Ep. 13: Bear Hebert

Thirteen years ago, I sat at the Downtown Wild Lotus Yoga studio, deep in the Marigny, to listen to an information session about a yoga teacher training.My boyfriend at the time joked that we should “weld me up a tall bike.” I was used to being CBD-downtown, not downtown-downtown. To say I was out of my element was an understatement.I got there, and was surprised how beautiful and warm the studio was. I found a blanket seat, and a couple rows ahead I saw it: a Rattail. I sooo did not belong here with these tattooed, rattailed punks. It turns out that rattail belonged to today’s guest, who has become one of my dearest friends, and favorite people on the planet. Our friendship is a testament to never judging a book by its cover, and always being willing to be surprised. It turns out: I did belong. And so did they.I am a better person for knowing Bear, and I think you will be better after having listened to this episode.We talked about finding and losing Jesus, the petulance of adolescence, and the profound maturity required to be Who You Are, in spite of everything. Also: Plants. Bear is the Plant Witch, and I am the Animal Witch. We are kindred, they are a gift, and that I know for sure. Enjoy.Books & Authors Mentioned* Ibram X. Kendi — Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America* Robin Wall Kimmerer — Braiding Sweetgrass* Eduardo Galeano — We Say No * bell hooks — if you’re new to bell hooks, start with All About Love: New Visions* James Baldwin — writings on truth, liberation, and the possibility of a better future. Bear’s Essay about leaving yoga is here: https://bearteachesyoga.org/blog/2018/10/18/a-letter-to-my-yoga-studentsConnect with Bear: @bearhebert_ on Instagram, or https://www.bearcoaches.com/If you loved today’s episode, would you share it with one person you think will enjoy it? I need your help to spread the good word. It’s also helpful if you comment on Substack, or rate the show wherever you’re listening.I am available for Meaningful Work Coaching and Spiritual Coaching — to help you be Who You Are all the time. Find out more at http://veralester.as.me/coaching-discovery.Take great care, Curious Hearts, and we’ll see you soon. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit veralester.substack.com/subscribe