The Meaningful Shift Podcast

Simone Thomas
  • 5.0 (21)
  • PHILOSOPHY
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Over here, we're changing on a cellular level - being bold, ambitious, and joyful while creating spaces for healing, reflection, and creativity. themeaningfulshift.substack.com

Episodes

  1. Ep.11 How To Build A Pathway To Purpose with Martina Abrahams Ilunga of You Had Me at Black

    FEB 8

    Ep.11 How To Build A Pathway To Purpose with Martina Abrahams Ilunga of You Had Me at Black

    You know that lyric, “I make Black history everyday, I don’t need a month!” This conversation is the embodiment of that. We have to treasure our stories, especially the everyday and the mundane… when we step away from the ongoing pressure of the profit motive, we can remember the power of our humanity. In a time when history is being intentionally erased, it’s up to us to preserve and remember. Show Notes: In this episode of The Meaningful Shift, Simone connects with Martina, a Brooklyn-based creative entrepreneur, storyteller, and community builder. Martina discusses the need for everyone to recognize the importance of their own stories and how that belief is central to the fight for liberation. She shares her journey of founding You Had Me at Black, her inspiration from the Black Panther Party, and the transformations she experienced through creative incubator New Inc. The conversation centers around the importance of preserving Black stories, ethical storytelling, and building sustainable, community-centric media. 00:00 Introduction to The Meaningful Shift 01:08 Meet Martina: Creative Entrepreneur and Storyteller 02:59 The Birth of ‘You Had Me At Black’ 12:21 Reconnecting with Purpose and Community 23:55 Finding Community As An Adult 25:31 The Impact of Oakland and the Black Panther Party 29:56 The Power of Storytelling and Community 43:07 Conclusion and Takeaways – If you have a comment, question, or any recommended guests hit me on Substack or DM me on Instagram, I would love to chat :) The Meaningful Shift Newsletter Instagram Music by Auxjack from Epidemic Sound Special thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with Hiwote. Resources You Had Me At Black on Substack Wayward Lives, Beautiful Experiments: Intimate Histories of Riotous Black Girls, Troublesome Women, and Queer Radicals by Saidiya Hartman Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi Meerkat Media This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themeaningfulshift.substack.com

    45 min
  2. Ep.10 The Unexpected Power of Human Connection in Hospitality: Brandy Cerne’s Journey

    JAN 11

    Ep.10 The Unexpected Power of Human Connection in Hospitality: Brandy Cerne’s Journey

    I’ve been seeing little pockets of this idea of “friction maxxing” online as a goal for people in 2026 to find more happiness. I find it hilarious that TikTok has made everything a trend with a brand but I will say, this one actually feels like a good thing. Brandy and I talk a little bit about this but I think realizing that in order for us to build our world together, we need to get comfortable with friction again is a very good takeaway :) ENJOY! Show Notes: In this episode we meet Brandy Cerne, the creator of O Portalzinho in Paraty, Brazil. Brandy shares her journey from a career in marketing to embracing entrepreneurship, fueled by a love for travel and community. The discussion highlights the importance of human connection and social health as well as her unexpected path to realizing her hospitality dream. Simone and Brandy also delve into ways to live meaningfully within the constraints of a self-interested society, inspired by mutual support. 00:00 Introduction to The Meaningful Shift 01:19 Meet Brandy Cerne: From Startup Marketer to Bed and Breakfast Owner 02:47 The Pousada Vision: From Idea to Reality 07:20 Navigating Layoffs and Freelancing 11:37 Creating a Connection-Led Space 24:34 The Joy of Connecting with Others 28:55 Embracing Uncertainty and Personal Growth 39:05 Final Thoughts and Gratitude – If you have a comment, question, or any recommended guests hit me on Substack or DM me on Instagram, I would love to chat :) The Meaningful Shift Newsletter Instagram Music by Auxjack from Epidemic Sound Special thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with Hiwote. Resources Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers Embracing Uncertainty by Susan Jeffers You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero For Starters How I Built This with Guy Raz This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themeaningfulshift.substack.com

