connection between trauma and chronic illness. Through her work, Dimple emphasizes the need for organizations to take a human-centered approach that supports employees’ physical, mental, and emotional health. Find out how Dimple’s personal healing journey, including time spent in India for Panchakarma, shaped her insights into sustainable leadership and wellness. Learn more about Dimple’s work through her podcasts, Service Without Sacrifice and What Would Ted Lasso Do, or visit Roots in the Clouds to explore her offerings.
Sarah-Anne Tourond is an award-nominated children’s author, illustrator, yoga teacher, meditation guide, and wellness consultant working with Indigenous communities. In this episode of I’m Human Too, Sarah-Anne shares how personal loss became a catalyst for healing and transformation in her life. Through her work, she channels grief into a mission to inspire self-love, community care, and progressive change, grounded in Indigenous teachings.
Sarah-Anne’s journey highlights the resilience within Indigenous communities and the importance of moving beyond trauma to embrace joy and spiritual connection. She emphasizes that self-worth is inherent, not tied to productivity or societal standards, a message she instills daily in her son. Her holistic wellness approach incorporates yoga, meditation, and Indigenous practices like the medicine wheel, helping those impacted by trauma reconnect with peace and safety within their bodies.
Through her celebrated children’s book series, including You Are Sacred, Sarah-Anne nurtures healing narratives that foster connection between children, the land, and themselves. She also leads workshops integrating art, yoga, and breathwork, promoting wellness rooted in Indigenous knowledge. To learn more about Sarah-Anne’s work, collaborations, and offerings, follow her online or explore her publications.
Quinn Huntsinger owns Self Care Spa and Lounge, a trailblazing beauty and wellness destination in Spokane. In this episode of I’m Human Too, Quinn shares her inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the beauty industry. Her passion for Korean skincare, resilience, and hard work have made her a standout figure in Spokane’s wellness scene.
Quinn opens up about the challenges she faced in bringing Korean skincare treatments to a city that had never seen such services before. Despite a slow start, her perseverance and belief in her vision led her spa to thrive.
With big dreams on the horizon, Quinn plans to introduce scalp treatments and other global beauty rituals to her spa to celebrate and integrate cultural diversity.You can follow Quinn and stay updated on her journey at @selfcare_spaandlounge on Instagram
Marlee Liss is a Toronto-based advocate and educator specializing in social work and somatic sex education. In this episode of “I’m Human Too,” she shares her compelling journey shaped by her experiences as a sexual violence survivor and her passion for restorative justice. Marlee opens up about how her personal trauma led her to seek healing beyond the traditional legal system, ultimately discovering the transformative power of restorative justice. She discusses the challenges she faced navigating the court system and how it re-traumatized rather than healed her. By embracing restorative justice, Marlee found closure through a restorative circle process with her assailant, which profoundly impacted her healing journey. She emphasizes the importance of community and survivor solidarity, highlighting how connecting with others helped her let go of shame and self-blame. Marlee’s insights on balancing emotionally charged advocacy work with self-care, the power of storytelling in creating change, and her aspirations to make restorative justice accessible to all survivors. To learn more about Marlee’s work and resources on restorative justice, visit www.marleeliss.com and follow her on Instagram at @marleeliss.
Maria Ramos Bracamontes is a midwife and social worker dedicated to supporting indigenous communities and undocumented individuals, especially women. In this episode, Maria shares her journey from growing up undocumented in Mexico to becoming an advocate for social justice and traditional midwifery. Her story is one of resilience and deep commitment to serving her community.
As a midwife in Santa Cruz County, Maria works with undocumented farmworkers, primarily from Oaxaca. She founded the Mutual Aid Project Campesina Womb Justice to provide essential resources and support directly to those in need, focusing on preserving traditional midwifery and indigenous practices.
Despite challenges, Maria remains committed to empowering her community and envisions training indigenous midwives and traditional healers. Her story highlights the importance of grassroots activism and the impact of mutual aid. To support Maria’s work, visit the Campesina Womb Justice Instagram page or email CampesinaWombJustice@gmail.com.
Matthew Chavez is a breathwork facilitator and somatic coach who specializes in helping people reconnect with themselves through the power of breathwork. In this episode, Matthew opens up about his journey from a curious teenager dealing with chronic back pain to a wellness guide who's now helping others find their own path to healing. He talks about how exploring alternative healing practices like shamanism and herbalism led him to discover breathwork, which has since become a central part of his life and work.
