The Akua Projects' Podcast Magazine

Let’s talk about it!Welcome back to the Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine’s Substack Chat Room. Pull up a chair, grab your favorite mug of tea or coffee, and get comfortable. Take a second to shake off the mid-week slump, roll your shoulders back, and just breathe.This is our dedicated space to gather around the metaphorical table, drop our heavy societal armor, and unpack the week together. Wednesday is often the day when our social batteries begin to run low and the masks we wear start to feel the heaviest, which makes it the perfect time to check in with each other.If you caught this past Sunday’s Mental Health Check-In, you know we started untangling a pretty heavy, deeply universal topic: The Weight of Our Words.We looked at the powerful Ashanti proverb, “One falsehood spoils a thousand truths,” and shifted the focus inward. Instead of just talking about our public reputations, we talked about the quiet, internal exhaustion of people-pleasing. We explored the invisible, soundproof wall that inauthenticity builds between us and the people we love, making true connection impossible. We also discussed how keeping up a facade—even a well-intentioned one—acts like a battery-draining background app on our minds, quietly keeping our nervous systems on high alert.Now, we are doing a deeper dive.As the image for today’s chat says: Bring your thoughts, your experiences, and your open hearts. Healing and unlearning are incredibly difficult to do in a vacuum. When we share our stories, we strip away the shame that thrives in silence. This is a judgment-free zone where we can learn from each other’s journeys, missteps, and victories.To get the conversation glowing (just like the crystal ball on our table!), jump into the thread below and reply to any of these prompts that speak to your current season:💬 Today’s Deep Dive Prompts:* The Heavy Backpack of “Yes”: Where in your life are you currently carrying the heavy backpack of people-pleasing? Are you volunteering for extra tasks at work when you are already burnt out? Are you agreeing to social plans to keep the peace when your spirit is screaming for rest? Let’s talk about why it feels so terrifying to just say “no.”* The “I’m Fine” Reflex: How often do you use the automatic “I’m fine!” response to mask your true feelings? Do you do this more with your partner, your friends, or your coworkers? We often hide behind this phrase because we don’t want to be a “burden” to others. What do you think would happen if you paused, took a breath, and answered honestly this week?* The Aftermath of Radical Honesty: Have you recently practiced radical, gentle honesty? Maybe you finally set a difficult boundary with a family member, or you admitted to a friend that you just didn’t have the emotional capacity to hold space for them that day. It is often messy and uncomfortable in the moment. How did you navigate that initial guilt, and how did it feel once the truth was finally out in the open?* Unlearning the Performance: For many of us, performing and shape-shifting was a survival tactic we learned early in life. What is the hardest part for you about unlearning the urge to perform for others’ approval?There is absolutely no pressure to have it all figured out, to sound profound, or to have perfectly wrapped-up answers. We are all beautifully, messily human, and we are simply practicing the art of taking off our masks together.Dive into the chat below, introduce yourself if you’re new to the Substack family, and let’s get into it! 🤎Note: This is a safe, supportive, and confidential community space. Please practice active listening, be kind, lead with empathy, and remain respectful of everyone’s shared vulnerabilities and lived experiences.Thanks for reading The Akua Projects' Podcast Magazine! This post is public so feel free to share it.The Akua Projects' Podcast Magazine is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comWelcome to the Sunday Mental Health Check-In, a weekly segment from The Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine. Here, we intentionally pause the noise of our busy lives to center our minds, draw wisdom from our cultural roots, and prepare our spirits for the week ahead. Grab your favorite warm beverage, get comfortable, and let’s dive in.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comWelcome to the latest installment of Soundtracks of Wisdom, a production by The Akua Project. We explore the deep-seated truths found in global proverbs, pairing ancient philosophy with modern rhythm to feed your soul and ground your hustle.The Feature: Staying GroundedIn this episode, we draw inspiration from a powerful Nigerian proverb: “A man does not wander far from where his corn is roasting.”In a world full of “glitter” and distractions that can make you lose your true identity, this wisdom serves as a compass. It reminds us that your “fire”—the passion, purpose, and essentials that sustain you—requires your presence. You cannot coast through life; you must stay planted where the heat is to truly grow.Join us as we break down why keeping your attention on what sustains you is the ultimate key to resilience.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comWelcome back to The Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine. We’ve made it to the end of the week, which means it’s time to slow down, clear your mind, and settle in for our Friday Short.There is a unique kind of magic in getting lost in a narrative, and every Friday, we bring that magic directly to your speakers. In these segments, we step away from our regular features to showcase original short stories, written and brought to life in immersive audio form.So, whether you are unwinding at home, commuting, or just taking a much-needed break, take a deep breath and let your imagination take the wheel.Let’s dive into today’s story.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comWelcome back to The Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine! Grab your favorite mug, settle into a comfortable spot, and let out that breath you didn’t even realize you were holding. It’s Sunday, which means it is time to pause, reflect, and realign before a new week begins.

### "It feels like we're in a dream tonight..."**...But what happens when the dream refuses to let you wake up?**Step onto the moonlit veranda in *A Curse*, a deeply moving entry from the new collection, **When Memories Become Nightmares**.The air smells of damp earth and night-blooming jasmine. The wicker swing creaks gently on rusted chains. And there he stands—broad-shouldered, solid, and perfectly preserved in the moonlight. But this isn't a reunion. When she reaches out, her fingers pass through him like smoke.He is not a ghost haunting her; he is a memory that loved her so much it refuses to let her leave. Caught in an agonizing loop of joy and grief, she must endure the heartbreaking reality of smiling at a perfect memory while crying at a waking nightmare.As our guide reminds us, this is the story of love, loss, and the things that refuse to let us go.**Experience the Haunting:** * 📖 **Read it today:** The ebook *When Memories Become Nightmares* is available now on **Lulu.com**. * 🎧 **Hear the echoes:** The fully immersive audiobook arrives in **May 2026**. * 🔗 **Ready to step onto the veranda?** Visit the link in the bio to begin. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comSetting the SceneWelcome back, Akua community, to another storytelling session here on The Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine. I’m your host, Rakia Ari.All week, we have been sitting with the deep, grounding wisdom of the Yoruba proverb: “One who carries a basket of eggs does not dance.” We have unpacked the meaning, we have chatted about our own boundaries, and we have even set the vibe with our Soundtracks of Wisdom drop. But today, I want to bring this proverb to life in a different way.Sometimes, the best way to understand a lesson is to see someone else walk through it. So, I have written a short story for us. It is about the delicate balance of creation, the loud, tempting noise of the city, and the quiet discipline it takes to protect what you have spent so much time building.Find a comfortable spot, take a deep breath, and let’s step into the world of Amara in our story for the week: “The Pearl and the Pavement.”

