An unlikely partnership-Part 2: From White Supremacy to Buddhism and Unity

In part one of of this special two part Reppin, we met Pardeep Kaleka a first-generation immigrant from Punjab, India who lost his father at the hands of a white nationalist. Pardeep took his grief and transformed into into something powerful and positive.  Now In Part 2 of this compelling conversation, we meet Arno Michaels who takes us deep into the world of extremism. Arno was a former founding member of one of the largest white nationalist groups in the 90s. He bravely shares his journey of how he became entangled in a self-proclaimed Racial Holy War and the reasons behind embracing such dangerous ideologies. Despite knowing the wrongness of his actions, Arno found himself drawn to the adrenaline-fueled thrill of violence, perpetuating hate and causing chaos. "I believe the truth is, they're really both addictions." As time went on, Arno reflects on the mental gymnastics he had to perform to cling to his extremist beliefs, fueled by fear and a scarcity mindset. However, amidst the darkness, a powerful realization begins to break through his armor of violence, setting him on a path towards compassion and unity. Prepare to be amazed as Arno's transformation unfolds, revealing the potential for change and redemption even in the darkest times of our lives. Now, alongside Pardeep Kaleka, Arno works as a motivational speaker, sharing their co-authored book, "The Gift of Our Wounds," and traveling the world to speak out against hate and extremism. This episode is a powerful continuation of Arno's remarkable journey, proving that even amidst the deepest shadows, the light of change and redemption can emerge. Pardeep and Arno's powerful stories illustrate the transformation of grief into positive change and combatting hate with compassion and love. Their journeys demonstrate the potential for powerful change in their own lives but also unity and action when people from different backgrounds come together. Pardeep and Arno's book: The Gifts Of Our Wounds https://www.amazon.com/Gift-Our-Wounds-Supremacist-Forgiveness/dp/1250107547 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices