Podcast Show Notes: Within You – Conversation with Dr. Mario Del Angel-Guevara

Episode Overview: In this episode of "Within You," host Vivi welcomes Dr. Mario Del Angel-Guevara, professor at the University of New Mexico and a key figure in the Curanderismo (Traditional Medicine without Borders) program. Vivi and Dr. Guevara discuss the journey of cultural reclamation, the evolution of traditional medicine education, and the importance of community support for sustaining these programs.

Key Topics Covered:

Vivi’s journey to reclaim her heritage and the role of the University of New Mexico’s program in that process.

The history and growth of the Curanderismo program, from its origins in Texas to its expansion in New Mexico and its recent online presence.

The significance of making traditional medicine accessible to both university students and community members.

The challenges of funding and the critical role of community donations in keeping the program alive.

The program's impact on students reconnecting with their roots and the healing power of cultural knowledge.

A deep dive into the history of Texas, the complexities of identity, and the importance of understanding one’s ancestry.

Many Mexican-American families experience the duality of assimilation and cultural pride.

The value of intergenerational conversations and learning from elders.

The universal need for belonging, healing, and cultural affirmation.

Notable Quotes from Dr. Mario Del Angel-Guevara:

“Culture heals. Not all medicines are in a pill form, and not all medicines are in physical form. Medicine can come in many ways, in many forms, in many shapes.”

“We are much more mixed than we think we are—culturally, linguistically, ethnically.”

“Our role, our duty now is to reclaim it, to educate our people, to empower our people, and that’s our part now.”

Resources & Links:

University of New Mexico Curanderismo Program: curanderismo.unm.edu

Donate to support the Curanderismo program (203587): University of New Mexico Foundation - 2022 Lightning Giving Form – Your Gift

Recommended reading: El Alamo by Paco Ignacio Taibo II

Call to Action: If this episode resonated with you, consider supporting the Curanderismo program through a donation, enrolling in a course, or sharing this episode with others on a similar journey of cultural reclamation.

Connect:

With Your Host: Vivi @ vivian@viviancarrasco.com

Our Honored Guest: Dr. Mario Del Angel Guevara, University of New Mexico, curanderismo@unm.edu

Thank you for listening. Stay connected, stay curious, and remember: you are not alone on your journey.

In this heartfelt and introspective episode, I share some of my personal journey of discovering what it takes to "know" the right thing to do. I reflect on my 34-year marriage and how I learned to rely on my inner guidance rather than external advice. In this platica I emphasizes the importance of self-trust, patience, and recognizing one's own truth, drawing upon life's experiences and the concept of living with intention.

The episode invites listeners to explore their inner knowing through various creative mediums and acknowledges the fluid nature of life's truths. It ends with a message of gratitude and an invitation to engage in deeper conversations about self-discovery and inner guidance.

00:00 Introduction and Gratitude

00:55 The Journey of Self-Discovery

05:10 The Right Thing to Do

06:01 Personal Story: Marriage and Family

10:52 Understanding Your Inner Guidance

17:21 The Dance of Knowing

22:32 Exploring Your Own Creation

24:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

What Does It Take to Know the Right Thing to Do?

Have you ever found yourself wrestling with the question, “What’s the right thing to do?” If so, you’re not alone. This question has followed me throughout my life, from my childhood in a large Catholic family in West Texas, through my early marriage, and into the work I do today.

For a long time, I believed the “right thing” was something outside of myself—something I could find in a book, a statistic, or someone else’s advice. I remember, early in my marriage, sitting across from my husband with a stack of books and statistics, convinced that the numbers said we should get a divorce. But instead of a fight, he gently closed the books, took my hand, and said, “Let’s make dinner.” Thirty-four years later, we’re still together, and I’m grateful every day that we trusted our own path over someone else’s predictions.

The Truth Is Within

What I’ve learned is that the “right thing” isn’t a fixed answer or a universal rule. Life is always changing, and so are we. The right thing for you today might not be the right thing tomorrow. It’s not about reaching a destination, but about following your own guiding star—your sense of purpose, your intuition, your heart.

We each have our own truth, shaped by our experiences, values, and unique perspectives. Honoring that truth means listening deeply to yourself, even when it’s uncomfortable or uncertain. It means recognizing that your journey is yours alone, and that’s what makes it beautiful.

How Do You Know?

So, what does it take to know what the right thing to do is? It takes trust in yourself. It takes grace, compassion, and patience. It takes the willingness to explore your own world, to experiment, to make mistakes, and to learn from them. Sometimes, it’s as simple as pausing, tuning in, and asking, “What feels true for me right now?”

There’s no single formula, no one-size-fits-all answer. For some, the journey might feel like climbing a mountain; for others, it’s floating down a river. The important thing is to keep moving, keep listening, and keep learning.

An Invitation

If you’re struggling with a big decision or just feeling lost, I invite you to practice listening to your own knowing. Journal your thoughts, take a walk, create something, or simply sit in silence. Notice what resonates, what makes your heart dance, and what feels like “home” inside you.

Remember: the right thing to do is already within you. Trust yourself, and let your journey unfold.

If this reflection resonates with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts or continue the conversation.

Until then, keep exploring, keep creating, and keep trusting in your own unique path. We forge it, because if you can see it clearly it's likely not yours, it's just a trail left behind others who've walked in the same direction.

Dios Te Bendiga

Vivi

In today's world of endless scrolling and momentary interactions, a rare gem of wisdom can sometimes grace our screens. It was during one of these limited scrolls that I stumbled upon a heartwarming post—a gentleman highlighting his father's personality. It took me back to cherished memories of my grandmother and the wisdom passed down through my dad’s anecdotes. It made me pause and reflect on the narratives I choose to elevate in my own life.

Growing up with four sisters and a brother, I realized from an early age how the same event could appear so different through each of our unique lenses. Despite sharing experiences, we were each an entire world unto ourselves. As I navigated through years of education and various life paths, it became evident that understanding the layers of miracles within and around us was an ongoing endeavor. Fascinatingly, figuring it all out remains elusive, but that doesn’t deter my pursuit of meaning.

Life, as you know, is far from devoid of challenges. Everyone carries traumas, small or significant. However, reaching out for help or offering a steadying hand can make all the difference. That’s my reason for being here—to extend a metaphorical hand through this effort. Though limited by time and space, my voice aims to provide comfort and support.

In directing our lives, we hold the power to shift course, much like a ship's captain avoiding unseen icebergs or steering toward breathtaking sunsets. We narrate our own experiences and possess the agency to choose what we ingest, both literally and figuratively. Recently, certain habits—like green juices and endless cups of tea—have nourished my body, mind, and heart.

With guidance from moments of inspiration, I find the courage to step towards this endeavor, embracing the inherent vulnerability it involves. Aligning with one's true purpose creates an effortless flow, where engagement nourishes rather than depletes. Right now, I sit in a comfortable chair, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the legacy of those who’ve come before me.

Let us take a moment—reach out with your palm up, as if to connect with an ancestor or ally. Envisioning this connection is deeply nourishing. It’s a simple act to remind ourselves of our inner strength and the support available to us at any time. For me, acknowledging this interconnectedness is especially crucial when life's challenges feel most daunting.

As we part for now, remember—a guiding phrase that encapsulates much of my existence is to "give it all you've got." That’s just the way it is. Until next time, I am thankful for having found my way to your heart through your ears, and as you go forward, may you know there are numerous ways to connect with me.

I welcome your prayers and assure you that you remain in mine. Be well, give what you can, and cherish this life.

May this message find you when you need it most, and serve as a gentle hand to hold in your moments of reflection and need.

00:00 Reflecting on Wisdom and Social Media

01:28 Curiosity About People and Experiences

02:54 Navigating Life's Challenges and Seeking Help

04:56 The Power of Agency and Healthy Habits

06:45 Embracing Courage and Alignment

08:28 Connecting with Ancestors and Allies

11:08 Final Thoughts and Gratitude