Rooted2Thrive:Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity

Rochelle Peterson-Ansari-Perceptions Unlimited LLC
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Society & Culture
  • Updated Weekly

Interested in expanding your ability to reach, teach and lead those you’re entrusted serve? Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity brings you powerful conversations with experts who are committed to maintaining human dignity in our personal lives, our work and in learning environments. We speak to hearts and minds of leaders and educators with practical insights to counter the programming that makes us, often unconsciously, devalue other humans who we perceive as different from ourselves. CHANGED MINDS will CHANGE DIRECTION!

  1. Sep 2

    Becoming an Anti-Oppressive Leader: Reflection, History, and Active Listening | Rooted2Thrive S08E73

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our HumanityBecoming an Anti-Oppressive Leader: Reflection, History, and Active ListeningSeason 7, Episode 73Host: Rochelle Peterson-AnsariGuest: Dr. Candace Robertson-JamesOverview:In this episode of the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, Rochelle Peterson-Ansari and Dr. Candace Robertson-James explore how anti-oppressive leadership begins with examining the lenses through which we see ourselves, others, and the world. Dr. Robertson-James reflects on how personal stories, family history, lived experiences, and societal systems shape our perspectives, while emphasizing the importance of identifying what we may need to unlearn. The conversation addresses bias as a natural part of being human and encourages awareness rather than shame, while also examining how historical policies and systemic decisions continue to shape present-day inequities. Through examples from education, public health, advocacy, and community engagement, they highlight the power of active listening, valuing lived experiences, understanding historical context, and using leadership to elevate the voices of others. The episode ultimately offers practical ways to become part of the solution through lifelong learning, building relationships across communities, and actively contributing to causes that advance equity and human dignity.Topics discussed:- The Stories That Shape Our Lens: Our personal, family, and generational experiences influence how we see the world and can reveal both values to embrace and beliefs we may need to unlearn.- Understanding Bias Without Shame: Recognizing that everyone has biases creates an opportunity for greater self-awareness and helps prevent personal preferences from becoming prejudice, discrimination, or harmful assumptions.- Leadership as Advocacy: Anti-oppressive leadership requires showing up authentically, listening to those whose voices are absent, and using positions of influence to represent their experiences and concerns.- History, Policy, and Present-Day Inequities: Understanding the historical and systemic roots of inequity, including policies such as redlining, helps us recognize society's responsibility to address the disparities they continue to create.- Learning, Listening, and Getting Involved: Becoming part of the solution means continuously learning, listening deeply to people's lived experiences, building connections across communities, and actively supporting causes that advance meaningful change.Guest:Dr. Candace Robertson-JamesDirector of Public Health Programs and Associate Professor at La Salle UniversityCheck out more content and ways to connect with us:➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.comPlease feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    Becoming an Anti-Oppressive Leader: Reflection, History, and Active Listening | Rooted2Thrive S08E73

  2. Aug 26

    Permission to Lead: Moving Beyond Perfectionism in Anti-Oppressive Work | Rooted2Thrive S08E72

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Permission to Lead: Moving Beyond Perfectionism in Anti-Oppressive Work Season 7, Episode 72 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Guest: Dr. George James Overview: In this episode of the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, Rochelle Peterson-Ansari and Dr. George James explore what it means to give yourself permission to lead, rest, learn, make mistakes, and grow without being trapped by perfectionism. Dr. James shares how the narratives we internalize from family, society, leadership responsibilities, and experiences of injustice can shape what we believe we are allowed to do, often leading us to overwork, doubt ourselves, or feel that we must be perfect before taking action. He distinguishes excellence from perfectionism and encourages a learner mindset rooted in curiosity, humility, accountability, and a willingness to embrace discomfort. The conversation also examines anti-oppressive and culturally responsive practice, the importance of believing people's lived experiences, and the need for leaders and helping professionals to recognize that impact is not always measured by size or visibility. Ultimately, the episode invites listeners to notice the stories and stressors that hold them back, give themselves permission to be fully human, and create more space for growth, rest, connection, and meaningful impact. Topics discussed: Giving Yourself Permission: Giving yourself permission begins with examining the narratives and internalized messages that influence what you believe you are allowed to pursue, experience, or prioritize. The Four Barriers to Permission: Societal stress, leadership stress, injustice stress, and lessons learned from family can shape our narratives and prevent us from resting, taking risks, or fully embracing opportunities. Excellence Versus Perfectionism: Excellence allows room for hard work, rest, support, learning, and mistakes, while perfectionism can keep people focused on proving themselves rather than making meaningful progress. The Learner Mindset: Growth requires a willingness to ask questions, embrace uncertainty, make mistakes, and remain open to possibilities rather than believing we must already have all the answers. Impact Without Perfection: Leaders can create meaningful change by recognizing that impact is not always about reaching the largest audience, and that caring for themselves and being present for the people who matter are essential parts of leadership. Guest: Dr. George James CEO of George Talks, mental health leader, licensed marriage and family therapist, psychologist, speaker, consultant, coach, and author. Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    Permission to Lead: Moving Beyond Perfectionism in Anti-Oppressive Work | Rooted2Thrive S08E72

