Dharma Digs with Taylor Winchester - Accessing a Higher Plane via the Creative Arts

One who shirks in action does not attain freedom; no one can gain perfection by abstaining from work. Indeed, there is no one who rests for even an instant; all creatures are driven to action by their own nature.
 
~ Krishna (The Bhagavad Gita)

Watch on YouTube

dharmadigspodcast.com

love & light ✨

Jun 04, 202101:00:06

Ep. 27 - Chasing Light with Rebecca Gummere - Dharma Digs Podcast

This week's episode features a conversation with Rebecca Gummere, creative writer and author. Rebecca is a two-time Pushcart nominee and has been awarded three North Carolina Regional Artist Project Grants (2013, 2015, and 2018). She has also been the recipient of two Fellowships from the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts (VCCA) and was selected to receive a 2017-2018 North Carolina Artist Fellowship for her memoir-in-progress about her recent nine-month cross-country pilgrimage.

We talk a little about #vanlife journeys, her multi-disciplinary career experience, and closing the distance between her physical consciousness and the divine. Rebecca also shares a very personal and heartbreaking experience of the sudden loss of her infant son, and how that upended everything she knew about life, death, faith - and the thread that connects us all!

Our segment two quotes to ponder as you're tuning in are below:

“I want God to be real. I need there to be Someone in charge, and I need there to be a heaven, some place where I know my baby is safe and cared for and loved. I think back to when I was a child, moments when I sensed a presence—at 8, seated between my mother and sister in a church pew, the sun painting my leg in reds and golds and blues, believing God was somehow in that dance of color; at 12, perched on a hillside as a wild wind stirred then quieted in the field behind me, and then in the utter stillness came the piercing call of one lone bird, sending chills over my skin, the very voice of God in my ear.” - pulled from Cooper's Heart | The Oprah Magazine

“Light, then dark, dark, then light. Isn’t this the flow of life? We soar, we stumble and fall. We rise, we sink. Still, the world welcomes us in bright moments such as these, hope arriving in unexpected ways to lift us once again.” - Lifted Blog Entry

Rebekah's segment three shares are:

OASIS - Boone, Nc - Opposing Abuse with Service, Information and Shelter: OASIS has a philosophy of empowerment, which means we believe every survivor is able to make the best decisions for herself or himself if given the support and resource referrals. We never tell anyone what she or he should do. Instead, we help brainstorm ideas and look together at possibilities. We work closely with other helping agencies and can help survivors identify the different avenues of support available to them.

Show Links:

https://www.rebeccagummere.com/

https://www.instagram.com/rgummere/

https://www.facebook.com/rebecca.gummere/

https://twitter.com/rgummere

Connect on IG:

www.instagram.com/dharmadigs

www.instagram.com/taylorwinchestercreates

Thanks as always for stopping by and tuning in, I hope you enjoy this episode!

love & light ✨,

May 14, 202101:02:51

Ep. 26 - Karma Yoga - Exploring the Bhagavad Gita (solo dig)

May 06, 202126:32

Ep. 25 - Rebekah Todd on Patience, Nature and Rediscovering YourSELF

What a good time I had diggin' in on this week's episode of Dharma Digs, featuring Rebekah Todd - a purveyor of many cool creations! As a singer-songwriter, her vibes exude a diverse influence of inspiration, including the soulful sounds of Lauryn Hill and Susan Tedeschi.

I really enjoyed this conversation and Rebekah's stories from the road, as we unpack the impact that vulnerability within songwriting offers and the connection it creates with fans. We of course explore how spirit and purpose fall into play here as well!

Not only is she a songwriter and vocalist, but Rebekah's also well versed in the realms of yoga and mindfulness. We chat a bit about heart opening exercises and the important role her meditation and yoga practice have played when dealing with loss and trauma.

And of course, don't forget to check out her boutique - Shop Wildwood

Our segment two quotes to ponder as you're tuning in are below:

“Patience is waiting. Not passively waiting. That is laziness. But to keep going when the going is hard and slow - that is patience. The two most powerful warriors are patience and time.” ~ Leo Tolstoy
"When we embrace our strong emotions with mindfulness and concentration, we’ll be able to see the roots of these mental formations. We’ll know where our suffering has come from. When we see the roots of things, our suffering will lessen. So mindfulness recognizes, embraces, and relieves.” ~ Thich Nhat Hanh

Rebekah's segment three shares are:

Walk Tall Wilmington - At Walking Tall Wilmington, we're building transformative friendships with people in poverty. Come and join us! Working together to change Wilmington, NC and the world, one transformational friendship at a time. We’d love to become friends with you.

