Thursday, July 31

Dudes Mind-Body-Spirit Series

Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Northminster Presbyterian Church

Join us on Ralston Commons for a series of talks/conversations for those identifying as male! Explore topics around the redefinition of masculinity in the current age of feminism and gender fluidity, including toxic masculinity and the commodification of mental, spiritual, and physical health. Don't forget to bring a lawn chair and a beverage!

Meet The Speakers

Ian Clarke | Thursday, July 31 | 7:00 pm

"Spiritual Health and the Meaning of Sabbath"

Ian Clarke is a Candidate for ordination in the PC(USA), and a seminarian getting ready to begin his final year at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. He grew up in Indianapolis and attended Northminster Presbyterian Church until college. Ian has worked with young people for essentially his entire adult life, with experiences ranging from teaching preschool and elementary school to mentoring middle and high schoolers, and currently serves as a Children, Youth, and Families Intern at Triumphant Love Lutheran Church in Austin, TX. His inclinations in ministry are toward liturgical writing, rest and renewal, and Reformed theology. Ian is a musician, coffee guy, beer enthusiast, hoops fan, and chess novice.

Bwana Clements, MSW | Thursday, August 7 | 7:00 pm

"Developing Healthy Tools for Mental Health"

Bwana Clements, affectionately known in the community as “Mr. B,” is a local social worker, professional consultant, program developer, keynote speaker, and author. With over 20 years of community engagement with youth and families in our community, Mr. B has earned a reputation for his ability to connect and build relationships, with a special emphasis on communities of color. He is skilled at connecting with the youth others call hard-to-reach, as he believes that ALL youth desire to be successful and only need the skills, relationships, and opportunities to achieve it.

Bwana Clements was raised on the far eastside, the son of a pastor. Early childhood experiences in the church shaped Mr. Clements’ drive for social justice and passion for helping others. Even as a student at Tech High School and Ball State University, Bwana took an influential position in programs and initiatives that impacted the lives of others. Mr. Clements is now the author of three publications: Rule Book for the Urban Male, My Life Matters: The Urban Initiative Guide to Transformation Youth Life Coaching, and EMPOWER. He is a dynamic trainer and impactful speaker who creates lasting connections with his audience. Bwana currently serves as the Director of Morningstar African Wellness Center for Flanner House.

When not working in the community, Mr. Bwana Clements enjoys time with his wife and children. He and Katie prioritize health and physical fitness. Mr. Clements has a passion for vinyl records, fashion, and interior design.

Michael Kessler | Thursday, August 21 | 7:00 pm

"Physical Health and the Effects of Toxic Masculinity on Health, Fitness, and Physical Self-Care"

Michael currently serves as Managing Assistant General Counsel for Midcontinent Independent Service Operator, Inc. (MISO), where he previously represented the organization as outside counsel for over ten years and joined the organization as in-house counsel in June 2012. Since that time, Michael has been actively engaged in a wide range of issues related to the implementation and development of MISO’s markets, including matters concerning market design, price formation, resource adequacy, and the integration of renewable and distributed energy resources.

Michael (RYT-500, E-RYT 200) began his yoga journey in 2004 as a means of physical therapy following back surgery. Since that practical beginning, he has come to appreciate holistic healing and its benefits, both physical and spiritual. Together, Michael and his spouse, Lily, co-founded Nourished Heart Yoga and Blooming Life Yoga, where they co-taught 10 certified teacher training programs. Michael also guest lectures with Lily at numerous other studios and venues. Michael has been certified in Yoga Nidra with the Amrit Institute, as well as receiving certifications as a Reiki Master and in B.E.S.T. Having one foot in a demanding work world and the other foot in the therapeutic world uniquely positions him to speak with passion on the importance of utilizing a variety of modalities to optimize physical health.