Shannon O'Conner

Hi friends meet @vulvarinesaperson. She like drawing cartoons, farts and making jokes. She has worked on some super cool shows including The Simpson’s, Futurama and most recently Disenchantment on @netflix. Shannon is here here sharing that positive mental attitude and changing the world one fart at a time.

What are your thoughts on farts?
The moment you don’t think farts are funny, you’re dead inside.

Why draw?
It’s fun and I can create my own world if I want to escape the one we are in temporarily.

What qualities do all your friends have in common?
They are all Bad Asses.

What’s your secret talent?
I’m not sure it’s a secret but I can belch your entire name.

What’s the most anxiety-inducing thing you do on a regular basis?
Wake up and exist.

What would the adult version of an ice-cream truck sell and what song would it play?
Probably Big Sticks, Choco Tacos, Frozen Toes, Bomb Pops, basically a regular Ice cream truck. It would play an instrumental version of Darling Nikki by Prince. In the words of the great artist Jay Howell (@punksgitcut) “Never forget how horny Prince was.”

What always cheers you up when you think about it?
My pets, past present and future.

Do you like things to be carefully planned or do you prefer to just go with the flow?
Plans are neat, I’m a flower not a scheduler.

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy?
I watch a lot of true crime, listen to podcasts, draw and get outside to play.

Mantra of the moment?
Be your own fucking friend. (Sorry about the cursing but this came out of my mouth today and I want to listen to my own advice)

Favorite quote?
Die to the past every moment, you don’t need it. Only refer to it when it is absolutely relevant to the present. Feel the power of this moment and the fullness of being. Feel your presence. -Elkhart Tolle (it’s a really long quote, I mostly like the first part, “Die to the past every moment” its easy to remember

What did you like/dislike about where you grew up?
I moved a lot from the ages 0-11, then settled in suburbia. It was nice once I got a car and could drive to the beach and mountains. I liked that it was in Southern California.

What’s your good luck charm?
A pen and paper.

What’s the oldest thing you own?
Probably a chair that was my grandparents'.

What was the biggest realization you had about yourself?
I like alone time and I am gayer than I thought I was.

What is paradise?
A quiet sunny day with 3 feet of fresh powder on the mountain.

What is god?
You and me and everything and everyone.

What do you need help with most often?
Reaching things that are high up.

What do you do to make the world a better place?
I could be doing more, thanks for asking me this. I vote. I make art.

What habit do you have now that you wish you started much earlier?
Writing daily.

What about the opposite sex confuses you the most?
Toilet seats.

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful?
How to relax and meditate.

What’s the worst thing you’ve eaten out of politeness?
I must not be very polite.

Sara Combs

Hey y’all. Today we introduce you to @saracombs. A few years ago Sara and her husband Rich left the hustle and bustle of San Francisco and made their way out to Joshua Tree where they opened one of the world most beautiful guest houses @thejoshuatreehouse. Follow along this week as we dig into life, love, creativity and the desert.

Why the desert? 

Because my gut told me I was meant to be here. When I visited the desert for the first time, I had never felt so at ease, inspired, and challenged all at once.

What is freedom? 

It’s finding happiness in small simple moments, and not feeling a need for anything more.

Tell me about about the Joshua Tree house?

My husband Rich and I created the first space back in 2015 when we were craving a creative retreat. We opened the space up to help pay for our mortgage, and found we weren’t the only ones craving a space like this to reflect, reset, and create. We later opened up the Casita, and moved to Joshua Tree full-time to continue designing experiences for our guests at the house and casita.

What is god?

Energy.

What is the first thing you do when you wake up? 

Usually it’s more what happens to me versus what I do—my cat Ellie wakes me up most mornings by licking my face and eyes.

What is paradise? 

A place I don’t have a desire to leave.

When do you feel most vulnerable? 

In front of large groups of people.

Do you like Pina Coladas? 

Hmmm, they’re pretty good. I’d prefer a margarita or a glass of wine though.

What experiences in life shaped you most? 

When I was 13, my best friend came over my house to hang out and chat on AOL instant messenger. One of the guys we messaged ended up being my boyfriend a year and a half later, my current husband, best friend, and partner on the Joshua Tree House. It was definitely a life changing moment.

How do you know if it the right time to change things up and why? 

If I don’t wake up feeling excited for the day ahead, it’s time for a change.

At karaoke what song do you pick? 

Usually I avoid karaoke at all costs! haha

Mantra of the moment? 

“Don’t believe everything you think”. My yoga teacher mentioned this mantra in a class one day and it applies to SO many situations.

Favorite quote? 

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” - Howard Thurman

Tell me what you learned from living in New York? 

How to regularly stay up past midnight (I now practice desert midnight regularly - 9pm midnight haha). I also learned to surround myself with other creative and entrepreneurial spirits. Life in Brooklyn was incredibly inspiring, being surrounded by people who were making their dreams come true as I got started with my freelance business.

What are the things that bring you joy in the world? 

My husband, my cats, my home in the desert, and nature. You can ask my husband Rich, but some of my happiest times of year are when we run into a desert tortoise or a bighorn sheep while out on a hike!

What is one word the describes you? 

Thoughtful

What are your thoughts about living in California?

Complete and utter love. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to stay away.

Is your grandmother a good cook? 

Well duhhh, yes! They both are!

Jen Hood

Hey Y’all. Today we introduce you to @thegoodhood the second half of @hoodzpahdesign. Jen doesn’t love airplane bathrooms and makes Harry Potter style eyewear very fashionable. Jen is light fun and full of good vibes.

1. Why is design important?
It is and it isn’t. Design is only as good as the experience it’s tied to. I love all kinds of designs that maybe aren’t the best executed, but they stand for something that has nostalgia or spurs good vibes. It’s why I love the Waffle House logo, or the Lakers logo. In a design vacuum, they have issues. But tied to their brand experience, they’re everything!

2. Tell me about Kentucky?
Kentuckians are loyal as all get out. That leads to strong traditions. When we were in high school, the cool kids were in the FFA (future farmworkers of America). Homecoming we had tractor pull races, our prom was in a cave (Mammoth Cave, baby!) and my sister and I had our birthday party in our barn. Our grandma had 12 brothers and sisters and they all raised families locally so we had to be really careful we didn’t date our cousins without knowing it. Gotta do that family tree check.

3. Jen Fun Fact:
I have dated 2 warlocks without trying to. That has to be a high percentage compared to the national average. I was employee of the year at California Pizza Kitchen. I once got to do a locker room interview with the Anaheim Ducks by moonlighting as a reporter for the magazine I was a designer at. Lots of towels. Lots of steam.

4. Differences from Amy:
Amy wants to do everything yesterday. I usually have the mindset: let’s order a pizza and drink a few beers to wrap our heads around it, then we’ll start. Not to say I’m lazy, but I like to marinate in things before launching. I also can’t ingest as much murder media as her. Amy’s appetite for true crime content is as bottomless as the mimosa bar at Sunday brunch.

5. Happiness advice:
Life is full of a range of emotions. Happiness is only one of them. Expect the whole spectrum. But be wary of the wallow, though. Wallowing keeps you stuck in park.

6. What is your dream job:
I never had something I thought I absolutely had to do. When I was young I wanted to be a Disney animator. But I’ve always been open to random opportunities. I’m stoked with my job at Hoodzpah. As far as a dream client: working with the NBA or an NBA team in some way would be rad!

7. When are you most afraid:
It doesn’t get me as much anymore, but as far as long-term recurring nightmares: Scream movie franchises completely undid me. Before that, it was the Secret of Nimh. That movie was terrifying as a kid!

8. Window seat or aisle?
I don’t care because I stay in my seat for the long haul. Airplane bathrooms are the enemy, to be avoided at all cost.

9. Important ingredient to success:
An odd concoction of dispassionate passion. You have to care enough to put out work and put in time, but also have to learn to grow a thick skin to rejection and failure. If you’re too passionate, one hiccup can derail you because you’re running only on emotion. That’s where the dispassion comes in and you have to show up even when you don’t feel like it, put in the time even when you’re uninspired. A constant balancing act. Because some days are cupcakes and some days are urinal cakes.

10. Hoodzpah is the apotheosis of years of failed creative business plans we had as kids.
Amy and I tried to sell our own comic book series when we were 8, greeting cards when we were 10. We tried to become the next Rogers & Hammerstein and write our own musical at 12. All huge flops, haha. We finally found something people were willing to pay us for: design. Thank goodness.

