Visions&

Eréndira Jiménez Esquinca

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Религия и духовность

Visions& is an interview series with practitioners and leaders who are at the edges of decolonizing and liberating spirituality and spiritual spaces—leading the way into new visions of expanding mythic stories, the practices behind them, and the gathering around them. ejestudio.substack.com

07.07.2025

Visions&: Outro with Eréndira Jiménez Esquinca

Reflections and Future Visions: An Introspective Journey with Erendira Jimenez Esquinca Host Erendira Jimenez Esquinca of Visions& reflects on the first season and shares personal insights a year and a half later. She discusses the evolution of Spirit School, initially a decolonizing journey, into a multifaceted space that includes publishing, financial advising, and community workshops. Esquinca also delves into the interplay between decolonizing efforts and world-building, the implications of authenticity, and the challenges of balancing spirituality with material needs. As a new mother, she ponders how to guide her daughter in a changing world. Looking ahead, she emphasizes embracing moral ambiguity and the void as essential steps towards transformation and liberation. 00:00 Introduction to Visions& 01:00 Reflecting on Volume One 02:41 Spirit School's Evolution 07:44 Decolonizing and World Building 15:02 The Role of Zines in Spiritual Practice 20:25 Navigating Financial Realities 26:53 Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions Get full access to The Commons at EJE Studio at ejestudio.substack.com/subscribe
04.07.2025

Visions&: Rev. Tom Brackett

Embracing Transformation and Liberation with Rev. Tom Brackett In this episode of Visions&, host Erendira Jimenez Esquinca engages in a profound conversation with Reverend Tom Brackett, the now former Manager for Church Planting and Missional Development for the Episcopal Church. Brackett shares his journey from a rigid evangelical background to an open, wonder-filled spiritual leader. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a childlike curiosity and embracing the cyclical nature of life, where ongoing birth and death are necessary. The discussion explores themes of hierarchical structures, emerging spiritual practices, and the necessity of letting go. Brackett illustrates how new life and hope can emerge from what seems like darkness, proposing a shift from power over to power with, and advocating for mutual learning, storytelling, and the reclamation of tradition. The episode delves into ways of navigating institutional constraints, fostering transformation, and midwifing the new into being. 00:00 Introduction to Visions& 00:58 Meet Reverend Tom Brackett 02:27 Tom's Spiritual Journey 04:26 Valerie Kaur's Impactful Sermon 08:08 Exploring Spiritual Longing and Tipping Points 11:42 Wrestling with God and Archetypal Stories 16:08 Institutional Challenges and Spiritual Hunger 22:39 Embracing Death and Rebirth in Spiritual Systems 27:05 New Ways of Gathering and Community 30:34 A Slave to It All 30:54 Dancing with Different Faiths 33:08 Returning to Childlike Wonder 33:43 The Power of Play 36:53 Learning to Dance Again 38:35 Navigating Religious Structures 41:25 Embracing Change and Tradition 46:13 The Wisdom of Letting Go 51:22 A New Horizon Get full access to The Commons at EJE Studio at ejestudio.substack.com/subscribe
03.07.2025

Visions&: M Jade Kaiser and Anna Blaedel

Exploring Spiritual Transformation with M Jade Kaiser and Anna Blaedel In this episode of Visions&, host Erendira Jimenez Esquinca engages in a deep and illuminating conversation with M Jade Kaiser and Anna Blaedel, co-founders of enfleshed. The dialogue traverses the intersections of spirituality, activism, and creativity, examining topics like decolonizing language, spiritual formation, and navigating digital versus embodied spiritual experiences. The guests share their insights into the challenges and possibilities within evolving spiritual practices, including maintaining accountability and integrating spirituality into all aspects of life. The episode concludes with an exploration of enfleshed’s exciting new project, Sacred Incantations, aimed at creating a repository for trans wisdom and experiences. 00:00 Introduction to Visions& 00:57 Meet the Guests: M Jade Kaiser and Anna Blaedel 01:48 Starting the Conversation 03:15 Decolonizing Language and Practice 05:38 Elemental Wisdoms and Sacred Aliveness 08:18 Self-Descriptions and Current Work 13:51 Digital Relationships and Spiritual Community 30:54 Navigating Multiplicities and Accountability 37:16 The Role of Religion and Spiritual Practice 01:00:40 Future Projects and Closing Thoughts Get full access to The Commons at EJE Studio at ejestudio.substack.com/subscribe
02.07.2025