  3. Aug 19

    🌸 Beyond Strong: Resilience without Self-Abandonment | Rochelle Peterson-Ansari | Season 8, Ep. 71

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our HumanityBeyond Strong: Resilience without Self-AbandonmentSeason 8, Episode 71Host: Rochelle Peterson-AnsariCEO and Founder of Perceptions Unlimited, Host of Rooted2Thrive PodcastOverview:Black women are often celebrated for being strong, dependable, and resilient—but what happens when strength requires us to abandon ourselves? In this solo episode, Rochelle explores toxic resilience: the thoughts and behaviors that may have helped us survive but can keep us from fully thriving. Through personal reflection, leadership lessons, and practical strategies, she challenges EVERYONE, especially Black and Brown women, to examine perfectionism, porous boundaries, overfunctioning, and the reluctance to ask for help—and to redefine resilience in ways that protect our wellness, honor who we are, and allow us to intentionally create the lives we want.Topics Discussed:- Some of the behaviors that helped us survive may now be preventing us from thriving. We can honor what once protected us while releasing what no longer serves us.- Resilience should not require self-abandonment. Healthy resilience means protecting our emotional, mental, and physical well-being—not simply increasing our capacity to endure.- Boundaries, confidence, and asking for help are leadership practices. How we care for ourselves directly affects how fully and effectively we lead.- Intentional living begins with identity. Before asking what you should do next, ask: Who am I? Who was I created to be? What gives me life?- Liberation includes reclaiming our agency. We can challenge oppressive systems while also releasing the beliefs and behaviors those systems have conditioned us to carry.- You are allowed to design a life that lets you be well. Rest, joy, self-trust, support, and saying “no” are not weaknesses—they are part of sustainable resilience.Check out more content and ways to connect with us:➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.comPlease feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    🌸 Beyond Strong: Resilience without Self-Abandonment | Rochelle Peterson-Ansari | Season 8, Ep. 71

  4. Jun 24

    Beyond Numbers: Transforming How We Think About Mathematics - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 70

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Episode Title: Beyond Numbers: Transforming How We Think About Mathematics Season 7, Episode 70 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this episode, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with Akil Parker, a math educator, author, and founder of All This Math, to discuss transforming the way we think about and engage with mathematics. Akil shares insights from his own background as a child of educators and emphasizes the critical role parents play in building a strong mathematical foundation at home. Together, they explore "histamatics"—Akil's innovative framework for using Black history to teach math—and how redefining mathematical understanding can empower communities, dismantle math anxiety, and turn math from a gatekeeper into a key for future success. Topics discussed: The Foundation Starts at Home: Parents can reduce math anxiety in their children by introducing mathematical concepts in daily life, such as measuring a shoebox to learn volume, before the child formally encounters them in school. Embracing Multiple Methods: Teaching children various methods to solve math problems, like the partial quotients or box methods for division, builds mathematical fluency and critical thinking, rather than limiting them to just one approach. Histamatics as a Teaching Tool: Integrating Black history into math lessons—such as using the dates of the Haitian Revolution or the Montgomery bus boycott in arithmetic problems—makes math culturally relevant and dual-purpose. Math Literacy as Empowerment: Understanding mathematics is essential for civic engagement and critical thinking, empowering individuals to question societal conditions and the algorithms that impact their daily lives. Overcoming Perfectionism and Expert Blindness: Educators and students alike must accept that making mistakes is a crucial part of the learning process , and experts must be mindful not to let their proficiency hinder their ability to effectively teach foundational concepts. Guest: Akil ParkerFounder of All This Math, Educator, and Author of How to Use All This Math, Volume 1 Facebook/Instagram/X/YouTube: @allthismath LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/AkilParker Website: www.allthismath.com  Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    Beyond Numbers: Transforming How We Think About Mathematics - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 70

