Discover the power of hope and resilience through the inspiring journey of Cheryl Aguilar, the founding director of Hope Center for Wellness in Washington DC. Cheryl, a passionate advocate for the Latino community, shares her personal story as an immigrant from Honduras and her transformative path to healing by embracing therapy despite societal stigma. Her story serves as a testament to the courage it takes to seek support and her unwavering dedication to decolonizing therapy and social work for the benefit of her community.

Join us as we explore Cheryl's journey that highlight the healing power of connection and cultural roots. We discuss her return to Honduras and her participation in the Latino Social Work Conference in Oaxaca, which reignited her connection to indigenous practices in social work. Cheryl opens up about her grief journey after losing her father to COVID-19, sharing how it deepened her understanding of identity and spirituality, ultimately leading to unexpected growth and healing.

Our conversation also sheds light on the resilience within immigrant communities and the importance of integrating cultural and spiritual practices into therapy. We touch upon the theory of self-psychology and the impact of societal dynamics on mental health, especially in the face of political and economic challenges. Cheryl's insights, combined with her commitment to fostering hope and unity among black and brown communities, offer a powerful reminder of the enduring strength found in shared struggles and the guiding light of hope.

F.L.Y. L.I.B.R.E. a guide for healing and liberation can be purchased here: amzn.to/4iCzAAM

Ever wondered how reconnecting with your roots could transform your life? In this episode of "Hope Dealer," we are privileged to hear from Jerry Hawkins, who shares his family's incredible journey from Mississippi to the Windy City. Jerry offers a heartfelt look into the struggles and triumphs faced by his grandparents as they settled in Chicago's housing projects and found solace in the Greater Harvest Missionary Baptist Church. You'll be captivated by the rich history of this church and the inspirational leadership of Reverend Louis Boddie, which played a pivotal role in the healing of Jerry's family and the south side of Chicago.

As we shift toward self-discovery and healing, Jerry opens up about his own path of uncovering hidden family truths and the socio-economic dynamics that shaped his upbringing. We discuss the misleading narratives about the hood and the internal conflict of being advised to leave the community for success. The conversation takes us back to my school days at Beasley Academy and Whitney Young High School, exposing the subtle segregation within the educational system and its role in perpetuating disparities. Together, we underscore the importance of acknowledging these histories and fostering shared healing to overcome collective trauma.

The narrative deepens as we chop it up about growing up amidst gang culture in Chicago, influenced by the role models within our own community. This episode is a testament to the resilience required to navigate personal, political and familial transitions. We explore the emotional journey of divorce, the professional challenges of working in predominately white spaces, and the eventual success in creating a transformative family center in Dallas.

Finally, we celebrate the grounding practices that reconnect us with the earth and our ancestors. Through Jerry's journey and personal rituals, we explore the intrinsic value found in our cultural heritage and the wealth of our personal narratives. By embracing these elements, we discover a redefined sense of wealth, focusing instead on the spiritual and cultural contributions that shape our identities. This episode is a testament to the enduring power of community, culture, and the shared human experience, inviting listeners to explore these themes within their own lives.

F.L.Y. L.I.B.R.E. a guide for healing and liberation can be purchased here: amzn.to/4iCzAAM

What can we learn from the immigrant right's movement's 30 years fight for human dignity, at this moment? We will learn what drives those leaders and community to keep resisting. Eréndira Rendón's journey from Oaxaca, Mexico to the United States is a tale of courage and determination, emerging as a beacon of hope for many facing similar paths. Through her compelling narrative, Eré illuminates the profound perseverance found in immigrant life, sharing her family's trials in crossing borders and living undocumented in Wisconsin. Her story offers not only inspiration but also a testament to the internal drive that defines many immigrant experiences, reminding us of the resilience required to pursue a better life.

As we explore themes of spirituality and community, Eré and I discuss the significant role faith has played in shaping our purposes and driving activism. From her beginnings in a small Mexican town to becoming a leader for immigrant rights, Eré reveals how engaging in church activities became a foundation for courage and public involvement, especially for women. This episode highlights the liberating power of storytelling and the vital importance of activism, centering on how personal and community liberation fueled her commitment to advocating for immigrant rights.

Turning our focus to the political landscape, we address the challenges the Mexican community in Illinois faces in achieving political representation and participation. With concerns about voter turnout and political mistrust, we explore the potential for change through the rising influence of younger generations and the emergence of young Latino elected leaders. Despite these hurdles, there is an undercurrent of optimism as we celebrate incremental victories in social justice, emphasizing the strength found in community support and the essential role of self-care in sustaining the fight for change.

F.L.Y. L.I.B.R.E. a guide for healing and liberation can be purchased here: amzn.to/4iCzAAM