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comHappy Sunday, Akua community! Welcome to another Sunday Mental Health Check-In. As we wind down the weekend and prepare to step into a brand new week, it is the perfect time to pause, take a deep breath, and recenter our minds.Today, we are grounding our reflection in a piece of timeless wisdom from the Yoruba people:“One who carries a basket of eggs does not dance.”At first glance, it paints a rather literal (and slightly humorous) picture. Imagine trying to do the Azonto or the Gwara Gwara with a fragile basket of eggs balanced on your head or in your arms. It would be a messy disaster. But when we look beneath the surface, this proverb offers a profound lesson about focus, boundaries, and protecting our mental well-being.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comWelcome back to The Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine. Happy Friday, everyone. You’ve officially made it to the end of the week, and you know what that means—it’s time to settle in, take a deep breath, and join us here in the Friday Short Story Corner.Today, we are traveling to the meandering bend of a great, sun-drenched river. It’s a place divided into two very different worlds: the bright, chaotic, and loud surface, and the cool, patient, and shadowy depths.In a culture that constantly tells us to make a splash, to be seen, and to shine as brightly as we can, today’s fable offers a slightly different perspective. It’s a story about youth and age, vanity and wisdom, and the delicate balance of survival.So, get comfortable, let the current carry you, and listen closely to The Tale of the Silver Tilapia and the Mud Catfish.

Unveiling the Shadows: A Glimpse into “When Memories Become Nightmares”“When Memories Become Nightmares” is a dark and evocative exploration of what happens when our past refuses to stay buried. As teased in the recent visual promos, it is fundamentally a story of love, profound loss, and the inescapable things that refuse to let us go.The narrative delves into the terrifying reality of nostalgia mutating into trauma. It follows a protagonist forced to confront physical manifestations of her past—where the burning remnants of old photographs aren’t just destroyed evidence, but the fuel for something far more sinister. As she wrestles with both literal and figurative demons, the boundary between painful remembrance and active torment completely shatters.Here is an exclusive glimpse into the darkness with a short reading featuring The Echo Weaver:An Excerpt: The Echo WeaverThe embers of the photographs danced in the air, glowing with a fierce, unnatural heat, yet the room felt entirely devoid of warmth. Behind her, the atmosphere grew thick, pulling the breath directly from her lungs.She knew she shouldn’t turn around.It wasn’t just a trick of the light playing across the open wardrobe; it was the Echo Weaver. It had finally arrived, summoned by the sheer weight of her grief. The creature fed on the frayed edges of her happiest moments, meticulously twisting the preserved laughter into deafening screams and the warmth of old love into suffocating ash. She pressed her hands against her ears and squeezed her eyes shut, a desperate attempt to block it out. But the Weaver didn’t need her eyes to show her the past. It was already inside her head. It just needed her to remember.Ready to face the past? To dive deeper into the story and confront the shadows yourself, check out the full ebook via the link. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comWelcome back to Soundtracks of Wisdom, the official music and mindfulness column of The Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine. In a digital landscape that constantly demands our immediate reaction, our hottest takes, and our loudest voices, true power often lies in the exact opposite. This week’s featured track, “Architect of the Pause,” is an anthem for the strategic, the patient, and the observant.With a smooth, methodical hip-hop beat and razor-sharp lyricism, this track isn’t just music; it’s an auditory manifesto on mental fortitude. Let’s break down the wisdom woven into the rhythm.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comWelcome back to a very special episode of Friday’s Short Story Corner, right here on The Akua Projects' Podcast Magazine on Substack!Today, we are excited to bring you an immersive experience that bridges the gap between the written word and visual storytelling. We are diving deep into the suspenseful and atmospheric world of Rakia Ari’s Fireside Thrills Series with our featured story: "The Cabin Getaway."If that title rings a bell, there is a very good reason! "The Cabin Getaway" served as the creative foundation for the amazing AI-generated comic strips featured in yesterday's Thursday's Comic Strip release.Missed the comic strip adaptation? > Don't worry! We highly recommend heading over to yesterday's article to check it out. The vivid AI-generated comic strips have now been seamlessly added directly to the story transcript, allowing you to follow the visual journey as the narrative unfolds.So, whether you are reading along with the beautifully crafted panels or just closing your eyes to let Rakia Ari's words paint the picture in your mind, grab a warm drink, pull up a chair, and get ready for a spine-tingling retreat.Without further ado, here is "The Cabin Getaway." Enjoy the thrill!

Every creator knows the suffocating, frustrating grip of writer’s block. For Rakia Ari, breaking free from that creative rut didn’t start with a grand, sprawling manuscript. It started with a simple, low-pressure goal: planting tiny, two-sentence “story seeds” every week. What began as a quiet exercise under The Akua Projects banner to keep the creative muscles working has now blossomed into a captivating new ebook: When Memories Become Nightmares.This anthology dives deep into the human psyche, exploring the terrifying transformation of our most cherished moments into our darkest fears. It is a profound exploration of love, loss, and the things that refuse to let us go. Interestingly, the project took an unexpected, serendipitous turn when AI was introduced to help illustrate the tales. The technology inadvertently acted as an editor, forcing the prose to become richer and more deeply descriptive to truly capture the diverse, multicultural nuances of each story.Rather than polishing away the raw edges, When Memories Become Nightmares is published “as is,” including the original two-sentence prompts alongside the final stories. It is an honest, unfiltered snapshot of a messy, beautiful, and unexpected creative journey—proving that sometimes, the cure for getting unstuck is simply facing the shadows head-on.“Letting Go” – A Glimpse InsideSet against the steep, narrow streets and black-and-white stones of Alfama in Lisbon, “Letting Go” follows Elara as she navigates a city that has become a shattered mosaic of her memories. A once-perfect, sun-drenched afternoon at the Miradouro de Santa Luzia twists into a suffocating nightmare, permanently tainted by the trauma of a car crash on a rainy night.When Tiago, the man who shares this haunting reality, finds her and admits his voice raw with emotion that he cannot bring himself to let her go, Elara is faced with a profound choice. She realizes that finally letting him go would mean surrendering entirely to the nightmare. In a poignant moment of acceptance, she decides that she doesn’t want him to let go either, choosing to step forward into their flawed, painful reality rather than facing the emptiness of moving on alone. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comWelcome back to the Akua Projects’ Podcast, the audio companion to your favorite cultural and lifestyle magazine. I’m so glad you’re tuning in today. It’s Sunday, and you know exactly what that means—it’s time to slow down, pause the hustle, and settle in for our weekly Sunday Mental Health Check-In.Today, we are taking a trip into the rich well of African ancestry to find some much-needed grounding. We live in a world that constantly demands our immediate reaction—whether it’s replying to a text, firing back in the comments, or defending ourselves in a meeting. But today, we’re exploring the quiet, radical, and protective power of saying absolutely nothing. Let’s get into it.

