The Aspiring Spirit Podcast

Dr. Kenann McKenzie & Andrew DeFranza
  • 5.0 (5)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

How do we identify a shared vision for our collective good in society? As we wrestle with this timely issue, you are welcome here to listen to us tackle tough questions, to share your own ideas, to seek encouragement and to be reminded that we can seek and support ways that promote our collective well-being. Subscribe by listening via Apple Podcasts, Spotify or other streaming services and adding us! . (All content copyrighted, Aspiring Spirit, LLC).

  1. 04/21/2025

    Dubious days of dialogue

    Is it you? Or is dialogue across differences more challenging despite our best efforts? Dr. McKenzie shares some reasons why and what we can do.

    12 min

  2. 10/22/2024

    Hearing vs listening: when words matter

    I have a discussion on how certain words will trigger certain reactions in the dialogue spaces- in particular I use my own personal example of choosing not to use the term white privilege, but focusing history to convey the need to focus on building community in a way that is acknowledging of past harms so that people have equal life chances; nonetheless, there are those who may hear that differently based on their perceptions and we all need to be cognizant of that while we still forge ahead in this important work of building community.

    15 min

  3. 10/02/2024

    When connecting means freedom

    In a world of polarization being centered, we can create connection to build resilience and freedom from disharmony and to focus on how to create relationships that exceed our identities. This is part of a series discussing what we need to consider.

    7 min

  4. 03/21/2024

    Reflections: On representation, war and peace.

    Disagreement of the highest magnitude is resonating in many parts of society. The global is becoming local. Discussions are showing us where we have gaps in our ability to understand one another or find peaceful resolutions. This episode asks: What is our response and who represents that?

    13 min

  5. 01/09/2024

    Inspirational notes for 2024

    2024 promises to be a year where there will be much discussion, and perhaps disagreement. We are hoping that you are inspired to find ways to be present and mindful of the world around you and the world you hope for. This episode is a reflection about being mindful and appreciative, even amidst all of the things we are striving towards.

    6 min

  6. 12/12/2023

    2023 looking back and ahead

    Thank you for supporting the podcast. We want to reiterate, our deep desire that this podcast helps to illuminate the need for community, and for considering the ideas that bring us closer and examining the things that might create difference.

    5 min

  7. 10/24/2023

    Northshore perspectives: a reflection on advocacy and collaboration

    In this episode, we explore some of the reasoning behind the formation of a Northshore branch of the NAACP. We hear from one of the founding members, Tachou, about the impetus and the hopes for community healing and a sense of belonging for everyone.

    25 min

  8. 05/22/2023

    Who benefits from division?

    As we consider the ongoing need to address different community needs, viewpoints, and actions. It is important to consider how this impacts our ability to get along and how it affects our sense of stability.

    7 min
See All (31)

Trailer

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

How do we identify a shared vision for our collective good in society? As we wrestle with this timely issue, you are welcome here to listen to us tackle tough questions, to share your own ideas, to seek encouragement and to be reminded that we can seek and support ways that promote our collective well-being. Subscribe by listening via Apple Podcasts, Spotify or other streaming services and adding us! . (All content copyrighted, Aspiring Spirit, LLC).

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Kenann McKenzie & Andrew DeFranza
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Dr. Kenann McKenzie & Andrew DeFranza
  • Show Website
    The Aspiring Spirit Podcast