Episodes
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Phil T. Mistlberger is an author, transpersonal therapist, transformational facilitator, and the founder of Arka Brotherhood. Phil has been a guest on the show a few times before when Arka was known as The Samurai Brotherhood.
On this occasion Phil joins me to celebrate the 100th episode by sharing the deeper meaning behind his 14-Point Code Of The Conscious Warrior (which is listed at the bottom of the show notes). This was an insightful and impactful conversation that speaks to many of the issues men are struggling with today.
Here are some of the topics we cover on this episode:
14-point Code of the Conscious Warrior. Code 1 - The importance of making your word good and maintaining integrity. The challenge of maintaining honesty and the benefits it brings to personal transformation. Code 2 - "Know Thyself," and its crucial role in personal growth. The power of the examined life and self-awareness in men's work. Men’s tendency to avoid looking inward and focus excessively on the external world. The role of men's groups in providing a space for reflection and growth. Code 8 - Understanding the balance between passion and compassion in life. Code 4 - The journey of finding the Holy Grail: a man's true calling and higher purpose. The impact of modern technology on attention spans. Code 6 - The concept of gathering courage and consistently moving forward in life. The potential pitfalls of becoming isolated as a leader. Exploring the need for silence, space, and the gap between thoughts. Code 7 - How holding space for others is a valuable practice. The nature of leadership in Arka. Men's work as a method for overcoming isolation and cultivating support. Code 14 - The importance of family connections. Personal stories from Phil’s journey. Why modern men might want to join Arka Pain and suffering as catalysts for change and growth. Appreciation and gratitude for the community built around Arka and the rising tide of men's work.Links from this episode:
Join The Arka Brotherhood
The Denver Warrior Weekend with Phil T. Mistlberger and Ben Goresky
P.T. Mistlberger’s Books
The 14-Point Code of the Conscious Warrior
Make your word good Know thyself Train your body Find the holy grail, your true calling Do not fight down Gather courage and move forward Hold space Be passionate and compassionate Learn, study, train Serve a noble cause greater than yourself Penetrate life with your solar energy Be in integrity Stay in relationship Be a responsible son, parent, grandparent, brother, uncle, husband, boyfriend, grandson, cousin, brother-in-law
For an expanded view of the code, go to Arkabrotherhood.com/the-codeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Levi is a Bwiti healer that helps people heal with some of life's most difficult problems. People come from all over the world to Iboga Wellness Center in Costa Rica to deal with problems like depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, substance and non-substance addictions in a psycho-spiritual context.
Iboga is a small shrub from West central Africa in the countries of Gabon, Cameroon and the Congo. Iboga has been used for centuries by indigenous people and more recently has made its way to the Western world. On this episode, we discuss how healing and transformation can occur with the use of Iboga.
In this episode, we cover:
Levi’s work with Iboga at the Iboga Wellness Center in Costa Rica. Examining the misconceptions about Iboga, with a focus on its healing properties. The “mind cleanse” process that Iboga facilitates. Explanation of how Iboga aids in overcoming trauma and emotional release. Distinction between Iboga and Ibogaine, particularly in addiction treatment. The historical and cultural origins of Iboga from Gabon, Africa. Levi’s personal journey with Iboga, using it to overcome opiate addiction. The spiritual and personal growth aspects of Iboga, contrasting it with its use for physical detox. How tradition and rituals around Iboga have shaped its modern application. Exploration of the psycho-spiritual retreat experience at the Iboga Wellness Center. Discussion on the process and effects of the Iboga mind cleanse and its impact on mental clarity. The emotional and chemical resets (dopamine, serotonin) that Iboga can initiate. Levi’s observations of physical changes in people post-treatment, especially in expressions and facial structure. The significance of integration after an Iboga experience and available support systems. Levi’s description of the spiritual energies of Iboga as a teaching tool that emphasizes self-teaching. Future trends and potential pharmaceutical developments emerging from iboga's properties. Closing thoughts on the responsibility of listening to one's inner call when considering Iboga treatment.Levi's passion is to spread healing and the gift of iboga to whomever is called. Levi wants to give back for the many gifts he has received through iboga.
One key aspect of this iboga work is the Bwiti tradition. Bwiti is the name for someone who works with iboga to heal. The Bwiti tradition focuses on universal truths of our life to guide us to living a full happy life. The Bwiti tradition is a set of tools we can draw on to guide us in life to making the right decisions for ourselves, self love, managing the mind and to give thanks for the most precious gift, our life.