Show Links:

http://www.rebekahtodd.com/

https://www.facebook.com/RebekahToddMusic

https://www.instagram.com/rebekah_todd/

Connect on IG:

http://instagram.com/daeleemusic

www.instagram.com/taylorwinchestercreates

Thanks as always for stopping by and tuning in, I hope you enjoy this episode!

love & light ✨,

Apr 09, 202156:50

Ep 24 - Connecting with Religion Through Meditation (solo dig)

𝘓𝘪𝘧𝘦'𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘴𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥𝘭𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘨𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘧𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘵𝘴, 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘴, 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘦𝘹𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘶𝘴.⁣

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I sat on releasing this solo dig, mainly out of fear and concern of what others might think. ⁣

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I didn’t want to ruffle any feathers or offend anyone, but I remembered that the whole point of this podcast is to dig into topics of conversation that are too often swept under rugs.⁣

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Believe and worship whatever God(s) you want to, but if you’re not making decisions and taking actions in the spirit of the divine, then what’s the point of worship?⁣

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I’m opening up a bit here, and it feels vulnerable to share my experience and relationship with Religion. It’s evolved throughout my life, and for the past 15 years or so I’ve felt an aversion to the very definition of Religion. ⁣

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Lately though, through meditation, I’ve found myself re-examining my relationship to Religion in general, along with the impacts of making conscious decisions and actions based in spiritual faith. ⁣

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And not “faith” in the idea of a superhuman god, but faith in the divine nature that resides in all of us, that connects us as conscious beings, and that ultimately makes us all One. ⁣

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So, I’m curious about others relationship to Religion, which caused me to share my own. Whether it’s a God, the Holy Spirit, the Cosmos, or Nature - How does your relationship to higher powers manifest in your daily lives?⁣

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As always, in love & light ✨ ~ tw⁣

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#dharmadigs #meditation #religion #spirituality #action #karma #life #consciousness #livewithintention

Apr 02, 202129:41

Ep. 23 - Dae-Lee on Building Bridges with the Fair Play Music Equity Initiative

This week's episode goes deep discussing the innate value of human life and the important need for not only systemic change, but of relationships and human connection. My guest, Dae-Lee, just so happens to be a natural bridge builder, and shares quite a bit of insight on the work he's doing to create an equitable music and cultural scene in the city of Charlotte.

As a GRAMMY nominated producer, recording artist and creative entrepreneur, Dae is also a founding member of the Fair Play Music Equity Initiative; a non-profit that advocates for a fair music ecosystem in Charlotte by engaging venue owners, event producers and organizations on the value of inclusivity in music programming as well as through establishing new equitable music platforms for all.

Our segment two quotes to ponder as you're tuning in are below:

“If there’s any possibility for enlightenment, it’s right now, not at some future time. Now is the time. What does it take to use the life we already have in order to make us wiser rather than more stuck? What is the source of wisdom, at a personal, individual level? ~ Pema Chodron

“World on my back and it’s got me feeling stronger | why would I look back? No reasons I could conjure | It is what it is, a brighter future’s what I see | Lettin’ go of what was got me feeling free." ~ Dae-Lee - Go On (ft. Greg Cox)

“Imagine if we loved more than we hate and if we weren’t judged by the skin on our face. And care for the next man wasn’t out of place, cause we all knew one day we need that same grace." ~ Dae-Lee

Dae's segment three shares are:

It's the Block - Far too often, the voices and stories of Black people (specifically Black creatives), end up silenced or censored in such a way, that our stories no longer feel like our own. For three creative visionaries in Charlotte, this notion was felt and experienced firsthand. Instead of allowing it to continue, they put their respective talents and resources together to create a hub where Black creatives and creative entrepreneurs, could realize and reach their full potential.

Davita Galloway, David “Dae Lee” Arrington, and David J. Butler established Hue House to support cultural and arts communities of color, by providing the resources and opportunities needed to be successful and contribute to the wellbeing of the community.

To further the vision, they created a series of in-person events called “The Block” to bring the community together in one place, to share ideas and resources. Once the pandemic struck, they quickly shifted to presenting the monthly event in a virtual format.

Show Links:

http://dae-lee.com

http://facebook.com/daeleemusic

http://twitter.com/daeleemusic

Connect on IG:

We should not fret for what is past, nor should we be anxious about the future; men of discernment deal only with the present moment.
~ Chanakya

Thanks as always for stopping by and tuning in, I hope you enjoy this episode!

love & light ✨,

Mar 18, 202156:47

Ep. 22 - Viveka ~ The Art of Discernment (solo dig)

Discernment seems to be a word that continues to pop up in my world lately, and leaning into the whole idea of synchronicities and signs from the universe, I felt like it was a word I should contemplate a little further.

I felt as though I knew what it meant in context of places I'd read it used, but there was something about it that tickled my curiosity as to how I could apply it more within my personal pursuit for self awareness in my day-to-day.

The simple definition per Oxford Languages, is the ability to judge well.

However, the subtle differences between the word judge and discernment can play an important role in how we make decisions, and how those choices could not only affect our lives, but also the lives of those around us.

I'd love to know your thoughts on the differences between being judging vs. discerning, and hope you enjoy my thoughts in today's solo dig!

As always, in love & light ✨ ~ tw

Connect with the show:

We've all heard the saying, "Insanity is just doing the same thing over and over while expecting different results" - well this week I dive into how our Actions lead to Memories, which leads to Desires, ultimately looping us back to repeating similar actions again and again.

