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WeBeTheChange: Conversations with Evolutionaries

Colleen Akiko

We Be The Change is your weekly infusion of soulful spark—heart-nourishing conversations to help you navigate turbulent times.

Host and Essential Connection Coach Colleen Akiko talks with change-makers about how they live their truth, often against the odds, modeling a way through the noise of the day.

When life feels draining, these conversations offer a fortifying home base—stories of resilience, healing, and inspired growth, woven with insights and humor you can easily use in your own day-to-day.

You’ll hear compassionate voices cutting through the noise with grounded wisdom, practical tools and intriguing ideas. They remind us that the way we move through the world can ripple out extraordinary transformation.

Explore resources and opportunities for connection at SongRise.LIVE, including a complimentary eGuide, Out of Your Head, Into Your Light -- designed to help you calm the mental storm, reconnect with your true self, and embody the Evolutionary Luminary you already are.

Honest stories. Deep insight. Changing the world by changing ourselves.

Thanks for joining the conversation!

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20 episodes
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S2 · E47
August 22 · 18 min
OUR INNER ECOLOGY, Pt. 3: The Fear That We Don’t Matter
What might change when the part of us that believes, I don’t matter, is gently welcomed home? In Part Three of Our Inner Ecology, Colleen Akiko and Jhana Bowen enter tender territory with care: the fear that we don’t matter, and how that fear can quietly keep us from connection. Colleen shares an experience during a sound-healing session in Maui, where she encountered a very young part of herself carrying the words, “I don’t matter.” Jhana explores what may become possible when sadness is welcomed home rather than exiled—and how the darker passages in a painting, or a life, can allow the fuller picture to come alive. Together, they reflect on courage, protection, connection, creativity, and the quiet practice of continuing to show up—even when we don’t know what comes next. And perhaps, if it feels helpful, there is one gentle question to carry with you: What part of you may still be waiting to know that you matter? If you’d like a quiet place to continue listening, reflecting, and connecting with others, the Bowl of Light Café is an online gathering place to feel a little more human, restored, and connected. Your invitation awaits you at songrise.live
S2 · E46
July 22 · 24 min
OUR INNER ECOLOGY; Pt 2: Walking Ourselves Back Home
What part of you has been waiting to be welcomed—not corrected, overcome, or pushed away? In Episode Two of Our Inner Ecology, I continue my conversation with artist and healer Jhana Bowen about the inner parts of us that seek protection, the ways we exile what feels difficult, and the courage it takes to remain connected without abandoning ourselves. Jhana speaks about despair, joy, fear, belonging, and the quiet work of bringing every part of ourselves back into relationship. He also shares a deeply personal story about suicide and the moment when his spiritual practice became more than an idea—it became a way of staying. This conversation is not about fixing what is broken. It is about recognizing that even the parts of us we resist may have a rightful place in our inner ecosystem. The episode closes with a gentle guided practice inviting us to listen inwardly, honor the intelligence of our protective responses, and remember that integration begins when nothing within us has to be rejected. Before listening, please know that because this episode includes a personal story involving suicide and suicidal thoughts, you may wish to care for yourself as you listen. Please take a gratitude pause if needed. Thank you!
S2 · E45
July 6 · 20 min
Dan Strawn, A COLLAGE OF WAR; Pt 2: Just Give Them A Different Name
