E12 - Creating Brave Spaces
October 29, 2024
In this episode, our host, Hawah Kasat, sits down with Oneika Mays, a Black, queer feminist who was the first Mindfulness Coach at Rikers Island, one of the world’s largest correctional Facilities in the world. Join them as they discuss Oneika’s story, the impact of systemic issues in the prison industrial complex, how to persevere through repeated rejection, and how to create brave spaces for personal and societal transformation.
From a successful career in corporate retail to a journey within the realms of yoga and meditation, Oneika Mays has embraced the art of transformation, both personally and professionally. Oneika is a beacon of hope and healing who serves as the first mindfulness coach at Rikers Island, one of the largest correctional facilities in the world.
Oneika offers a blend of compassion and skill to those in some of the most challenging environments. Her sessions, which integrate yoga, meditation, and therapeutic practices, are crafted to foster resilience and pave the way for a hopeful return to the community. Her commitment extends beyond the walls of Rikers, as she leads workshops, retreats, and training sessions across the United States, advocating for a life where resilience is woven through the fabric of our daily practices. Her approach is rooted in the belief that mindfulness and meditation are not merely practices but are pathways to freedom.
Another aspect of Oneika’s journey is her upcoming memoir, You Can Sit With Me, slated for release with Harper One in April 2026. This book promises to be a deep dive into themes of unconditional love, trust, and the universal quest for connection and understanding, inviting readers to reflect on their paths and find solidarity in shared experiences.
In this episode, our host, Hawah Kasat, sits down with Oneika, to discuss:
- The history of Riker’s Island and how it became one of the largest jails in the world
- Oneika’s journey to becoming their first full-time Mindfulness Teacher
- The challenges and triumphs of working with incarcerated individuals
- The illusion of safety and how to create brave spaces
- How to persevere in the face of repeated rejection
- Writing her book about her experiences at Riker’s Island and landing a book deal
- Staying “in the boat” and being able to stay focused to accomplish your goals
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Learn More About Riker's Island:
NBC News - In-Depth Look at Life On Riker’s Island
New York’s Most Disturbing Jail
NBC News - In-Depth Look at Life On Riker’s Island
New York’s Most Disturbing Jail
Learn More About Oneika Mays:
Linktree - Oneika Mays
Website - Oneika Mays
LinkedIn - Oneika Mays
Instagram - Oneika Mays
Social Links for Hawah Kasat
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Previous guests include Radha Agrawal of Daybreaker and Ofosu Jones-Quartey, an artist and musician (under the name BORN I) and healer.
Check out the most downloaded episodes:
Check out the most downloaded episodes:
- E5- Radical Love
- E4 - Breaking Out Of The Binary
- E3 - You Are Enough
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