The Weekend University

The Healing Power of Ancestral Reconnection — Jerry Colonna

Aug 28, 2025
Jerry Colonna, an executive coach and founder of Reboot.io, dives into the significance of ancestral reconnection. He touches on how understanding our heritage fosters empathy and challenges societal norms, particularly the myth of meritocracy. The conversation highlights the impact of disconnection from history on feelings of belonging and safety. Colonna also addresses the stigma surrounding homelessness and addiction, calling for collective empathy. Ultimately, he emphasizes that personal transformation and leadership start with understanding our roots.
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INSIGHT

Ancestral Disconnect Fuels Othering

  • Cutting ourselves off from our ancestors deepens our tendency to cut off other people and justify dehumanization.
  • Reconnecting with lineage can create an empathetic bridge toward migrants and those we label as "other."
ANECDOTE

Grave Visit That Changed His View

  • Jerry describes discovering his paternal grandmother was Irish and how that shifted his feelings about his father and family history.
  • Visiting her grave and imagining her youth transformed his anger into empathy and rewired his relationship with his father.
INSIGHT

Remembering As Rootedness Practice

  • Joy Harjo's poem 'Remember' models how sensing environment and ancestors restores rootedness.
  • Re-membering binds separated parts of self and culture to restore belonging.
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