A Week of Reflection, Creativity, and Inner Peace at The Akua ProjectsWelcome back to another incredible week at The Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine! Whether you are looking for emotional grounding, captivating storytelling, or just a safe space to unpack your week, our Substack has been overflowing with fresh content.This week, we took a deep dive into what it means to anchor ourselves amid the chaos of life. From mental health check-ins to brand-new comic strips and short stories, here is a complete roundup of everything you might have missed—and why you need to head over to our Substack to catch up right now!🧠 Grounding Your Mind: Mental Health & Inner PeaceWe dedicated a significant portion of this week to cultivating stability and protecting our peace. If you need a moment to breathe and recenter, start here:* Sunday’s Mental Health Check-In: Securing Your Inner Peace We kicked off the week with a powerful discussion on how to actively protect your mental space. It’s not just about avoiding stress; it’s about building a fortress for your well-being.* Finding Peace in Being the Constant (Sunday’s Mental Health Check-In Revisited)We followed up our Sunday session with a deeper reflection. In a world that is constantly shifting, there is immense power—and peace—in learning how to be your own constant.* Welcome to the Wednesday Chat for the Sunday’s Mental Health Check-In Deep DiveOur community came together mid-week to unpack Sunday’s themes. The Wednesday Chat is where the magic happens, transforming solitary reflection into a shared community dialogue.🕰️ Nostalgia and Shadows: Navigating MemoriesMemories can be a source of profound joy, but they can also carry heavy emotional weight. This week, we explored both ends of the spectrum:* My Favorite Dates Series - Revisited: The Starry Night ‘Trap’Take a walk down memory lane as we revisit a fan-favorite entry. “The Starry Night ‘Trap’” is a nostalgic, romantic, and slightly humorous look back at a memorable evening that didn’t go exactly as planned.* When Memories Become NightmaresOn a heavier, more introspective note, we explored the darker side of nostalgia. This piece is a must-read for anyone who has ever had to navigate the complex emotions of a memory that no longer brings them comfort.🎨 Escaping into Art: Comics, Stories, and SoundtracksAs the week wound down, we shifted gears into pure creative expression, offering our readers a chance to escape through fiction, visual art, and music.* The Akua Projects’ Newsletter - Thursday Comic Strip: The Cabin Getaway - Safe HarborOur latest visual installment is here! Unwind with this week’s Thursday Comic Strip, where we explore the comforting, secluded themes of “Safe Harbor” in a beautiful cabin getaway.* Friday’s Short Story Corner: The Unshakable CoreClose out your work week with our featured fiction. “The Unshakable Core” beautifully ties into our weekly theme of inner strength, delivering a narrative that will stay with you long after the final sentence.* Soundtracks of Wisdom: The Quiet ThroneNo week at The Akua Projects is complete without an auditory journey. “The Quiet Throne” is the perfect sonic companion for your weekend, designed to help you claim your personal power in silence.Ready to dive in? > Don’t let these conversations pass you by. Head over to The Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine on Substack to read, listen, and join a growing community dedicated to mental wellness, storytelling, and creative living. Make sure to hit that subscribe button so you never miss a post!The Akua Projects' Podcast Magazine is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading The Akua Projects' Podcast Magazine! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comWelcome back to The Akua Projects’ podcast magazine, and a very happy Friday to you all. You’ve tuned in to the Short Story Corner, your weekly space to pause, reflect, and get lost in a good narrative. I’m your host, [Host Name].Today, we are exploring the profound wisdom of a traditional African proverb. It goes like this: ‘If there is no enemy within, the enemy outside can do us no harm.’ It’s a powerful thought, isn’t it? How often do we let our own inner critic—that voice of doubt or imposter syndrome—unlock the front door for the world’s negativity to rush in? When our own minds are insecure, a single critical comment from a stranger can feel like a devastating blow. But what happens when we do the hard work of building an internal fortress? What happens when we finally evict that enemy within?In today’s story, titled The Unshakable Core, we meet Amara. She’s a visionary artist on the eve of her most ambitious gallery exhibition to date. She is about to come face-to-face with a harsh critic from her past, a man who knows exactly how to tear others down. But Amara is bringing a secret weapon to the gallery floor: a mind that she has fiercely, beautifully conquered.So, wherever you are right now—whether you’re commuting home, unwinding with a cup of tea, or working on a creative project of your own—take a deep breath. Settle in. Let’s step into Amara’s studio.

When Memories Become Nightmares is a compelling collection of flash fiction and vignettes that explores the dark intersection of nostalgia, grief, and trauma. What began as a simple, low-pressure exercise to combat writer’s block evolved into a global anthology of haunting narratives. The author details a unique creative journey in the preface: initiall… This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comWelcome back to the table. You’re listening to a special mid-week edition of The Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine. I’m so glad you decided to pull up a chair and spend a few minutes with me today.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comWelcome to another Sunday Mental Health Check-In here at The Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine. Sundays offer a natural pause in the week—a moment to step back, breathe, and recalibrate before Monday rolls around. Today, we are focusing on mental resilience and how we protect our energy from the inside out.