Mar 12, 202118:59

Ep. 21 - Jason Jet on Intentionality & the Grind to Building Grindhaus Studios

Born in Iceland, raised in the Carolinas - Jason Jet's personality and music both embody an indie-soul, DIY vibe, and the passion and purpose are etched throughout his works. In this week's Dharma Digs Episode, Jason and I dig into the role intentionality has played in both his creative endeavors as well as his personal life. We unpack some of the lyrics from his song Numb, along with how his music and songs have impacted those around him.

While he's sitting on an unreleased album that was recorded at his home studio, his focus of late has been on building an innovative and accessible approach to recording / production offerings dubbed Grindhaus Studios, located in the Plaza Midwood area of Charlotte, NC. Describing it as the YMCA of recording studios, Grindhaus provides "a high-quality, professional space for artists to record, write, collaborate and relax."

"We meet artists in the middle, where traditional studios are too expensive and the common home studio most times just isn’t adequate enough. So you may be wondering how we do it. Well, we have decided to steal a couple of plays from the co-working space and create a membership experience for our space...by offering master classes, youth camps, major publishing opportunities and most importantly access to professionally treated studio environments at a fraction of the cost. We’re here for the musicians that are seeking community and recording resources. "

Our segment two quotes to ponder as you're tuning in are below:

“Music, at its essence, is what gives us memories. And the longer a song has existed in our lives, the more memories we have of it." ~ Stevie Wonder

Jason's segment three shares are:

Communities in Schools - Working directly in 2,500 schools in 25 states and the District of Columbia, Communities In Schools builds relationships that empower students to stay in school and succeed in life.

Our school-based staff partner with teachers to identify challenges students face in class or at home and coordinate with community partners to bring outside resources inside schools. From immediate needs like food or clothing to more complex ones like counseling or emotional support, we do whatever it takes to help students succeed.

Young Icons - Youth ages 10-17 who live in the greater Charlotte Mecklenburg area can hone their musical talents at the second annual Young Icons Recording Arts Camp, a week-long summer intensive lead by national recording artist Jason Jet.

Show Links:

http://www.jasonjetmusic.com/

https://www.grindhausstudios.com/

https://www.instagram.com/jasonjet/

https://www.instagram.com/grindhausstudios/

Connect on IG:

www.instagram.com/dharmadigs

www.instagram.com/taylorwinchestercreates

Thanks as always for stopping by and tuning in, I hope you enjoy this episode!

love & light ✨,

Mar 05, 202133:43

Ep. 20 - Rebooting the Software of Your Soul (solo dig)

While many incorrectly credit Einstein for the Insanity quote (he claims he never said it), he did in fact produce the Theory of Relativity, which led to what's known in Quantum Physics as the Field of Unified Theory - basically assessing that all of us beings are connected and a part of the "one."

So what separates us then? That would be the thoughts we have and the actions we take as individuals. And, it's our actions that lead us into the feedback loop that finds us in repeating situations of suffering, both mental and physical.

According to Vedic philosophy, every action you take creates a memory, and every memory then creates a desire - and it's that desire that moves you to the next action. See the loop? This is referred to as the software of the soul.

As Deepak Chopra says, "Karma, memory, and desire are just the software of the soul. It's conditioning that the soul undergoes in order to create experience. And it's a cycle. In most people, the cycle is a conditioned response. They do the same things over and over again."

So how do we break these cycles you ask? Well, listen in to this episode as I share a simple exercise you can use in every day experiences to help with breaking free of the repetitive thought patterns.

As always, in love & light ✨ ~ tw

Connect with the show:

https://www.travisshallow.com/

Feb 26, 202120:14

Ep. 19 - Travis Shallow on Overcoming Resistance as a Songwriter

This week's episode features American singer-songwriter, musician, and recording artist Travis Shallow. I first met Travis many years ago when we were both getting our start in the music scene in downtown Wilmington, NC. In addition to his stellar songwriting, the great thing about Travis is he's a natural storyteller.

We chat a little bit about the early days, including his time writing and collaborating with fellow songwriters Ron Etheridge & Richard Welsh for their project A Few Good Liars, but we also dig into the pitfalls and challenges of staying creative while overcoming resistance as a songwriter.

Travis is best known for his prolific solo career, with his most recent single, "Let It Pass", released on Cavity Search Records on June 26th, 2020.

Shallow released his debut self-titled solo album, Travis Shallow, in 2016. Recorded at Tweed Recording Studio in Oxford, MS and engineered by Andrew Ratcliffe whose discography includes Will Hoge, The Damnwells, and American Aquarium.

This solo album highlighted his songwriting and lyrical prowess. Shallow's solo album has a maturity to it that catapulted him into a new light. After the release of his self-titled album in March '16, Shallow landed himself national opening spots with legend Gregg Allman, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Lukas Nelson and Promise of the Real, The Marcus King Band, Jerry Joseph, Todd Snider, and fellow native North Carolina band, American Aquarium.

Our segment two quotes to ponder as you're tuning in are below:

“If it ain’t meant to last, gotta let it pass” - Travis Shallow
"Being a songwriter is like being a nun, you're married to a mystery" - Leonard Cohen

Travis' segment three shares are:

Painted Buffalo Traveling Studio - The Painted Buffalo Traveling Studio's mission is to enhance the quality of life for members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their community by providing alternative tools in art and art making.