Links from this episode:
Iboga Wellness - Costa Rica
Ben’s “Medicine Retreats” mailing listSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Ian MacKenzie is a mythosomatic guide & filmmaker, as well as the founder of The Mythic Masculine, a platform dedicated to realigning masculinity with thriving life. For over 15 years, he’s been tracking the global emergence of imaginal culture. From the desert of Burning Man to the heart of Occupy Wall St, he has sought and amplified the voices of visionaries, artists and activists who have been working toward planetary system change. He is the co-director of The Village of Lovers as well as Lost Nation Road, Amplify Her, and Sacred Economics.
On this episode, we cover:
Mythopoetic Men's Work: Exploring myth, men's groups, and men's initiation work. The Story of Ian’s Grandfather: How his death opened the door to men's work for Ian. The Challenge of Modern Manhood: Exploring how men become men in a culture with no clear passage into manhood. The Story of Iron John: Key themes and how it relates to modern men. The Hero vs. the King Archetype: Differences and what they signify for personal growth. Ian’s Journey Into Mythopoetic Work: From the feminine gateway to exploring the deep masculine. The Lost Culture of Initiation: The impact of the absence of initiation rites in modern society. Men's Longing for Depth: The hunger for cultural depth and initiation in men’s lives. The Importance of the Wound: How a wound or adversity plays a crucial role in men's initiation. Archetypes Explained: The significance of the wild man, the golden boy, and other archetypes. The Rediscovery of Passion: How modern men can reconnect with their passion and primal energy. The Evolution of the Mythopoetic Men's Movement: A look back at its origins and its journey. The Role of Story and Myth: Utilizing story and myth to transmit knowledge and wisdom. Men's Circles: The transformative power of being seen and supported by other men. Eros and Appreciative Consciousness: Cultivating beauty and life energy in oneself. Rediscovering the Inner Well: Accessing the inner source of life energy to prevent external dependency. The Red, White, and Black Armor: Understanding the stages of masculine development. The Necessity of Men's Support: How men can provide what women and the world sometimes cannot. Emotional Coaching and Accountability: The unique way men can inspire and challenge each other. The Deep Masculine: Defining and understanding the essence of the deep masculine.Links:
The Mythic Masculine Ian’s Instagram Facebook Ian’s Films And Essays The Arka Brotherhood men’s community
The Conscious Relationship Council, with Ben GoreskySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Traver Boehm is the leader of the Man Uncivilized Movement, the author of multiple books, and a huge advocate for men’s work. Traver leads by example, and in this episode, he joins me on the show for a second appearance to share the powerful story of his father’s passing. He shares the insights and lessons we can all take from his experience.
He also shares his story of spending 28 days in a “darkness retreat” where he saw no light for 28 days. The lessons of this powerful psychedelic experience shine through in striking detail as he takes us through what it was like to be in total darkness for a month.
In this conversation, we discuss:
The recent death of Traver’s father, reflecting on father wounds, with a powerful story of healing in those last days. The role of men’s work and men’s groups in healing the father wound. Dark Room: Traver’s experience living in a room by himself in complete darkness for 28 days. The insights this gave him on death, freedom, and living fearlessly, hallucinations, grief processing, and lessons about time perception. Death and Freedom: How the acceptance of our mortality can influence our approach to life and goals. Traver’s Upcoming book, “28 Days in Darkness,” releasing in February.Links from this episode:
Man UNcivilized website
Traver’s Instagram
Book: 28 Days in Darkness
The Arka Brotherhood men’s work community
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Nick TNT Terry is a certified life coach, breathwork practitioner, intervention consultant, and an author. He is the co-founder of Honu House Hawaii, a residential rehab facility in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, and the owner of Breath of Life Recovery, a wellness consulting practice offering breathwork, cold water therapy and wellness modalities.
Since getting sober in 2014, Nick has worked for more than eight years in the field of addiction and mental health treatment. Nick shares how he transformed from wayward addict to breathwork and recovery life coach, and offers his holistic, much-needed perspective on how others can do the same.
Here’s what we get into:
- Nick’s childhood in a tumultuous environment, with early access to alcohol and drugs.
- As Gabor Mate says, the roots of addiction are disconnection.
- Nick’s habit of dishonesty and criminal behavior as coping mechanisms.
- Pivotal moments in his recovery journey that led him to seek long-term sober living.
