In this episode of the Goddess of Technology podcast, we’re embarking on a deeply important and sensitive topic: Cultural appropriation. We’re learning what cultural appropriation is, examining its historical roots and exploring the significant risks it poses when spiritual, and sacred practices are taken without permission or understanding.
We’re specifically exploring the cultural appropriation of sacred traditions, spiritual cultures and practices from the Hawaiian and Polynesian peoples, the Japanese culture through the lens of Matcha, Anime and Manga, and the practices of Native Americans. We’re diving into how this plays out in the areas of lifestyle, food, fashion, music, and social media.
More importantly, I’m sharing an action plan with concrete action items on how you can avoid cultural appropriation in your own life while further empowering indigenous communities and culrures, and leveraging sources of inspiration in a socially responsible and integrous manner.
Beautiful, I’m inviting you to share your thoughts and personal experiences on cultural appropriation through the contact form linked in the general podcast description. Your voice is a cherished part of our community, and your insights are invaluable.
REFERENCES
- Aka, L. and D. (2023). What does cultural appropriation mean for Pacific people?. Talanoa. Available at: https://talanoa.com.au/what-does-cultural-appropriation-mean-for-pacific-people-2/ (Accessed: October 29th, 2025).
- Ami, T. (2025). The Matcha Shortage is a Cultural Wake-Up Call. New University. Available at: https://newuniversity.org/2025/05/29/the-matcha-shortage-is-a-cultural-wake-up-call/ (Accessed: October 29th, 2025).
- Chuang, A. P. (2024). Cultural Commodification and Indigenous Identity. Unpublished manuscript. https://www.google.com/search?q=Elementalgidance.com. (2023). Respecting Aloha: Navigating Cultural Appropriation in Hawaiian Traditions. Elemental Guidance. Available at: https://elementalguidance.com/respecting-aloha-navigating-cultural-appropriation-in-hawaiian-traditions/ (Accessed: October 29th, 2025).
- Japanpowered.com. (2024). The Cultural Appropriation of Otaku. Japan Powered. Available at: https://www.japanpowered.com/otaku-culture/otaku-cultural-appropriation (Accessed: October 29th, 2025).
- Kwan, L. (2025). Matcha and Spa Water: How Cultural Appropriation is Being Normalized on Social Media. DVC Inquirer. Available at: https://www.dvcinquirer.com/opinion/2025/04/29/matcha-and-spa-water-how-cultural-appropriation-is-being-normalized-on-social-media/ (Accessed: October 29th, 2025).
- Lee, V. (2025). The Appropriation and Gentrification of Asian Drinks. Medium. Available at: https://medium.com/@vlee_01/the-appropriation-and-gentrification-of-asian-drinks-d61527adaff2 (Accessed: October 29th, 2025).
- López, V. (2024). Traveling with Respect: How to Avoid Cultural Appropriation. She's Wanderful. Available at: https://blog.sheswanderful.com/what-is-cultural-appropriation-and-how-can-travelers-avoid-it/ (Accessed: October 29th, 2025).
- Music: 'Bummin on Tremelo' by Kevin MacLeod – CC BY 3.0 (incompetech.com)
- Okusa, S. (2024). Matcha, wellness and cultural appropriation. LinkedIn. Available at: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/shizu-okusa-87a25415_matcha-wellness-culturalappropriation-activity-7325903920906547201-xbwh/ (Accessed: October 29th, 2025).
- Parisi, M. (2024). The appropriation of Hawaiian culture by Western tourism. Thesis. Leiden University. Available at: https://studenttheses.universiteitleiden.nl/access/item%3A3217278/view (Accessed: October 29th, 2025).
- Saito, Y. (2025). Hawaiians Tackle Cultural Appropriation. SFGATE. Available at: https://www.sfgate.com/hawaii/article/hawaiians-tackle-cultural-appropriation-20277820.php (Accessed: October 29th, 2025).