11. What do I need to do before I die?
Make a graphic novel.

12. What do I want for my birthday?
Food, treats, and adult beverages.

13. Talent show:
Impromptu Twitter bio drafting for the audience.

14. Something you need to know:
Your voice assistant might turn State’s witness if you ever do something wrong. Trust no one.

Laura Rubin

Hi friends. Today we introduce you to @lauralrubin the queen and mastermind behind @allswellcreative. Laura loves the ocean, helping people find their inner voice and calling and Neil young. She is also a cancer survivor with an extremely positive outlook on life and is setting the example of how to live with intention and purpose.

What is paradise? 

“Paradise” isn’t some remote concept that requires a private island or the after life. There are so many ways to access paradise in the here-and-now...

Limbs tangled with the person you love most and no plan for the day except a home cooked breakfast. 

Wave seeking with friends and a cold beer at the end of a salty day. 

Home with family, including all our foibles and weird dynamics, folded into their love.

Be of service. Make something. Learn something. 

A clear day in October somewhere breathtaking with a good book and a trail to wander. 

Waking with a sense of purpose. Turning in with an honest tired. 

Freedom, time and health occurring simultaneously.

Please tell me about Allswell....

I was out on a surf check one morning in Montauk and I got skunked. No waves. But it was a beautiful day so I spread my towel on the beach and journaled instead. I wrote “Swell or no swell, all’s well.” That was the genesis of the brand. 

I like to both write and draw and had been looking for one notebook with room to do both but couldn’t find any products with both lined and unlined paper. So, I made some with a printer up in Maine that I knew. I showed the first batch to my a few of my friends with cool stores and they were happy to sell them. Those sold out. I made some more. And those sold out. 

It’s been a really organic process. I now have a suite of products to inspire creativity and I lead AllSwell workshops all over the world to help folks connect with their own innate creative voice. And everyone has one, regardless of whether they are a “creative” for a living. That’s where the juicy stuff in life is, the treasure trove that leads to adventure and fulfillment. 

Watching folks crack open and connect with that source is the most amazing thing I get to do in my life. It is endlessly humbling, fascinating and beautiful to witness.

Why is journaling important?

I’ve always journaled -- since age 8 -- and I knew it felt good, but wasn’t aware of the science behind it until I started AllSwell and dug into the research. It turns out there’s a whole body of empirical data that shows writing long hand has significant mental, emotional and physiological benefits. For instance, it speeds wound healing, it curbs asthma, it helps cure PTSD, and so on. 

These benefits are only derived from putting pen to paper, though. There are synaptic connections in your brain that are made from the motor action of moving your hand across the page. So if you’re tempted by the “Notes” application on your phone by all means go for it but you won’t be getting the same upside as cracking a notebook and busting out a pen or pencil. Good old analog tools are still the best. 

What was the biggest realization you had about yourself?

You can have a dream, achieve that dream and then decide you want a new, different dream. Your life is a creative act, one that you keep developing. 

What do you need help with most often?

Anything (everything) technology oriented 

What’s the most anxiety inducing thing you do on a regular basis?

Drive on the 405

What is the best advice you have ever received?
The best advice I have ever received is about not listening to advice: trust your gut. Don’t know what your gut says? Well then slow down and listen, connect. External wisdom can be helpful but if you aren’t sure what your internal compass looks like then nothing else will work properly.  

How do you make yourself sleep when you can’t seem to get to sleep?

I don’t fight it. I turn on the light, pop a CBD gummy and crack a book or open my journal. Eventually sleep finds me. 

What’s the worst hairstyle you’ve ever had? 

There was super awkward, bushy stage when my hair was growing out after chemotherapy that I will be happy to never revisit. Not even hats helped. 

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful?What habit do you have now that you wish you started much earlier?

Surfing. I learned as an adult and I envy folks who were fortunate enough to be taught by their fathers or mothers as kids, for whom it’s natural, innate. 

What about the opposite sex confuses you the most?

I recently read a study put out by UCLA that journaling is 50% more beneficial to men, most likely because men have so few culturally acceptable avenues for self-expression. This kills me. 

Some of the men closest to me have struggled with emotional, financial or physical setbacks and they are unwilling to tell their male friends because of deep levels of shame. As if they’re just supposed to white knuckle it through. But that doesn’t work, it isolates them and makes it harder. Meanwhile, no matter how dark the subject matter if I’m in a bad spot I have several girlfriends on speed dial to hear me out. 

This unhealthy disparity in self-expression has got to end and journaling is scientifically proven to help. These men are our partners, fathers, colleagues, sons, brothers. Their suppressed emotional experience affects women on a daily basis. We’re all in this together. 

How to cultivate self-worth. Everyone needs to learn how and yet there are so few nourishing, lasting ways (from the inside out rather than the outside in) that we are taught in our culture. 

What’s the worst thing you’ve eaten out of politeness?

Gefilte fish. But now I eat it annually more out of a sense of nostalgia than politeness. 

What’s your good luck charm?

Being polite.

What’s the oldest thing you own?

A big chunk of amethyst that was passed down to me in the female lineage of my family. It’s of the earth, older than anything I have that was made by human hands. 

I recently pulled her off a dusty bookshelf in NYC and brought her back to Venice in my suitcase. I cleaned her up, set her in the sun to “charge” on the front porch of my bungalow and she’s literally brighter, lighter now. She’s happier here in LA, not unlike me. 

What’s the most disgusting sounding word in the English language?

Ointment. Say it out loud. Even the shape your mouth makes isn’t appealing. Ick.

Alex Ta

Hi friends, meet @yogi_saurus, she is the founder of @namasteasfuck a brand that aims to bring light to those who are struggling to get to yoga and find that inner peace. Alex taught me about crystals and once again reminded me of just how beautiful the human race is. This week we will dip into the pursuit of all things good

Why namasteasfuck?

When I first started practicing and wanted to cop some yoga gear, all I could find were shirts that said “love & light” or “peace.” I feel happy and peaceful after I practice, but during class I feel angry, sad, depressed, frustrated, hopeless...a whole spectrum of negative emotions towards myself, the teacher and the other people in the room.

I resonated with those light-hearted words after class, but I felt like a liar wearing those shirts while I was actually practicing. That’s how Namaste As Fuck came about, as a way to acknowledge and unapologetically make space for ALL of the feelings and experiences that come along with yoga practice and really, life in general. By taking the time to work through these shitty feelings in a healthy way, we can make space to feel the way we want. We want to show the world that you don’t have to be or feel a certain kind of way to practice, so we can get more people on their mats, feeling alive, feeling themselves & make the world a better place.

Where is the most beautiful place you have ever been?

Recently I took a trip to Alaska to visit my brother. I think I said “holy shit this is so beautiful” so many times it was getting annoying. I was totally caught off guard by its beauty.

How does one get to know themselves better?

Date yourself. Spend time alone with as much curiosity and interest you would have with meeting someone brand new and had a little crush on. What are you like when there is no one around to entertain or impress? How do you react when faced with a new situation or a challenge? What places make you feel alive and open? What types of places, people or situations cause you to shut down? What words can you tell yourself to help you feel supported, safe and understood? I have found the answers to many of those questions by spending time on my own and since I am constantly growing and changing, I do my best to spend some time alone with myself every day to keep up. The more time you spend with yourself, the more you will be able to be the one to give yourself what you need.

Why do crystals make you happy?

Many have been given to me by teachers or friends or as mementos from different experiences, so I’m reminded of the love or adventure when I see them. Each one has their own personality and I love how each one feels so different in your hands. Having them around makes me feel calm, like an old friend.

Tell me about your dog?

Cruz is my cooler, more popular self in dog form. She’s my adventure buddy, confidant and secret keeper. She is chill when it’s time to chill but goes absolutely ham when it’s time to swim or play fetch. She will pretty much play games until she pukes. She is an old soul.

If you could ask god one question what would it be?

Thank you, and what else can I do to help?

Any advise for someone interested in yoga?

If you try a teacher or a type of class and you don’t like it, try a different one. There are and endless number of teaching styles and types of yoga, so there is definitely one out there for you. Also, if a shape doesn’t feel good, don’t do it. Explore your limits, but if it’s a no then it’s a no.

Mantra of the moment?