  5. Jun 17

    From Intention to Action: Creating Inclusive Pathways in Education and Healthcare - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 69

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Episode Title: From Intention to Action: Creating Inclusive Pathways in Education and Healthcare Season 7, Episode 69 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this episode, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with Dr. Christy Dinkins to discuss creating inclusive pathways in education and healthcare. Dr. Dinkins shares her journey of moving from intention to action and operationalizing equity through mentorship, community partnerships, and communication that affirms dignity and belonging. Together, they explore the importance of adopting a collectivist mindset, distinguishing between transformational and transactional mentorship, and ensuring that community voices genuinely shape decisions. The conversation also highlights practical strategies for leaders to prevent burnout, such as practicing self-awareness, utilizing the "pause method," and embracing a continuous growth mindset. Topics discussed: The Collectivist Mindset: Moving away from an individualistic culture and understanding that society thrives on collectivism is foundational to achieving equitable goals and making a genuine impact. Transformational Mentorship: Meaningful mentorship requires a long-term investment of time, reciprocal relationship-building, and a focus on measurable outcomes rather than short-term, transactional exchanges. Aligning Community Partnerships: Mutually beneficial partnerships begin by ensuring organizational mission statements align and approaching communities with generous curiosity to ask what they need, rather than arriving to "fix" them. Practicing Self-Awareness and the Pause Method: Leaders can navigate difficult conversations and combat burnout by actively seeking feedback, taking a beat before reacting, and intentionally reflecting on their internal dialogue. Adopting a Growth Mindset: Embracing continuous learning and remaining open to lessons from everyone—regardless of their background or position—is the key to expanding your learning edge and transforming your mindset. Guest:  Dr. Christy Dinkins Director of Campus and Community Partnerships for the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Georgia campus, award-winning educator, and community leader Facebook: Christy Dinkins Instagram: @drcyavonne LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drchristyydinkins/ Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    From Intention to Action: Creating Inclusive Pathways in Education and Healthcare - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 69

  6. Jun 10

    Building Empowered Spaces Through Culturally Relevant Engagement - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 68

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Episode Title: Building Empowered Spaces Through Culturally Relevant Engagement Season 7, Episode 68  Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this episode, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari is joined by Dr. Kyle Morris-Sol to explore the powerful intersection of education, entertainment, and healing. Drawing from his own experiences with culturally disconnected therapy in his youth , Dr. Morris-Sol unpacks his innovative GM3 model—Games, Media, Message, and Movement—to help leaders and educators design culturally responsive learning environments. The conversation delves into the necessity of understanding audience needs, prioritizing self-care to widen our "window of tolerance," and recognizing that teaching and leading are sacred arts that require a deeply human-centered approach. Topics discussed: Traditional vs. Non-Traditional Healing: Healing happens in both formal and informal settings, but traditional therapeutic and learning spaces must be culturally connected for individuals to truly feel seen, heard, and valued. The GM3 Framework: Applying Games, Media, Message, and Movement to learning environments helps increase engagement and content retention without sacrificing educational rigor. Audience-Centered Design: Administering surveys to identify the unique interests, music, and learning styles of an audience allows leaders to create highly relevant and engaging content. Widening the Window of Tolerance: Educators and leaders must prioritize their own self-care and mental health to avoid burnout and extreme stress responses like fight, flight, fawn, or freeze. Teaching as a Sacred Art: Working with students requires deep empathy and compassion, as educators frequently balance the roles of teacher, mentor, and emotional support system. Guest:  Dr. Kyle Morris-Sol Founder and Executive Director of The ECO Foundation, The Edutainers LLC Instagram: @DrKyleTheConductorLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylemorrissol/Websites: TheConductorTrains.com TheECOfoundation.orgTheEdutainers.org   🚨 For ANY educators on the frontline, get a chance to win a $25 gift card and/or a free workshop at your school by completing an anonymous survey. Complete the survey at DontEatTheStudents.com  📝 Check out or make a copy of this Learner Interest Survey at TakeThisJawn.com to understand students hobbies, backgrounds, interests, and learning styles in order to build better student culture and adapt learning materials. Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    Building Empowered Spaces Through Culturally Relevant Engagement - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 68