Visions&: Grace Aheron

Spiritual Practices, Social Justice, and Finding Vocation with Grace Aheron In this episode of Visions&, host Erendira Jimenez Esquinca interviews Grace Aheron, a queer, multiracial Asian American antiracist organizer, writer, and liturgist. Grace discusses her journey from church ministry to working with Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ), a grassroots organization mobilizing white communities to fight racism. The conversation delves into Grace's identity, her personal and collective spiritual practices, and the intersection of spirituality with social justice work. The episode also explores themes such as the evolving landscape of spirituality, collective grief, and the challenges and transformations within political and faith-based organizing. 00:00 Introduction to Visions& and Today's Guest 01:01 Meet Grace Aheron: Background and Current Work 02:00 Personal Reflections and Vocational Journey 06:07 Rituals and Spiritual Practices 09:50 Spirituality and Social Justice 14:15 Exploring Christian Identity and Collective Stories 22:53 Decolonizing Spirituality and Political Identity 36:54 The Role of Grief and Collective Action 41:11 Future Visions and Final Thoughts Get full access to The Commons at EJE Studio at ejestudio.substack.com/subscribe
01.07.2025

Visions&: Lindsey Turner

Bridging Astrology and Christianity with Reverend Lindsey Turner In this episode of Visions&, host Erendira Jimenez Esquinca engages in a dynamic conversation with Reverend Lindsey Turner, an astrologer and pluralist pastor who leads the school Maker of the Bear. Lindsey shares insights into integrating astrology with Christianity, emphasizing the importance of community, creativity, and spiritual practices. The discussion explores complex themes such as fate and free will, the impact of historic religious narratives, as well as the importance of cultivating personal intuition and discernment. Lindsey also highlights the significance of mythic stories, specifically Venusian myths, and their relevance to our current spiritual landscape. This episode underscores the emerging spiritual reconnection between ancient practices and modern faith, aiming to inspire transformation and liberation. 00:00 Introduction to Visions& 00:58 Meet Reverend Lindsey Turner 03:08 Lindsey's Spiritual Journey and Work 05:46 Astrology and Christianity: Bridging the Gap 08:37 The Influence of Saturn in Pisces 13:12 Dream Work and Spiritual Practices 16:39 Trends in Spirituality and Community 21:05 The Role of Astrology and Tarot 24:00 Mythic Stories and Emerging Narratives 37:24 Identity, Purpose, and Belonging 48:04 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans Get full access to The Commons at EJE Studio at ejestudio.substack.com/subscribe
30.06.2025

Visions&: Ryan Hawthorne

Navigating Expansive Spiritual Practices with Ryan Hawthorne In this episode of Visions&, host Erendira Jimenez Esquinca engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with Ryan Hawthorne, a Black, queer Episcopal priest and mom, who explores expansive spiritual practices and the abundance the Divine offers in all facets of life. Ryan discusses their vocational journey within the Christian church, the blending of spiritual modalities such as astrology and tarot, and the ongoing personal and communal work of decolonizing spirituality. The conversation delves into the challenges of maintaining authenticity within established religious institutions, the importance of small group communities, and the crucial role of internal discernment. Ryan also shares insights on how expansive relationships and spiritual practices can lead to broader collective liberation. 00:00 Introduction to Visions& and Host Erendira Jimenez Esquinca 00:58 Meet Ryan Hawthorne: Black, Queer, Priest, and Mom 01:45 Exploring Spiritual Practices and Community Building 04:55 The Shift in Spiritual Discernment 09:44 Navigating Spiritual Practices and Christian Tradition 16:24 Decolonizing Spiritual Practices 22:53 Tension and Authenticity in Spiritual Vocations 38:42 Future Directions and Personal Reflections Get full access to The Commons at EJE Studio at ejestudio.substack.com/subscribe
27.06.2025