    42 min

  3. 12/07/2025

    Ep.9 Creating Community Through Curiosity and Food with Nirupa Konijeti

    You know how they say if you can’t get a seat at the table, build your own table? This conversation is the best example of that… just start where you are! Show Notes: In this episode of The Meaningful Shift, Simone dives deep into the transformative journey of Nirupa Konijeti, the founder of Bazaar, a highly sought-after supper club in NYC. Nirupa shares her story of overcoming dissatisfaction in her tech job to pursue a fulfilling endeavor that blends her passion for food and community. From her roots in Hyderabad, India to her thriving life in Brooklyn, Nirupa discusses the importance of curiosity, intentional living, and embracing one’s heritage to create spaces that foster genuine human connections. This episode reveals how Nirupa’s venture into hosting intimate dinners not only filled a market gap but also helped her reclaim her identity and creativity. Along the way, Simone and Nirupa explore the impact of parental expectations, immigrant experiences, and the power of social media in building supportive communities. 00:00 Introduction to The Meaningful Shift 01:09 Introducing Nirupa Konijeti 10:55 Cultural and Personal Identity 18:28 Launching Bazaar Supper Club 24:42 The Power of Play, Future Aspirations, and Creative Freedom 36:01 Family Support and Personal Growth 40:00 Closing Thoughts – If you have a comment, question, or any recommended guests hit me on Substack or DM me on Instagram, I would love to chat :) The Meaningful Shift Newsletter Instagram Music by Auxjack from Epidemic Sound Special thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with Hiwote. Resources Usal Project Callisto Farms This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themeaningfulshift.substack.com

    42 min

  4. 11/09/2025

    E8. How to Overcome Fear and Pursue Your Dreams

    So many of the most incredible opportunities I’ve had in my life have come from me pushing past fear. It’s a human emotion, that never goes away… so know that and realize there’s SO much potential goodness on the other side. 🫶🏽✨ You cannot use someone else’s fire. You can only use your own. And in order to do that, you must first be willing to believe that you have it. -Audre Lorde Show Notes: In this solo episode of The Meaningful Shift, Simone reflects on the fears she’s encountered throughout the process of building Ackee House, a retreat space in Jamaica. She talks about overcoming the fear of judgment while fundraising, inspired by personal conversations with family and other new entrepreneurs like Brandy Cerne of O Portalzinho, who also navigates similar waters in the hospitality space. Simone explores deep-rooted fears and emphasizes the importance of courage, self-belief, and collective mindset in pursuing dreams. She shares practical insights and resources, advocating for self-trust and resilience amidst uncertainties and encouraging listeners to step into their power to help contribute to a better world. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:12 Introducing Ackee House: The Journey Begins 02:12 Facing Fear: A Personal Reflection 06:06 Inspiration from Others: Stories of Courage 07:43 Practical Advice: Tools and Resources 10:11 Building Resilience: Overcoming Challenges 13:38 Conclusion: Embracing Your Power If you have a comment, question, or any recommended guests hit me on Substack or DM me on Instagram, I would love to chat :) The Meaningful Shift Newsletter Instagram Music by Auxjack from Epidemic Sound Special thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with Hiwote. Resources How I Built This with Guy Raz O Portalzinho Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers Only the Paranoid Survive by Andrew S. Grove This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themeaningfulshift.substack.com

    16 min

  5. 10/05/2025

    Ep7. Angel Tobar's Journey to Rootedness and Community

    It’s time to get offline and get back to the land - let’s touch grass folks! The truth is, there’s so MUCH we can do when we work together. We have so many skills and talents we can each bring to create the world we want to see 🫶🌎✨ Show Notes: In this episode we sit down with Angel Tobar, a horticulturalist and educator from the Bronx, to explore his dramatic transition from the world of finance to sustainable farming. Angel shares his experiences and observations about systemic inequities in finance, the profound connection between community and land, and the importance of aligning one’s work with personal values. They also discuss the mental and physical tolls of contemporary work environments and the life-altering significance of embracing ancestral skills. Through Angel’s story, the conversation illuminates how small acts of healing and community building can lead to expansive, fulfilling lives. 00:00 Introduction to The Meaningful Shift 01:19 Meet Angel Tobar: from Finance to Farming 05:41 Simone’s Personal Struggles in Tech 11:26 Angel’s Bronx Roots and Connection to Nature 15:58 The Healing Power of Nature and Community 22:39 Masculinity and Vulnerability in Community Work 28:23 The Hood’s Farmer: A Journey 33:23 Consulting and Building Sustainable Spaces 44:56 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans – If you have a comment, question, or any recommended guests hit me on Substack or DM me on Instagram, I would love to chat :) The Meaningful Shift Newsletter Instagram Music by Auxjack from Epidemic Sound Special thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with Hiwote. Resources Mirror Walk: A Step By Step Guide The One-Straw Revolution The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself Empress Karen Rose This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themeaningfulshift.substack.com