  7. Jun 3

    Liberation in Leadership: Building Anti-Oppressive and Culturally Responsive Spaces - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 67

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Episode Title: Liberation in Leadership: Building Anti-Oppressive and Culturally Responsive Spaces Season 7, Episode 67 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this episode, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari and Dr. Danielle Martin explore the intersection of liberation and leadership, emphasizing the need to unlearn societal conditioning that silences voices. Dr. Martin discusses her book, Rebel Rights, which provides a roadmap for personal healing before attempting to enact collective change. Together, they highlight the importance of authentic communication, resisting burnout through rest, and leading with empathy to build true communities of belonging where people feel safe and valued. Topics discussed: The Illusion of Performative Change: True cultural competency requires moving beyond temporary, performative diversity initiatives and addressing the deep-rooted emotional fatigue among change-makers. Breaking the Silence: Leaders must unlearn generational conditioning that suppresses voices and actively invite individuals to safely share their experiences and stories. Healing Before Helping: Effective leadership and collective liberation begin with internal work, using tools like reflective writing to process trauma before advocating for others. The Power of Mentorship: Building a supportive network with multiple mentors across personal, professional, and spiritual areas is vital for thriving within restrictive systems. Rest and Joy as Rebellion: Resisting hustle culture by prioritizing sleep, setting boundaries, and embracing joy are necessary acts of rebellion to sustain long-term advocacy work. Guest:  Dr. Danielle Martin Academic Success Coordinator and Adjunct Associate Professor at Temple University, President of the Pennsylvania Black Conference on Higher Education, and author of Rebel Rights Instagram: @danimartineddLinkedIn: Danielle Martin, Ed.D.Website: www.danimartinedd.com Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    Liberation in Leadership: Building Anti-Oppressive and Culturally Responsive Spaces - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 67

  8. May 27

    Leading Without Losing Yourself: Developing Culturally Competent, Anti-Oppressive Leadership - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 66

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Episode Title: Leading Without Losing Yourself: Developing Culturally Competent, Anti-Oppressive Leadership Season 7, Episode 66 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this episode, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with James Wilson Jr. to explore how courageous leadership must begin from within. James vulnerably shares his personal story of experiencing a life-altering panic attack on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, a moment that forced him to realize he was losing himself in the demands of leadership. Together, they unpack James's "Four Rooms of Leadership" framework—Breathing, Building, Becoming, and Belonging—to help individuals transition from comfort-based to courage-based leadership. The conversation highlights that true cultural competence and impactful leadership require deep self-awareness, paying attention to internal tension, and the willingness to heal within a supportive community. Topics discussed: The Foundation of Leadership: Effective and courageous leadership requires deep self-awareness to prevent underdeveloped leaders from causing unintentional destruction. Navigating Internal Anchors: Leaders must continuously ask themselves questions surrounding identity, belonging, and purpose to avoid improperly tying their self-worth to their job titles. Listening to Your Body: It is crucial for leaders to recognize internal and physical signs of misalignment, such as anxiety or burnout, rather than ignoring the tension. The Four Rooms Framework: Transitioning to courage-based leadership involves moving through spaces of breathing for clarity, building essential skills, becoming refined, and finding a true place of belonging. The Power of Community Support: True healing and growth require spaces where leaders feel seen, loved, and supported by a team that looks beyond their professional titles or past mistakes. Guest:  James Wilson Jr. Motivational Speaker, Leadership Coach, Consultant, and Founder of Second Wind Leadership Facebook/Instagram/Youtube: jwiljr Website: jameswilsonjr.com Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    Leading Without Losing Yourself: Developing Culturally Competent, Anti-Oppressive Leadership - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 66
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Interested in expanding your ability to reach, teach and lead those you’re entrusted serve? Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity brings you powerful conversations with experts who are committed to maintaining human dignity in our personal lives, our work and in learning environments. We speak to hearts and minds of leaders and educators with practical insights to counter the programming that makes us, often unconsciously, devalue other humans who we perceive as different from ourselves. CHANGED MINDS will CHANGE DIRECTION!

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