How do we remember the human being beneath the label? In Part 2 of A Collage of War, my uncle Dan Strawn and I talk about one of the simplest ways we can stay human in divided times: noticing the names we give each other, and choosing not to let those names replace the person. This conversation begins with the language of war, but it keeps returning to ordinary life — families, politics, neighbors, and the small acts of care that remind us who we are. Dan brings the long and historically-informed view of an elder, and also the simple wisdom of a neighbor: hold the door, help with the garbage can, remember the person. This episode is about language, humanity, and the potent practice of choosing connection over contempt. If you’d like a place to continue reflecting with others, you’re warmly invited into the Bowl of Light Café, a free online gathering place for restorative practice, reflection, and more human conversation. You can find it at SongRise.live by clicking the Bowl of Light Café link at the top.
S2 · E44
July 1 · 23 min
Jhana Bowen Series; OUR INNER ECOLOGY, Pt 1: Protection, Connection & Coming Home
The Intelligence of Protection What changes in us—and between us—when we feel safe enough to connect? In Part 1 of Our Inner Ecology, Jhana Bowen and I explore the natural movement between protection and connection—and how our inner sense of safety shapes the way we listen, communicate, create, and belong. This conversation may help you recognize when protective patterns are guiding your responses, understand why those patterns formed, and meet them with less judgment. We consider what allows the body and mind to soften, how connection can begin to return, and what it means to come home to yourself without forcing the door. For anyone who has felt guarded, disconnected, overly responsible, or simply tired of being on alert, this episode offers a compassionate way to understand what may be happening beneath the surface—and what can begin to shift. Discover more of Jhana's offerings at jhanabowen.com And if this stirred something in you and you’d rather not process it alone, the Bowl of Light Café is a free place to practice presence and reflection together—find your invitation at SongRise.live.
S2 · E43
June 10 · 22 min
When War Becomes Background Noise
What happens to the human heart when war fades into daily life? In this three partWeBeTheChange series, A Collage of War, we’ll journey into the historical conscience of war with elder author Dan Strawn. Dan Strawn opens this first episode with a short but potent poem he wrote before the Iraq invasion. Then he widens the frame: war as a bully-pattern, war as greed, war as a spiritual injury to a nation’s character. His lived memory carries a steady insistence to not normalize what should break our hearts. If you’ve felt overwhelmed by the current clamor, you’ll appreciate the slower tempo of this episode to actually see the shape of what’s happening. For a free place to practice presence and reflection together, find your invitation to the Bowl of Light Café at SongRise.live.
S2 · E42
April 25 · 47 min
When the Land Speaks: Sacred Space, Loss, and Spiritual Determination
A fireside conversation with tribal leader Brian “BB” Melendez about land, ceremony, and the evolution of sacred space. Some sacred places are widely recognized by the world. Others are created slowly through listening with responsibility to Spirit, people, and the land. Brian Melendez reflects with Colleen Akiko and her husband, Chris, through themes of compassion, grief, Indigenous resilience, colonization, land stewardship, leadership, and developing spiritual spaces that can sustain future generations. Recorded outdoors with the sounds of fire and people gathering in the background, this episode invites listeners into a deeply human conversation about the relationship between land, people, and Spirit. Reach out to BB at TribalMinds.org. For more info, resources and an invitation to the Bowl of Light Café, go to SongRise.LIVE.
S2 · E41
March 25 · 30 min
Leisa Peterson Series: COMING OUT OF THE TRANCE, Pt. 2: Naming the Pattern
What if real strength is refusing the bait—staying human while you name the pattern? In Part 2 of the Leisa Peterson series, Colleen and Leisa get practical about what to do when the world is loud: how to name patterns without feeding fear, practice fierce compassion with real boundaries, and create safety together without pretending we all agree. You’ll hear grounded language for staying regulated, holding complexity, and remembering that collective healing isn’t built through individual heroics — it’s built through human beings choosing steadiness and care on purpose. Make sure to check out Leisa's Substack, Equal Stakes, and connect with her at wealthclinic.com. If you’d like a free place to relax and reflect in community, visit SongRise.live and click the Bowl of Light Café link at the top.