Here at The Akua Projects, we believe that wisdom shouldn’t just be read—it should be felt. It should resonate, echo, and linger with you long after you’ve scrolled to the bottom of the page. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce Soundtracks of Wisdom, a groundbreaking new auditory companion to our Substack magazine.What are the Soundtracks of Wisdom?As we continue to explore culture, growth, storytelling, and transformative ideas through our written articles, we realize that the experience can be pushed even further. Soundtracks of Wisdom are bespoke, carefully curated audio tracks created specifically to occupy and accompany the articles posted in our magazine.Think of it as a score to your reading experience. Every time we publish a new piece, it will be paired with a unique audio journey designed to match the pulse, tone, and emotional depth of the text.A Multi-Sensory JourneyWe are bridging the gap between the traditional reading experience and the immersive world of podcasting and sound design. Whether it’s an ambient soundscape to help you reflect on a deep philosophical essay, a rhythmic beat to drive home a piece on cultural innovation, or a blend of spoken word and melody, these tracks are here to elevate the way you consume our content.How to experience it:* The Immersive Read: Plug in your headphones, hit play on the track at the top of the article, and read along. Let the music set the pace and tone of the words.* The Audio Companion: On the go? Let the Soundtracks of Wisdom play in the background while you commute, create, or relax, absorbing the essence of The Akua Projects wherever you are.Press Play on Your GrowthThis is more than just background noise; it is an intentional layer of art added to our storytelling. We are creating a space where literature meets sound, and where our community can engage with our ideas on a much deeper, vibrational level.So, grab your favorite headphones, find a quiet space, and get ready to experience The Akua Projects like never before.Subscribe, tune in, and let the wisdom resonate.The Akua Projects' Podcast Magazine is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comWelcome back, short story enthusiasts, to another Friday here at The Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine. I’m so glad you found your way back to the Short Story Corner today. The candles are lit, the old printing press is resting, and the shelves are practically humming with new tales to share.Have you ever found yourself completely derailed by a minor annoyance? A petty comment, a lingering doubt, or a tiny distraction that somehow manages to take over your entire day? We’ve all been there. It’s so easy to lose sight of the mountain we’re climbing when we’re too busy staring at the pebbles in our shoes.Today’s story is rooted in a powerful, ancient piece of wisdom from Egypt: ‘A lion does not turn around when a small dog barks.’ In this week’s tale, titled The Roar of the Akua Project, we meet Maya. She has a beautiful, vibrant vision for her neighborhood, but a very vocal, very cynical neighbor seems determined to tear her down before she even begins. It’s a story about focus, purpose, and learning the hard way exactly which voices actually deserve your attention.So, pull up a chair, get comfortable, and let’s dive into today’s story...

I’ve set this story during the Jin-Song wars, a time of great conflict in 1200s China.I focused on a beautiful, specific memory—the plum blossoms—and twisted it into the very thing that now haunts them, linking their past happiness directly to their present trauma.For more stories from When Memories Become Nightmares, visit our Lulu.Com store.When Memories Become Nightmares is a compelling collection of flash fiction and vignettes that explores the dark intersection of nostalgia, grief, and trauma. What began as a simple, low-pressure exercise to combat writer’s block evolved into a global anthology of haunting narratives. The author details a unique creative journey in the preface: initially writing short, two-sentence "story seeds," they employed AI to generate accompanying artwork. This collaboration acted as an "unexpected editor," forcing the author to write with greater descriptive precision to ensure the AI could correctly visualize the diverse cultures and protagonists depicted. The resulting stories traverse time and geography, from the cane fields of 1907 St. James and the frozen tundras of Alaska to ancient China and modern-day Nairobi. In each tale, a cherished memory—a lover's touch, the scent of orange blossoms, or a reunion with a brother—twists into a psychological prison or a "living nightmare". The book includes: The Preface: An honest look at the "messy, stop-and-start" creative process. The Stories: A series of vivid emotional snapshots where characters face the "ghosts" of their pasts, often accompanied by the visual prompts that inspired them. The Exercise: A concluding section that reveals the original "before" text—the raw story seeds that birthed the longer narratives. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

Grab your tea, coffee, or water, get comfortable, and let’s take a collective deep breath before the new week begins. ☕️✨This week, we are anchoring our mindset with a powerful African proverb:🦁 “A lion does not turn around when a small dog barks.” (Egypt/Various)What does this mean for our mental health?It’s a beautiful reminder to protect your peace. Do not let small distractions, petty criticisms, or minor inconveniences break your focus on your greater goals and your healing journey.You are the lion on a mission. The “small dogs” are those everyday annoyances—passive-aggressive comments, negative news cycles, social media trolls, or even your own inner critic. A lion doesn’t lose sleep over the dog’s opinion, and neither should you.This chat room is our safe space to discuss how we’re cultivating our focus and applying this ‘Lion Energy’ to our lives this week.👇 Let’s kick things off: Drop a 🦁 in the chat if you are ready to keep your eyes on the horizon this week! Then, tell us... What is one “barking dog” you are consciously choosing to walk past today? This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

Hey everyone! 👋🏽If you caught our latest Women That Inspire Me piece in the magazine (or listened to this week’s book club episode!), you know we are deep in our Audre Lorde era right now.Her words are so dense and powerful that an article alone just doesn’t do them justice. So, I wanted to bring the conversation here to the chat so we can unpack some of her heaviest hitting concepts together. Let’s get into it! 👇🏽 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comThe Wissahickon Wake-Up Call & Leaning on Your VillageWelcome back to the cozy corner, family. In this week's episode of The Akua Projects' Podcast Magazine, host Rakia Ari is unpacking the heavy baggage of the week and reflecting on the major themes from our recent Sunday Mental Health Check-Ins. We are talking about the danger of running our internal batteries down to 1%, what happens when the universe forces us to stop, and why we need to intentionally practice becoming who we want to be.Most importantly, we are anchoring this week's reflections in a powerful African proverb that reminds us why community is the ultimate survival tool. If you've been feeling isolated, burnt out, or just need a collective deep breath, this episode is for you.🎧 Episode Timestamps:[00:00] Welcome to the cozy corner & taking our collective deep breath.[04:15] The Wissahickon Wake-Up Call: A story about freezing nights, 1% phone batteries, and the universe saying "Nope."[12:30] Practicing Who We Want to Be: Why healing isn't a light switch, but a daily, grace-filled practice.[18:45] Proverb of the Week: Unpacking the truth behind, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together."[24:10] Homework for the Week: How to stop carrying it all alone and actively lean on your village.[27:30] Outro & where to find your free Sunday Reset Worksheet.🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned:Read the full recap on the blog: Dive deeper into today's conversation on our Substack. https://open.substack.com/pub/rakiaari/p/slowing-down-and-finding-our-village?r=7p8aq&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=trueDownload your Sunday Reset Worksheet: Take 10 minutes this weekend to check your internal battery and map out your support system. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1O1a7HPgfbWFpfb3_tW2EUaqXqMj42bnQ/view?usp=sharingJoin the Conversation: How are you leaning on your village this week? Let us know on SubStack in the Chatroom at https://substack.com/chat/5128836🌍 Quote of the Week:"If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." — African ProverbCreator: Rakia AriProduced by: The Akua ProjectsSupport the Podcast: If this episode brought you some peace or clarity, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review! It helps our village grow.

