We sit with Brother Yona to map Hoodoo’s true lineage, from Congolese roots to Bible Belt syncretism, and why representation in Sinners feels rare and right. The talk blends history, ethics, and lived practice with stories that carry power across generations. Follow Brother Yona on Instagram @propheticsoulguideinc and visit Professor Porterfield at http://www.professorporterfield.com/

• Hoodoo as African American folk magic built from survival and admixture
• jazz, hip hop, and gumbo analogies that explain practice and form
• regionalism, family lines, and Protestant and Catholic overlay
• Bible magic, Psalms, hyssop, and church syncretism
• migration-era stigma and hidden-in-plain-sight practices
• who gets to practice, good guest ethics, and reciprocity
• media tropes versus authentic portrayal in Sinners
• High John folklore, mojo bags, and documented histories including Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman

Thank you so much for joining us. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok, and watch us on YouTube at A Most Interesting Monster

Follow Manny at @dialoguesbydesign on Instagram

Follow Jezmina at @jezmina.vonthiele on Instagram

Hosted by Manny and Jezmina Von Thiele

Edited by Manny

Music by Dia Luna

If you enjoyed this episode about monstrosity and beauty, subscribe to Immaterial World, hosted by Jezmina Von Thiele and Jessica Richards, wherever you get podcasts! As a gift, you can use code IMMATERIAL30 for 30% off books and decks at checkout at https://redwheelweiser.com/ till March 31, 2026, including on Jezmina's book with Paulina Stevens, Secrets of Romani Fortune Telling.

Also, join the MAKE IT HAPPEN ritual 1/18/26 over zoom with replay to charge up your intentions for 2026!

Thank you so much for joining us. Visit AMostInterestingMonster.com and follow us on Instagram and TikTok, and watch us on YouTube at A Most Interesting Monster

Follow Manny at @dialoguesbydesign on Instagram

Follow Jezmina at @jezmina.vonthiele on Instagram

Hosted by Manny and Jezmina Von Thiele

Edited by Manny

Music by Dia Luna