No one else knows what they’re doing either.

Favorite quote....

“It doesn't interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for, and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing. It doesn't interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dream, for the adventure of being alive.” -Oriah Mountain Dreamer, The Invitation

What the best dish you know how to cook?

Stir fry! I’m a simple cook and a simple eater, I love to snack.

What is good?

Hope.

What is god?

The feeling inside of me that is the same as the feeling inside of you.

What is Love?

Effortless, synchronicity, asks for nothing.

You can get on a plane tomorrow, where are you going?

Anywhere with a beach

What is paradise?

Feeling safe and at home in my body/

As a child did you play well with others?

Hah! I was loud, super competitive tomboy that always got in fights with boys. I was hell bent on proving that I could do anything else that they could and couldn’t ever let anything go until I proved my point.

What are the things that bring you joy in the world?

Long meals with good company, a good yoga class, teaching, spending time outside and lately, alone time. I have always been pretty social and outgoing but I’m learning just how much time I need to recharge after being around people, and I have actually begun to really enjoy it.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

Hit the 57 on Heinz ketchup to make it come out faster

Amy Hood

Hey y’all. This week we introduce you to @amyhoodlum cofounder of @hoodzpahdesign, @oddsandsodsco and @connectingthings.co. She is a design guru that carries a spicy sense of humor and dash of seriously good vibes. Follow along this week as we talk about god, marriage and pursuit of your personal dream. Amy has a super great book that just hit the shelf’s called “Freelance, and Business, and Stuff” you can pick up a copy through the link on the @hoodzpahdesign page!!!!

Why is design important?
There is of course the practical side of design - it's at the core of almost everything you touch and see in your life! But then there is the part that I relish as a Brand Identity designer, and that is the way something can make you feel. I've always had this weird brand loyalty ever since I was a kid: Coca-Cola or nothing! Don't you dare offer me a Pepsi. I'd rather drink water, and as any Southerner will tell you, water is the most unpopular of drinks in the South. But I've always been that way! It's why I love sports (Go Lakers) and why I'm crazy competitive, and why I love brand identity design. I get to help brands define that feeling, that storyline.

Tell me about Kentucky?
Kentucky was an amazing place to spend my formative years. I was born in CA, did 4 years there, then moved to NY and did most of elementary school there, so when we moved to KY the culture shock was real! Our Grandmother's side of the family has lived on the same piece of land for generations and she was one of 12 kids. 12. In a small town that means almost everyone is your relative. Every time I'd get a crush on a guy I'd have to trace his family tree to make sure there wasn't any branch crossover. And this was before 23 and Me or Facebook! All jokes aside, only now, when we go back to visit, do I truly appreciate the beauty of it. Everything is so green, and the land is so reasonable, and it may sound trite, but life is much simpler. And there is something cool about a place where people stay for generations. Families have been there for centuries on the same land.

What are your thoughts on marriage?
I'm not a cynic. I truly believe in love. But it's rarer than people would have you believe. And I don't think that marriage has anything to do with love. To me, I don't need to sign a piece of paper in front of the state and a witness to have a truly loving relationship. If anything it just makes things more complicated and puts an unnecessary strain on a good thing. I feel like a lot of relationships last longer than they should because they don't want to have the shame or hassle of a divorce. And every Forensic Files ever proves that if someone's murdered, the husband/wife did it. It's that pressure of "you can only love one person" - I believe a full life is the ability to love many people throughout our lives, and be loved in return. Cue Nat King Cole.

What is God?
God is the one who helps me to love, and who makes me merciful and empathetic instead of Regina-George-level judgmental and bitchy.

Tell me one Amy fun fact...
I played the violin for 8 years: 5 years classical in an orchestra, and 3 years of fiddle in our family bluegrass jam band that rocked the socks off of the Baptist church potluck on Wednesday nights. Some people brought the chicken livers, some people brought collard greens, I brought the solo on "I'll Fly Away".

How are you different than your sister?
It's so funny because we are so different but we are also so the same! I'm definitely more neurotic and obsessive than Jen. Jen is sweet and chill and can join in on anyone's hobby or circle and fit in and have a blast. I'm like a tornado when I get an idea in my head. Whether it's a business idea or planning a vacation, I will fill every minute of it with something. We definitely balance each other out so that Jen isn't too chill and I'm not too crazy.

Give me some happiness advice?
Happiness is a tough one! We're not always going to be happy, but I do believe we can be joyful even when we're not happy. For me the key to joy is knowing your own definition of success and not letting outside elements and forces put their expectations on you. And just finding gratitude in everything you do. Every situation/client/relationship won't be the perfect situation, but that's not the point! If you're looking for perfect you're missing out. Instead of looking for what is lacking, look for the positives and realize you can find fulfillment for the things that are lacking with other people/hobbies/outlets.

Amanda Gilbert

Hey y’all. Today we introduce you to @amandasgilbert owner and founder of @dryvtgand. Amanda is a Texas girl who made her way out to California and never looked back. She has great style and taste. She loves old things, her husband and is kinda obsessed with basketball. This week we will dive into her closet and mind

Why are clothes important?

Many think clothing is frivolous, but they aren't. They define us, they show the world who we are with one quick blink. Wear what you love, feel comfortable in, and what you think represents your deepest insides. That is what true style is all about.

Tell me about growing up in Texas?

Once a Texan, always a Texan. My parents weren't from there so I don't feel like I have deep roots there, we were always doing road trips to other places which I am thankful for. Made me realize there is so much outside of Texas. Early on I knew I wanted to flee, but I'm thankful for the kindness and warmth it instilled in me.

What’s the best place to eat in LA?

This is hard question. We have everything we could want and more. Right now I eat at a spot called Honey Hi, that two girlfriends of mine own. It feels nice supporting women who had a dream and made it happen.

Tell me one Amanda fun fact?

I love playing basketball, I love basketball in general. I'm a walking contradiction. I love sports, am a total tomboy but also have a deep love of fashion.

Have you always worked in fashion?

Yeah, I have. I just had to think about that. Since my first job at 16, always around clothing or this industry. I did trend forecasting for 7 years, but it was mostly around the fashion industry with bits of music, technology but all is influenced or influences fashion.

What is paradise?

Pure bliss, you can find paradise wherever and whenever. It's when happiness washes over you even just a moment.

What style shoe do you wear most often?

Printed pants, white tee and sneakers with a statement jacket.

Who is your biggest influence and why?

Fashion-wise -- my mom, Shirley. She's always been ahead of her time. Always took fashion risks, like she had purple docs when I was 9 years old and I was mortified but now think how rad she must of looked. Her style has always been eccentric, trendy with a dash of class. And I think my style is the exact same way.

What are things the bring you joy in the world?

My husband, basketball, old things and friends.

Mantra of the moment?

Everything is evolving.

Do you sing in the shower?

I listen to podcasts or watch Bravo. (A very bad habit, I know)

At karaoke what song do you pick?

If I had to, Rilo Kiley, Portion of Foxes.

What is the best way to deal with rejection?

I learned early on that not everything is for everyone. Of course you're feelings get hurt when you're not chosen may it be from someone you like or a job but sometimes I'm not keen either and remember to have kindness in that rejection.

What’s your advice for someone who just moved to LA?

Enjoy the smog air, dirty streets, ostentatious people, the all-nighters, an empty bank account, taste the street food, while splurge on the expensive food. Talk to your neighbors who don't look like you, smile at strangers, walk even when it feels too far, look up at the night sky and breathe it all in knowing these will be some of your best years navigating this wild city.

Kat Renyolds

@kat_reynolds is one of those people who makes the room feel warm. She likes smiling. I would go as far as saying it’s the thing she is best at! She smiles while she takes pictures and I imagine it is what she does while she writes. This lovely lady is open, honest, kind and vulnerable. I feel very happy to know her and nominate her for worlds most epic solo dance party artist

What experiences in life shaped you the most? 

I don’t know if I can attribute any one experience to be the primary source or all encompassing influence in my personal development. Among many others, Travel has opened my heart and mind in more ways than I can count, but the first thing that started the journey for me? I would have to say riding horses.

It really taught me to listen. It solidified my understanding of a soul, and my relationship to spirituality. It showed me my strength, and my softness. It taught me what it meant to work hard. Really hard. It taught me about myself and gave me unbelievable self awareness. I can attribute most of my grit, my perseverance, my down and dirty attitude, etc to this experience. Horses are powerful creatures and I am beyond grateful to have learned so many lessons from them.