Here at The Akua Projects, we believe that wisdom shouldn’t just be read—it should be felt. It should resonate, echo, and linger with you long after you’ve scrolled to the bottom of the page. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce Soundtracks of Wisdom, a groundbreaking new auditory companion to our Substack magazine.What are the Soundtracks of Wisdom?As we continue to explore culture, growth, storytelling, and transformative ideas through our written articles, we realize that the experience can be pushed even further. Soundtracks of Wisdom are bespoke, carefully curated audio tracks created specifically to occupy and accompany the articles posted in our magazine.Think of it as a score to your reading experience. Every time we publish a new piece, it will be paired with a unique audio journey designed to match the pulse, tone, and emotional depth of the text.A Multi-Sensory JourneyWe are bridging the gap between the traditional reading experience and the immersive world of podcasting and sound design. Whether it’s an ambient soundscape to help you reflect on a deep philosophical essay, a rhythmic beat to drive home a piece on cultural innovation, or a blend of spoken word and melody, these tracks are here to elevate the way you consume our content.How to experience it:* The Immersive Read: Plug in your headphones, hit play on the track at the top of the article, and read along. Let the music set the pace and tone of the words.* The Audio Companion: On the go? Let the Soundtracks of Wisdom play in the background while you commute, create, or relax, absorbing the essence of The Akua Projects wherever you are.Press Play on Your GrowthThis is more than just background noise; it is an intentional layer of art added to our storytelling. We are creating a space where literature meets sound, and where our community can engage with our ideas on a much deeper, vibrational level.So, grab your favorite headphones, find a quiet space, and get ready to experience The Akua Projects like never before.Subscribe, tune in, and let the wisdom resonate.The Akua Projects' Podcast Magazine is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comLately, I’ve been thinking a lot about the pressure we put on ourselves to do everything all at once. We want to secure the bag, perfect our craft, and show up for everyone around us—simultaneously. But recently, a powerful Yoruba proverb has been sitting heavy on my spirit: "The hunter who chases two rabbits catches neither." To help unpack what that really means for us as creatives and multi-passionate people, I wrote a short story for you today. Let's get into it.

When Memories Become Nightmares is a compelling collection of flash fiction and vignettes that explores the dark intersection of nostalgia, grief, and trauma. What began as a simple, low-pressure exercise to combat writer’s block evolved into a global anthology of haunting narratives. The author details a unique creative journey in the preface: initially writing short, two-sentence "story seeds," they employed AI to generate accompanying artwork. This collaboration acted as an "unexpected editor," forcing the author to write with greater descriptive precision to ensure the AI could correctly visualize the diverse cultures and protagonists depicted. The resulting stories traverse time and geography, from the cane fields of 1907 St. James and the frozen tundras of Alaska to ancient China and modern-day Nairobi. In each tale, a cherished memory—a lover's touch, the scent of orange blossoms, or a reunion with a brother—twists into a psychological prison or a "living nightmare". The book includes: * The Preface: An honest look at the "messy, stop-and-start" creative process. * The Stories: A series of vivid emotional snapshots where characters face the "ghosts" of their pasts, often accompanied by the visual prompts that inspired them. * The Exercise: A concluding section that reveals the original "before" text—the raw story seeds that birthed the longer narratives.Available on Lulu. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comPause, Breathe, Reflect: Welcome to Sunday’s Check-In 🌿Hello beautifully beautifully made people, and welcome to Sunday’s Mental Health Check-In right here on The Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine. I’m your host and writer, Rakia Ari.Sundays are often caught in the crossfire between the exhaustion of the week we just finished and the anxiety of the week that’s about to begin. But right here, in this space, Sunday is just for you. This is our weekly sanctuary to pause, take a deep breath, and do a gentle audit of our minds and hearts. Before we rush into Monday’s to-do lists, let’s take a moment to pour back into ourselves. Grab your favorite warm drink, get comfortable, and let’s check in.

Welcome to Soundtracks of WisdomHere at The Akua Projects, we believe that wisdom shouldn’t just be read—it should be felt. It should resonate, echo, and linger with you long after you’ve scrolled to the bottom of the page. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce Soundtracks of Wisdom, a groundbreaking new auditory companion to our Substack magazine.What are the Soundtracks of Wisdom?As we continue to explore culture, growth, storytelling, and transformative ideas through our written articles, we realize that the experience can be pushed even further. Soundtracks of Wisdom are bespoke, carefully curated audio tracks created specifically to occupy and accompany the articles posted in our magazine.Think of it as a score to your reading experience. Every time we publish a new piece, it will be paired with a unique audio journey designed to match the pulse, tone, and emotional depth of the text.A Multi-Sensory JourneyWe are bridging the gap between the traditional reading experience and the immersive world of podcasting and sound design. Whether it’s an ambient soundscape to help you reflect on a deep philosophical essay, a rhythmic beat to drive home a piece on cultural innovation, or a blend of spoken word and melody, these tracks are here to elevate the way you consume our content.How to experience it:* The Immersive Read: Plug in your headphones, hit play on the track at the top of the article, and read along. Let the music set the pace and tone of the words.* The Audio Companion: On the go? Let the Soundtracks of Wisdom play in the background while you commute, create, or relax, absorbing the essence of The Akua Projects wherever you are.Press Play on Your GrowthThis is more than just background noise; it is an intentional layer of art added to our storytelling. We are creating a space where literature meets sound, and where our community can engage with our ideas on a much deeper, vibrational level.So, grab your favorite headphones, find a quiet space, and get ready to experience The Akua Projects like never before.Subscribe, tune in, and let the wisdom resonate. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Soundtracks of WisdomHere at The Akua Projects, we believe that wisdom shouldn’t just be read—it should be felt. It should resonate, echo, and linger with you long after you’ve scrolled to the bottom of the page. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce Soundtracks of Wisdom, a groundbreaking new auditory companion to our Substack magazine.What are the Soundtracks of Wisdom?As we continue to explore culture, growth, storytelling, and transformative ideas through our written articles, we realize that the experience can be pushed even further. Soundtracks of Wisdom are bespoke, carefully curated audio tracks created specifically to occupy and accompany the articles posted in our magazine.Think of it as a score to your reading experience. Every time we publish a new piece, it will be paired with a unique audio journey designed to match the pulse, tone, and emotional depth of the text.A Multi-Sensory JourneyWe are bridging the gap between the traditional reading experience and the immersive world of podcasting and sound design. Whether it’s an ambient soundscape to help you reflect on a deep philosophical essay, a rhythmic beat to drive home a piece on cultural innovation, or a blend of spoken word and melody, these tracks are here to elevate the way you consume our content.How to experience it:* The Immersive Read: Plug in your headphones, hit play on the track at the top of the article, and read along. Let the music set the pace and tone of the words.* The Audio Companion: On the go? Let the Soundtracks of Wisdom play in the background while you commute, create, or relax, absorbing the essence of The Akua Projects wherever you are.Press Play on Your GrowthThis is more than just background noise; it is an intentional layer of art added to our storytelling. We are creating a space where literature meets sound, and where our community can engage with our ideas on a much deeper, vibrational level.So, grab your favorite headphones, find a quiet space, and get ready to experience The Akua Projects like never before.Subscribe, tune in, and let the wisdom resonate. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comHello and welcome to another episode of The Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine’s Short Story Corner, story by Creator Rakia Ari.Every project begins with a spark, but it takes community and consistency to keep the fire burning. Today, I’m inviting you to slow down and hold space with me as we explore the powerful Bantu proverb:“Patience is the mother of a beautiful character.”Grab your tea, settle in, and let’s get into it.