S2 · E40
February 20 · 26 min
Leisa Peterson Series: COMING OUT OF THE TRANCE; Pt 1: Scarcity, Paradox, and Transcending
What if “transcendence” isn’t about escaping the world—but waking up from its deceptive trance? WeBeTheChange host Colleen Akiko and Leisa Peterson--Wealth Coach, Author and Financial Intuitive, discuss the larger pattern behind our culture’s distress: a scarcity-based trance that keeps people reactive, divided, and exhausted. (Do we detect a familiar Ugh?) Leisa shares how her decades in finance—and her decades on a spiritual path—converged into a new way of seeing: paradox is now the training ground. We explore what it means to hold fear and keep moving, to seek unity and keep boundaries. And we remember that love is a rich, roll-up-your-sleeves practice to cultivate over time. Visit Leisa at wealthclinic.com; resources at SongRise.live
S2 · E39
January 27 · 19 min
Kari Hagel Series; THE WEB OF WELLNESS: RECONNECTING TO NATURE AND SELF; Pt 1: Nature Deficit Disorder: The Hidden Epidemic
When was the last time you learned from soil instead of a screen? Middle and high school teacher Kari Hagel shares with WeBeTheChange host Colleen Akiko about the rise of nature deficit disorder. Kari, also a Health & Wellness Coach, shows how hands-on ecology—worm bins, a classroom dog, gardening and even mapping water with a drone—restores attention, engagement, and belonging. In Pt 1 of The Web of Wellness, students move from apathetic to curious. If post-COVID disconnection feels familiar, this episode offers down-to-earth ways to re-root at school, at home, and wherever you can be in nature. Visit Songrise.LIVE for Bonus Content and your free eGuide, Out of Your Head, Into Your Light.
S2 · E38
January 17 · 34 min
A FEARLESSLY FERAL LIFE; Pt 3: From Triggered to Belonging—The Willingness Shift
When the craving hits, what are you actually hungry for? In Part 3 of “A Fearlessly Feral Life,” we get practical about the sober path: the tiny act of willingness that flips the switch, the boundary that protects your peace, and how to tell a trigger from a longing for belonging. We talk family dynamics and codependency, the medicine of community (AA rooms and beyond), and what it means to choose fellowship—and freedom—over the old loop. If you’ve ever reached for a numbing habit, this episode offers a grounded reframe, a breath, and a next step back into yourself. Connect with Colleen at SongRise.live and type "Gift" at the bottom of the page for your free eGuide, "Out of Your Head, Into Your Light."
S2 · E37
January 4 · 19 min
A FEARLESSLY FERAL LIFE; Pt 2: New Thought--A Powerful Call into the Heart of Recovery
Welcome to We Be The Change and this second segment of the series A Fearlessly Feral Life with Rev. Karen Linsley. In Part 2 we dive into New Thought as a grounded path for recovery—where principle is not bound by precedent and healing means changing our thinking to change our life. Karen traces sobriety from her Thanksgiving‑day treatment intake in 1986 to ministerial training, interim ministry, and writing A New Thought Journey Through the 12 Steps. Join our conversation about what New Thought is, and how it becomes a practical engine for recovery by integrating 12‑Step wisdom with consciousness, choice, and oneness. In these volatile times, such pragmatic spirituality becomes embodied freedom, not just abstinence. If this strikes a familiar chord, feel free to share below--e.g., what belief shift most supported your recovery? You're invited to access supportive Bonus Content, fresh resources and the FREE eGuide, Out of Your Head, Into Your Light at SongRise.LIVE
S1 · E36
Dec 20, 2025 · 14 min
Karen Linsley Series: A FEARLESSLY FERAL LIFE; Pt 1: Addiction-Free Principle Over Precedent
“How can I release old survival mechanisms to create a truly beautiful life? This powerful question is the heartbeat of today's conversation. We’ve all carried patterns from the past that once helped us survive, but now keep us from fully living. I am delighted to have my friend and neighbor with us, reverend and author, Karen Linsley. Her personal journey of how she stepped away from 20 solid years of addiction is a testament to choosing principle over precedent. Join us as we explore recognizing our power to choose and completely step out of addiction into a fearlessly feral life of freedom. Soon we'll be releasing episode #2, where we discuss higher yet very practical principles that beckon us towards a happier life. Until then, make sure to check access supportive Bonus Content, fresh resources, and your FREE eGuide, Out of Your Head, Into Your Light, at SongRise.LIVE.