- Transformative experiences with breathwork as a healing tool for trauma and disconnection.
- For addicts in recovery: The importance of being present in the moment, even if it’s uncomfortable.
- Nick describes how breathwork has helped him cultivate a sense of presence and connection that long eluded him.
Links:
Honu House Hawaii
Instagram
Breath of life recovery
Buy the book - Breath of life: Finding Long-Term Recovery with Breathwork and Stepwork
Ben’s Freedom From Addiction Circle
The Arka Brotherhood
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Andy Nguyen and Yenukwa Kombian are the co-founders of Kings of Hearts, an organization committed to cultivating heart-based leaders. With 8 years of experience, they specialize in men’s leadership training and facilitate transformative men’s groups and retreats. Their work is rooted in the leadership values of awareness, embodiment, and integrity, empowering men to lead with authenticity, emotional intelligence, and a deeper connection to themselves and others.
On this episode, we cover:
Men’s Isolation: a huge issue men are facing today. A peek into what we do in our men’s groups and why it is so impactful. The three pillars of men’s leadership training. How Andy and Yenukwa found themselves doing “men’s work”. How Andy emerged from being a participant into a leader. Men’s groups: The power of being seen with all one’s flaws and shadows, and being supported The challenges of offering authentic feedback to other men The “Miracle Zone” of personal growth. Osho’s dynamic meditation, the controversy around him, and useful practices he taught Embodying the Conscious King Archetype How to lead without making it about you The importance of accountability in leadership. Emotional self-awareness and the importance of community. The Work: Men’s group in prison, and how we are not all that different from those men. Men’s big emotions: Need a container. The importance of men’s groups that go inward. What Andy and Yenukwa recommend for men who are just starting out in this kind of work.Links from this episode:
Kings Hearts website
@kingsofhearts on Instagram
Kings of Hearts Podcast
KOH Retreat Nov 1-3 2024
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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GS Youngblood is the author of “The Masculine in Relationship” which offers a model for conscious masculinity. With The Masculine Blueprint, GS teaches men to become grounded in their own power while also staying in relationship with their feminine partner.
GS teaches that many relationship problems are actually rooted in a lack of “Relational Masculinity” which is a combination of groundedness, leadership, and relational skills. He joins me on the show to discuss these topics.
On this episode, we talk about:
Complacency in Relationships: Men’s complacency in relationships to avoid becoming complacent. The importance of being in “directive energy”. Leadership in Relationships: Challenges in nurturing leadership roles. Making decisions without always feeling compelled to do so. The importance of attunement to your partner when making decisions. Creating Emotional Safety for your partner The importance of self-examination and assessment - humility. Receiving feedback from partners. Structure in Relationships Internal and External Structure Setting boundaries. Conflict resolution rules. Taking emotional leadership. The need for intentional work on emotional intelligence in men. Operating Styles: Differences between doer/thinker and feeler modes. Switching to a feeler mode for nourishing relationships. Embodiment and meditation tips from GS. Focusing on physical sensations versus stopping thoughts during meditation. Breath Work and Movement recommendations from GS and Ben: Three Elements of The Masculine Blueprint: Respond vs. React. Provide Structure. Create Safety. The results: Groundedness, clarity, boundaries, emotional and physical safety in relationships.Links from this episode:
GS Youngblood’s book: "The Masculine in Relationship."
GS’s course: "The Art of Relational Masculinity."
GS Youngblood’s Live Workshops
GS on IG
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Dr. Anthony Balduzzi is a distinguished researcher and three time guest on the podcast. Recently he has been digging into the biological effects of the electromagnetic spectrum, and finding out how modern electromagnetic fields can damage living tissue. What he has uncovered will make even the most skeptical listeners think differently.
In this episode, Balduzzi describes the harmful effects of EMFs and shares practical ways we can all reduce our exposure.
Here’s what we cover on this episode:
An overview of the electromagnetic spectrum, and where cell phones and wifi fit in. EMF sensitivities and allergies. How electricity works in our bodies, and how that may interact with other electric fields The mechanism by which practices like earthing can have significant health benefits. How our bodies use electric fields to regulate, among other things, the distribution of minerals Relationship between electric frequencies and proper functioning of mitochondrial DNA Effect of EMF on bee biology and behavior Comparing non-ionized and ionized radiation How non-ionizing radiation can damage DNA. History of lobbying affecting national telecom tower installation laws Difference between 5G, and the ‘5G’ on new wifi routers Pulses of radiation are more harmful to our bodies than continuous fields Effects of proximity to frequency emitters such as phones and wifi Effects of bluetooth earphones Starlink radiation Benefits of earthing, contacting ground with bare skin The different options for blocking or reducing EMF exposure in your home.