With the use of community based art practices and Art Therapy methods Painted Buffalo Traveling Studio is dedicated to getting veterans outside, art supplies in hand telling their stories.

Show Links:

https://www.instagram.com/travisshallow/

https://www.facebook.com/travisshallowmusic

https://www.paintedbuffalostudio.com/

Connect on IG:

www.instagram.com/taylorwinchestercreates

Thanks as always for stopping by and tuning in, I hope you enjoy this episode!

love & light ✨,

Feb 19, 202101:07:28

Ep. 18 - Who Am I? (solo dig)

Well, it's been a rough week for the Winchester's, which lends to some of the reason as to why I'm late pushing out this week's episode. I'd been drafting ideas and research for this topic, and with the passing of my Grandmother as she leaves us in the physical realm, it seems a bit timely to dig deeper in meditation on who we really are as individuals, remembering our true essence and exploring why it is we're incarnated into this dance we call life.

The question Who Am I is one we've likely all asked ourselves. And while there's many layers to this question, to remember who we really are is something that takes intention and awareness, and from my experience lots of meditation. To work towards peeling back the many layers of form in which we've slowly added on top of to create this false sense of self and the ego, is seemingly a lifetime's practice.

This week I share some of the coursework and insight's I've been meditating on as I work to discover my own inner essence and true self. I can only hope that, should you take the time to listen, it will enliven a desire for your own internal exploration. As always, in love & light ✨ ~ tw

Connect with the show:

https://roastingroomlounge.com/

Episode links & references:

Unveiling the Mystery of Who Am I - Deepak Chopra

A Surprising Answer to Who Am I - Deepak Chopra

Feb 14, 202118:24

Ep. 17 - Jordan Ross & Tom Crenshaw of the Roasting Room - Building a Community of "In the Moment Listeners"

The idea of life’s purpose, finding your “spark”, and searching for ultimate meaning is something we tend to often overthink in our day to day lives. A few weeks ago I received an email from Jordan Ross of the Roasting Room in Bluffton, SC (as a part of their monthly newsletter which you should sign up for), and it was a great reminder of how the experience of living and inspiring others to truly live IS the meaning. As Jordan so simply put, "It has always been the little emotions, the little experiences of joy and sorrow, the first sip of coffee, the last bite of pie."

He was referencing the movie Soul, the Disney / Pixar movie featuring Joe Gardner (voice of Jamie Foxx) – a middle-school band teacher who gets the chance of a lifetime to play at the best jazz club in town, which depicts our human instinct in questioning "what is it that makes you...YOU?"

Jordan and his pal Tom Crenshaw dive into these concepts with me on this week's Dharma Digs episode, where we also discuss how they've cultivated a mindful and present crowd of music lovers in their town of Bluffton, SC. I really enjoyed this conversation, as they share unique stories and experiences of the raw emotion that can come from the magic that is live music.

Our segment two quotes to ponder as you're tuning in are below:

“Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment, until it becomes a memory.” ~ Dr. Seuss
“Remember, we are all affecting the world every moment, whether we mean to or not. Our actions and states of mind matter, because we’re so deeply interconnected with one another...and you and I are the force for transformation in the world. We are the consciousness that will define the nature of the reality we are moving into.” ~ Ram Dass, Be Here Now

Jordan & Tom's segment three shares are:

Hospice Care of the Lowcountry - “Our philosophy of care is as much about living well as it is about experiencing end of life in a manner that is dignified, compassionate and as stress-free as possible.”

Deep Well Project - We help neighbors in need by providing basic assistance in emergency situations. This assistance is immediate and non-bureaucratic, and it's intended to provide clients with "a hand up, not a hand-out."

Show Links:

https://roastingroomlounge.com/patron

https://www.instagram.com/roastingroom/

https://www.facebook.com/theroastingroom

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrP-18MphjLvogh1g38V4nA

Feb 05, 202156:01

Ep. 16 - Why Meditate? (solo dig)

“Prayer is you speaking to God. Meditation is allowing the spirit to speak to you.” ~ Deepak Chopra

I’ve been practicing meditation somewhat inconsistently over the last 7yrs, but in 2020 I committed to a meditation teacher training program through the Chopra Center, and have been meditating every morning for 30min a day (and trying for twice per day) over the last four months.

This week's Dharma Digs episode is a solo dig where I share some of the benefits of meditation, and more specifically how it's impacting my life and why I'm hoping to share the practice with others. 🧘‍♂️

Deepak Chopra also said, “Social transformation comes from personal transformation,” and what I'm realizing is that this is also true for our perspectives and the choices we make. As we turn inward and quiet down the mind, we're more equipped to experience our own transformation and to share this with the world around us.

So with that, I'm excited to announce that starting Monday, Feb 1st I’ll be kicking off a weekly live group meditation practice. We'll get started right at 8am EST, and the meditations will likely be 10-15 minutes, with a few minutes for discussion should there be any questions.

