The Urban Grief Shamans Thu, 28 May 2026 09:11:56 -0400 http://www.urbangriefshamans.com en-us © 2026 The Urban Grief Shamans yes 424f816d-4455-5471-8665-dfce1d39c272 admin@urbangriefshamans.com John Moir episodic false We are a good fit if you navigate urban life and seek healing from grief or trauma. If you're open to spiritual practices, curious about shamanism, value personal growth, and want transformative insights and practical guidance for your daily life, this podcast is for you. Whether you're dealing with stress, recovering from loss, or on a journey of self-discovery and emotional healing, we welcome you. We embrace all preferred pronouns and identities. 🌿

Listeners can expect healing insights, spiritual guidance, and transformative shamanic practices in this podcast.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Grief, healing, mental health, grieving, depression, loss, men grieving, grief circles John Moir admin@urbangriefshamans.com https://storage.buzzsprout.com/nixtfbb7cjk5mkkpzgnfwueeh9le?.jpg The Urban Grief Shamans http://www.urbangriefshamans.com John Moir Patricia Jones A Woman’s Spiritual Awakening Through Loss A Woman’s Spiritual Awakening Through Loss What happens when the life you've meticulously built suddenly feels like it belongs to someone else? This is the question at the heart of our profound conversation with Kelly Sparta.

Grief isn't just about losing someone—it's about losing identities, futures, and versions of ourselves we thought we were supposed to become. Kelly Sparta shares her transformative journey from childhood chaos to spiritual awakening, revealing how grief becomes a gateway to reclaiming personal power.

• Kelly grew up with psychic experiences from early childhood, raised by an alcoholic mother who was dedicated to nurturing Kelly's abilities
• Constant relocations taught Kelly to adapt quickly to new environments but created a deep sense of feeling unwelcome
• A painful marriage and 100-hour work weeks led to burnout and eventually, a transformative spiritual awakening
• Grief operates as a "beingness state" requiring us to process emotions rather than rationalize them away
• When we open to receive love after a prolonged shutdown, grief often surfaces as tears whenever we feel loved
• The current collective grief serves a purpose in global awakening, similar to how COVID-19 forced internal reflection
• Reclaiming personal power requires establishing safety first, then working through fear, anxiety and self-doubt
• Most people entering spiritual paths carry childhood trauma that must be processed to step into authentic power

If you're navigating grief or awakening, Kelly offers free sound healing to clear grief. Use this resource to support your journey.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> What happens when the life you've meticulously built suddenly feels like it belongs to someone else? This is the question at the heart of our profound conversation with Kelly Sparta.

Grief isn't just about losing someone—it's about losing identities, futures, and versions of ourselves we thought we were supposed to become. Kelly Sparta shares her transformative journey from childhood chaos to spiritual awakening, revealing how grief becomes a gateway to reclaiming personal power.

• Kelly grew up with psychic experiences from early childhood, raised by an alcoholic mother who was dedicated to nurturing Kelly's abilities
• Constant relocations taught Kelly to adapt quickly to new environments but created a deep sense of feeling unwelcome
• A painful marriage and 100-hour work weeks led to burnout and eventually, a transformative spiritual awakening
• Grief operates as a "beingness state" requiring us to process emotions rather than rationalize them away
• When we open to receive love after a prolonged shutdown, grief often surfaces as tears whenever we feel loved
• The current collective grief serves a purpose in global awakening, similar to how COVID-19 forced internal reflection
• Reclaiming personal power requires establishing safety first, then working through fear, anxiety and self-doubt
• Most people entering spiritual paths carry childhood trauma that must be processed to step into authentic power

If you're navigating grief or awakening, Kelly offers free sound healing to clear grief. Use this resource to support your journey.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> https://www.urbangriefshamans.com John Moir Buzzsprout-16969415 Sun, 13 Apr 2025 11:00:00 -0400 2949 Emotional Growth, Soul Work, Spiritual Insights 19 full false A Canine Companion, A Spiritual Light A Canine Companion, A Spiritual Light Rebecca Shaper shares her transformative journey through loss, trauma, and healing, emphasizing the profound connection between humans and their dogs. She highlights the role of nature and spirituality in overcoming grief, offering insights on how to find messages from our loved ones beyond death. 