    47 min

  6. 09/14/2025

    E6. Choosing Happiness: A Transformational Journey with Kathy Hampton

    In a time where so much feels so scary and out of our control, I really appreciated this conversation with Kathy. Her wisdom reminded me of the agency we all have to choose happiness. We have the power to transform ourselves and also the power to transform our world. I hope this conversation encourages you to step boldly into the transitions in your own life. There’s a new you waiting, and a new world waiting for us all. 💖 Show Notes: In this episode we hear from Kathy Hampton, a transformational life coach, wellness practice facilitator, and founder of Wellside Retreats. Kathy shares her inspirational journey from an unfulfilling career as a law librarian to embracing happiness through transformational life coaching, walking away from an unhealthy marriage, and building a new life in Portugal. Kathy emphasizes the significance of community, journaling, and overcoming fear to achieve true joy and fulfillment. 00:00 Introduction to The Meaningful Shift 01:21 Introducing Kathy Hampton 03:41 Focusing on Black Women Over 50 06:53 Making Major Life Changes 21:54 Building Community Through Retreats 31:20 Final Thoughts and Takeaways – If you have a comment, question, or any recommended guests hit me on Substack or DM me on Instagram, I would love to chat :) The Meaningful Shift Newsletter Instagram Music by Auxjack from Epidemic Sound Special thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with Hiwote. Resources Wellside Retreats How We Heal: Uncover Your Power and Set Yourself Free by Alexandra Elle Mel Robbins Podcast You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero Casa Elm in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themeaningfulshift.substack.com

    34 min

  7. 08/03/2025

    E5. Balancing Careers and Creative Passions: A Conversation with Jodine Gordon

    Art can save your life. I know this for certain because it’s the only thing that’s saving me right now. My creative practice is my balm… Art can also change your life and I loved talking with Jodine about how art has changed hers. I hope you enjoy this conversation and consider how you might be able to support an artist that speaks to you. 💖 Show Notes: In this episode, we delve into Jodine Gordon's multifaceted journey. Based in LA, Jodine leads creative innovation at Amazon Studios, aiming to amplify the reach and impact of storytellers. We briefly discuss her transition to a career in publishing and creative innovation, driven by her love for storytelling. But more importantly, Jodine shares insights on balancing work with personal passions like art and writing, and how she navigates goals and aspirations outside her day job. She also discusses the importance of following her values, building a rich life through diverse interests, and her evolving relationship with work and success. 00:00 Introduction to The Meaningful Shift 01:08 Meet Jodine Gordon: The Journey to LA 04:11 The Writing Group, Exploring Art, and Creativity 09:49 Balancing Work and Personal Fulfillment 22:46 Reflections on Career and Life Choices 35:18 Concluding Thoughts and Takeaways – If you have a comment, question, or any recommended guests hit me on Substack or DM me on Instagram, I would love to chat :) The Meaningful Shift Newsletter Instagram Music by Auxjack from Epidemic Sound Special thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with Hiwote. Resources Hana Ward @ OCHI Gallery Francesa Lalanne The Artist’s Way Alison Saar This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themeaningfulshift.substack.com

    37 min

  8. 07/06/2025

    E4. Navigating Our Chaotic World with Mindfulness and Stillness: A Conversation with Maya Burns Bernard

    What’s really crazy about this conversation is the fact that Maya and I recorded this in April and we talk about “navigating this time” and “ignoring the news” but it feels like we just talked last week. While that may feel depressing at first glance, as I thought about it, it actually brought me peace, because it’s a reminder that mindfulness is an evergreen solution and will continue to be an important antidote. I hope you enjoy this episode and find some helpful tactics that can help you navigate our chaotic world. I’ve already put many of her recommendations into practice! Show Notes: In this episode of The Meaningful Shift, Simone speaks with Maya Burns Bernard, a storyteller, problem solver, and community builder, based in Los Angeles. Discussing personal journeys through professional burnout, Maya shares insights from her life, particularly focusing on how the pandemic caused her to reassess the way she engages with technology and productivity. The conversation navigates the impact of societal pressures, mental health, and the benefits of mindfulness, walking, and meditation. Maya's work with BStill, aims to help people recognize and adapt their daily patterns to live more sustainably and collectively to tackle our problematic relationship with technology. 00:00 Introduction to The Meaningful Shift 01:21 Meet Maya Burns Bernard: Journey and Realizations 04:05 The Impact of the Pandemic 06:14 Mental Health and Therapy 15:02 The BStill Movement 20:27 Isolation and Digital Overwhelm 22:35 Meditation and Mindfulness Practices 23:53 Practical Tips for Digital Detox 30:07 Riding the Wave of Your Energy and Self-Care 36:12 Recommended Books and Practices 40:32 Final Reflections and Takeaways Check out BStill | Website | Instagram – If you have a comment, question, or any recommended guests hit me on Substack or DM me on Instagram, I would love to chat :) The Meaningful Shift Newsletter Instagram Music by Auxjack from Epidemic Sound Special thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with Hiwote. Resources Unwinding Anxiety by Dr. Judson Brewer The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield The Alchemist This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themeaningfulshift.substack.com