Don’t worry, if you know me then you know it’ll be super laid back and easy going. ✨

Head over here and sign up to get on the list and help us raise the vibrations while calming anxieties, living more mindfully and learning to connect with the BE in being.

love & light,

Connect with the show:

"According to Buddhism, compassion is an aspiration, a state of mind, wanting others to be free from suffering. It's not passive — it's not empathy alone — but rather an empathetic altruism that actively strives to free others from suffering. Genuine compassion must have both wisdom and lovingkindness. That is to say, one must understand the nature of the suffering from which we wish to free others (this is wisdom), and one must experience deep intimacy and empathy with other sentient beings (this is lovingkindness)." - Dalai Lama The Essence of the Heart Sutra

www.instagram.com/taylorwinchestercreates

Jan 29, 202117:50

Ep. 15 - Audrey Ipapo Baran - Movement & Mindfulness

I love hearing stories of how creative entrepreneurs end up starting their business. Often time's it seems as though it's Dharma in the truest sense, and that sure seems to be the case for this week's guest, Audrey Ipapo Baran.

Audrey and I first crossed paths through Elonzo Wesley, the band I play mandolin in, as we worked together to produce a Halloween themed event dubbed Zombie Jam back in 2019. It's been amazing to follow her journey since, and during our chat we not only dive into how Baran Dance all started, but also some of the life lessons she's learned from her mentors and yoga pursuits.

Our segment two quotes to ponder as you're tuning in are below:

What if where I am is what I need? -- Deborah Hay

Body firm. Mind awake. Heart open. -- Barbara Dilley

Form is emptiness. Emptiness is form. -- Heart Sutra

Audrey's segment three shares are:

OurBridge - At ourBRIDGE, students receive homework help, participate in hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering , Arts and Math) projects, and engage in a culturally relevant curriculum that emphasizes experiential learning. We provide one-on-one daily English literacy tutoring in order to accelerate the students’ acquisition of the English language. ourBRIDGE for KIDS aims to close the communication gap between school, teachers and families through the coordination of home visits, translation of school documents, and the organization of literacy nights and cultural events for parents at our center. When needed, we also provide parents transportation and translation support at teacher conferences and serve as the liaison between parents and schools.

Heal Charlotte - a placed based organization that does neighborhood revitalization with a holistic approach. "We accomplish this mission through our community events, youth development, family stability programs and building better community relations with our police department to provide a safer and healthier living environment for the communities we serve."

Show Links:

https://baran.dance/

https://www.facebook.com/barandanceclt

https://www.instagram.com/barandance/

https://www.instagram.com/littleyogithatcould/

https://www.instagram.com/audibaran/

Connect on IG:

www.instagram.com/dharmadigs

www.instagram.com/taylorwinchestercreates

Jan 22, 202159:49

Ep. 14 - Karuná - a Meditation on Compassion (solo dig)

This week’s Dharma Digs episode is a short talk and meditation on Compassion. With all the heavy energies swirling around, it’s easy to feel discouraged, unmotivated and even depressed with the state of things. I’ve had my own mix of emotions, including anger and frustration after last week’s atrocities at the capitol.

I don’t fully understand why certain things happen or why some folks feel a certain way, but I also don’t believe holding onto anger will help solve any of the issues at hand. We’re all suffering, and I feel blessed in the sense that my suffering is minor in comparison to so many others.

How do we make room for self compassion during these times, while also channeling that compassion into energy, prayers and positive vibes to others - regardless of the actions they may choose?

Whether we’re considering the suffering of others, or analyzing our own feelings of depression thanks to the isolation and anxieties of the current pandemic and political climate, meditating on compassion this week has allowed me to feel more connected to the universe and a sense of peace amidst the chaos.

I end this week’s podcast with a short meditation, using the mantra Karuna (sanskrit for Compassion), in an attempt to transmit a wave of compassion out to each of you and all sentient beings. If you care to listen and partake in sitting for a few minutes in meditation, I’d love to hear your feedback in how it makes you feel.

I am also rolling out a group meditation practice in the coming weeks that will enable me to hone my teaching skills. If you’d like to join in, take the short survey linked in my bio and stay tuned for dates coming soon!

As always, sending out love, light and a bit of compassion as well this week!

Show Quote's discussed:

“The mind becomes serene by the cultivation of feelings of love for the happy, compassion for the suffering, delight for the virtuous, and equanimity for the non-virtuous.” - Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Connect with the show:

https://www.tshawdesigns.com/

Jan 15, 202115:48

Ep. 13 - Tom Shaw - Talking Show Posters & the Energy of Improvisational Music

We're back with another #dharmadigs conversation, and this week we're catching up with an old friend from Wilmington, NC, founder of T. Shaw Designs - Mr. Tom Shaw ladies and gentlemen!

Tom shares some insight into how he came to find a sense of purpose through designing and screen printing concert posters and merch for bands like Umphrey's McGee, Lukas Nelson, Lake Street Dive and Greensky Bluegrass, along with venues such as Greenfield Lake Amphitheater and Brooklyn Arts Center.