Visions&: Rev. Isaac Martinez

Transforming Spirituality & Building Community for QTPOC with Reverend Isaac Martinez In this episode of Visions&, host Erendira Jimenez Esquinca interviews Reverend Isaac Martinez, the lead pastor and church planter for a new Episcopal worshiping community in Allston, Massachusetts, centered on queer and trans people of color. Isaac shares his journey from a conservative Pentecostal upbringing to becoming an Episcopalian priest, discusses the challenges and transformations within his community, and explores the deep hunger for spiritual connection and liberation among marginalized groups. The conversation covers topics such as the intersection of spirituality and queerness, the loss of enchantment in modern life, and the importance of building authentic and inclusive spiritual spaces. Note: Apologies for the poor audio quality due to recording during Mercury retrograde. 00:00 Introduction to Visions& 00:58 Meet Reverend Isaac Martinez 02:11 Isaac's Personal Journey 05:04 Building a Queer and Trans Community 06:53 Challenges and Observations 12:12 Spirituality Trends and Community Dynamics 27:15 Navigating Transience and Building Connections 31:34 Embracing Digital and Physical Spaces 37:26 Reflections and Future Directions 45:02 Concluding Thoughts Get full access to The Commons at EJE Studio at ejestudio.substack.com/subscribe
26.06.2025

Visions&: Marchaé Grair

Navigating Spiritual Transformation with Marchaé Grair In this episode of Visions&, host Erendira Jimenez Esquinca speaks with Marchaé Grair, a storyteller, spiritual director, and facilitator. Known for their work at the intersections of spirituality, pop culture, and collective liberation, Marchaé delves into deep and insightful conversations about their personal journey, spiritual practices, and the evolving role of spirituality in today's society. Topics include the role of spiritual practice in finding freedom, reckoning with institutional failures, decolonizing spirituality, and the importance of community and place in spiritual formation. Marchaé also shares their perspective on polyamory as a spiritual practice and the necessity of slowing down for collective healing and imagination. 00:00 Introduction to Visions& 00:58 Meet Marchaé Grair 01:21 Marchaé's Spiritual Journey 04:09 The Current Spiritual Landscape 07:46 Practices and Community 15:48 Decolonizing Spirituality 32:09 The Role of Land and Space 38:24 Polyamory and Spirituality 43:56 Slowing Down for Transformation 46:29 Looking Ahead: Personal and Professional Horizons Get full access to The Commons at EJE Studio at ejestudio.substack.com/subscribe
25.06.2025

Visions&: Lydia McDowell

Breath, Spirit, and the Journey to Self-Trust with Lydia McDowell In this episode of Visions&, host Erendira Jimenez Esquinca engages in a compelling conversation with Lydia McDowell, a breathwork and yoga instructor with a background in engineering and science education. Lydia shares her journey from the corporate world to a full-time spiritual practice, emphasizing the integration of left-brain scientific perspectives with right-brain spiritual experiences. The discussion explores themes of trust, relational dynamics in spiritual communities, the holistic nature of breathwork, and the interconnection of various modalities such as astrology and nature-based practices. Lydia offers insightful perspectives on overcoming religious trauma, the importance of individual spirituality without intermediaries, and how breathwork can serve as a gateway to deeper relaxation and self-awareness. This conversation also delves into the broader vision of collective spiritual evolution and Lydia’s personal journey towards facilitating deeper connections through her ongoing work. 00:00 Introduction to Visions& 00:58 Meet Lydia McDowell: From Engineering to Breathwork 02:09 Lydia's Spiritual Journey and Breath Practice 08:38 Challenges in Spiritual Communities 14:09 The Role of Trust in Spiritual Growth 20:09 Breathwork and Its Holistic Benefits 29:08 Integrating Various Spiritual Modalities 40:37 Collective Breath and Connection to Nature 44:42 Future Visions and Personal Reflections 50:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get full access to The Commons at EJE Studio at ejestudio.substack.com/subscribe
24.06.2025