Links from this episode:Dr. Balduzzi’s Website: Fit Father Project
Radio wave packet resource
EMF Reader Ben is using
Book Highlight: "The Invisible Rainbow" by Arthur Furstenberg explores the historical correlation between major pandemics and the rollout of EMF technology. A must-read for those curious about the hidden layers of our modern environment.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Alison Armstrong has been teaching and speaking publicly about men and relationships for 3 decades. She is a thoughtful and inquisitive individual whose curiosity led her to a profound revelation about human behavior and relationships. Through her deep contemplation and examination of male development, she realized that men often react independently of women's influences, shaped instead by their developmental stages.
Her insights shed light on the misconceptions women might have, believing that a man's dedication to his career or personal goals could signify a lack of love. Alison's keen realization emphasizes that men and women's actions and priorities are influenced by different developmental needs, rather than personal affection or commitment. Her work aims to foster better understanding and communication between genders.
In this episode, Alison and I explore the complexities of conflict resolution, emphasizing the importance of curiosity over false conclusions. We discuss the evolution of the men's movement, strategies for handling relationships, and the power dynamics between genders. Alison shares her own transformative experience of challenging negative perceptions of men and highlights the critical role of empathy and understanding in nurturing strong, healthy relationships.
On this episode, we discuss:
How men and women deal differently with emotions.- How women can get what they need while empowering men. How she became a champion for men, and a helper in relationships between men and women. Frog farming vs. discovering princes. Helping women understand stages of men’s development. How she learned to stop diminishing men, and how that changed her relationships. Ways that women justify disempowering men. Moving ‘from furious to curious’. Learning to improve communication. Dropping over-fixation on boundaries and leaning in with curiosity. Avoiding labelling each other. Being ‘pro-choice orgasm’ Tips on really listening to each other, and common traps of not listening. The importance of making friends outside your relationship. How her work has changed over the years. Her thoughts on different waves of feminism.Links from this episode:
Alison’s website
Alison’s Instagram
Alison’s Youtube
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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In today's episode, we’re diving deep into the world of sacred plant medicines, indigenous wisdom, and conscious parenting with the extraordinary Vivien Vilela. Join us as we explore the delicate art of harvesting peyote, the spiritual importance of maintaining a respectful relationship with the earth, and the dangers of commodifying sacred plants. Vivien shares her journey from the party scene to a profound spiritual awakening. We discuss the significance of ceremony and proper guidance when working with plant medicines, and we specifically discuss Peyote.
We also discuss the visionary Aniwa Gathering, a transformative event founded by Vivien, which brings together indigenous leaders from around the world to share sacred ceremonies and wisdom without the use of entheogenic medicines. Learn about the critical need for sustainable practices, the impact of screen addiction on children's development, and how to raise children naturally in a city environment.
Ben and Vivien also reflect on their personal experiences, the importance of spiritual initiations, and the lifelong journey of personal growth and healing. Whether you're a parent, a seeker of spiritual wisdom, or someone curious about indigenous practices, this episode offers valuable insights into living a conscious, connected life. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that promises to leave you inspired and informed.
On this episode, we discuss:
Harvesting and use of Peyote properly Destruction and Disruption of Peyote Plants Efforts to educate on responsible harvesting Indigenous Cultural Practices Emphasis on reciprocity and respectful relationships with the earth Rituals such as fasting, offerings, and spiritual connection Commodification and Misappropriation Concerns over sacred plant medicines being commodified Importance of traditional initiations and proper practices The dangers of recreational use without proper guidance Adherence to indigenous practitioner wishes Ceremony and Reciprocity Knowledgeable Practitioners and Offerings Importance of sitting in ceremony with experienced practitioners Physical and spiritual offerings Reciprocity and its significance Aniwa Gathering Focus on spiritual connection without entheogenic medicines Use of natural herbs like cacao, tobacco, and sage Raising funds for indigenous projects through the Huya Aniwa foundation Peyote’s Spiritual Significance Description of peyote and its roots in Mexico and Texas Its role in connecting individuals to their true selves and ancestral memory Importance of using peyote in the right ceremonial context Indigenous wisdom on parenting Lack of initiation rituals in western societies Approaches to avoid screen time and societal pressures Emphasis on discipline with love and fostering unconditional love and respect Traditional midwifery and keeping children close Nurturing imagination and avoiding artificial toys Faster brain development in indigenous children in nature Challenges in City Environments Pushback from society and finding natural stimuli The impact of screens on children’s emotional balance and ability to be present Concerns about excessive screen time Conscious living as parents Personal Growth and Spiritual Awakening Vivien’s Story Journey from party scene and drug use to spiritual awakening Spiritual session leading to significant growthAniwa Gathering
Aniwa’s main site
Aniwa on instagram
Hyua Aniwa
Aniwa on Youtube
Ben’s Freedom From Addiction Circle
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Charlie Bloom and his wife Linda have been writing and teaching about relationships for decades, and he joins me on the heels of the release of their recent book “An End To Arguing: 101 Valuable Lessons For All Relationships”
We discuss these points and more:
-Differences are unavoidable; conflict is not.
-Your partner thinks differently than you.
-Ways to free yourselves from impasses.
-It’s often better to just drop a fight until your heads are cooler.
-Deepening a relationship beats winning an argument.
-Speak according to the receptivity of your partner.
-Learn to see the fears of yourself and your partner.
-Learn to share responsibility for problems with your partner.
-Coming out of victim scripts into co-creation.
-Different relationships have different kinds of conflict.
-Are there couples who never fight?
-Learning how to be in conflict.
-‘Sudden’ endings to relationships are often years in the making.
-Translating relational teachings into action.
-Losing the hope that you’ll never get triggered
-The biases of friends supporting us in relationships.
Links:
Charlie and Linda Bloom’s website
The Creating Conscious Love Course
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Jordan Gray is a relationship coach who has written hundreds of articles that have been read by over 250 million people worldwide. He has worked with tens of thousands of clients via his programs, groups, and 1-on-1 coaching.
He joins me on this episode to talk about how to get the most out of life as the challenges land on our doorstep.
Moving from bachelor to committed relationship Marriage has actually been great Dating takes a lot of energy! Finding someone who’s also a giver Each relationship is different, so relationship advice can’t be universal Look for a counterpoint to where you and your partner tend to go too far, for example with too much or too little structure. Fears of going into marriage: "what if things get worse and worse and I’m stuck?" The practice of addressing troubles in the relationship rather than just enduring them. Phases of life: dating and deeper relationships. Thresholds of deepening into a relationship. Preparing for parenthood. The benefits of becoming a generalist, of getting off the computer and chopping wood. City life vs. country life Giving up financial opportunities for the sake of heart and happiness. Relationship with money: between the poles of demonizing it and making it one’s god The importance of choosing friends who support your objectives. Solo therapy compared to group therapy. In parenting, offering children both safety and adventurous risk. How it can help children to see their parents work responsibly. How being a parent can limit available work time, but make it more potent. Screen addiction and parenthood. Countering screen addiction with finding a deeper purpose.
We discuss:Links:
Jordan Gray’s website
Productivity course
The Level-Up Your Relationships WorkshopSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Dr. Manesh Girn is a postdoctoral neuroscientist and popular science content creator specializing in the neuroscience of psychedelic drugs. He currently works at the University of California, San Francisco, alongside psychedelic research pioneer Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, where he conducts research on the neural mechanisms underlying the psychedelic experience and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.
In addition to his research, Manesh runs a popular digital platform on Instagram and YouTube called "The Psychedelic Scientist”, where he shares the latest findings in psychedelic science in a digestible and easy to understand way.
In this episode, we discuss:
Manesh's journey from head to heart, from bypassing emotions to inhabiting them. Emotion centred, body-focused therapy (beating pillows with weapons.) How Manesh got his start in psychedelic research. How an early psychedelic experience opened Manesh up to different takes on reality. Finding the support to go beyond intellect. The various healing/transformational modalities of: breathwork men’s groups psychedelics conscious relationship training How different psychedelics affect our brains differently. Neuroplasticity: how psychedelics can help change thought patterns. Psychedelics for those with with trauma and depression. The importance of support in psychedelic journeys Setting down a belief that life is intrinsically unsafe. Learning to recognize people and situations that are safe. Integrating psychedelic experiences for lasting change. The importance of intention before and after a psychedelic journey. Psychedelics as an aid to innovation. Psychedelics for people in positions of power.Manesh’s Youtube
Manesh’s website
Manesh’s Instagram
Arka Brotherhood Men’s CommunitySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Mark Groves, founder of Create The Love is a relationship expert, but he also believes in freedom of speech and thought, and is an advocate of personal sovereignty. During the recent pandemic, he began sharing what he was seeing in the people and institutions around him. His sharing on @itsmarkgroves and The Mark Groves Podcast was controversial, because any dissenting opinion at that time was censored and considered to be “unsafe”.
