In this exciting episode of Everyday Conversations on Race, host Simma Lieberman brings together Karen Waukazoo, a Rosebud Sioux tribe member and advocate for American Indians, and Jennifer Ngure, a Kenyan-born wellness coach, to discuss the profound ways culture connects and heals communities. Karen and Jennifer share their personal journeys of overcoming addiction, mental health challenges, and cultural shocks. They reveal surprising commonalities between Native American and Kenyan cultures, emphasizing the importance of community, traditional healing practices, and the role of cultural festivals. Tune in to learn how these two diverse backgrounds converge in their mission to foster resilience and well-being. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions 01:37 Karen Waukazu's Journey and Cultural Advocacy 08:05 Jennifer Ngure’s Story and Wellness Advocacy 15:00 Cultural Healing and Community Importance 18:48 Challenges and Similarities in Cultural Practices 26:33 Youth Leadership and Cultural Revival 28:40 Connecting Cultures and Shared Experiences 31:02 Understanding the Mission District 32:12 Exploring Carnival and Its Origins 33:38 The Importance of Cultural Awareness 34:50 Personal Experiences with Cultural Differences 40:54 Challenges and Support in Immigrant Communities 44:46 Addressing Mental Health and Substance Abuse 47:42 The Issue of Missing Persons 51:54 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Guests Bio: Karen Waukazoo (Lakota) is the Interim Project Director of the CRDP Project at Friendship House. Influenced by her parents’ dedication to the Native American Health Center and the Friendship House Association of American Indians programs and the local community, she chose to follow in their footsteps by serving the Bay Area’s American Indian population in her own way. Knowledgeable of both sides of treatment and recovery, Karen has worked in many capacities at the Friendship House program – from a youth volunteer, to the Director of the Oakland Lodge Program, Intake Coordinator to her current position. In her over 15 years of service, she has made it her goal to advocate for quality treatment services for American Indian men, women and children affected by substance abuse and alcoholism. Respect and compassion, as well as knowledge all remaining at the forefront. Jennifer is a seasoned wellness coach, registered nurse, and advocate for culturally informed self-care, with over 18 years of experience in the healthcare field. As the founder of Nimo Wellness LLC based in Boston, she dedicates her work to empowering middle-aged women in the African diaspora as they navigate pivotal life transitions. Born and raised in Kenya, Jennifer brings a unique blend of medical expertise and cultural heritage to her practice, helping women manage stress, build resilience, and reconnect with their true selves. Her signature programs, including the RenewHER Essence Wellness Retreat, dynamic workshops, and the forthcoming Mid-Life Transitions Coaching Program, are designed to create inclusive, nurturing spaces where women feel seen, heard, and supported. Jennifer’s holistic, evidence-based approach celebrates the richness of cultural identity and community, promoting emotional, mental, and social well-being. Click here to DONATE and support our podcast All donations are tax deductible through Fractured Atlas. Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her as a speaker for your next event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition) Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website Previous Episodes Breaking Bias with Anu Gupta How Can Art Eliminate Racism? Growing Up Biracial in a White World: Desiree Chang's Journey of Identity and Race Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating
