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The Cultures United Podcast

The Cultures United Podcast

By The Cultures United Podcast

The Cultures United Podcast envisions a movement steeped in diversity that will empower change and unite us as a people. Using the podcasting platform to create an inclusive space for deeper conversation, pride in identity and diversity in perspective. This podcast is for the greater community, Cultures United believes that through fostering respect, connection and understanding we can unite each other.
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Our Roots

The Cultures United PodcastDec 30, 2020

00:00
49:04
A Discussion on Feminism
Apr 19, 202254:58
Russia and Ukraine: Compassion During Conflict Part 2

Russia and Ukraine: Compassion During Conflict Part 2

Working alongside the previous episode, we were fortunate to have Sofia and Tamara on the podcast to share their experience as Ukrainians in America. Most people in North America are aware of the conflict, though distance brings challenges to aid and understanding. Our guests share how they are keeping in touch with their families, coming to terms with fear and pain and working on reaching out and cultivating support in the ways that they can. It was a blessing to have both Sofia and her mother Tamara bring incredible resilience in their vulnerability and willingness to share their insights and raise awareness to the impacts of the conflict, both locally and internationally.

Apr 19, 202252:22
Russia and Ukraine: Compassion During Conflict Part 1
Apr 19, 202201:19:11
Environmental Impacts for the Climate and Community

Environmental Impacts for the Climate and Community

This week we were nourished with the presence of Robert Pavlik, a community leader in environmental conservation and with an admiral passion for ecosystems. In the east-coast of America he has been working with individuals of the community to spread knowledge and time spent uplifting the local ecosystems and communities alike. What incentives are there to take care of our environment and how should we consider our role in the health of the ecosystem? We learned so much in this episode from topics of urbanization, watershed and the span of pollution. The overwhelming pressure from climate change and action can be intimidating, but we come out of this episode with tools and tales to go outside, explore and be curious about the environment around us. Conscious communities are made up of informed individuals, just as large-scale changes can come from small, daily actions.

Apr 19, 202201:08:36
Energy, Technology and Access

Energy, Technology and Access

Access comes back as a theme in this episode where we welcome a new guest, Aashish, to enlighten us on the availability of resources through technology to help people learn and contribute towards informed and sustainable energy consumption. Defining sustainability proves to be a difficult task as we work through how it can be perceived versus how it can be achieved. We explore the economic and ethical routes of sustainability and balancing our usage of resources with conscious decision-making. Concluding this episode we agreed that empowerment has a more positive impact than shame and is the tool of choice when reaching for a sustainable future.

Apr 19, 202258:19
Race, Health and Access

Race, Health and Access

Where are the resources placed, and who has the most access to them? The quality and location of grocery stores, hospitals, and schools, etc. have a great impact on the communities that are able to use them and the well-being of the populations, closest and fathers from high-quality services and products. With Kirt (@kts_fit_life), and Mista Bee, we address the challenges of a segregated world and the legacy of impacts from past discrimination of the current health of populations. How people are treated and able to exist in communities can coincide with their access to the tool they need to be safe, healthy, and successful. Food Deserts, Malnutrition, Redlining and more are highlighted and we work to brainstorm solutions of what work could look like with equitable access and rights. Join our conversation online and tune it to hear what we think!

Mar 03, 202201:11:47
Moving Waste From Your Waist

Moving Waste From Your Waist

Moving out of the body towards what goes into it, Kirt (kts_fit_life) and your culture’s united hosts look at how nutrition impacts the body. Questions like what is nutritious, what is healthy eating and how can individuals find what works best for them? Are answered with care and detail. We walk through examples and situations to create meals that best suit individual needs and explain the importance of good digestion and wellbeing. This episode ties into all the physical work we have discussed to uncover a path and baseline for self-care and sustainable health.

Mar 03, 202201:02:52
Spirituality and Fitness

Spirituality and Fitness

What is spirituality? Some look at it through the lens of religion, some through stillness and others action. With recurring guest Kirt (@kts_fit_life) we find that spirituality lies in the practice of the beholder. He says “with spirituality, you are building mental and physical fortitude” which translates not only to fitness but navigating life as a whole. Through spirituality we talk about connection and “Ego work,” what it means to meet yourself on the other side of a challenge, and “nurse your emotions' ' as host Mista B puts it. Spirituality calls for exploration and a deeper curiosity of who you are and how your presence does and can make an impact.

Mar 03, 202258:03
What is Fitness?

What is Fitness?

We are kicking off our 5TH Season and the New Year we have Kirt (@KTS_fit_life) and Elijah (@emjgains) bringing in the tips, tricks, and why behind movement and fitness! Starting off, we ask ourselves and the audience, what is fitness, not just by definition, but to you as an individual. Finding motivation in movement is not about changing your appearance or being the best, but understanding why you are doing it for yourself and why it is an investment that is worthy of your time. Kirt and Elijah work through questions of practice and building a routine of movement that will help your growth in your overall health. Take a listen and let us know what you think @theculturesunitedpodcast!

Mar 03, 202237:09
Men’s Health and Collaborative Connections
Mar 03, 202201:08:51
The Culture of Restorative Justice

The Culture of Restorative Justice

Accountability, safe space for expression and community building are core practices to Restorative Justice outlined by our guest Catherine Bargen. We had an insightful conversation about her life experiences, furthering her education in Conflict Resolution Studies and Psychology to a career starting a business in Restorative Justice with her two peers called Just Outcomes Consulting (www.justoutcomesconsulting.com). Catherine illustrated creating socio-political shifts, moving away from harmful practices and facilitating “mountain top experiences'' by increasing conversation and ultimately asking, “what are the needs, and who is responsible for meeting those needs?.” We are excited to share with you what we have learnt in this episode and translate this into our mission at Cultures United, centering relationships in our actions, welcoming open-hearted conversations and continuing a culture of respect, acceptance and resilience.

Oct 20, 202101:04:12
The Culture of Introspection and Healing

The Culture of Introspection and Healing

At Cultures United, Joe Cotton acts as the Mission and Service Coach, though also hold the role of Catholic Chaplain, Life Coach, and Pastoral Care and Outreach Director. He is a multi-talented and impassioned individual who, in this Episode, shared his past experiences with work and his personal journey of how spirituality and connection have promoted well-being in his life and how he spreads this to others. We discuss the importance of being present and authentic in conversations, leaving judgment outside, and befriending wounds. Joe illustrates how he builds a safe space in both his personal and professional life and practices empathy so he can hold the burden with the people he talks to. Ultimately, in all roles, he emphasizes the importance of listening and creating a process to help people recognize their capabilities, goals, and available resources, to build a life that embraces an individual’s character is true to them.

Oct 14, 202158:01
The Culture of Politics and Personal Life

The Culture of Politics and Personal Life

Often it is hard to relate or connect politics to our own lives and really take charge or get involved when it is personal. Council-member Dave Upthegrove (@CMUpthegrove; https://www.daveupthegrove.com/) came onto the podcast with a vulnerability and strength that illustrated the political realm as a powerful medium to foster change and deeply impact the community. He jumped into political heart-first with a passion for justice and a keen eye for social needs, while staying true to his individuality. Dave Upthegrove had us talking about the application of academics in alignment with character, making his mark in the world through his knowledge and experiential insight. We are wholly grateful for the presence and honesty he has brought both in this episode and in his service of King County.

Oct 14, 202157:07
The Culture of Technology and Access

The Culture of Technology and Access

Phones, payments, professionalism, and philanthropy, technology is at the core of many of our lives today. We were lucky to be joined by Joe Molina (@joemoemoney88) and David Pierce (@thedahv) to discuss the work and culture in the Tech Industry. An individual is always part of a greater team in the workplace so we covered working together to maintain clarity and a collaborative spirit when moving to achieve goals. Additionally, connecting to consumers and data to develop products that will fit their needs and that of society as a whole. David covered the concept of “failing forward” where mistakes are an essential part of progress and coming together to find a method of solution or further innovation. This episode is thoughtful, informative and deeply personal to both the guest and us, please let us know how tech connects to your life and how you will use it for personal and/or professional growth!

Oct 14, 202101:08:21
Environmental Activism and Climate Change

Environmental Activism and Climate Change

This week’s episode brings passion, facts, and art to the Environmental movement. We are joined by Lukene Sotomayor (@lukenesotomayor, https://www.lukenesotomayor.com/) and Momo Rutkin (@morutkin) to talk about climate change and actions that support environmental awareness and well-being. Looking outside of the box and thinking forward Momo and Lukene shared their hopes for the future and initiatives they are taking right now to make a difference. Talking environment, empathy, and awareness we, as a community can push towards a healthier collective and planet.

Oct 14, 202101:05:14
The Culture of Divergence

The Culture of Divergence

In previous seasons we have touched on the diversity of America and the manifestation of various cultures, traditions, and identities. In this episode, Ashwin Chidambaram (@achidam4) and Jon Rivera (@j0nrivera) join us to talk about their experiences growing up in a multicultural environment. Similarities and differences present both benefits and challenges as appearance, language, and cultures can influence how American residents experience their community. We connected over the influence of positive and negative stereotypes and living in american values while navigating their family’s and their own.

Oct 14, 202101:06:41
The Culture of Becoming

The Culture of Becoming

An exciting start to our 4th season of The Cultures United Podcast we welcome Kayla Blau and Ale Villa as guests to discuss identity, assimilation, and the process of integration. Both Kayla and Ale reflect on their positions as individuals with immigrant heritage and share insights on the cultural legacy and connection that they feel external from America. This episode explores authentic self-creation alongside recognition of past and heritage, enjoy and let us know how you feel about this topic!

Oct 14, 202157:20
Critical Conversations About Race

Critical Conversations About Race

At the core, our podcast is looking to foster conversations and connections in the community. This week we were very lucky to be joined by Adanna (@adannannenne) to take a critical look at the current educational system, the articulation of American History and the concept of race and experiences within it. Adanna works as an Equity and Family Engagement Facilitator and she shared with us ways that equity can be built, understood and we discussed the application of Critical Race Theory. She brought incredible insight, passion and practices to our episode this week and we are excited for you all to connect, apply and engage in this conversation!

Jul 01, 202101:09:29
State of Immigration

State of Immigration

This episode was a privilege to record, looking back on the mission of Cultures United and what union of values, cultures and citizenship really means. We were joined by Amrita Shergill (@amyshergill20), recent Bio-Psych Graduate and currently working in Canada; Ale Villa (@ale_tamalee), an Immigration Casework & Outreach Director at US Government; and Luis Garcia (@calaveracollectivetacoma), the Co-Founder of Tacoma Migrant Justice Program; and Calavera Collective. Throughout this episode we heard from our guests on their experience of immigration, challenges that they faced and the richness that immigrants bring. The power of speaking and being heard as well as sharing narrative was a large contributor to fostering connections amongst newcomers and people in the community. What is North America without immigrants? Whom are not only foundational, but essential to the growth, diversity and innovation in the nation. Ale brought in the need for comprehensive immigration reform, Amy the importance to follow your dreams no matter the challenges and Luis value in celebration of culture in self-expression and identity. This episode brought a lot of insight and learning to not remain silent, but to speak up and build trust to build community, unity and empower all members of the nation.

Jul 01, 202101:16:41
State of Policing

State of Policing

On Wednesday we were fortunate to have Chief Ted Boe join us to talk about policing, the politics of the practice and humanity within each of us, regardless of our personal professional roles. Joining us as well were youth guests Fatima, Nowali and Cristian, who enriched the conversation with their experiences, interpretations and expectations of the Policing agents. Our discussion rounded out the role of police officers society and their relationships to community members. How this has been approached in the past, and potentials for the future. We looked at the case of  Derek Chouvin and George Floyd, in addition to the meaning of symbolic and lived justice. It is clear that justice and equity is a process of constant learning, re-assessment and respect that we, as a community and country should be working on together, informing each other of contextual, communal and social needs. Tune in to follow the discussion and contribute via our social media @theculturesunitedpodcast, your voice has an impact!

