Reconciling Spirituality and Oppression with June Johnson

June Johnson, entrepreneur, model, and advocate, joins host Leslie for a wide-ranging conversation where she candidly shares her personal journey, including her rebellious phases, grappling with double consciousness as a Black woman, and her transition into entrepreneurship in the cannabis space after facing racial discrimination at a former workplace.

June grew up surrounded by strong Black role models, dedicated to community empowerment. Her great-grandfather helped register Black voters, and her cousin was Atlanta's first Black mayor at age 35. This environment nurtured her critical thinking and activism. Her mother also exposed her to various spiritual practices, shaping June's open-minded approach to faith and philosophies.

She shares her mantra of "resist, rest, repeat," emphasizing the significance of taking action, practicing self-care, and continuously engaging in the fight for justice. She explores how the idea that true activism involves not only being aware of issues but also mobilizing towards tangible solutions.

June and Leslie also discuss the importance of creating a positive vision for the future, sharing how focusing on a constructive and hopeful picture of the world can inspire action and collective change. By visualizing a world free from oppressive systems like white supremacy and patriarchy, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable society.

Navigating the cannabis industry as a Black woman has brought new challenges. June recounts launching her own businesses after facing racism, harassment, and unethical conduct at a previous cannabis company. She's now focused on educating others about cannabis for wellness through her Weed Doula consultancy and throwing cannabis-themed events via Collective High.

Links mentioned in the episode:

• Watch this episode on YouTube
• June’s Linktree
• The Weed Doula on Instagram
• Get in touch with June via email
• Collective High
• We The People on Geneva
• Buy a copy of "Super Genes: Unlock the Astonishing Power of Your DNA for Optimum Health and Well-Being” by Deepak Chopra
• Listen to June’s podcast, Sunday Soul Sessions on Patreon
• Learn more about 40 Tons and support the 40 Tons Foundation
• Watch Slavery by Another Name

Show Credits:

• Show created and produced by Leslie Carr with the help of:
  • Raphaello, Post-production supervisor
  • Sarah Carefoot, Media Manager
• Recorded in part at WTF Studios, Los Angeles