I personally appreciated the discourse that Mark was bringing, as I lacked the courage to be as bold as he was, despite agreeing with many of his questions. On this episode of the podcast, I discuss the pandemic, the lockdowns, and the hysteria that took over our society at that time.In this episode, we dive into:
The dangers of framing everything as a safety issue. Dehumanizing people during the pandemic. Data-based arguments about COVID-19 vaccines. Mass formation psychosis. Why PCR tests shouldn’t be used for diagnostic purposes. Unconsciously believing that healthy people are biological threats. The wide scope of misinformation spread throughout the pandemic. The anxiety, fear, and hysteria spearheading pandemic behavior. Family conflicts and getting “canceled” over COVID-19 dissent. COVID-19 and masks as an ideology vs evidence-based. Natural immunity is at least equal to vaccinated immunity. The exploitation of psychology and weaponization of belonging. Normalizing controlling people’s bodily autonomy. Censoring people, governments spreading misinformation, and the lack of critical thinking during the pandemic. Language is the first step to dehumanizing people in an out-group. Violating informed consent when getting vaccinated. How do we prevent divisiveness in the future? Healing begins with the acceptance of reality (that the unvaccinated were marginalized and demonized while being left out of society and losing their jobs, while the vaccine that was promised to end the pandemic didn’t, and Omicron did) Accountability without annihilation. Learning to speak your truth despite the inconvenience. Fighting for the freedom to disagree.Links from this Episode
Part 1 of This Episode Mark’s Website Mark’s Instagram Masks Immunity Mass Formation PsychosisSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Mark Groves is the founder of Create The Love, and host of the Mark Groves Podcast. Mark is on a mission to bridge the academic and the human, inviting people to explore the good, the bad, the downright ugly, and the beautiful sides of connection. His work empowers people to step into their power, transform the way they relate to themselves and others, and create authentic change in their lives.
Mark and I sit down on the coast of Tofino, Canada for a special two-part episode.In part 1, we talk about fatherhood and parenthood.
In this episode, we discuss:
Fatherhood as a deeper window to look at where there is still work to be done on oneself. After having a child, what is most important? Old wounds and patterns that tend to arise during parenthood. How intimacy dynamics tend to shift after having a child. The reasons why an uncomfortable number of couples divorce after the first year of a child’s life. Nurturing your feminine energy as a man. Accessing discipline and discernment as a father. Upholding the ethical obligation to be successful. Being purpose-driven as a man. The paradox of choice. The downsides to technology and access to mass communication. Consciously choosing every aspect of your life. Embracing a cultural initiation into manhood. What is toxic masculinity and why does it exist? Valuing mother and father roles in the family. Inflated egos and immaturity. What comes after ego dissolution? The benefits of taking time off work to support your new family. How fathers can support their own health after having a kid. The importance of talking to other men after having a child. The gift of being a parent and the gifts you receive from your child. And a question for Mark: Now that you have a kid, is it worth it? Would you recommend it?Links from this Episode:
Part 2 of This Episode (on C0.vid Hysteria) will come out in 2 weeks and links will be updated at that time. Mark’s Website Mark’s Instagram Mark’s Podcast Mark on YouTube Conscious Relationship Council - a live 12-week relationship training for men Arka Brotherhood - men's work.Previous episodes with Mark:
Evolving Man Podcast - Holding Space with Mark Groves Evolving Man Podcast - To Be A Man with Mark GrovesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Todd Youngs has been in continuous recovery from severe addiction and alcoholism since 2009. His personal path to recovery involved a combination of 12 step work, and his work with Ayahuasca. Todd now works intensively with others to help them achieve a life of satisfying and meaningful sobriety. His approach is eclectic and holistic drawing on the 12 Steps, CBT, MEI, and Mindfulness practice in order to deeply address the bio/psycho/social/spiritual aspects of addictive disorders.