• Exploring the historical bond between humans and dogs 
• Rebecca's personal experiences with loss and trauma 
• The healing power found in nature and shamanism 
• Communication with spirits through animal companions 
• The significance of the book "Roses to Rainbow" 
• Encouragement to embrace grief as a path to joy 
• Recognizing signs from loved ones in the natural world 
• The transformational journey of turning pain into purpose

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> Rebecca Shaper shares her transformative journey through loss, trauma, and healing, emphasizing the profound connection between humans and their dogs. She highlights the role of nature and spirituality in overcoming grief, offering insights on how to find messages from our loved ones beyond death. 

• Exploring the historical bond between humans and dogs 
• Rebecca's personal experiences with loss and trauma 
• The healing power found in nature and shamanism 
• Communication with spirits through animal companions 
• The significance of the book "Roses to Rainbow" 
• Encouragement to embrace grief as a path to joy 
• Recognizing signs from loved ones in the natural world 
• The transformational journey of turning pain into purpose

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> https://www.urbangriefshamans.com John Moir Buzzsprout-16678313 Sun, 23 Feb 2025 15:00:00 -0500 2298 18 full false Gifts From The Herd Gifts From The Herd Dedication:
This episode is dedicated to all military members, veterans, first responders, emergency room physicians, nurses, and hospital security teams. Your courage, resilience, and service are deeply honored.

In this heartfelt episode, Carmen Theobald shares her transformative journey from surviving trauma to embracing post-traumatic growth through her work with horses. She recounts her life-changing experience during a school shooting in Montreal and how it led her to discover the healing power of horses. Carmen explains how equine-assisted therapy offers unique emotional breakthroughs for first responders and others experiencing trauma. Discover how the wisdom and presence of horses help individuals rebuild trust, navigate grief, and embrace courage. Whether you’re exploring healing or seeking hope, this episode offers profound insights and inspiration.

Mentioned in the episode

Watch the trailer to the film Horse Boy on YouTube HERE

Watch the video for First Responders HERE

Watch the introduction video to Horse Sense North HERE

Subscribe to our newsletter

Transcription

Guest Bio

Carmen Theobald

Music for this episode

I Already Know | Sam Will | Epidemic Sound

No River Wide Enough | Airage | Epidemic Sound

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> Dedication:
This episode is dedicated to all military members, veterans, first responders, emergency room physicians, nurses, and hospital security teams. Your courage, resilience, and service are deeply honored.

In this heartfelt episode, Carmen Theobald shares her transformative journey from surviving trauma to embracing post-traumatic growth through her work with horses. She recounts her life-changing experience during a school shooting in Montreal and how it led her to discover the healing power of horses. Carmen explains how equine-assisted therapy offers unique emotional breakthroughs for first responders and others experiencing trauma. Discover how the wisdom and presence of horses help individuals rebuild trust, navigate grief, and embrace courage. Whether you’re exploring healing or seeking hope, this episode offers profound insights and inspiration.

Mentioned in the episode

Watch the trailer to the film Horse Boy on YouTube HERE

Watch the video for First Responders HERE

Watch the introduction video to Horse Sense North HERE

Subscribe to our newsletter

Transcription

Guest Bio

Carmen Theobald

Music for this episode

I Already Know | Sam Will | Epidemic Sound

No River Wide Enough | Airage | Epidemic Sound

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> John Moir Buzzsprout-16479825 Tue, 21 Jan 2025 18:00:00 -0500 2801 17 full false Rediscovering Self Through Earth and Spirit Rediscovering Self Through Earth and Spirit Episode Summary:
In this powerful episode of Urban Grief Shamans, host John Moir sits down with Betti Rooted Lionheart, a compassionate shamanic healer and spiritual empowerment advocate, to explore the profound connection between grief, ritual, and healing. Betti shares her journey of reclaiming lost parts of herself, overcoming deep despair, and discovering the transformative power of shamanic healing and community rituals. Through personal stories, Betti reveals how grief manifests not only in the loss of loved ones but also in the loss of ecosystems, species, and cultural traditions.

Betti describes her own initiation into shamanic practices and how communal grief rituals, such as the Wailing Circle, help people release trauma and reconnect with their authentic selves. She shares the deeply moving story of her mother’s death and the spiritual realizations that emerged from walking with death. Betti also highlights the role of ritual in healing the soul and the body, illustrating how the power of voice, movement, and communal energy can lead to profound emotional and spiritual transformation. Betti's webpage can be found here.