Matthew also gets real about the challenges of balancing personal wellness with his role as a coach. He shares how important it is to stay in tune with his inner voice, even when life gets busy. Breathwork is his go-to tool for staying grounded and maintaining integrity, both for himself and for the people he guides. Matthew’s insights remind us that even wellness pros have their own struggles and need to take care of themselves, too. spaces where people can explore their own healing in a supportive, connected environment.
To learn more about Matthew's work and upcoming events, check out thirdreyegemini.com or follow him on Instagram at @the.third.eye.gemini.
Robin Haynes is the Executive Director of the Spokane Independent Metro Business Alliance (SIMBA). In an age where supporting local businesses is more critical than ever, understanding the role of organizations like SIMBA can make a world of difference.
Robin Haynes took over the role of Executive Director at SIMBA in December 2023, bringing with her a wealth of experience in law and small businesses. An advocate for local entrepreneurs, Robin's vision for her first year at SIMBA includes improving public awareness about the organization's vast array of services. From business licensing to social media marketing, SIMBA offers comprehensive support to independent and locally-owned businesses in Eastern Washington.
Among its numerous services, SIMBA assists business owners with business licenses, taxes, transitioning to LLCs, social media strategies, and more, often at no cost. Beyond one-on-one support, it also provides group training sessions and is working to build an extensive video library of its training materials.
To stay up-to-date with SIMBA's events and initiatives, follow them on Instagram and Facebook at @SpokaneIndependent.
More detailed information, including their community calendar, can be found on their website, SpokaneIndependent.org.
Amy Yeoman is the owner of Fuel to Thrive and a dedicated dietitian and trainer. In today's episode of "I'm Human Too," we delve into Amy's grounded, science-based approach to diet and wellness. Amy shares her journey from becoming a new mom to her work in helping clients achieve their health goals. She emphasizes the importance of individualized care, steering away from the extremes and quick fixes often promoted by mainstream media.
Amy's philosophy at Fuel to Thrive revolves around understanding each client's unique lifestyle and needs. She aims to debunk the myths perpetuated by diet culture and social media influencers, focusing instead on sustainable, enjoyable, and practical health practices. Amy stresses the importance of basics like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and listening to one's body, helping clients build a positive and realistic relationship with food and exercise.
Throughout the conversation, Amy reflects on the challenges and joys of helping others, the impact of her own experiences on her professional life, and her future goals for Fuel to Thrive. Her story is a testament to the power of compassion, patience, and personalized care in the field of dietetics and training.
For anyone looking to start a journey towards better health, Amy's advice is simple: listen to your body, trust yourself, and prioritize balanced nutrition tailored to your unique needs.
You can learn more about Amy and her work at Fuel to Thrive by visiting their website here. Follow Amy on Instagram at @fueltothrive for regular updates, tips, and insights into achieving a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Natalie Gutierrez is a therapist and author of "The Pain We Carry." On "I'm Human Too," Natalie shares her personal journey through complex trauma, shedding light on the healing process and the importance of authenticity. Her insights are a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of embracing one's true self.
Natalie discusses the challenges and revelations she encountered while writing her book. Initially struggling to find her authentic voice, she ultimately embraced her lived experiences and those of her clients, transforming her writing into a profound reflection of her healing journey. Natalie emphasizes the significance of integrating personal stories into professional work, creating a deeper connection with herself and her readers.
Throughout the conversation, Natalie and Heather explore the importance of vulnerability in both personal and professional settings. They discuss the need to create safe, decolonial spaces where individuals can fully express their emotions and experiences. Natalie highlights the ongoing work of healing and the necessity of holding all parts of oneself with compassion and understanding.
Chretienne Yalung is a Pilates movement guide and consultant. On I’m Human Too, she shares her journey through significant life transitions, including leaving a long-term relationship, stepping away from running a local studio, and redefining her professional path. Her story highlights the transformative power of movement, community, and self-discovery.
Chretienne opens up about her new phase of life, emphasizing the importance of joy and play in her movement practices. She reflects on how prioritizing these elements, especially with her sister’s support, has helped her rediscover her passion for movement and its multi-generational impact. She believes integrating fun and playfulness into life and work is crucial, especially in challenging times.
Throughout the conversation, Chretienne underscores the significance of a strong support system and the role of community in personal growth. She also shares her journey of reconnecting with her Filipino heritage, which has enriched her personal and professional life. Chretienne’s story is a testament to the healing power of movement, the importance of community, and the empowerment that comes from embracing one's cultural identity.