Welcome to Soundtracks of WisdomHere at The Akua Projects, we believe that wisdom shouldn’t just be read—it should be felt. It should resonate, echo, and linger with you long after you’ve scrolled to the bottom of the page. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce Soundtracks of Wisdom, a groundbreaking new auditory companion to our Substack magazine.What are the Soundtracks of Wisdom?As we continue to explore culture, growth, storytelling, and transformative ideas through our written articles, we realize that the experience can be pushed even further. Soundtracks of Wisdom are bespoke, carefully curated audio tracks created specifically to occupy and accompany the articles posted in our magazine.Think of it as a score to your reading experience. Every time we publish a new piece, it will be paired with a unique audio journey designed to match the pulse, tone, and emotional depth of the text.A Multi-Sensory JourneyWe are bridging the gap between the traditional reading experience and the immersive world of podcasting and sound design. Whether it’s an ambient soundscape to help you reflect on a deep philosophical essay, a rhythmic beat to drive home a piece on cultural innovation, or a blend of spoken word and melody, these tracks are here to elevate the way you consume our content.How to experience it:* The Immersive Read: Plug in your headphones, hit play on the track at the top of the article, and read along. Let the music set the pace and tone of the words.* The Audio Companion: On the go? Let the Soundtracks of Wisdom play in the background while you commute, create, or relax, absorbing the essence of The Akua Projects wherever you are.Press Play on Your GrowthThis is more than just background noise; it is an intentional layer of art added to our storytelling. We are creating a space where literature meets sound, and where our community can engage with our ideas on a much deeper, vibrational level.So, grab your favorite headphones, find a quiet space, and get ready to experience The Akua Projects like never before.Subscribe, tune in, and let the wisdom resonate. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Soundtracks of WisdomHere at The Akua Projects, we believe that wisdom shouldn't just be read—it should be felt. It should resonate, echo, and linger with you long after you’ve scrolled to the bottom of the page. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce Soundtracks of Wisdom, a groundbreaking new auditory companion to our Substack magazine.What are the Soundtracks of Wisdom?As we continue to explore culture, growth, storytelling, and transformative ideas through our written articles, we realize that the experience can be pushed even further. Soundtracks of Wisdom are bespoke, carefully curated audio tracks created specifically to occupy and accompany the articles posted in our magazine.Think of it as a score to your reading experience. Every time we publish a new piece, it will be paired with a unique audio journey designed to match the pulse, tone, and emotional depth of the text.A Multi-Sensory JourneyWe are bridging the gap between the traditional reading experience and the immersive world of podcasting and sound design. Whether it’s an ambient soundscape to help you reflect on a deep philosophical essay, a rhythmic beat to drive home a piece on cultural innovation, or a blend of spoken word and melody, these tracks are here to elevate the way you consume our content.How to experience it:* The Immersive Read: Plug in your headphones, hit play on the track at the top of the article, and read along. Let the music set the pace and tone of the words.* The Audio Companion: On the go? Let the Soundtracks of Wisdom play in the background while you commute, create, or relax, absorbing the essence of The Akua Projects wherever you are.Press Play on Your GrowthThis is more than just background noise; it is an intentional layer of art added to our storytelling. We are creating a space where literature meets sound, and where our community can engage with our ideas on a much deeper, vibrational level.So, grab your favorite headphones, find a quiet space, and get ready to experience The Akua Projects like never before.Subscribe, tune in, and let the wisdom resonate. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Soundtracks of WisdomWords move the mind, but sound moves the soul. Welcome to a new dimension of The Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine.Here at The Akua Projects, we believe that wisdom shouldn’t just be read—it should be felt. It should resonate, echo, and linger with you long after you’ve scrolled to the bottom of the page. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce Soundtracks of Wisdom, a groundbreaking new auditory companion to our Substack magazine.What are the Soundtracks of Wisdom?As we continue to explore culture, growth, storytelling, and transformative ideas through our written articles, we realize that the experience can be pushed even further. Soundtracks of Wisdom are bespoke, carefully curated audio tracks created specifically to occupy and accompany the articles posted in our magazine.Think of it as a score to your reading experience. Every time we publish a new piece, it will be paired with a unique audio journey designed to match the pulse, tone, and emotional depth of the text.A Multi-Sensory JourneyWe are bridging the gap between the traditional reading experience and the immersive world of podcasting and sound design. Whether it’s an ambient soundscape to help you reflect on a deep philosophical essay, a rhythmic beat to drive home a piece on cultural innovation, or a blend of spoken word and melody, these tracks are here to elevate the way you consume our content.How to experience it:* The Immersive Read: Plug in your headphones, hit play on the track at the top of the article, and read along. Let the music set the pace and tone of the words.* The Audio Companion: On the go? Let the Soundtracks of Wisdom play in the background while you commute, create, or relax, absorbing the essence of The Akua Projects wherever you are.Press Play on Your GrowthThis is more than just background noise; it is an intentional layer of art added to our storytelling. We are creating a space where literature meets sound, and where our community can engage with our ideas on a much deeper, vibrational level.So, grab your favorite headphones, find a quiet space, and get ready to experience The Akua Projects like never before.Subscribe, tune in, and let the wisdom resonate. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comHello and Welcome. You are listening to The Akua Projects’ Podcast Magazine with Creator Rakia Ari.Every project begins with a spark, but it takes community and consistency to keep the fire burning. Today, I’m inviting you to slow down and hold space with me as we explore this week’s ‘Sunday’s Mental Health Check-In: Practicing Who We Want to Be’.Grab your tea, settle in, and let’s get into it.