Visions&: Peace Lee

Embracing Transformation with Peace Lee In this episode of Visions&, host Erendira Jimenez Esquinca engages in a profound conversation with Peace Lee, a queer Corean diasporic writer and spiritual companion. They discuss the transformative power of spirituality, the importance of jigsaw puzzles as a form of spiritual practice, and the intricate process of piecing together life's experiences. Peace emphasizes the significance of connecting with one's indigenous practices and divinities, the healing potential of tarot and oracle cards, and the hermit archetype's relevance in contemporary spiritual journeys. The conversation also delves into shifting spiritual landscapes, the impact of sociopolitical events on spiritual awakening, and Peace's personal journey towards reconnecting with her Korean heritage and her grandmother. This episode serves as an inspiring exploration of decolonizing spirituality, embracing death as a pathway to liberation, and the importance of returning to one's roots. 00:00 Introduction to Visions& 01:01 Meet Peace Lee: A Journey of Self-Discovery 02:32 Spiritual Practices and Personal Growth 05:32 Trends in Spirituality and Inclusivity 08:02 Exploring Archetypes and Mythic Stories 15:30 Facing Fear and Embracing Change 30:54 Decolonizing Spirituality and Returning to Roots 37:23 The Interplay of Individual and Collective Spiritual Journeys 42:01 Embracing Uncertainty and New Horizons 48:27 A Heartfelt Reunion: Returning to Family Get full access to The Commons at EJE Studio at ejestudio.substack.com/subscribe
23.06.2025

Visions&: Téo Montoya

Myth, Complexity, and Emergent Futures: An Interview with Téo Montoya In this stimulating conversation from the Visions& interview series, host Erendira Jimenez Esquinca talks with Téo Montoya—a Mythworker, Human Design Analyst, and Indigenous Futurist based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Téo shares his multifaceted approach to mythology, human development, and indigenous futurism, emphasizing the integration of complex systems, personal mythology, and ecological literacy. The discussion explores the shift from individualistic self-optimization to a collective embrace of complexity, chaos, and relationality with the more-than-human world. Téo delves into the importance of grief, rage, and elderhood in navigating personal and communal transformation, offering a critique of traditional spiritual structures and envisioning new, inclusive ways of being and knowing. 00:00 Introduction to Visions& 00:58 Meet Téo Montoya: Mythworker and Indigenous Futurist 01:48 Téo's Background and Work 05:00 The Complexity of Modern Spirituality 10:13 Embracing Trickster Energy and Complexity 13:25 Building Relationships with the More-Than-Human World 19:07 The Multifaceted Self and Archetypes 21:25 The Importance of Elderhood and Adulthood 25:12 Encouragement for Emerging Voices 29:08 Claiming Your Heritage and Knowledge 29:45 Expressing Ideas and Avoiding Fights 32:40 The Importance of Grief and Rage 40:29 Navigating Spiritual Formation and Way Closings 43:43 The Complexity of Christianity and Belonging 50:27 Embracing Mystery and Complexity 54:05 Future Directions and Personal Growth Get full access to The Commons at EJE Studio at ejestudio.substack.com/subscribe
15.04.2025

Visions& Vol.1: Welcome and Introduction

Visions&: Exploring Evolving Spiritual Landscapes In the introductory episode of Visions&, host Erendira Jimenez Esquinca introduces the interview series, which focuses on transforming and liberating spirituality through conversations with leaders and practitioners. Erendira, founder of Spirit School, highlights how the series bridges the gap between Self, Spirit, and Story, providing insight into dynamic and shifting spiritual practices. The interviews were recorded over a year and a half ago but have gained relevance due to current socio-political changes. These conversations cover themes of identity, belonging, purpose, and faith while addressing the evolving challenges in spiritual landscapes. Erendira emphasizes the resilience and continuing relevance of the wisdom shared, offering grounding insights during tumultuous times. 00:00 Introduction to Visions& 00:58 The Unfolding Truth 01:42 Timeless Wisdom in Interviews 02:10 Relevance Through Change 02:53 Core Themes and Consistency 03:11 Grounding in Shifting Landscapes 03:57 Invitation to Listen and Reflect 04:14 Conclusion: Visions& Volume One Visions& is an interview series with practitioners and leaders who are at the edges of transforming and liberating spirituality and spiritual spaces—leading the way into new visions of expanding mythic stories, the practices behind them, and the gathering around them. Get full access to The Commons at EJE Studio at ejestudio.substack.com/subscribe

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Visions& is an interview series with practitioners and leaders who are at the edges of decolonizing and liberating spirituality and spiritual spaces—leading the way into new visions of expanding mythic stories, the practices behind them, and the gathering around them. ejestudio.substack.com

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Eréndira Jiménez Esquinca
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