In this episode of Powers at Play, Mandie Kijinski interviews Christina Mokwa, a survivor of childhood sexual abuse who has found healing and advocacy through psychedelic and medicinal therapies. Christina shares her journey with plant medicines like ayahuasca and psilocybin, as well as lab-created compounds like ketamine and MDMA, emphasizing the need to remove the stigma surrounding these therapies and recognize their potential as legitimate treatments for trauma.

The discussion delves into the lasting impact of childhood trauma on individuals and relationships, highlighting the importance of raising children who respect boundaries and treat others with kindness. Christina and Mandie also explore the concept of ethical non-monogamy, with Christina sharing her personal experiences and the significance of honesty and transparency in such relationships.

They further examine the historical context of marriage and its traditional role in limiting women’s roles and rights, advocating for a modern redefinition of these notions. The conversation also covers the role of plant medicines and earth medicines, such as psilocybin, in healing emotional wounds, stressing the importance of creating safe spaces for individuals to explore their trauma and reconnect with their authentic selves.

This episode offers a heartfelt and insightful look into trauma, healing, and the transformative potential of psychedelic therapies, encouraging open dialogue and understanding.

In this conversation, Nell Goza shares her journey from growing up in a conservative, religious household to finding her own voice and beliefs. Nell opens up about her fears as a young child of expressing views that went against the status quo of her family and upbringing and the deep pulls she felt to change her beliefs to protect children and women's rights, and their future. She reflects on her transition from being a professional dancer to becoming a parent and starting a parenting page on Instagram.

Mandie K and Nell dive into their shared passion for civic engagement and the challenges of parenting, exploring the importance of raising children with a sense of purpose amidst the messy reality of parenting. They discuss the rise of the tradwife movement, the intersection of religion and politics, and the importance of civil conversations and finding common ground.

Nell emphasizes the significance of voting, understanding the full scope of politics beyond just the presidency, and the need for diversity and empathy in leadership. She shares the challenges of navigating conservative family dynamics and offers advice for those in similar situations.

The conversation concludes with a call for "progress over perfection" and the power of community and advocacy, encouraging listeners to engage in meaningful dialogue and strive for a better future.

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