Who is your biggest influence and why? My motto is “we are all students and teachers.” I have had fleeting interactions on the street with strangers that have had as profound of an impact as any. These little wake up calls and shifts In perspective have come from so many different sources. My grandma, my parents, past lovers, a homeless man, a dying mother, a woman who did not share the same language, children who remind me to be present, friends who I consider family… They have all given me new eyes, have taught me incredibly valuable lessons, and have showed me wisdom within myself.

What do you feel is your mission/purpose in life? I haven’t always been certain of my direction in life, but I have always known my purpose was to “inspire” — it came to me at 13 during an adolescent existential crisis, and I’ve just rolled with it ever since. The ‘how’ and ‘what’ have evolved over time, but the why has always been to INSPIRE. To lead by example so others can awaken to their best self. To always be introspective. To shine a light on humanity so we can see the good in any stranger. To eliminate the idea of separateness. To breed compassion. Not only for others, but for ourselves. And hopefully to inspire people to live their life purpose and calling. Live their truth….

sing or dance? Can I say both? I find both to be incredibly cathartic. Each gets your energy moving. Each is healing in its own way. The Egyptians believed in the power of sound healing. Mantras serve this same purpose. When I sing (despite the fact that Im not the best singer in the world) it is so powerful, it reverberates through my whole body waking up different parts of me that may have been sleeping. Gets my chi moving…  Eastern medicine associate different sounds with different energy centers of the body. I believe in this wholeheartedly. It calms my heart when I sing… Nevertheless. If I must choose, my answer is dance. To me, dance is raw, primal, ancestral, intuitive, wild…. It is sooo freeing. Like singing, It gets my energy moving, it is such a release…. Its just in my blood. I love it so much.

Draw or write? I am an artist. For me, art is physical, much like dancing. I dance my way onto a canvas. But lately, the written word has had a resounding home in me. Connecting to my intellectual being. I know the paintbrush will find its way back to me when I’m ready to express myself that way again. I think we ebb and flow in that way. And I’m ok with that. We need very different things at different points in our lives. We speak different languages at different stages. This is how we untangle ourselves. And for now writing is the best tool for that.

Favorite word and least favorite word? Snuggle or Squishy… least favorite? Trump.

What will destroy the world and what will save it? We will. I think anything that is capable of creation is capable of destruction. What parts of human nature will destroy the world? Apathy, greed, disconnection, the notion of separateness. What will save it? Compassion.

What are things that bring you joy in the world? Kindness, conversation, connection and cookies… lots of cookies

What does being a woman mean to you?  This has been a crazy journey for me— coming into my femininity. I didn’t have many truly vulnerable and intimate female relationships growing up. At least not in the way that I do now. And it took me a lot of time, self work and listening to my heart and gut to open up and to be in this space.

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In that process I have found that being a woman is finding strength In softness. It is connecting to your inner nurturer and protector, it is learning that you were made to create a safe haven in your arms for others to land. To be an outpouring of love. It’s an energy- a life force of its own when you feel that and connect with a women who is in touch with her divine femininity. She is powerful yet she is vulnerable and raw. She is Yin embodied, but recognizes and honors her yang. Quiet in her own way, she walks with reverence. Her power and energy is magnetic. It draws you in. She does not need to speak because her presence speaks for itself. That is a woman who is Unstuck. These qualities are embodied by every woman that you have shone a light on in this space.

When you look in the mirror what do you see?

I see a soul that has learned a lot of lessons in this life. A lot of hard and beautiful lessons. I see a soul that is not limited to this body.  That this body is a tool I’ve been gifted with—a vessel, a a teacher, a learning experience.

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It’s so easy to criticize and nitpick … getting caught up in the way we change, the way we age, the way our bodies look that day. Looking in the mirror, and really taking the time to see oneself, everything else just fades away. All details that are normally seen as imperfections, I see as perfections. All the things that make me, me. Looking into the eyes, I see the eternal- the unchanging… It’s out of body, almost like staring into the eyes of another.  Maybe its the soul’s recognition of all of it’s incarnations, or of its journey in general. There is an overwhelming sense of compassion and forgiveness in that moment. And above all, love…an overwhelming sense of self love.

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PS: I highly recommend “mirror mediations” It had been a while since Ive done one and I was grateful for the reminder. In the day to day we look past ourselves… I mean, how often is it that we actually look in the mirror and SEE ourselves. Not fixing, adjusting or perfecting - but  just witnessing ourselves as we are?

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy?

In no particular order:

Water, salt or fresh

Wilderness- quiet solitary connection to the earth

Human connection

Snuggling animals

Philosophical conversations, good books, podcasts.

Movement - surfing, climbing, yoga & dancing

Stillness - meditation, listening to records on the floor, time to reflect

Art - in whatever form feels good

This is my daily spiritual cocktail of survival.

Mantra of the moment? If it comes, let it. if it goes, let it…. Be like water

Favorite quote? 

It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.

-Aristotle

…

On that same note. I love this excerpt from the poem Desiderata:

Speak your truth quietly and clearly;

and listen to others,

even the dull and the ignorant;

they too have their story. 

What do you want to tell men who don't understand? Listen. Let go of your notions of what it means to be a ‘man,’ and of the attachment to living up to that role/definition. Soften into the spaces in-between, be vulnerable. Forgive yourself. You are a student and a teacher. Welcome in wisdom from others and do your best to be an example in every moment.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

Be impeccable with your word

Don’t take anything personally

Don’t make assumptions

Always do your best

-The four agreements

Best place ever traveled? Such a hard question for me to answer. I always say Mexico is my favorite country. Which is true. But in truth. Any place that has shifted my perception

of my frame of reference for reality. Generally this place is impoverished. And I am reminded of how our life is ‘frittered away by detail’ of how simple life is and can be. In this place, the people are more grateful, despite the fact that they have so little. There is a more raw human connection and in some cases a more spiritual connection to the land... it reminds me what life is about.

We are getting on a plane tomorrow, where are we going? Zihuatanejo ;) I say this because this is how Michael (the glorious man who is behind the camera) and I inadvertently connected… in truth. South America, I haven’t been and I have felt called there for quite some time. Im in love with raw and vibrant latin cultures. I have this dream to disappear down south with nothing but film cameras and pen and paper. Except, we aren’t flying. We are driving. :)

Why do you write? I simply must…It’s a channel. I write to understand, to feel, to unfold. To connect to myself. To others.

Why do you take pictures? I couldn’t always find the words for the things I saw or felt. I just wanted to share them. As is. The kind of beauty that leaves you speechless - sharing the common humanity we have.

How should I love? Most importantly, we must learn to know and love ourselves first. Love should not be a search to fill the void or mend broken pieces of our hearts. While that is an amazing gift that love gives us, until we explore all of our deepest parts, learn them intimately and love them on our own and without condition, we can’t expect to find the love we dream of.

That being said. Love yourself how you would want to be loved. And love others in the same way.

In the process, if love finds you. Let it sweep you away. There are so many lessons in love that we can’t experience alone. And loving is what we are on this earth to do.

So my answer is this: Love unconditionally. Unapologetically. Madly. Deeply. Truthfully. Wholly….. Be Vulnerable. Raw. Reveal your shadow self. Speak your truth and ask for truth in return. Be humble. Be open and kind, receptive, and understanding. You are bringing two hearts into one place. Be gentle….. Be honest, kind… Learn as much as you can. Be open. And choose love every day. If you are no longer choosing love. Do a serious reassessment. And if things don’t make sense anymore. Walk away. Because that is love too…Love is what brings us closest to ourselves. Love in a way that brings you to that pure place.

Kat

Hi friends. Today we introduce you to @kayti_ocarr the founder of @mate_the_label an ethical & sustainable clothing brand out of Los Angeles. Kayti hated getting dressed in the morning as a kid and would wear her outfits to bed the night before school, now she makes clothes, who woulda thought!

Tell me a bit about Mate The Label? 

MATE is a sustainable and ethical Women's clothing brand that is designed and made in Los Angeles. Our focus is on elevated essentials and vintage inspired graphic tees. We are proud to use 100% natural fibers, GOTS certified Organic cotton and low impact dyes. We like to think of our product as skincare for your closet.

What would you say is the most important ingredient for successful business? 