Todd has worked extensively with Ayahuasca for over 14 years within a variety of communal and personalized settings. He is focussed on building bridges between the older treatment paradigm and newly emerging modalities that utilize Ayahuasca. He is the co-founder of Natura Care Programs.
Todd is often heard fondly referring to his own personal path of recovery as AAA+, or “Ayahuasca Assisted Alcoholics Anonymous: A Roadside Service for broken-down, drug-addicted hippies”.
In this episode we dive into:
How humans explore drugs to satisfy creative and spiritual yearnings. The dark and light sides of psychedelics. Todd’s wild addiction recovery story. Using pharmaceuticals to manage side effects of drug and alcohol use. Connecting to something bigger than yourself through ayahuasca. Todd’s journey of brewing his own ayahuasca in his mother’s basement. How ayahuasca helped Todd through 12-step recovery. The necessity of connection and accountability during recovery. Family members seeing a change in Todd & Ben after ayahuasca journeys. Healthy ways to incorporate the use of an altered state to transform your life. Therapeutic opportunities when taking psychedelics. Psychedelics vs therapy. Are psychedelics the right path for you? Breaking down what the 12-week Natura Care Program looks like and why the 12 week model is advantageous. True recovery: Healing the root causes of addiction. Finding centeredness, calmness, joyfulness. Can you actually trust plant medicines? Ultra-conservatism vs. open-mindedness in recovery circles. Psychedelics in Recovery.Links from this episode
Natura Care Programs Psychedelics in Recovery Todd’s Website Ben’s Freedom from Addiction Circle Evolving Man Brotherhood Free-Trial on CircleSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Dr. Scott Lyons is the author of the book “Addicted to Drama: Healing Dependency on Crisis and Chaos in Yourself and Others”. He joins me for a discussion about all addictions - from alcohol to sex to food, and of course drama - and how they are formed. We also talk about how to heal from addiction by addressing the root.
Scott also runs a Somatic Therapy school called The Embody Lab which offers fantastic training for coaches and healers.
The origins of addiction and how to define it (Disease or no disease?) Medical model vs. Humanistic model view of addiction. The opposite of addiction is connection to self and others. Finding comfort in filling voids and dissociation. The deadliness of loneliness. Why do we experience traumas differently? The defence mechanism of denial. The link between addiction and a fear of intimacy. What addicted to drama looks like? Attachment to unnecessary turmoil and nervous system activation. Making sense vs. making sensation. How are you unconsciously creating childhood patterns in your adult life? Exaggerated responses vs. an inner sense of normalcy. Assessing currencies of love from childhood. The separation of process addictions and the necessities of being human. Disrupting your inner peace with the “revving reflex”. What does it look like to recover from addiction and heal? Building tolerance for ease and connection. Creating a narrative around withdrawal symptoms. Trauma lives in your nervous system and is a felt experience. MDMA therapy and trauma. Is it possible to escape drama in the capitalist world we live in? How do you support someone who is addicted to drama? Mirror neuron responses. Taking responsibility for the role you play in relationships.
In this episode we dive into:Links:
Book - Addicted to Drama by Dr. Scott Lyons Scott's Somatic Training School - The Embody Lab Scott’s Website Scott’s Instagram Scott’s Facebook Scott’s YouTube The Freedom From Addiction CircleSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Sheleana Aiyana is an author, a poet, my wife and the mother of our child. She is author of the Canadian bestseller “Becoming The One” and the forthcoming journal under the same name, and the founder of Rising Woman where she brings tools for healing and transformation to millions of women.
She joins me on this episode for a candid conversation about our recent parenthood journey, the struggles we have had, and how we believe parents could be better supported (by their community, and themselves) to be the best parents they can be.
In this episode we dive into:
Why a shocking number of couples break up within the first year of having a child. The challenges that emerge once you become parents. The transformation of a relationship after the arrival of a child. Addressing the common phrase, "Being a parent is the hardest thing in the world." 50/50 parenting and the shifting roles and responsibilities as co-parents. The normalcy of changes in intimacy and sex life after having a baby. Accessing and integrating relationship tools from the experts. Taking time to master your romantic and sexual relationship. The goal of relationship work is not perfection. Minimizers VS Maximizers Gender-specific support in navigating parenthood and relationships. Men’s biggest struggle when the responsibilities of marriage and family weigh him down. The feeling of being "touched out" as a mother. The resurgence of old family dynamics when building a family. Ben & Sheleana’s personal parenthood struggles and steps to overcome the challenges. Negativity in relationships - The tendency to focus on negativity for survival and the power of conscious choice. How we co-create our problems in relationship. Doing vs. being. Navigating conflicts as a team. Gratitude practices to check in with your partner. Calling in your partner's true essence. How to be your own healer.Links
Becoming The One Journal Freedom from Relationship Anxiety Program with Rising Woman The Conscious Relationship Council with Evolving Man Rising Woman Website Rising Woman InstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Dr. Anthony Balduzzi is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and creator of the Fit Father Project and Fit Mother Project. He lost his father at the age of 42, which led him to dedicate his life to helping people live healthy and happy well into their old age.