We also chat about his recent dive into fatherhood, and his little nod to Paul Simon in honor of the birthday Vivian, Tom's daughter, now shares with him. This opened up some dialogue around the lyrics in Paul's song Father and Daughter, which was cool to hear a new father's perspective.

For Tom's segment three pick, he shares his partnership with NourishNC, a non-profit that "provides hungry children with healthy food, empowering them to succeed in the classroom and in their community. Our goal is to enhance children’s health and well-being by preventing the devastating consequences of child hunger."

A fellow musician and Phish fan alike (of course we chat about Phish!), it's been really cool to watch Tom continue to put his stamp on the music industry in Wilmington and beyond. I snagged a few of my favorite T. Shaw pieces to share below, so take a look, give the guy a follow on socials and enjoy the conversation with Tom Shaw!

Show Links:

https://www.facebook.com/tshawdesigns/

https://www.instagram.com/tshawdesigns

https://nourishnc.org/

Connect on IG:

www.instagram.com/taylorwinchestercreates

Jan 08, 202156:42

Ep. 12 - Are You Open to a New Paradigm? (solo dig)

I've been a little MIA on the interwebs over the last week or so, you know, with the holiday season and all. It was rather refreshing though, finding time to cleanse from social media (sans the client work that requires it, of course).

The end of the year always suggests we take time to refresh, replenish and set our intentions as we look forward. With the end of 2020 and the chaos it provided, I think many of us are anxious to move into 2021, and if there ever were a time to consider a total shift in paradigms, I feel like now is it.

This week I explore the possibility of not only being open to the idea of a paradigm shift, but being willing to lean in a bit. Recent conversations and, let's say perhaps a few signs of spirit, have me contemplating the season's of change and what moving into this next phase of life may offer.

More importantly, what choices will we make to discover our true essence and share it with the community and societies that surround us? You know, the whole "be the change you wish to see" quote?

If we truly wish for a more peaceful society, we must first individually choose to act in a manner that creates such a society. How do we take action in our own lives to create not only the life that we want, but a life that benefit the world and all the beings that inhabit it?

I'm not sure there's a simple answer to that question, as it's something I'm struggling with myself, but as I look forward to 2021 I do know that I'm finding joy in riding the tides and pursuing the question.

Hope you enjoy this episode, drop me a line if you have any thoughts or want to dig in further!

Connect with the show:

https://www.instagram.com/youngmaryrecords/

www.instagram.com/taylorwinchestercreates

Jan 01, 202119:12

Eps. 11 - Mary Sparr - Betting on the Muse

Are you willing to bet on your muse? With folks like Charles Bukowski, Jerry Weintraub and Lucinda Williams as inspiration, Mary Sparr is sure willing to. Founder and Owner of Young Mary Records, Mary spends much of her time managing the careers of some pretty amazing songwriters - Ian Noe, Morgan Wade and Elizabeth Cook to name a few.

In this convo we chat about how she finds purpose by enabling her clients to find purpose through their art, as well as some insight into the benefits of building a team if you’re an independent artist!

Of course we also contemplate Bukowski and Weintraub quotes, as well as an excerpt of lyrics from Lucinda Williams Fruits of My Labor.

Hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed the convo! Thanks again to Mary for obligin’. Y’all stay safe out there and enjoy your holiday seasons.

Show Links:

https://twitter.com/YoungMarySparr

https://youngmaryrecords.com/

http://www.neverrefuseamuse.com/

Mary's non-profits of choice! Go give 'em a follow:

Hood to the Holler - https://hoodtotheholler.org/

MusiCares - https://www.grammy.com/musicares

Connect with the show:

Watch on YouTube

Dec 18, 202001:11:20

Eps. 10 - Reality and the Stories We Tell Ourselves (solo dig)

"Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a very persistent one." - Albert Einstein

This week's episode is another solo dig where I share a few concepts I've been contemplating of late. I'm curious, have you considered how different the reality I'm living may be compared to the reality you're living? Or even your next door neighbor for example, do you think their reality is the same as yours simply because they live in the same neighborhood, support the same businesses or drive the same streets?

How about the stories we create in our heads? Have you paused the storytelling long enough to separate yourself from the thoughts, allowing you to find the space to recognize or even become aware of said storytelling?

Lately I've been a bit hung up contemplating the realization that all of our individual experiences quickly turn into memories - which are memories that then influence the stories we create in our heads, seemingly every second of every day - which ultimately play out in "real life" of physical form.

I can't help but wonder how do we change the narrative to create a more inclusive, empathetic and peaceful reality?

I can't say that I have the answers, but in this week's episode of #DharmaDigs I share a bit of what inspired these contemplative musings and why I believe a shift in our inner-storytelling can positively impact both our individual and collective realities as we know them.

Watch on YouTube

Connect with the show:

https://blackwednesday.co/

Dec 11, 202012:08

Ep. 09 - Talking Marketing & Magic with Corri Smith

“The magic part about it is what gets me really excited. Often we’re really creating something out of nothing, which is effectively magic. It’s like ‘poof’ and it’s there!” ~ Corri Smith

I’ve known Corri for around 10yrs or so now, and one thing I’m certain is she’s always rocking some super positive vibes and magical energies, within both her personal and professional spirit. Founder of the creative marketing agency Black Wednesday, she spends most of her time honing and amplifying the brand voices of her many clients.