Persistence. 

What is something you do when you feel like giving up?

I have a journal by my bedside that I started when I was thirteen and have written in it in many different points in my life. I often reference it as a way to keep connected to my authentic self; journaling is a very grounding process

What is the most important advice you have ever received?

Follow your intuition, listen to your gut

What would you like to say to women who don’t understand? 

There is balance and beauty in differences, thank you.

How does one find their purpose? 

By kissing their comfort zone goodbye

If you could ask god one question what would it be?

What should I eat for dinner?

Fate or Will? 

I believe we are continually co-creating with the universe. I think we have immense responsibility in contributing to what we perceive as "everything happens for a reason." I tend to think that most things revolve around energetics.

What are your thoughts on the World Cup of soccer? The games definitely messed up my morning routine but I loved watching! I could watch soccer all day long. My husband was in France when they won and it looked absolutely insane. 

Were you competitive as a child? 

Extremely. I played sports competitively growing up, and learning it's ok to lose was definitely a lesson of mine

What is friendship? 
A friend wants you to succeed, a friend celebrates you for being you, a friend raises your energy and doesn't drain it

Tell me one Kayti fun fact?

When I was a kid, I hated getting dressed in the morning so badly that I would wear my school clothes to bed so that I could sleep in longer. One night, I actually wore shoes to bed (wow). Who knew I would be dressing people for a living, ha.

Do you believe in miracles?

I think the word miracle or general definition is off-putting to me as it detracts from our own individual strength, resiliency and natural capabilities. 

What is paradise? 

Trusting the process...and Kauai. Trusting the process whilst in Kauai, even better.

In your opinion who makes the best French fries? 

A french fry is a french fry to me, I am all about the dips. 

What is your morning routine? 

First thing, I meditate for 10 minutes using Headspace, stretch for 5-10 minutes, make a matcha and breakfast and then dip into my emails. I would love to not look at emails till after I am done getting ready but  #goals.

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy?

Daily meditation, treating food as medicine and making sure I am taking good care of my hormones and adrenals

What are the things that bring you joy in the world?

Good food, nature, creating, learning something new, traveling, family

Brittney Wood

Hi. Today we introduce to @brittanywould. Brittany loves riding her motorcycle, @postmalone, drinking @monsterenergy and hanging out with her best friend, a dog named pizza

What is paradise?

Camping by a huge lake without my phone, and zero ticks. 

What’s advise would you give to someone learning to ride a motorcycle?

Cool it on the front brake. 

If you could ask god one question what would it be?

I think it would have to be the moment right after something I perceive as 'bothersome' happens. You know...right before you react. Something along the lines of -  "Does this REALLY matter?" 

What is Love?

Mutual respect and tolerance between two people. I feel this proves consistent with both romantic AND platonic relationships. 

Tell me about your motorcycle friends?

They're perfect. My life would be much different (and less exciting) without them. They've helped me through some rather interesting experiences through my twenties, and although their advice can be a little harsh, they've taught me the meaning of self-love and acceptance. We love each other, and we forgive each other if one of us gets the others kicked out of a bar (wink wink). 

Why do you love Post Malone so much?

He's an emotional rollercoaster. I like to imagine all his songs are written about me. 

What’s your favorite Kanye West song?

Although I'm a little on the edge with Kanye at the moment, I will always love The New Workout Plan. 

Why do you love twilight?

There's something nostalgic about experiencing first love through the eyes of naive Bella Swan. Plus, I like to imagine myself falling in love with a sparkly vampire. 

Tell me one Brittany fun fact?

My first job was dressing up as Chuck E. Cheese. 

What’s the most exciting thing you have done recently?

Riding my dirt bike straight into a tree, followed by cacti. 

What’s your favorite conspiracy theory?

The Brittany Murphy tale. HER HUSBAND DID IT. 

If you were abducted by aliens who would you bring with you?

I would say, my mom. She doesn't believe in aliens, so this would be my "I told you so" moment. But also, we might die so I guess me proving her wrong wouldn't really matter in the end. 

What is freedom?

Giving up on caring so much. I think it's healthy to care to a degree, but when your decisions and self-perceptions are hindered by the fear of caring what others think or how they may react that's when you should learn to let go. 

What’s the last book you read?

Sex and Rage by Eve Babitz

What will destroy the world and what will save it?

I feel like that's a loaded question - Man, and greed. What will save the world? Us, when we make the decision to put people before profit.  

What would you say to women who don’t understand?

As long as you're not an asshole, we don't need to agree on everything. 

What is self love?

Understanding that at the end of the day you're all you have, and everyone else's approval is but a sand pebble to your beach. 

What would you like for your next birthday?

Another year of great memories and a list of accomplishments. 

What are you afraid of? 

The unknown. 

Marissa Rascon

Hi friends. Today we introduce you to @marissa.rascon. Marissa is a mother, wife, director and force to be reckoned with. She is the kinda gal that pumps breast milk in her car between takes on a film set. She is a inspiration and her ability to balance motherhood and directing crews of men is so cool.

What is motherhood?

Being fiercely brave, nurturing and a little crazy.

What does it mean to be a wife?

Being a lifelong ride-or-die partner in crime that may want to kill her partner sometimes. 

How do you practice self-love?

Embracing what I want to ignore. 

Why do you make films?

To stir thoughts, conversations and ignite a feeling that brings people closer to themselves and others.

Where is paradise?

Wherever my son is and food oh and my husband! 

Please tell me one Marissa fun fact?

I took a VCR to college - in 2010. haha

What would you like to say to women who don’t understand? 

What are the things that bring you joy in the world?

Watching my son laugh, adventuring outdoors with family and friends.

What does it mean to be seen?

To have what's best about you be acknowledged and outshine what's misunderstood. 

Mantra of the moment?

Relax, Breathe and Release your expectations.

Favorite quote?

Going through things you never thought you'd go through will only take you places you never thought you'd get to - Morgan Harper Nichols

Best advice given to you by your father?

Don't be lazy, make things happen. 

What is one great thing your mother cooks?

I miss my mom's lasagna. 

When you are lost what are some tools you use to become found?

Connect with G.P.S. - God. People. Some more food. 

What does a perfect day look like?

Waking up slowly with no to-do lists so I can soak up time with my family and be free to create.

How do you become unstuck?

Ask myself how I got stuck and don't do it again. 

What is freedom?

Living without fear, shame or guilt. 

Lex Weinstein

Hi friends today we introduce you to @lex.weinstein. Lex is a surfer, writer, environmentalist, free spirit and traveler filled with an unquenchable thirst for the great unknown. This week we will be sharing her thoughts on life, love and the pursuit of happiness

What experiences in life shaped you the most?

I’m a firm believer that travel is life’s greatest teacher. When on the road, hours upon hours are spent alone in strange places, facing uncertainty and obstacle, navigating the tangled web of one’s own feelings, needs, and desires. Travel is not just a courageous voyage to foreign lands, but an exotic and intimate exploration of one’s own intuition. The learning curve when abroad is much shorter, the rewards of listening to your gut are much greater, and the consequences of ignoring it are far worse. In truth, the reckoning of the stillness found aline in a foreign country is undeniable. The years I’ve spent overseas with no plan, no money, and no familiar faces have been the most life changing.

This may sound heavy, but my experiences of betrayal have also shaped me tremendously. The times where I betrayed myself and was also betrayed by those who I thought I looked up to impacted my entire trajectory. When you can recognize betrayal, everything shifts. You are immediately given a choice to be bitter and remain a stagnant victim, or to let go, move full speed ahead, and trust again, transcending into a state of wild unknown. There lies aloneness. There lies self reliance. No one can save you. It’s terrifying and empowering, but necessary on the path to understanding forgiveness of yourself and others. When you can love someone who’s betrayed you (yourself included), you are truly indestructible.

Who is your biggest influence and why?

Anthropomorphism aside, Mother Ocean has been my biggest influence by far. As a surfer, She introduced me to my inner child, my sense of pure joy, my connection to everything, my drive to protect what i love, and of course my sense of adventure. She has taught me patience, humility, tenacity, courage, and acceptance, just to name a few. She has been a catalyst for every major decision I’ve made in my life, and the inspiration behind the manifestations I’ve produced.

What do you feel is your mission/purpose in life?

To live in joy, emanate love and compassion, and to fulfill my dreams so as to give others permission to do the same. My mission would be to leave this world better than I found it, or to at least die trying.