Dr. Hortencia Jiménez is a queer Mexican immigrant and sociology professor dedicated to food justice and body image advocacy. Hortencia’s story is one of resilience and unapologetic truth-telling, shedding light on the unique struggles women of color face in the realms of body image and cultural representation. Her journey from a traditional upbringing to a prominent advocate is both empowering and eye-opening.
Hortencia shares her gratitude for the platform to discuss her crucial yet often overlooked work. She highlights the significance of visibility in challenging diet culture and promoting food justice, particularly among women of color. Her transition from traditional roles to a vocal advocate on social media, inspired by accounts like "Your Latina Nutritionist," illustrates the importance of representation in health and wellness. Hortencia’s candid reflections on her cultural and religious traumas reveal the deep roots of her activism and professional path.
Throughout the conversation, Hortencia delves into her personal healing journey, shaped by early traumas and a traditional Catholic home. She emphasizes the role of both Western therapy and ancestral healing in her recovery. By embracing her queer identity and pioneering courses like "Sociology of Food, Culture and Society" and the upcoming "Latina Sexualities," Hortencia is creating educational spaces for vital conversations. Her advice to those facing similar challenges underscores the importance of self-compassion and community support, reminding us that individual healing is intricately linked to collective well-being.
Listen to her podcast, Welcome to Dismantling Diet Culture: F*ck Being Calladíta
Tasha Hunter is a mother, writer, and mental health therapist who explores her multifaceted journey of nurturing, advocacy, and healing. Tasha shares how her roles as a caregiver and therapist intertwine, revealing the complexities and emotional weight of balancing personal and professional responsibilities. Her story is one of resilience, shaped by her experiences and a deep commitment to helping others.
Tasha opens up about the toll of the profession, highlighting the emotional and psychological impact of being a therapist. With nearly eight years of practice, she reflects on the rapid aging effect of the job and the high turnover in the field. Her personal history of trauma has driven her to be a source of healing for others, yet she grapples with the challenges of carrying both her own and her clients' burdens. This conversation delves into the profound personal journey that many therapists experience, questioning the sustainability of their work and the constant need for survival.
As Tasha continues to heal and seek peace, she emphasizes the importance of sharing her story and reclaiming joy. Through her book, "What Children Remember," and other creative outlets, she has found a way to release emotional baggage and embody self-love and confidence. Tasha advocates for decolonizing therapy practices, prioritizing rest, and building community.
Join us on I’m Himan Too to hear Tasha’s inspiring journey and vision for a more inclusive and compassionate mental health field.
Nazeer Zerka, is a counselor and therapist dedicated to students of color and those on the autism spectrum. Growing up in Flint and Saginaw, Michigan, with Mexican and Arab heritage, Naz sheds light on the challenges and importance of authenticity in therapy. He discusses his unique use of humor and vulnerability to create a safe, relatable space for clients, challenging conventional norms and embracing all facets of human emotion. His story embodies the "wounded healer" concept, showing how personal struggles can foster deeper connections and support in therapy. On "I'm Human, Too," Naz shares his inspiring journey, advocacy for a more inclusive therapeutic practice, and the transformative power of embracing one's humanity in healing.
Discover Emily Nash's distinctive approach to healing and connection, which is grounded in warmth, empathy, and humor. With a specialization in childhood trauma, Emily underscores the interconnectedness of trauma therapy and relational therapy, offering a comprehensive approach that integrates somatic and experiential modalities. Emily candidly shares their experiences navigating systemic oppression and reflects on their identity as a person of color in the mental health field. She emphasizes the imperative of decolonizing mental health practices and fostering inclusive environments. Join us on "I'm Human Too" as we journey with Emily from their aspirations as writers to their evolution into social workers and psychotherapists. Their story illuminates the unexpected paths toward discovering one's true calling.
Dr. Jenni Skyler's story serves as a powerful testament to the transformative nature of sex therapy and its profound impact on individuals seeking healing and connection.
Through her dedication to destigmatizing sex talk, exploring deeper emotional narratives, and prioritizing self-care, Dr. Jenni Skyler stands as a beacon of empowerment and transformation in the field of therapy.
Join us on "I'm Human Too" as we explore the importance of self-care and resilience in Dr. Skyler's professional journey, as she shares her strategies for maintaining balance amidst the emotional demands of sex therapy.
To find out more about Dr. Jenni Skyler at her website, www.intimacyinstitute.org