the DIPRMINDS podcast

EP 10: JAZZ WASHINGTON on IDENTITY & Healing, as a Creative

In this episode, I reconnect with Jazz, a lifelong artist ,dancer and educator currently based in Washington, DC. We dive into their journey of self-discovery, evolving as a creative, person, and embracing their identity. Jazz opens up about the challenges of changing pronouns, the healing power of art and navigating mental health conversations in Black families. Together, we reflect on our shared history, perseverance during tough times, and the beauty of growth. #mentalhealthmatters #selfdiscovery #DIPRMINDS #moveDIPR #amplifyBIPOCvoices JAZZ WASHINGTON [https:www.instagram.com/jazz_thesnowman] SHOW HOST & PRODUCER - DIONNA JOI PRIDGEON [https://linktr.ee/diprjoi]

EP 9: Unapologetically D! Healing, VULNERABILITY, and Deserving MORE!

In this raw and unscheduled episode, I share my story unapologetically, asking for grace and encouraging listeners to truly hear me. Speaking through tears at times and standing outside in the cold, I reflect on being proud of myself for navigating life’s curveballs, committing to daily habits for over 30 days, and practicing self-regulation. Inspired by Mel Robbins’ 5-second rule, I dive into topics like grieving, introspection, shadow work, and confronting triggers, particularly around work and vulnerability. I also share why it’s not easy to just return to America. Staying in Korea is tied to my goal of healing, rediscovery, and working through the challenges that have shaped me. I explore inner child trauma, survival mode, and family history tied to feeling unsafe, while recognizing my progress in reframing anxiety and rediscovering faith. This podcast helps me stay productive even in moments of despair and isolation during this chapter of my life. Despite fasting, language barriers, and a lack of resources, I focus on the small moments of gratitude, like hearing the birds chirp and knowing I’m alive. This episode is about true vulnerability, emotion, and staying present. Sharing stories is important to me because I often feel alone, but I remind myself: I deserve more. Inspired by Mel Robbins’ views on happiness, I talk about embracing the journey and being proud of the smallest victories. HOST/PRODUCER/EDITOR : ⁠DIONNA JOI PRIDGEON ⁠ [https://linktr.ee/diprjoi] #mentalhealthmatters #artistssupportingartists #amplifyingBIPOCvoices #DIPRminds #moveDIPR

EP 8: ANNIE FRANKLIN – RESILIENCE, Purpose & Movement

In this episode, Dionna dives deep with Annie Franklin, a Seattle-based artist, educator, and single mom. Annie shares her journey from growing up in Chicago’s northwest suburbs to pursuing her passion for dance with no Plan B. From her early days with Hip Hop Connxion to discovering the world of concert dance in college, Annie reflects on how her dance experiences shaped her teaching philosophy and personal growth. Annie opens up about navigating grief, resilience, and self-discovery while balancing motherhood and graduate school. She talks about her grant-sponsored project, Shaping Sounds, and how fitness became a vital ritual during her transformative journey. Tune in as Annie and Dionna discuss vulnerability, creating new spaces, and staying true to one’s purpose as an artist. This conversation is raw, real, and inspiring—perfect for anyone looking to redefine resilience and reclaim their voice. #amplifyBIPOCvoices #DIPRminds #moveDIPR #dionnapridGeon #AnnieFranklin #Chicago #Seattle #resilience ANNIE FRANKLIN [https://www.instagram.com/anniefranklin_] HOST/PRODUCER/EDITOR : ⁠DIONNA JOI PRIDGEON ⁠ [https://linktr.ee/diprjoi] #mentalhealthmatters #artistssupportingartists #amplifyingBIPOCvoices #DIPRminds #moveDIPR https://instagram.com/anniefranklin_

EP 7 : THRIVING with JORDAN "J-Ro" ORDOÑEZ from Pharmacy to the Arts

In this episode, we speak with Jordan Ordonez (he/they), a Filipino American dance artist, actor, and community leader, about his journey from pharmacy to the arts, navigating mental health, and thriving through movement. #amplifyBIPOCvoices #DIPRminds #moveDIPR #dionnapridGeon #JordanOrdonez #Chicago PRODUCER/EDITOR/HOST = DIONNA JOI PRIDGEON [https://linktr.ee/diprjoi] GUEST: Jordan Ordoñez [ https://www.instagram.com/jro1234_]

EP 6 - Evolution of an Artist: BRNDN LII'S Journey from Dance to Music

In this episode, I chat with Brndn Lii, a multifaceted musician, performer, and producer whose journey from tap dance to the music industry is both inspiring and transformative. BRNDN LII [⁠https://www.instagram.com/brndn_lii⁠] Podcast host/producer = DIONNA JOI PRIDGEON  [https://linktr.ee/diprjoi] #mentalhealthmatters #artistssupportingartists #amplifyingBIPOCvoices #DIPRminds #moveDIPR