Sing or dance?
Dance

Draw or write?
Write

Favorite word and least favorite word?
Fav word - Beautiful
Least fav- ignorance

What will destroy the world and what will save it?
Greed will destroy and compassion will save.

What are things that bring you joy in the world?
Love. Being a witness as well as experiencing it myself. Any opportunity to feel like a little kid: surfing, skateboarding, dancing, climbing trees, playing music, writing, creating, exploring, observing with innocence...brings me closer to love. Kids know love. They are born knowing nothing else and it is their essence, they exude it. I try to embrace that spirit and relearn how to love so unconditionally and without expectation.

What does being a woman mean to you?
It means getting to have it all, be it all and do it all. It means embodying all that is sexy and kind and fierce and intellectual. It means being defined by no one thing but everything and nothing all at once. We are mermaids, sirens, and mystics gifted the art of creation and the power to give life. The obstacles and limitations placed upon us only fuel the fire to propel faster, harder, stronger. I cherish my womanhood and take full advantage of the array of possibilities that are our birthright.

When you look in the mirror what do you see?
My inner little Lex. The 6 year old me when i would play with my cousins in summertime, catching fireflies and jumping in the pool naked, screaming with laughter. I may look different but I haven’t changed much :).

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy?
Meditation. Stillness. Trying to be present in the most here and now of the Now and just feeling into my body. I spend the sunrise hours experiencing stillness and then chanting a Buddhist mantra. I try to align with those vibrations and visualize world peace brilliantly in bloom.

I also spend a lot of time in nature, alone. I want to remember who I am amongst the ocean, trees, mountains and desert skies. Remembering is what keeps me sane.

Mantra of the moment?
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo - “devotion to the mystic law of cause and effect through sound vibration.”

Favorite quote?
"Some day, after we have mastered the winds, the waves, the tides and gravity, we shall harness for God the energies of love. Then for the second time in the history of the world, we will have discovered fire." - Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

What do you want to tell men who don't understand?
It’s ok, everything will be alright. Feeling your feelings doesn’t make you weak, it actually makes you impenetrable.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

Tell me about surfing...
Surfing is the last lick of ice cream on a sweltering day, that last bite at the bottom of the cone, chin dripping, lips sticky and salty. It’s the full belly laugh you experience only with your closest friends or siblings. It’s the indescribable bliss of letting go, of feeling satiated by sweet, tender moments amongst the chaos of every day life. It’s a water dance with the Earth’s pulse. It’s my everything.

Tell me about skateboarding...
Skateboarding is brave. It’s wind in your hair and courage in your heart. It’s saying YES to life and choosing to see smooth concrete as a canvas. It is pure creativity.

Please share one Lex fun fact....
I’ve played classical piano since I was 7 years ild.

What is something you need to do before you die?
Play drums in an all girl psychedelic rock band :) and get a proper barrel

Kristen Flores

Hi friends. This week we introduce you to Kristen Flores the creator of @musebath. It’s so suiting that Kristen makes products to help one cleanse. In our time spent together I found myself becoming lighter and embracing all that I was. We drank tea, laughed and spoke about what it means to be human.

Tell me about tea?

Tea is medicine. Tea is a healing gift from the earth when cultivated sustainably. I have been fond of tea since I was a little girl, however as I have been introduced to the cultivation of Living Teas and Cha Dao Tea Meditation my tea practice has deeply transformed my spiritual connection with tea and the art of ceremony. 

What is paradise?

Paradise is an essence which opens your heart.

What are the things that bring you joy in the world?

Dancing, cooking, painting, making love, taking baths, perfuming, planting gardens, fresh fruit, meditation, poetry, friends and my family.

What have you learned by becoming a kundalini instructor?

Sat Nam. Sat Nam is a mantra that can be translated as “true name” or “true vibration” or “Truth is my Identity.” To really grasp the meaning you have to have an experience of your own consciousness. The truth is not a matter of being true or false, but connecting to the essence of whats true for one’s own Sat Nam. Becoming a Kundalini Teacher has taught me the technology of awareness and the self-discipline of a daily Sadhana practice to connect to the infinite within.

What will destroy the world and what will save it?

Compassion will save the world, we first need the awareness of what it means to be a human being so that we do not destroy our opportunity for evolution.

What’s for breakfast?

Avocado Toast + Smoothie.

What is the best advice you ever received?

In every moment you have everything you need.

Mantra of the moment?

“Hold steady and allow yourself to bloom.”

I am really loving this mantra from a poem written by the poet @YungPueblo.

Favorite quote?

“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.”~ Maya Angelou

Why is it important that one become aware?

It is important that one becomes aware so you can make your life your own and not just a life of reactions.

If you could ask god one question what would it be?

Dear God, what is it like to be you?

Tell me about Musebath…..

Muse Bath is my small batch apothecary studio where I make plant-based beauty + bathing rituals to muse your soul. Each of my Muse Bath products are handcrafted and hand-poured with intentionally sourced botanicals, whole essential oils and minerals from around the world.

Tell me one Kristen fun fact?

I really love to dance while I cook.

What is your advise to someone who is tremendous amounts of fear?

Long deep breathing. Full Inhale and Complete Exhale. Create a daily breathing practice that helps to relax and strengthen the nervous system. When we mindfully connect to our Pranic Body we refresh our mind, body and spirit from being controlled by our fears. We are able to breathe into the fear and observe it. Breathe into the fear. Feel it, embrace it, move with it, welcome any fears that may arise and then exhale and release. Its like a wave moving the Prana “life force energy”  through your body and then letting the wave of energy go to be released. Doing a daily long deep breathing exercise for at least 5 minutes a day can really help release any blocks that we are being stored in our mind and body.

Do people ever really change? 

Yes, of course. The only constant is change, so I believe people change whether they are aware of it or not. However, people change as much as they want to change for better or for worse is up to the individual.

Are you a napper?

Yes, I love naps. According Kundalini Yoga, I read that one of the most beneficial self-care practices for Women’s Health is to have a woman nap for 11 minutes twice a day.

Judith (Rose Cuts Clothing)

Hi friends. Meet @rosecutclothing. Judith is super cool, she creates custom embroidery and loves rock and roll. Judith is a huge fan of Elvis just like my grandma. She recently went to Graceland and also made some clothes for @postmalone. This week we look forward to sharing her thoughts on life, love and grandmas cooking.

Please tell me a bit about your sewing..... I've been sewing since I was in elementary school, it's the only thing I ever really loved doing. Very content to say that after many years I actually have my dream job. Definitely did not see that coming.

Is there any one single piece of clothing you own that you love most? This one brown and puke green striped shirt I've had since middle school, and my snakeskin jacket - it's a symbol of my individuality and belief in personal freedom.

What is paradise? Jamaica without the mosquitoes.

What would you like for your next birthday? I'd like to be on vacation with huge amounts of french fries, tequila sodas, and no cell phone, and for someone to give me a Nudie suit. And to hang out with Keith Richards. This also qualifies as paradise.

You recently made some clothes for Post Malone. Could you tell me a bit about that? I was contacted by his stylist Catherine Hahn and we worked together on a few things for him. He has great style and likes a lot of the same things as me so it was fun.

What will destroy the world and what will save it? Humans will destroy the world. At this point, I'm not really sure it can be saved.

What is the best advice you have ever received? Be nice.

What are the things that bring you joy in the world? Clowns, funny people, really good documentaries, my friends and beautiful clothing.

Is your grandmother a good cook? She was more of a baker....I remember a lot of jello molds with mayonnaise and fruit marbled through them.

Thoughts on San Francisco?.... Love it! Definitely shaped who I am today.

Tell me one Judith fun fact.... I love playing gin rummy and pretty much any card game.

When is the last time you felt bliss? At Graceland of course.

Why do you love Elvis so much? Because he's the King.

At karaoke what song do you pick? Alice Cooper's "I'm Eighteen" is my go-to, but it's rare for me to do karaoke.

Are you afraid of snakes? A little, mostly just the poisonous ones.

How should I love? HOW SHOULD I LOVE???

Jenn Sinclair

Hi friends. Today we introduce you to Jennifer Sinclair (@gopherguts). Jenn is a mom, wife, yoga instructor, astrologer, photographer and has a miniature farm with two chickens and rabbit family. She is also the second half of @fortuneandflow, she helps people stretch out their feelings. Most importantly Jenn is a Seeker who is poking at the bigger questions of this human experience

What have you learned from your kids? Lots of Patience and ice cream cures everything.