S1 · E35
Dec 5, 2025 · 20 min
LIVING AS A PORTAL OF PRESENCE, Pt 4: The Authentic Presence that Allows
Must embodying authentic Presence have to look like the Mona Lisa? Welcome to the final segment of our series, LIVING AS A PORTAL OF PRESENCE: The Inner Work that Changes the Outer World. In this soulful yet earthy conversation, host Colleen Akiko and spiritual counselor, Brenda Heldoorn explore the internal struggle of navigating global and personal chaos while staying anchored in love. They explore some under-the-surface questions, like: How do I witness the dialogue between my fearful Head and my knowing Heart? What's the difference between forgiving and pardoning someone? How can I transform an unfriendly inner reaction? What is the "activity of truth" for me? Can I shift from fear to forgiveness--without minimizing my pain? Whether you’re seeking clarity, connection, or a spark of hope, We Be The Change introduces you to everyday people who are creating a brighter, more compassionate world. Thanks for your engagement! Feel free to reach out for your complimentary eGuide, Out of Your Head, Into Your Light at SongRise.LIVE. And remember: your own inner shift is a beautiful and mighty catalyst for outer change.
S1 · E34
Nov 25, 2025 · 10 min
LIVING AS A PORTAL OF PRESENCE, Pt 3: Moving Beyond the Doom Loop
How can a little notebook disarm the ego’s grip? In this short but potent episode, spiritual counselor Brenda Heldoorn shares a surprising exercise with host Colleen Akiko that dismantled her negative self-talk. With openness and humor, she names the “Doom Loop” for what it is, and offers a direct pathway through the grand illusion. We explore how victim language sneaks into our thoughts and conversations, and how awakening to our spiritual brilliance may mean walking a quieter path. One where we no longer bond with others over our shared suffering, but the joy of discovering our shared light instead. Brenda also shares a sweet metaphor of her dreaming dog that reminds us: when we awaken from the collective nightmare, there is no scolding—only welcome. If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in repeat stories, you’ll appreciate the kind of medicine that doesn’t require years of analysis—just your willingness to listen... and maybe a little notebook. Take a quick break. Tune in; breathe... And remember: Bonus content, music, and your free eGuide, Out of Your Head, Into Your Light awai at Songrise.LIVE.
S1 · E33
Oct 24, 2025 · 16 min
LIVING AS A PORTAL OF PRESENCE; Pt 2: Embracing the Inner Shift
What if our total collapse could pivot us to our most radiant becoming? In this vulnerable, luminous continuation of Brenda Heldoorn's conversation with Colleen, we explore what it truly means to surrender—not as defeat, but as a threshold where rock bottom becomes sacred ground. Brenda shares her lived experience of a suicide attempt that became a catalyst for profound awakening—a moment that could have ended everything, but instead began the real journey home. Together we move through the terrain of unraveling false beliefs, and the mysterious grace that meets us in non-resistance. Brenda’s story reminds us that staying present through the pain in our most broken moments can lead to a realization of our wholeness. For supportive bonus content, journaling prompts, and songs that support this kind of inner work, visit Songrise.live. You’ll find resources for opening, awakening and thriving--including a complimentary eGuide, Out of Your Head, Into Your Light. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Content Note: This conversation touches on a suicide attempt and the journey of profound healing that followed. It is shared with gentleness—to bring understanding to the reality of despair and to the grace that can arise through surrender and presence.If you or someone you love is in crisis, please reach out for immediate support in your country or region: United States: Dial or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) Canada: Call or text 988 or visit 988.ca United Kingdom: Call Samaritans at 116 123 or visit samaritans.org Australia: Call Lifeline at 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au International Directory: Visit findahelpline.com for a full list of free, confidential helplines worldwide