As I was preparing for our conversation, I thought of a book that was gifted to my wife and I when our pup Crosby passed away a few years back. Many Lives, Many Masters, by Brian Weiss, is essentially about how using past-life therapy, he was able to cure the patient and embark on a new, more meaningful phase of his own career. While we didn’t dig deep into past lives or the idea of reincarnation, we did discuss morning routines, a little magic and spiritual energies and how it all ties into the way she lives life and approaches work!

The following excerpt from Many Lives, Many Masters made me think about the importance of both taking action and applying the knowledge we’re learning, and I enjoyed hearing from Corri how she applies these concepts to marketing.

“Wisdom is achieved very slowly. This is because intellectual knowledge, easily acquired, must be transformed into ‘emotional,’ or subconscious, knowledge. Once transformed, the imprint is permanent. Behavioral practice is the necessary catalyst of this reaction. Without action, the concept will wither and fade. Theoretical knowledge without practical application is not enough.”

“Inner peace is impossible without patience. Wisdom requires patience. Spiritual growth implies the mastery of patience. Patience allows the unfolding of destiny to proceed at its own unhurried pace.”

Show Links:

https://twitter.com/blackwedco

https://www.instagram.com/blackwedco/

https://twitter.com/corriasmith

https://www.instagram.com/corriasmith/

Corri’s Non-Profit Recs:

Good Friends Charlotte - https://www.goodfriendscharlotte.org/

Digi-Bridge Charlotte - https://digi-bridge.org/

Dec 04, 202048:26

Eps. 08 - The Benefits of a Consistent Gratitude Practice (solo dig)

I just realized that this week marks the two month mark since I started my deep dive into my primordial sound mantra based meditation practice!! It’s difficult to quantify or articulate the exact impact it’s had on me thus far, but I do know I’m loving the exploration.

On this week’s Dharma Digs episode I share the four soul questions that we ask ourselves as we engage in our daily meditation practice, one of which is - What am I grateful for?

It’s been interesting to answer that question consistently on a daily basis for the last two months, when in years past I likely only asked every so often...perhaps even only annually around the Thanksgiving holiday.

One thing I’ve certainly recognized is that establishing intentional awareness around gratitude creates an ease of leaning in to “going with the flow” while finding a way of bringing to light a sense of joy and peace within.

I may also be realizing that the real purpose behind this recent podcast endeavor is to not only indulge in conversations with others around the very idea of purpose itself, but also to hold myself accountable along this journey of deeper understanding of being.

"For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food, for love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends.”
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Connect Online:
www.instagram.com/dharmadigspodcast
www.instagram.com/tdubyacreates
www.dubyacreative.com/dharmadigspodcast

Show Resources:
greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_gratitude_changes_you_and_your_brain
greatergood.berkeley.edu/topic/gratitude/definition#why-practice-gratitude
ggsc.berkeley.edu/images/uploads/GGSC-JTF_White_Paper-Gratitude-FINAL.pdf?_ga=2.178569636.1866184104.1606350878-1594963927.1606350878

Nov 27, 202024:52

Eps. 07 - Becoming Comfortable with Change (solo dig)

Never really been much⠀

For changing⠀

Lately nothing seems to ⠀

Remain the same⠀

Been a helluva year⠀

Searching for answers⠀

Running from the good times if⠀

The bad one’s call your name⠀

⠀

👆The first verse from an original tune I recently wrote, and it has me thinking about making conscious decisions around "change." How have you handled the changes good ol' 2020’s presented?⠀

⠀

While I’m excited for the upcoming interviews I have lined up, this week’s episode is a solo dig on my recent endeavor of becoming certified to teach primordial sound meditation, and how the practice thus far has me contemplating the impact change has on our lives. ⠀

⠀

I’d love to hear from you. Do you feel a new perspective in bloom? Has it changed this year?⠀

⠀

Thanks for taking the time to stop by and engage! Mask up, take care of others and yourselves.⠀

⠀

Episode links in bio!⠀

⠀

✨love & light ~ t.dubya ⠀

Connect with the show:

https://www.echomountain.net/

www.dubyacreative.com/dharmadigspodcast

Nov 20, 202025:43

Ep. 06 - The Essential & Universal Language of Music with Jessica Tomasin

“There are so many times that I’ve been moved by art that I know it has the ability to be so much more impactful than just shaking your ass and having a good time.” 💃 🎶 😎

What a lovely conversation with Jessica Tomasin for this week's episode of Dharma Digs Podcast. As Studio Manager for Echo Mountain Recording, Founder & Producer of the Connect Beyond Festival and Founder of the non-profit AMP (Asheville Music Professionals), you best believe she's sharing all kinds of valuable insight into how she's found purpose within her time in the creative arts and music industry.

Of course we touch on all of these in our convo, along with her emotional storytelling of a time she had the ability to grant an amazing memory for a Make-a-Wish family. This is an episode you don't want to miss!