What will destroy the world and what will save it? Low vibrations will take us down and high vibrations will save us. Human vs human.

What are things that bring you joy in the world? The first sip of coffee in the morning, a few hours right before sunset when the light is golden, watching my kids experience new things and finding confidence, the perfect summer dress, road trips, good yoga classes and long savasana.

What does being a woman mean to you? Power, strength, being able to multitask like a boss, and the ability to grow an actual human inside of you. How fucking rad is that!!!!???

When you look in the mirror what do you see? I see a face that has many names and roles. I see smiles lines, tired eyes, and proof of life happening.

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy? Meditation and yoga followed by more meditation and yoga.

Mantra of the moment? Let go of any expectations of how life is supposed to look and really tune into making it feel good.

Favorite quote? Gahhh I have a list of quotes but not gonna lie “clear eyes full hearts, can’t lose” always pops into my head. It’s really everything.

What do you want to tell men who don't understand? Karma.

What is Love? Love is friendship, Love is marriage, Love is motherhood/fatherhood. It’s opening your heart to someone you care about. It’s pure, it’s messy, it’s beautiful.

Why yoga? It’s always changing and evolving. You can never get to the end of the practice and know everything. It’s infinite. Im able to choose the practice for my mood. I can sweat and get wild on some days and other days I can stay in a seat and simply breath. The connection of the mind, body, and breath all rolled into one.

What’s for breakfast? Avocado toast with Trader Joe’s everything bagel seasoning (you’ll thank me)

Window seat or aisle? Window.

Was your grandmother a good cook? She was a simple cook. Her meals wouldn’t show up on Pinterest or anything but they were filled with such love. Every meal in my memory felt made just for me.

What type of people are you drawn to? I’ve been known to collect Capricorn’s as friends. People call me the sea goat collector.

Do you believe in miracles? I believe in beautifully harmonious aspects in astrology that may appear miracle like. So yes.

What do you need to do before you die? Travel the world, ride a llama, and go to space.

Jessica Stone

Hi friends. Today we introduce you to jessicastone_co.She is a mother, tarot card reader, reiki healer and expert and jumping on a trampoline. She usually eats breakfast twice and is half of the super awesome team @fortuneandflow. Jessica is very special as she has found a way to help guide people into exploration of many spiritual practices. She is also the Author, The Art of Intuitive Tarot @revolve.

What have you learned from your kids? All kids need to be happy is to be heard, loved, and encouraged as they explore this world. Oh and ice cream can fix anything.

What will destroy the world and what will save it? Man will destroy the world, The world doesn't demand to be saved because she is pure love and will give till we destroy her.

What are things that bring you joy in the world? Working hard doing what I love, hanging with my family and friends. Vacations & great food. All I need.

What does being a woman mean to you? Exploration without apology.

When you look in the mirror what do you see? I find looking in the mirror a bit abstract, I don't really define with my physical self but treat this human form like a character I play dress up and have fun with.

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy? Exercise, meditation, sex, brunch. No particular order...

Mantra of the moment? Be comfortable in the in between.

Favorite quote? Don't be humble, you are not that great.

What do you want to tell men who don't understand? Just tell me you hear me, see me and are there for me. Even when I'm wrong or acting crazy.

What is the best advice you have ever received? This is a tough one, I feel every word spoke to me has made me grow and learn about myself. Constantly downloading from others.

What is Love? In a relationship- honesty and communication. In life- putting aside my ego and living with no expectation of result.

Why is tarot good? Life is one big choose your own adventure. I love Tarot because it lays out all the variables in your choices and makes you check in and ask yourself, is this the path I want for my life or do I want to adjust it? We all have such busy schedules checking in with how you're feeling gets put off and Tarot just slows you down to look at the bigger picture.

Tell me about reiki? It's energy healing & alteration. We are vibration driving a body and our body/souls need tune ups. I simply go into the road map of your energy and adjust it to heal injuries, boost your metabolism or simply release the things that don't serve you anymore. It's also a natural high, if you're into that kind of thing.

What’s for breakfast? I usually do a double breakfast: donuts, fruit & Four Sigmatic mushroom tea when I wake up, then an hour later a breakfast burrito.

Window seat or aisle? Middle, that way I have the option of 2 strangers shoulders to sleep on.

Was your grandmother a good cook? She cooks the most amazing comfort food still at 90, she also loves freezing food and offering it to you months later as well.

What type of people are you drawn to? People with passion, a story and know who they are.

Do you believe in miracles? We are living out one big miracle.

What do you need to do before you die? Get a Will, I send weird emails to friends & family anytime I travel without the kids instructing them on what to do if I die... should probably be an adult & make it more official.

What would you like the world to know about you? I am constantly evolving, indefinite in form. So don't hold me to these answers.

Ginger Caranto

Hi friends today we introduce you to @ginggerbreaad. A skateboarder, Venice beach native and social media coordinator over at @vans. Ginger is straight up cool. I decided to photograph her after seeing a video of her drop into a 13 foot vert ramp. Turns out she has only been skating for 2 years and rips.

Why is skateboarding important?

Skateboarding is important because it teaches patience and confidence. When you go skate you can’t have a care in the world, worrying about what people think will only drive you crazy. No matter your skill level there is always something new to learn. And personally, I skate alone for the most part and have learned to really love that. You don’t have to depend on anyone to enjoy yourself, if you feel like skating, go skate.

What was the best part of growing up in Venice Beach?

Having easy access to the beach, hiking, and a diverse artistic community surrounding it.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

It wasn’t verbal advice but shown through actions. My dad started a successful business from the ground up, I’ve seen the ups and downs he’s endured and through it all he keeps working harder than ever. If you really want something and work hard enough, you will succeed. Failure is inevitable at certain points along your journey but you have to learn from it and keep going. If you never stop, one day you will have achieved everything you wanted to.

Mantra of the moment?

I am grateful for all that is unfolding in my life and all that is yet to come.

Favorite quote?

“You decide your fate. Are you going to fall apart or own it?” - Patti Smith

What would you say has been your best investment?

My best investment has been time spent doing the things I love with the people I cherish.

Is there anything strange in your refrigerator?

My refrigerator is scarce as of right now, it’s home to a variety of beer and milk. I’d say the most random thing I’ve got are Otter Pops in the freezer.

Would you ever donate your body to science?

I’d say so. If I can continue to contribute to the world once I’m gone, I think that’d be a nice use of my body.

In your opinion who makes the best french fries?

I can’t pass up animal fries from In-N-Out.

Is there anything you can cook or bake really well?

I just started learning how to cook a couple months ago. I don’t know if I’m on track or if 21 is a bit late to the game? But with that said, I can make a pretty good spaghetti squash dinner for two.

What do you order at McDonald's?

I’m an In-N-Out girl, but when I do end up at McDonald’s I order fries and an Oreo McFlurry.

Have you ever seen a UFO?

Yes, I have, but I later found out it was Elon Musk’s SpaceX rocket that was carrying a batch of satellites into low-earth orbit.

Have you ever lied about your height and weight?

I’m too short to get away with lying about my height. I’ve never lied about either!

Do you have any phobias?

Spiders. Are. My. Worst. Nightmare.

What did you learn from living in New York?

It’s better to go for it and try something new rather than have a lingering regret or wonder. I learned that I need the ocean and nature to care for my mental health. You can’t beat California and I took it for granted the 18 years growing up here.

Favorite word and least favorite word?

My favorite phrase is “Aye Aye Aye”, and my least favorite word is “Zorched”.

What will destroy the world and what will save it?

Ignorance will destroy the world, and people who give a shit will save it.

What do you feel is your mission/purpose in life?

To be honest, I don’t know yet. I’m still growing and learning more about myself every day. I feel I’m too young to have a definite answer, so I’ll keep you posted when I have that certain feeling.

RY

Hi friends. Meet @queenrytoast she is a DJ who is passionate about vegan living. She also plays in a band with her husband called @tyronesjacket. Follow along this week as we talk about life, love and the pursuit of all things good. ⁣

Big thank you to @theroguepony for tagging along for this shoot and styling this super cool lady! .⁣

What is paradise?
Paradise is turntables, records, coffee, kombucha, snacks, rose water, my yoga mat, and an open schedule.

