Are you sorry? Should you be sorry? Do you apologize excessively? Are you unsure of how to connect with someone during a disagreement/misunderstanding (personal or professional)?

In this episode I diverge from all the apology guidance I’ve seen, and specify where I differ. I reveal a hot take (you may agree, you may not) on what not to apologize for, and what actually weakens our apologies. I clarify what an apology is and is not, and outline 7 clear steps to apologize effectively. I identify our true objective with apologies, and advise on how to frame it so both sides feel fulfilled. I highlight common landmines to sidestep when apologizing, and uncomfortable truths that just may transform your approach, relationships - even life (big claim, I know!).

I also share formulas for what to say when you don’t think you even did anything wrong, but you still care about the person/relationship - personal or professional.

Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist

Thank you for being here. xx

Ever feel overwhelmed by world events? Ever feel dragged down by negativity? Ever feel frustrated by miscommunication? Ever feel compelled to elevate your interactions/environment? Ever wonder how much you actually matter?

This episode is for you.

Well, really, there’s something in here for all of us.

In this episode, I differentiate between influence and manipulation. I explain how and WHY our thoughts and words are so powerful. I briefly nerd out on how energy and vibes aren’t “woo woo” and are actually grounded and measured in science and physics. And most helpfully, I offer you specific questions to ask and steps to take to influence yourself, and the people and world around you.

Love you.

As promised, if you’re interested in getting involved with the Goodwill Gang (as mentioned in the episode) as a gangster/donor/nominator/subscriber, please click on the tab at the top of this site (aptly labeled Goodwill Gang), and follow the instructions. You may also navigate there directly via www.thenativist.net/goodwill-gang

Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @the_nativist

Image: Brooke Richardson Photography

What does loyalty entail? What should it entail? Loyalty to a partner, to a friend, to a brand, to a vendor, to a family member, to a country, to a cause, to an ideology…

As with most topics, it’s nuanced. It can be contextual. It’s tempting to simplify and reduce it, but that often ignores reality and limits us: our understanding, our growth, our relationships, our empathy, our compassion, our progress, our wisdom, our lives.

What does loyalty mean to you? To those in your life? Do your definitions align? What’s a deal breaker for you?

Should it be conditional? Should it be blind? Should it be all encompassing?

Thank you for listening.

Find me on Facebook and Instagram: @the_nativist

In a world of worthy causes, the indigenous voice is often drowned out. This series aims to illuminate it.

If you're interested at all in being a more informed and respectful human, this is a goldmine. Elise Blaser returns to share with us her indigenous perspective from a cultural, historical, and personal standpoint. She tells us about growing up in both Canada and the US while having both native and Caucasian blood. She outlines common disparities and misconceptions surrounding indigenous culture and people, and ways in which we could unwittingly be disrespecting those cultures (some may surprise you!). She highlights her favorite cultural aspects, and how non-natives can partake without disrespecting. We reference the @illuminative Instagram post (see below) distinguishing between appreciation and appropriation, citing concrete guidelines and frequently asked questions (like if it's okay to wear moccasins or smudge).

Rather than preachy and critical, this conversation is lighthearted yet deep, educational yet engaging, and fun yet reverent. And critically important.

You can find Elise on Instagram @eliselilaa

Illuminatives

Instagram post from March 31, 2021

In this third installment of my series on discrimination, I sit down with one of my best amigas, Cheli Brubaker.

I’ve always admired Cheli’s openness and acceptance of others. To know her is to adore her. Cheli is a first-generation American of West Indian descent, as her parents migrated here from the Caribbean. Cheli shares her experience living in predominantly white communities (particularly sheltered, conservative communities) as a youth and as part of a biracial couple.

Though she and I know each other well, I was intrigued to hear her views on race relations. She and I discuss using labels, taking accountability, commanding respect, reciprocating support, and reserving judgment.

It’s a thought provoker.

You can find Cheli on Instagram @chelitb or on Facebook under Cheli Brubaker

Cheli sporting her Nativist tee: open eyes, open minds, open hearts

In this episode, I sit down with fellow high viber Caren (pronounced sair-en) DeCesaris.

Caren and I first connected when she contacted me on Instagram and asked me to be her first guest on her own rad podcast, SoulSpeak (check it out meow!).

In this episode, Caren opens up about her journey to self empowerment, respect, and love. She shares her history with disordered eating and how she found her way back to honoring and connecting with her body.

It’s a deep yet light-hearted session, and one I think you’ll really enjoy. (Plus, she has the melodic voice of a Disney princess, so there’s that).

You can find Caren:

• On Instagram: @carendecesaris

• On iTunes: SoulSpeak The Podcast

• Online: http://www.thesoulspeakco.com/

Peace and blessings,

-w-