Anthony is a former national champion bodybuilder, nutritionist, and all around great example of all-around health. He joins me to talk about the practical steps each of us can take to insure a long and healthy life.
How to take care of yourself to age gracefully. Adapting your exercise routine as you get older, especially 40+. Exercising based on your nervous system state. Maintaining strength, cardiovascular health, flexibility, and mobility as you age. The importance of eating well. Nutrition is the baseline of health that can be maintained. Proper rehydration methods. Foods to eat at different times throughout the day to maximize your body’s energy. Greens powder. The addiction to sugary drinks. Anthony’s and Ben’s personal diet journeys. Paying attention to how different foods and drinks impact your body. Circadian rhythms. Comparing blue light, red light, UV light, infrared light, and red light machines. Entraining to the spectrum of light that is relevant to that time of day. How to supplement harsh winters with little sunlight. Flowing with the seasons with your routines. Vitamin D and K2 supplements. What supplements to take when you’re getting sick. Immortality… How longevity is a byproduct of our lifestyle.
In this episode we dive into:Links from this episode:
Fit Father Project Website Fit Father Project Instagram Fit Father Project Facebook Fit Father Project YouTube My Previous Episode with Anthony Conscious Relationship CouncilSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Becky Griffin is a co-founder of Caya Shobo, an Ayahuasca and plant medicine healing center in Peru. She has been immersed in a path of self-discovery and learning with the Shipibo plant medicine tradition since 2008, and she joins me to talk about her extensive experience dieting various Master plants under the guidance of high-level Shipibo maestro and maestra Onányas.
Becky is a facilitator and healer for people seeking healing and growth from plant medicines like Ayahuasca and master plant diets. She has served as an apprentice curandera of the Shipibo tradition since 2012 and currently holds small ceremonial gatherings for experienced dieters.
On this episode we talk about:
Ayahuasca shamanism. Becky & Ben’s personal exploration with plant medicine. The wisdom of Ayahuasca: shifting between light and dark energy. Mind-centered talk therapy vs. body & spirit-centered plant medicine. Addressing physical ailments with plant medicine. Reconnecting with the spirit of nature. What is a “plant dieta” and how does it work? The synchronicities between nature and humans. How to establish a relationship with the consciousness of plants. Ayahuasca is a diagnostic tool. The benefits of going to Peru for plant medicine treatment. Healing at the cellular level with plant medicine. How long does it take to heal with plant medicine? The false light of Ayahuasca and other plants. The pitfalls of exploring plant medicine with inexperienced healers. The downfalls of placing spiritual teachers on pedestals. Be your own teacher - becoming responsible for your own healing path. Integrating all parts of yourself - mental, spiritual, light, shadow. The light and dark sides of cannabis and tobacco. Healing vs. coping. Becky’s favourite Master Plants. An opportunity to travel to Peru with Ben for a retreat.Links from this episode:
Caya Shobo Website Caya Shobo Instagram Caya Shobo Facebook Join the Evolving Man Brotherhood circleAnd finally, a message from Becky:
“I believe that at this time we are all being called to embark on a process of transformation, to heal the wounds and confusions of the past, and to start to realize our potential to live in genuine joy and balance. We each must find our own true self beneath the markings of trauma and conditioning that we carry and discover and integrate the ‘medicine’ within those challenges.
The Shipibo medicine tradition and the master healing plants are living wonders from an ancient world. My own search for healing and greater meaning in life has brought me to this sacred path. And through supporting many others on a similar journey, I have seen that it is possible to slowly but surely nurture a deep connection with the master teacher plants and their songs, and thereby foster a greater harmony and understanding within, while restoring our rightful relationships with all of life.
It is my honour to assist and support others on this blessed journey of discovery.”
~ Becky
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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