What would you like for your next birthday?
I would like to be DJing somewhere awesome with people I love.

What is good?
Good is taking deep breaths and Bernie Sanders.

Do people ever change?
People become more deeply themselves.

Why is music important?
Music brings people together; it's a universal language that unites us in the present moment, connecting us with our ancestors' wisdom and our dreams for the future.

What have you learned from starting your own business?
First and foremost, take care of your energy because if you ain't got it, you can't give it.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Do you to the max and do not compare yourself to anyone else.

What does the perfect day look like?
Yoga with friends, delicious food, and playing a show with Tyrone's Jacket.

What are your thoughts on the ocean?
Go there often and get the medicine.

Mantra of the moment?
"I am enough."

Favorite quote?
"In order to discover new lands, one must lose sight of the shore for long periods of time."

What life skills are rarely taught but extremely useful?
How to talk to people.

What’s your good luck charm?
Hummingbirds.

What was the biggest realization you had about yourself?
I am enough.

What is god?
God is the Universe, love, kindness, music, nature, sex, and your soul—a fragment of God.

Velia De Iuliis

Today we introduce you to @veliadeiuliis. Velia is an artist who uses her work to bring awareness to endangered species here on planet earth. Fun fact... Did you know scientists believe earth has lost half of its wildlife in the past 40 years? Thank you Velia for being a beacon of hope, change and awareness with your help I pray we can bring a voice to the voiceless. How about we try to stop killing everything on earth y’all? Does that sound like a good plan?

What are things that bring you joy in the world? A good ol’ bubble bath with French tunes, candles & a glass of red. Watching my doodle chase birds at the beach & seeing people pick up trash.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self? Just bloody do it & stop overthinking jeez! haha

What does being a woman mean to you? Being a woman brings me great pride as the strongest people I admire are female. It means I have a responsibility to all the women who came before me & didn’t have a chance to pursue their creative dreams to do them justice & to encourage future generations of ladies to do anything they put their heart & mind to.

When you look in the mirror what do you see? A very happy & thankful human!

Last read and what did you take away? Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides - fascinating narrative interlaced with humor makes for a fabulous read.

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy? 4 words! boxing, biking, running, surfing! I find that boxing has proven to be incredibly beneficial not only from a physical standpoint but also mentally. It requires intricate hand-eye coordination, strategy & physical strength. I’m lucky enough to have a gal gang to practice with. I find that breaking my day up with different forms of movement allows me to be more productive in the studio & generally a happier person.

How do you keep yourself physically healthy?

What woman in history has inspired your strength? Jane Goodall, Billie Holiday & most importantly my mama. From environmental activism & animal preservation, soul-moving melodies to endless support & encouragement, these women have all inspired me through their own strengths.

What do you want to tell men who don’t understand?

Mantra of the moment? Protect your dreams - This is from The Pursuit of Happyness but it stuck with me and I continue to hold onto it as a constant reminder.

Tell me one Velia fun fact.... As a kid, I wanted to be a contortionist for Cirque du Soleil. I even went to circus school!

One song that makes you dance your ass off? "Boogie Wonderland" by Earth, Wind and Fire!! So groovy babe!!

If you could go back to one moment in your life what would it look like? The first time I tried chocolate cake!

Arielle Estoria

Hi friends. Meet @arielleestoria, she is a writer, poet, leader, thinker,doer and changer. She likes to dance in her car and works with incarcerated teens helping them to seek clarity through their words. Ari is a lighthouse sending rays of hope, change and growth through the darkness. I am very honored to be sharing her story this week. There are some sweet jewels of wisdom, pay close attention this weeks interview is life changing.

Why do you write? 
Because I don’t know how to process life or the world around me without doing so.
I write because I was made to. 

What advice would you give your younger siblings?
That they are enough, that they do not have to strive to be anything but their best and even still they are enough.
I would tell them not to try so hard --- that what comes to them is meant for them and what passes them wasn’t meant for them so don’t try too hard to keep things that are meant to be let go.

I would tell them to dream bigger, that they’re made for more than they could even imagine.

Can you tell me a bit about the work you are doing with teenagers?
Sure! I teach poetry to youth, youth who are in the incarceration system, youth rehabbing from drug addictions and youth who are in the correctional education system.
I have the opportunity of delving into content, conversation and creation with those who are considered nothing but statistics and “lost causes.” but they are not even close to being that, they are brilliant, raw and unapologetic and teach me to be the same.

What experiences in life shaped you the most? 
Wow. the first one was a backpacking trip I took in college as a part of leadership development. It was when I learned the most about the capability and marvelousness of my own physical body and also how to see myself through not my own pretty negative view of myself but in the eyes of others and the one who created me. This trip lead into a year of advising forty-freshman girls and that year we talked about the parts of us we hide and are ashamed of and ultimately experienced a lot of freedom.

The second would be working with a non-profit in New york for two weeks, leading an arts-impact workshop with women in jail. It was the most significant way I could have used my gifts and talents.

Who is your biggest influence and why? 
AHHH. this is tough….

• Shonda rhimes: she is brilliant and creative and making moves that are transforming not just television btu storytelling in general. She is shattering the black woman box and stereotype of success as we know it. 

• Sarah kay, one of the first poets i stumbled on in my beginning journey and to this day one of the most impactful forces to why I do what I do.

What do you feel is your mission/purpose in life? 
To spread magic.
With glitter….with words

But seriously, lately i’ve been feeling like --- I’ve been put here to change environments, to create intimate spaces in people's lives that are inviting, safe and transformative and do that through storytelling and words.

Sing or dance?  
SING...AND DANCE of course

How can you do just one?

Favorite word and least favorite word?
Current Favorite: wild I.E “how’s life?” “it’s wild.”
Least: moist (gag)

What will destroy the world and what will save it?
Our inability to see each other and treat one another as fellow human beings will destroy the world 
What will save it? Kindness, grace, change

When is the last time you danced?
Today. At work while filling up the water pitcher…to beyonce 

When do you know if it is the right time to change things up and why?
My spirit is really sensitive to transitions, I start to feel them pretty deeply,
I can almost sense when a change is coming--usually it elicits anxiety, doubt and restlessness 
Or --it feels like growing, like becoming too big for a space you’ve outgrown

What does unstuck mean to you?
It means --there’s an effortless flow of something
Of acceptance, of creativity, of opportunities
It’s that exhale of relief, as if you’ve held your breath for a really long time and can finally breathe
Unstuck to me means there’s a certain level of freedom and whimsiness

What are things that bring you joy in the world?
Coffee!! 
Brunch with people i adore
celebrating: birthdays, promotions, making it to friday, babies, weddings
Those conversations that have you sitting with them for days, weeks, months on end and sit in a really sweet spot of your soul because something you took away from it gave you a better understanding of yourself
Ice cream. Teaching.

What does being a woman mean to you?
It means...being unapologetic in everything that makes you feminine and strong
From curves, to our ability to nurture, to our innate nature to see others before ourselves
Being a woman to me, means understanding and embracing our gift of giving life not just physically but in so many other ways, emotionally, physically, mentally

It means... sundresses, soprano and alto songs, empowerment and community

I imagine greek pillars-- strong, tall, and necessary to society, to culture, to history 

When you look in the mirror what do you see?
I see a woman who has really grown into herself
I see tired eyes because life is moving faster than her ability to keep up
I see curves and a long awaited sense of acceptance

How do you keep yourself psychologically healthy?
I practice hot yoga for my sanity, for my strength and to keep my skin glowing
I take time for myself through the day---whether that's a  nap in my car or cancelling plans when I feel overwhelmed 
I also drive to the beach a lot and just sit---it reminds me it’s okay to be still sometimes

Mantra of the moment?
What’s for me will not pass me and what passes me was not for me

Favorite quote? 
So hard!!
“Legacy? What’s a legacy? It’s planting seeds in a garden you’ll never see.” - Hamilton 
“I don’t dance now I make money moves.” - cardi B

What is the best advice you have ever received?
“You don’t have to be strong right now.” my mentor told me that on the way to the hospital to see my grandpa before he passed. I remember almost biting my tongue to keep from crying and he said that to me and I just lost it.

“You are deserving of a beautifully handcrafted love story.” After a silly college heartbreak, sitting in the car with one of my mentors and it has affected so much of how I see dating, myself being loved and loving others.