When Memories Become Nightmares is a compelling collection of flash fiction and vignettes that explores the dark intersection of nostalgia, grief, and trauma. What began as a simple, low-pressure exercise to combat writer’s block evolved into a global anthology of haunting narratives. The author details a unique creative journey in the preface: initially writing short, two-sentence "story seeds," they employed AI to generate accompanying artwork. This collaboration acted as an "unexpected editor," forcing the author to write with greater descriptive precision to ensure the AI could correctly visualize the diverse cultures and protagonists depicted. The resulting stories traverse time and geography, from the cane fields of 1907 St. James and the frozen tundras of Alaska to ancient China and modern-day Nairobi. In each tale, a cherished memory—a lover's touch, the scent of orange blossoms, or a reunion with a brother—twists into a psychological prison or a "living nightmare". The book includes: The Preface: An honest look at the "messy, stop-and-start" creative process. The Stories: A series of vivid emotional snapshots where characters face the "ghosts" of their pasts, often accompanied by the visual prompts that inspired them. The Exercise: A concluding section that reveals the original "before" text—the raw story seeds that birthed the longer narratives. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

Ever had one of those days where the universe just says, “Nope”? 🥶 This week’s Sunday’s Mental Health Check-In and tomorrow’s new Short Story Episode is all about what happens when your phone is at 1%, you’re freezing at the Wissahickon Transportation Center, and the buses are playing hide-and-seek.I’m getting vulnerable about a chaotic Wednesday night, the hard lessons learned from moving too fast, and the African proverb that brought me back down to earth: “You do not test the depth of a river with both feet.” 🌊Grab your tea and let’s talk about slowing down and leaning on our village.🎧 Listen to the full spoken-word intro and read the latest post on The Akua Projects Substack! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comWelcome back, family, to another Sunday’s Mental Health Check-In here on The Akua Projects. Grab your favorite tea, get comfortable, and let’s take a collective deep breath.If you are tuning into the podcast or reading along on Substack, you already know we use this space to unpack the heavy baggage of the week. And let me tell you, this past Wednesday handed me a duffel bag full of it.I want to talk today about the days where absolutely nothing connects, and how those moments force us to look at how we navigate our mental health when the universe decides to test our patience.

🎙️ Welcome to The Akua Project’s Podcast Magazine!Hello, beautiful community! I am your host and creator, Rakia Ari.If you are listening to the background track right now, you are hearing something incredibly special. This week, I decided to try something completely new: a spoken-word piece I wrote, brought to life with music and voiceover generated by Gemini. This track was born from a recent personal incident—one that shook me, inspired me, and became the beating heart of this entire week’s lineup.Here is a preview of the journey we are taking together this week:🗓️ This Week on The Akua Project:✨ Sunday: Mental Health Check-InWe are grounding ourselves with deep, ancestral wisdom. We’ll be digging into two powerful proverbs that have been heavy on my heart:* “You do not test the depth of a river with both feet.” (Ashanti Proverb)* “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”✨ Monday: Monday’s RevisitStart your work week with a deep exhale. We are reviving a beloved Mental Health Check-In from the archives of my blog: Breath by Breath, Just Let Go. ✨ Tuesday: Let’s Write a Story Together!My absolute favorite dates series continues! Bring your creativity and let’s build a beautiful narrative piece by piece.✨ Wednesday: The Chat RoomLet’s talk about it! Come hang out with me in the Substack Chat Room. We will be doing a deeper dive into Sunday’s Mental Health Check-In. Bring your thoughts, your experiences, and your open hearts.✨ Thursday: The Cabin GetawayGet ready for the newest episode of The Cabin Getaway comic! The visual storytelling continues, and you won’t want to miss what happens next.✨ Friday: Story TimeWe close the week with an intimate short story written by me. This piece reflects on the recent real-life incident I experienced—the exact spark that inspired Sunday’s check-in and the musical track you are hearing today.🌟 Become a Founding Member of Our JourneyThe Akua Project is more than just a podcast or a magazine; it is a safe space for storytelling, mental health advocacy, and community connection.If my stories, check-ins, or comics resonate with you, please hit that Subscribe button. Want to go further with us? I warmly invite you to upgrade to a Paid Subscription. Your paid membership directly supports my ability to create these tracks, draw these comics, and keep this beautiful, vulnerable space thriving. As that proverb says: If you want to go far, go together. Let’s go far.Drop a 💛 in the comments if you’re ready for the week!Warmly,Rakia AriThe Akua Projects' is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comHave you ever rushed out the door, only to realize you forgot your keys, spilled your coffee, and spiked your anxiety before 9 AM? ☕️ We’ve all been there.But what happens when we start rushing our healing?On this week’s Sunday Mental Health Check-In, we explore the beautiful Swahili proverb: "Haraka haraka haina baraka" (Hurry, hurry has no blessings). If you’re feeling the pressure to fast-track your personal growth, this one is for you. 🌿Hit the link in our bio to read the full Substack newsletter and listen to the new podcast episode! How are you intentionally slowing down today? Let us know below. 👇🏾

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comHello and welcome. You are listening to The Akua Projects’ Podcast with Creator Rakia Ari.Every project begins with a spark, but it takes community and consistency to keep the fire burning. Today, I’m inviting you to slow down and hold space with me as we explore my newest short story.Grab your tea, settle in, and let’s get into it.