    43 min

  9. 06/08/2025

    Ep3. How to Find More Time to Build a Life You Love

    I knew when I started this storytelling journey that I didn’t want to focus solely on me and the business in Jamaica. While I’m sure it’s interesting to many people, I wanted to make sure I wasn’t presenting it like a path that just anybody can take. I also don’t have it all figured out, so wanted to selfishly build something that would allow me to learn alongside you as listeners. However, I do know that my voice is important here too (I’m getting comfortable with that) so we’re launching with a solo episode ☺️ The Meaningful Shift is OFFICIALLY LIVE — Listen now on Apple and Spotify. To celebrate the launch, I’m joining Hiwote LIVE to talk about what it really took to bring this show to life. If you’re curious about the journey OR you’ve been thinking about starting your own podcast, but feel a resistance… join us! Click the Notify Me button here so you're alerted when we go live on Monday at 12PM EST. I hope that you’ll continue to read and listen along and if the stories resonate with you, it would be mean the world if you share with a friend, rate, review, and subscribe. Doing so will really help to grow the community and help more people find stories that will inspire them! Show Notes: In this solo episode of The Meaningful Shift, host Simone delves into the journey behind building a retreat space in Jamaica – sharing her personal experiences, the inspiration behind the project, and the connection to her Jamaican roots. Simone addresses common questions about managing time and the sacrifices required for such a significant endeavor while working a full-time job. She discusses practical strategies for finding time, the importance of mental clarity, and the role of creativity in her life. Resources such as books and podcasts that have influenced her are also highlighted. Join Simone as she navigates the challenges and rewards of creating a meaningful and expansive life. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:04 The Jamaica Retreat Project 03:08 Why The Meaningful Shift Podcast 06:23 Finding the Time and the Energy 08:15 Practical Tips for Creativity and Productivity 17:54 Resources and Recommendations 22:25 Conclusion – If you have a comment, question, or any recommended guests hit me on Substack or DM me on Instagram, I would love to chat :) The Meaningful Shift Newsletter Instagram Music by Auxjack from Epidemic Sound Special thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with Hiwote. Resources The Gray Area with Sean Illing Show Your Work! by Austin Kleon The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themeaningfulshift.substack.com

    23 min
  10. EP2. The Power of Choosing Joy As Resistance with Hiwote Getaneh

    05/11/2025

    EP2. The Power of Choosing Joy As Resistance with Hiwote Getaneh

    Have you seen that meme floating around on Instagram and TikTok recently? The one where it’s typically a montage of beautiful landscapes or simple pleasures like fresh fruit, or joyful laughter between friends and then the text overlayed just says “I almost forgot this was the whole point.” This conversation reminded me of that and the power we have to take back our agency and choose joy. I hope you find something joyful to delight you this week. Show Notes: In this episode of The Meaningful Shift, host Simone speaks with Hiwote Getaneh, an audio producer and entrepreneur based in Lisbon, Portugal. Hiwote discusses her journey from following a traditional career path in the U.S. to finding her true zone of genius in podcasting and creative work. She highlights the significance of storytelling, the concept of creative resilience, and the importance of joy in life. They delve into the importance of intention, Hiwote's transformative shift that sparked her move to Lisbon, the importance of staying connected with family, and the empowering truth that you have choice to create the vibrant and joyful life you desire. 00:00 Introduction to The Meaningful Shift 01:16 Meet Hiwote Getaneh: From Brooklyn to Lisbon 02:13 The Journey to Radical Joy 05:11 Exploring Creative Resilience 20:27 The Power of Storytelling 32:58 Practical Tips and Recommendations 37:41 Conclusion: Finding Joy and Creative Resilience Connect with Hiwote | Newsletter | Instagram – If you have a comment, question, or any recommended guests hit me on Substack or DM me on Instagram, I would love to chat :) The Meaningful Shift Newsletter Instagram Music by Auxjack from Epidemic Sound Special thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with Hiwote. Resources The Book of Delights: Essays by Ross Gay The Telepathy Tapes Podcast Sensuous Knowledge: A Black Feminist Approach for Everyone by Minna Salami The Surrender Experiment: My Journey into Life's Perfection by Michael A. Singer This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themeaningfulshift.substack.com