What's a dismemberment journey? In this episode, Betti Rooted Lionheart mentioned having a dismemberment. Here is a brief description for our listeners who wish to know more. In shamanic practice, dismemberment is a form of initiation that can happen voluntarily or spontaneously. For example, a crisis or illness may initiate someone, while others might experience this through a course that reveals their shamanic potential. Dismemberment involves a symbolic tearing apart of the self, often in spirit journeys, where animals or other forces dismantle the body. This process strips away the ego, leading to a rebirth of identity. Those who undergo dismemberment often have a more profound sense of self, greater alignment of body and soul, improved health, and a more explicit connection to their soul’s purpose.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> Episode Summary:
In this powerful episode of Urban Grief Shamans, host John Moir sits down with Betti Rooted Lionheart, a compassionate shamanic healer and spiritual empowerment advocate, to explore the profound connection between grief, ritual, and healing. Betti shares her journey of reclaiming lost parts of herself, overcoming deep despair, and discovering the transformative power of shamanic healing and community rituals. Through personal stories, Betti reveals how grief manifests not only in the loss of loved ones but also in the loss of ecosystems, species, and cultural traditions.

Betti describes her own initiation into shamanic practices and how communal grief rituals, such as the Wailing Circle, help people release trauma and reconnect with their authentic selves. She shares the deeply moving story of her mother’s death and the spiritual realizations that emerged from walking with death. Betti also highlights the role of ritual in healing the soul and the body, illustrating how the power of voice, movement, and communal energy can lead to profound emotional and spiritual transformation. Betti's webpage can be found here.

What's a dismemberment journey? In this episode, Betti Rooted Lionheart mentioned having a dismemberment. Here is a brief description for our listeners who wish to know more. In shamanic practice, dismemberment is a form of initiation that can happen voluntarily or spontaneously. For example, a crisis or illness may initiate someone, while others might experience this through a course that reveals their shamanic potential. Dismemberment involves a symbolic tearing apart of the self, often in spirit journeys, where animals or other forces dismantle the body. This process strips away the ego, leading to a rebirth of identity. Those who undergo dismemberment often have a more profound sense of self, greater alignment of body and soul, improved health, and a more explicit connection to their soul’s purpose.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> https://www.urbangriefshamans.com John Moir Buzzsprout-15938326 Mon, 21 Oct 2024 16:00:00 -0400 2559 Nature, Healing, Personal growth, Wailing Circles 16 full false Grief, Healing, and the Spirit Realm: A Shamanic Perspective Grief, Healing, and the Spirit Realm: A Shamanic Perspective Losing a sister to cancer at 19 is a profound and life-altering experience, one that our guest bravely shares in this heartfelt episode. Through vivid recollections, we journey with them through the sacred final moments of their sister's life, the spiritual encounter that followed her passing, and the intricate dynamics of a family grappling with loss. Witness the mother's serene acceptance juxtaposed with the father's battle with alcoholism and violence, painting a complex picture of grief and familial relationships. This poignant narrative underscores the necessity of expressing sorrow and finding peace in the deepest of sorrows.

Have you ever wondered what lies beyond the golden portal of light often described in near-death experiences? Our guest offers an intimate account of their own near-death experience, which drastically altered their views on mortality and the continuum of consciousness. From a hospital bed to the ethereal realms and back, this experience not only brought a sense of fearlessness about death but also highlighted the eternal bond of love. These insights have been transformative in their professional life, deeply influencing their work in hospice and Alzheimer's care, and leading them to embrace shamanic healing practices.

Healing from profound grief and loss requires more than just time; it requires spiritual guidance and self-empowerment. This episode offers practical techniques for processing sorrow, such as visualization practices with golden and violet light, and introduces you to teachings from spiritual entities like White Buffalo and Rainbow Woman. We also discuss the healing power of storytelling and the crucial role of joy in elevating our spiritual and physical well-being. By learning to embrace joy, even in the face of darkness, we can find wholeness and growth, making this journey not just about surviving, but truly thriving.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> Losing a sister to cancer at 19 is a profound and life-altering experience, one that our guest bravely shares in this heartfelt episode. Through vivid recollections, we journey with them through the sacred final moments of their sister's life, the spiritual encounter that followed her passing, and the intricate dynamics of a family grappling with loss. Witness the mother's serene acceptance juxtaposed with the father's battle with alcoholism and violence, painting a complex picture of grief and familial relationships. This poignant narrative underscores the necessity of expressing sorrow and finding peace in the deepest of sorrows.