Jul 01, 202101:11:33
The Culture of Vaccination and Health

The Culture of Vaccination and Health

COVID-19 has brought many challenges, through isolation, death and new habits, jobs and adjustments. The rush to create a vaccine has finally simmered down, they are available to receive though controversy and some skepticism leaves a divide in those who get it and those who don’t. In this episode we talk to Personal Trainer and Nutritionist, Kirt (@kts_fit_life) and Peter, a Molecular Biologist about health, the inner-working of the body and vaccine development. In this discussion, we highlighted a holistic approach to health, fitness and keeping a clear head when consuming both media and information about Vaccinations and self-care. This episode was both critical, compassionate and rich with information. Together we can strive for community health, understanding and empowerment. We look forward to your feedback and let us know what health means to you!

Jun 13, 202101:15:14
The Culture of Empathy: A closer look at Colombia and Palestine

The Culture of Empathy: A closer look at Colombia and Palestine

This is a passion-filled episode about the power of empathy, interconnections of global fear, pain and politics. We had the opportunity to talk with Kayla Blau who is a youth advocate and writer (https://kaylablau.contently.com/) and Amr, who is a student and soccer player from Cultures United FC,about their experiences and reflections on Israel and Palestine tensions. Our host Sebastian spoke to the Colombian context, where economic and social inequalities are hurting people directly and us as part of the human body globally. We broke down how support, awareness and the economy can impact international affairs. The beauty of the connections we make, and hope our listeners do too, is through the practice of empathy and a will to expand one’s knowledge. With a growing global connection, the state of the world is more and more a part of our lives in ways we do not see. Join us to share your experiences and truths, keeping alive a narrative of life and education through community.

Jun 13, 202101:12:06
Sports Culture

Sports Culture

This week we hosted a big part of the Cultures United Family, Coach Bobby, and soccer players Kante, Aidan, Fila, Owusu, and tuning in from Indonesia Akbar, brought their experiences, insight, and passion to the discussion on sports in culture. This episode has a soccer focus, though applies to the overall team spirit and personal growth, and challenges it brings to those who follow and participate. Our group talked about the connection to communities, both international and local, being a part of the Cultures United Football Club has brought as well and furthering the understanding and solidarity with them. In this episode, we hear a lot about the passion for the sport and the heart it takes to both be involved in the community and competitive aspect. These players are pushing their physical and mental boundaries to excel in soccer, enabling them with greater skill, resilience, and connection in the world.

May 01, 202158:02
Food Culture

Food Culture

This week we had a star guest, Chad Kodama, join Sebastian, Mista Bee and Jemma to talk about the culture of food. Chad is a resident Seattleite, who has travelled both the street and the world hitting hot food destinations. He shared with us his background and perspective naming Seattle as one of his top pick in the country for both food diversity and innovation. Tune in to learn more about the food culture during a pandemic.
Apr 11, 202154:09
The State of Education

The State of Education

In this episode, we get to question some of our hosts, Sebastian and Mista Bee, as well as a guest scholar from their school. What an incredible source of insight and care Rume was and we felt honored to have her open up and share both difficulties, advice, and words for teachers and students alike to keep learning from each other during the Pandemic lock-down.
Apr 11, 202158:50
The Culture of Small Businesses During the Pandemic

The Culture of Small Businesses During the Pandemic

QW (@lotallc) and Bryanna Allen (@beeyourselfhunny) joined the Cultures United Podcast to bring some valuable insight into running a business during the pandemic and maintaining strength through passion and community. Tune in to learn more about them.
Mar 28, 202155:56
Opening up and Healing

Opening up and Healing

Starting the month of March, we were fortunate to have Sarah C. and a young Scholar join us to discuss mental health during the pandemic. Sarah is a practicing counselor and continuing her graduate degree in Counseling Psychology at WSU. Both Sarah and Scholar KB bring their personal and educational experiences into a rich illustration of some challenges that persist with isolation. Listen in for some incredible insight and vulnerability - connective and collective healing brings growth.
Mar 09, 202142:56
Inclusion Through Identity