    39 min
  11. EP1. Why Creativity is Important for Our Health and Well-being with Jessie Spellman

    04/13/2025

    EP1. Why Creativity is Important for Our Health and Well-being with Jessie Spellman

    The past week was a real doozy (I feel like we say that every week at this point)… I hope you’re finding time to take care of yourself, cultivating moments of joy, and spending time loving on the people in your life that matter. Might I suggest something else to add to your list? ✨Creativity✨ You’ll learn, like I did during this conversation, that doing something creative is another important way to process all of the things we’re feeling/faced with every day and should be more of a regular practice for us as human beings. So this week I invite you to put down the powerpoint and pick up some crayons, water colors, or even a pencil and paper to write a short story or poem! The Meaningful Shift as a creative outlet has worked wonders for me, I hope you can find something that feels right for you. 💖 Show Notes: In the inaugural episode of The Meaningful Shift, host Simone dives deep into the transformative power of authenticity, creativity, and community with artist and entrepreneur Jessie Spellman. Jessie, who left a high-powered corporate career to co-found Recess Grove, an art café in Brooklyn, shares insights into how creative spaces can serve as sanctuaries for emotional well-being and personal growth. They discuss the importance of interdependence, the universal need for authentic connections, and making subtle but impactful shifts in everyday life to foster a more inclusive and compassionate world. Through personal anecdotes and thought-provoking dialogue, this episode aims to inspire listeners to think differently about work, community, and their own creative potential. 00:00 Introduction to The Meaningful Shift 01:41 Introducing Jessie Spellman 02:53 Recess Grove: A Sanctuary for Creativity & Play 05:33 Jessie's Journey: From Corporate to Creative 11:22 The Power of Authentic Connections 17:54 Balancing Joy and Struggle 32:32 Interdependence and Community Support 40:50 Recommended Reads and Inspirations 44:29 Conclusion: Embracing Creativity and Well-being Check out recess grove | Website | Instagram – If you have a comment, question, or any recommended guests hit me on Substack or DM me on Instagram, I would love to chat :) The Meaningful Shift Newsletter Instagram Music by Auxjack from Epidemic Sound Special thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with Hiwote. Resources The Dispossessed: An Ambiguous Utopia by Ursula K. Le Guin Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer War Talk by Arundhati Roy Adrienne Maree Brown The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themeaningfulshift.substack.com

    46 min

  12. 04/06/2025

    It's time for… The Meaningful Shift Podcast

    Hey Substack friends! You’re getting a sneak peek before I share with the rest of the world — I’ll be previewing the first three episodes of the show here exclusively. So please, let me know what you think ☺️ This is a show where people share how they’re getting unstuck by embracing new ways of thinking about work, family, community, and everything in between. We’re living in a time of constant information overload, distractions, and stress… it’s time for a change. Once a month, I’ll share a new episode where you’ll hear real stories from real people like me who are also navigating the overwhelm of today’s world to create more meaningful lives. I’ll talk with my guests about how they’ve shifted their mindset, stopped checking society’ boxes, and found their own paths to fulfillment. The Meaningful Shift will inspire you to question the status quo and empower you to find your role in creating a better world. Building a retreat in Jamaica is only one story, I want to share other ways to hopefully encourage you to lean on your community and figure out what feels right for you! — If you have a comment, question, or any recommended guests hit me on Substack or DM me on Instagram, I would love to chat :) The Meaningful Shift Newsletter Instagram Music by Auxjack from Epidemic Sound Special thanks to Hiwote Getaneh and the Emerging Voices Podcast Accelerator. Interested in starting your own podcast? Book a call with Hiwote. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themeaningfulshift.substack.com

    4 min

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About

Over here, we're changing on a cellular level - being bold, ambitious, and joyful while creating spaces for healing, reflection, and creativity. themeaningfulshift.substack.com

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