S1 · E32
Oct 12, 2025 · 12 min
Brenda Heldoorn Series, LIVING AS A PORTAL OF PRESENCE: The Inner Work that Changes the Outer World; Pt. 1: Pain As A Gateway to Transformation
Have you ever felt the weight of the world on your shoulders, believing you had to face every challenge alone? Join host Colleen Akiko and her guest, spiritual director and counselor, Brenda Heldoorn--who reveals her pivotal moment of absolute surrender that led her to deep healing and a new path. In this first segment of the four-part series, you'll witness how astounding power can be released in surrender. As you glean inspiration for your own journey, you'll gain real-life understanding to more fully embrace Presence to navigate life's struggles with clarity, grace, and even joy. For Bonus Content, your FREE eGuide, Out of Your Head, Into Your Light, and supportive resources, visit Songrise.LIVE.
S1 · E31
Sep 28, 2025 · 33 min
NAVIGATING THE NEW ENERGETICS; Pt 5: The Next Bandwidth of New Light
How are the new energetics asking you to increase capacity? Enjoy this exhilarating conversation with host and Essential Connections Coach Colleen Akiko and sacred artist, teacher and "well-being generator" Daniel Strawn. In this final episode of the series, Navigating the New Energetics, you'll hear about perturbation, real “insulation,” the Blue Princess, and a near-death vision of Earth’s new domain of pure potentiality—aka the New Light. Share your thoughts, explore more resources, and receive your free eGuide—Out of Your Head, Into Your Light—at Songrise.live.
S1 · E30
Sep 12, 2025 · 23 min
NAVIGATING THE NEW ENERGETICS, Pt 4: Spiritual Awakening into Humanity’s New Light
What if you were designed to handle more light—but need to upgrade your wiring first? This We Be The Change episode is a fun yet profound conversation, exploring the intersection of spirituality, development, energetics and collective consciousness. Join host Colleen Akiko and sacred artist and teacher Daniel Strawn as they discuss silver and gold forces, ritual vs. ceremony, sacred architecture, and the journey into humanity's new light. Perfect for seekers of spiritual growth, energy awareness, and a deeper understanding of our evolving world. Find FREE Bonus Resources and a complimentary eGuide, Out of Your Head, Into Your Light, at SongRise.LIVE. Your subscription helps keep this podcast ad-free. Thanks for telling others about We Be The Change, and sharing your comments!
S1 · E29
Aug 30, 2025 · 32 min
Beyond Fear and Dogma: Living Love in a Fractured World
How can “God’s Word” be used to justify harm–such as the mass murder and intentional starvation in Gaza? What unfolds when scripture is weaponized by fear, and how can faith return to love? In host Colleen Akiko’s candid conversation with Rev. Tim Boeve, we explore heaven, hell, and the heart of the Bible—not as dogma, but as a call to embody compassion and courage–living love in a fractured world. This episode is for anyone drawn to reimagine faith—not as fear-based dogma or an escape from hell, but as embodying the fierce compassion of Jesus, bringing heaven to earth, and rediscovering how love can heal our fractured world. This is We Be The Change—where we remember that changing the world begins by changing ourselves. Find bonus content, resources and your free eGuide, Out of Your Head, Into Your Light, at Songrise.live.
S1 · E28
Aug 23, 2025 · 24 min
NAVIGATING THE NEW ENERGETICS, Pt 3: Unlocking Spiritual Growth
What if the dysfunctions we witness and experience are largely due to missing connections for soul growth opportunities? Explore the intersection of electromagnetic energy, ancient spiritual wisdom, science and the transformative power of mentorship. Join We Be The Change host, Colleen Akiko and sacred artisan and teacher, Daniel Strawn in Part 3 of the series, Navigating the New Energetics. Discover how unity consciousness, emotional balance, pentagramic understanding and pineal gland activation can unlock your highest human potential and spiritual awakening. Access Bonus Content for subscribers at Songrise.live – where you can also request your special eGuide gift, Out of Your Head, Into Your Light.

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