“The nightmare wasn’t the loss. The nightmare was this.” We often wish we could live inside our favorite memories forever. But what if that memory decided it didn’t want to let you go?In The Ancient Cedar Tree, a moment of perfect love transforms into a cage.Reading from When Memories Become Nightmares:“I looked at his hand in mine. It was solid. Too solid... He turned his head, his smile still fixed. But his eyes... they weren’t his. They were polished glass, reflecting the forest green but holding nothing of the man I loved.They were just the memory, perfect and replicated, with none of the soul.‘You’re not real,’ I whispered.‘I am as real as you need me to be,’ he said...The nightmare was the realization that my own mind had built a beautiful cage and locked me inside it with a perfect, hollow copy. The memory had become sentient, a predator wearing the face of love. It didn’t want to comfort me; it wanted to keep me.”Sometimes, the scariest thing isn’t the monster under the bed. It’s the ghost of the person you loved most. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.com"He had sought change to escape a quiet sadness, only to gain a profound, absolute isolation."The story of Peleus and Lyra explores the heavy price of wanting to be something more than what we are. When the manatee Peleus consumes a forbidden lotus, he gains the power and majesty of an elephant—but loses the only creature who truly saw him.A reminder that sometimes the "quiet" lives we lead are actually the ones holding our greatest treasures. 🐚✨

Welcome back to The Akua Projects’ Podcast. I’m your host, Rakia Ari.Today, we are doing something a little different. As many of you know, I’ve been working on a special collection called When Memories Become Nightmares.This project didn’t start as a book. It actually started as a cure for a massive case of writer’s block. I began by writing simple, two-sentence ‘story seeds’ and using AI to generate images for them. But something interesting happened. The AI became an unexpected editor; if I wasn’t descriptive enough, the images wouldn’t work.It forced me to dig deeper. And as I did, these small seeds grew into a global anthology of flash fiction about the specific moment when nostalgia turns into grief.The stories you are about to hear explore what happens when our safest harbors—a childhood home, a lover’s embrace, or a quiet forest—become the very places that haunt us.So, turn down the lights. Here is an exclusive audio preview from my new ebook, When Memories Become Nightmares.If that story stayed with you, the full ebook is available right now. You can find the link in the show notes or directly here on my Substack.As always, thank you for listening, and for supporting The Akua Projects. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit rakiaari.substack.comFeeling the Sunday Scaries? Let me introduce you to the concept of being “between the back and the sack.”Originating from Zulu culture, it describes someone who is well-protected and supported by their community. Safety is found in belonging, not just independence.Who is your “sack” this week? Who holds you when you’re tired?Full Sunday Check-In is up now.

The morning sun of December 26th filtered into the cozy living room, casting a warm glow over the remnants of Christmas wrapping paper that had been cleared away to make room for a new setup. Nana entered the room, a calendar in one hand and a smile on her face that seemed to brighten the space even more.​"Good morning, family!" Nana announced, her voice rich with anticipation. "Today is a special day. It’s December 26th, the start of Kwanzaa!"​Kofi, bursting with the energy only a young boy possesses, looked up from the low table he had been inspecting. "Kwanzaa?" he asked, tilting his head. "Is that a religious holiday like Christmas?"​Nana shook her head gently, placing a hand on his shoulder. "No, Kofi. It’s a secular, pan-African cultural holiday. It runs from today until January 1st. It isn't about religion; it’s about celebrating our history, heritage, and community."​Nana’s eyes grew distant for a moment, reflecting on the past. "It was established in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, right after the Watts Riots in Los Angeles. It was a difficult time, and he wanted to bring African Americans together to restore our sense of community and pride."​Aria, who had entered carrying a woven straw mat, nodded enthusiastically. "He modeled it after traditional African harvest festivals, right Nana?"​"Exactly, Aria!" Nana beamed at her granddaughter. "The name comes from the Swahili phrase matunda ya kwanza, which means 'first fruits.'"​Aria moved to the low table and carefully unfurled the woven mat. "Okay, let’s set up the altar. First is the Mkeka."​"Yes," Nana affirmed, watching Aria smooth out the straw. "The mat represents our tradition and history. It is the foundation upon which everything else rests. Without it, the other symbols have nothing to stand on."​Next, Nana placed a beautiful wooden candleholder on the mat. Kofi rushed over, his hands full of candles—three red, one black, and three green.​"Here is the Kinara and the Mishumaa Saba—the seven candles!" Kofi announced, handing them over. "But why these colors, Nana?"​Nana began placing the candles into the Kinara. "The Kinara represents our ancestry. As for the colors, they are vital to who we are. Black is for the people, Red is for the struggle we have endured, and Green is for the future and the hope we hold."​She pointed to the seven unlit candles now standing tall. "These seven candles represent the Nguzo Saba—The Seven Principles. We dedicate one day to each." She ran her finger along the line. "There is Umoja for Unity, Kujichagulia for Self-Determination, Ujima for Collective Work, and Ujamaa for Cooperative Economics. Then we have Nia for Purpose, Kuumba for Creativity, and finally, Imani for Faith."​Aria returned from the kitchen carrying a bowl overflowing with fresh fruits and vegetables, which she arranged artfully on the mat. "We add the Mazao, the crops, to celebrate the harvest and the rewards of our productive labor."​"And I’m putting down the Muhindi!" Kofi exclaimed, placing two ears of corn on the Mkeka. "One ear for me, and one for Aria!"​"That’s right," Nana laughed softly. "The corn represents the children and the future of our family." She then placed a simple wooden chalice in the center of the arrangement. "And this is the Kikombe cha Umoja, the Unity Cup. We use it to pour libations to honor our ancestors."​As the day turned to evening, the atmosphere in the room shifted to one of reverence. The family gathered around the now-complete altar.​"So, how do we start the ritual?" Aria asked.​"Every night, we ask the greeting: 'Habari Gani?'" Nana said, looking at her grandchildren. "It means, 'What is the news?'"​Kofi puffed out his chest. "And we answer with the principle of the day! Today is day one, so the answer is 'Umoja'—Unity!"​"Correct," Nana said. She struck a match and lit the single black candle in the very center. The flame flickered to life, illuminating their faces. "We light the Black candle first. Then, over the next few days, we will light the others, alternating from the red on the left—representing struggle—to the green on the right—representing hope."​They stood in the glow of the candlelight, feeling the warmth of the moment.​"I can't wait for December 31st," Nana mused. "We will have the Karamu, a great feast with our community, food, and dance."​"And on the last day, for Imani," Kofi grinned, "we get Zawadi! Gifts!"​Aria nudged him playfully. "Yes, but remember, they are usually educational or handmade gifts. It’s about encouraging growth and creativity, not just buying commercial stuff." She smiled at her brother. "It’s going to be a beautiful week."​Nana put her arms around both of them, pulling them close as the black candle burned steadily.​"Happy Kwanzaa, my loves."​"Happy Kwanzaa!" they replied in unison. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe

https://theakuaprojects.blogspot.com/2025/11/sunday-mental-health-check-in-november.html#ShareYourConfidence#MentalHealthCheckIn#LiftOthersUp#BeBrave#believeinothers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rakiaari.substack.com/subscribe