Inclusion Through Identity

In this episode we are joined by Andres Orozco (@andresorozcoescribe) and Cam Carley (@ccar98) who bring great insight into language, acceptance, and representation for inclusion. We touch on aspects of identifying as LQBTQI+. Both Cam and Andres bring rich perspectives of the influence of media, community, and building resilience through solidarity, just as we do with the Cultures United podcast.
Mar 02, 202101:05:12
Music Culture

Music Culture

This episode we get on track with Marisol Rivera, a talented artist as well as the Spanish-speaking voice in our Cultures United introduction, and Jansel Murillo, a young creator building a new melody to both spiritual and self-expression. Jansel and Marisol share their inspiration, insight, and influences that brought them to music and the development of their own alongside moving and creating to the beat of life. Check it out.
Mar 02, 202148:16
The Political Landscape through Artistic Expression

The Political Landscape through Artistic Expression

In this Episode, the Cultures United hosts, Sebastian, MistaBe... and Jemma explore activism, through artistic expression. We talk to Brooke Blaire (@brookeamericano) and G Sanchez (@gsanchezart), discussing what brought them to use the artistic medium and how they use it for both expression and change. How does their experiences influence their art today and what is their vision of society and political change? Listen in and find out!
Feb 12, 202149:24
State of the Union No. 2 - A Tale of Two Americas

State of the Union No. 2 - A Tale of Two Americas

In today's episode, we discuss the state of the union, again, but this time we approach it from the lens of injustice. What happened on January 6th, 2021 will forever display the disparities within our union. Tune in to find out more.
Feb 05, 202149:14
Resolutions

Resolutions

Fully jumping into 2021, your host, Sebastian, Jemma, and MistaBe..., dissect: resolutions, what to leave in 2020, life's influences and inspiration and goal-setting for the future. We talk about individual aspirations, how we want to enter into the new year, recognizing the value of who we are and what we have with gratitude. If you like quotes, you'll love this 2020 close out episode. Check us out!
Jan 02, 202141:51
2020: A Challenging Year Part 3

2020: A Challenging Year Part 3

2020, the year, meant something different for everyone, both locally, in the US and globally. Your hosts, Sebastian, MistaBe... and Jemma explore the remnants, lessons, and growth from the year. Through their experiences and connecting to the global context, we look at what 2020 has brought us, how we have persisted in union and what might come next. Tune in to this powerful episode to gain some insights, affirmations, or confirmations. Chime in, we want to hear from you.
Jan 02, 202152:20
2020: A Challenging Year Part 2

2020: A Challenging Year Part 2

What is the American nation, if not an incredible collection of human beings? Is America, with all of her diversity, still separate? In today's episode, we discuss how this diversity, and all it's beauty, has been dealt with in the past and present, from discrimination, exclusion and oppression of groups, and how we, the people, can create a better tomorrow for our future generations. This isn't a history lesson, it's just a dope conversation. Join us and chime in. We're all in this together!!!
Jan 02, 202142:55
2020: A Challenging Year Part 1

2020: A Challenging Year Part 1

2020 for some had been a tremendously challenging year. In this episode Mr. B, Sebastian and Jemma explore the individual and social difficulties that this year has presented. The death of iconic figures along with the millions affected by Covid 19. If you want to learn more, tune in and check out the discussion at hand!
Jan 02, 202140:22
State of the Union

State of the Union

In today’s episode your hosts Sebastian, Mr. B and Jemma look at the 2020 presidential elections. A hot mess!!! Right? They engage in a variety of discussions like: How does history play into our current political state? The ground-breaking presence of Kamala Harris as being the first woman to hold her position in this state. Where will it lead us, and where do we, as a country, want it to go? Indulge us as we debate this hot topic.
Jan 02, 202146:22
Our Roots

Our Roots

Welcome to the Cultures United Podcast! Episode 1, Our Roots, is an introduction to some of your hosts: Sebastian Diaz, MistaBe, and Joe Dreamz. As hosts of the podcast, we want you to know who you are listening to and know that everyone is coming from different backgrounds, but we have a common goal for our cultures to be united. Thanks for listening and enjoy!
Dec 30, 202049:04