Contemplative Show Quote - “Because of the dog's joyfulness, our own is increased. It is no small gift. It is not the least reason why we should honor as well as love the dog of our own life, and the dog down the street, and all the dogs not yet born. What would the world be like without music or rivers or the green and tender grass? What would this world be like without dogs?” ~ Mary Oliver

Hope ya dig this episode, and as always...sending love and light! ✨🎧

Guest Links:

https://www.connectbeyondfestival.com/

https://www.ashevillemusicprofessionals.com/

https://www.instagram.com/connectbeyondfestival/

https://www.instagram.com/avlmusicprofessionals/

https://www.instagram.com/echomountainrecording/

Connect with the show:

Nov 13, 202053:25

Ep. 05 - Finding Motivation & Routine as a Creative with Nige Hood

Hello folks and happy Friday (or what ever day you're finding this)! Today's episode is a real treat as we have a groovy conversation with Nige Hood of the Charlotte, NC based Folk Rap Band. Nige and I met at an industry networking event a couple years back and I've been following along as he's paved his own path in the hip-hop, indie and folk worlds alike, as he's coined his own genre Folk Rap. What I really dig about Nige is his authenticity and commitment to his art, and which I believe shines through in this conversation.

In this convo, we chopped it up about his recent release of a new music video for his single Breakfast, along with the importance of routines and discipline when it comes to honing your art as a creative professional. I even dig in to get a little insight from one of his lines, “When the biscuits burn in the oven and the eggs stick to the pan, will you eat what you’ve created or let your Pride starve you again?"

Hope ya dig this episode, and as always...sending love and light! ✨🎧

https://www.instagram.com/nigehood/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wl8wmZSSBLg

https://www.instagram.com/FolkRapBand/

Show links:

https://spoti.fi/34SyyMe

www.instagram.com/dharmadigspodcast

www.instagram.com/tdubyacreates

www.dubyacreative.com/dharmadigspodcast

Nov 06, 202047:03

Dharma Digs - Ep. 04 - Growing & Evolving While Learning From Others with Sam Tayloe of Time Sawyer

This week’s episode features a good pal of mine, Sam Tayloe of the band Time Sawyer. I first met Sam when playing mandolin with Elonzo Wesley, and we opened for Time Sawyer at the Neighborhood Theatre in Charlotte, NC. We chat this week about how they’ve evolved as a band during these crazy covid times, and are now producing a weekly live stream dubbed Sam on Sunday’s.

In addition, we also touch on the significant problems we face as a society and how we can all be more open minded and learn from each other. Below are a few quotes we discuss, which were pulled from Stephen Covey’s book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. hope ya dig this episode!

“The significant problems we face cannot be solved at the same level of thinking we were at when we created them.”

"The key to life is not accumulation, it’s contribution."

"Most people struggle with life balance simply because they haven’t paid the price to decide what is really important to them.”

http://www.timesawyer.com/samonsunday

http://www.timesawyer.com/

http://www.elonzowesley.com/

Show links:

https://spoti.fi/34SyyMe

www.instagram.com/dharmadigspodcast

www.instagram.com/tdubyacreates

www.dubyacreative.com/dharmadigspodcast

Oct 30, 202001:02:22

Dharma Digs - Ep. 03 - Leaning Into Uncertainty with Leonardo Solis

What a blast this conversation was with Leonardo Solis - multi-instrumentalist, producer/engineer and co-founder of Four Finger Records. We pull some quotes from Pema Chodrön’s When Things Fall Apart, to explore conversations around turbulent times of uncertainty. Leo shares some great insight into how he manages to find peace within the chaos, and settle into a focus on the present moment as opposed to being consumed with the outcome.

“When things fall apart and we’re on the verge of we know not what, the test of each of us is to stay on the brink and not concretize.”

“Things are always in transition, if we could only realize it. The off-center, in between state is an ideal situation, a situation in which we don’t get caught and we can open our hearts and minds beyond limits.”

“To stay with that shakiness is the path of true awakening. Sticking with that uncertainty, learning to relax in the midst of chaos, learning not to panic – – this is the spiritual path. Getting the knack of catching ourselves, of gently and compassionately catching ourselves, is the path of the warrior.”

Guest Links:

https://www.instagram.com/soundofsolis/

https://www.instagram.com/soundofspace/

https://www.instagram.com/fourfingerrecords/

Connect with the show:

https://spoti.fi/34SyyMe

www.instagram.com/dharmadigspodcast

www.instagram.com/tdubyacreates

www.dubyacreative.com/dharmadigspodcast

Oct 23, 202059:29

Dharma Digs - Ep. 02 - Silence as a Superpower

Episode 2 of the Dharma Digs Podcast is another brief one, expanding from the introductory episode. Sharing a bit about how intentionally seeking out time for silence in my life has helped me find more sense of inner peace and purpose. As we find ourselves in midst of chaos between the 2020 covid19 pandemic and the election, it seems there's never been a more distracting and anxiety ridden time to be alive. Seeking silence has been one of the few things that have helped me find balance in it all this year. In this episode I'll also share a few teasers for future show guests, so I hope you enjoy and thanks as always for listening.