Have you ever wondered what lies beyond the golden portal of light often described in near-death experiences? Our guest offers an intimate account of their own near-death experience, which drastically altered their views on mortality and the continuum of consciousness. From a hospital bed to the ethereal realms and back, this experience not only brought a sense of fearlessness about death but also highlighted the eternal bond of love. These insights have been transformative in their professional life, deeply influencing their work in hospice and Alzheimer's care, and leading them to embrace shamanic healing practices.

Healing from profound grief and loss requires more than just time; it requires spiritual guidance and self-empowerment. This episode offers practical techniques for processing sorrow, such as visualization practices with golden and violet light, and introduces you to teachings from spiritual entities like White Buffalo and Rainbow Woman. We also discuss the healing power of storytelling and the crucial role of joy in elevating our spiritual and physical well-being. By learning to embrace joy, even in the face of darkness, we can find wholeness and growth, making this journey not just about surviving, but truly thriving.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> John Moir Buzzsprout-15625252 Fri, 23 Aug 2024 23:00:00 -0400 2596 15 full false Navigating Trauma: Journey from EMT to Chaplain Navigating Trauma: Journey from EMT to Chaplain What happens when a life marked by epilepsy and emergency medical work collides with a spiritual calling? This week, we welcome Chris Wasco, a compassionate hospital chaplain and former EMT paramedic, to share her remarkable journey of healing and spirituality. Chris opens up about her life with generalized epilepsy and how it guided her spiritual path, transforming her approach to healing others. From the essential need for human connection to the profound impacts of grief and loss, Chris shares her insights on how moments of disconnection can lead to deep soul-searching and eventual reconnection. Her unique perspective as a psychic medium adds another layer of depth, highlighting the importance of compassion in guiding victims of narcissistic abuse.

We shift gears to discuss the intense emotional and psychological challenges faced by those in emergency medical services and healthcare. Chris recounts harrowing experiences, from traumatic calls and unsafe environments to the secondary trauma felt by dispatchers. The conversation also delves into the struggles of working during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the challenge of facilitating good deaths in such dire circumstances. We underscore the critical need for self-care and mental health support, emphasizing that acknowledging and processing these intense experiences is essential for well-being.

Finally, we explore the lasting impact of experiencing trauma from a young age and the importance of recognizing different types of loss. Chris reflects on how these early experiences shaped her perspective on grief, loss, and spirituality. We discuss the deep sense of purpose found in supporting people through the most intense moments of their lives, and the delicate balance between acknowledging suffering and finding gratitude. Through Chris's journey, we uncover the resilience of the human spirit and the profound healing power of empathy and connection. Join us for an insightful, heartfelt discussion on navigating trauma, spirituality, and healing.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> What happens when a life marked by epilepsy and emergency medical work collides with a spiritual calling? This week, we welcome Chris Wasco, a compassionate hospital chaplain and former EMT paramedic, to share her remarkable journey of healing and spirituality. Chris opens up about her life with generalized epilepsy and how it guided her spiritual path, transforming her approach to healing others. From the essential need for human connection to the profound impacts of grief and loss, Chris shares her insights on how moments of disconnection can lead to deep soul-searching and eventual reconnection. Her unique perspective as a psychic medium adds another layer of depth, highlighting the importance of compassion in guiding victims of narcissistic abuse.

We shift gears to discuss the intense emotional and psychological challenges faced by those in emergency medical services and healthcare. Chris recounts harrowing experiences, from traumatic calls and unsafe environments to the secondary trauma felt by dispatchers. The conversation also delves into the struggles of working during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the challenge of facilitating good deaths in such dire circumstances. We underscore the critical need for self-care and mental health support, emphasizing that acknowledging and processing these intense experiences is essential for well-being.

Finally, we explore the lasting impact of experiencing trauma from a young age and the importance of recognizing different types of loss. Chris reflects on how these early experiences shaped her perspective on grief, loss, and spirituality. We discuss the deep sense of purpose found in supporting people through the most intense moments of their lives, and the delicate balance between acknowledging suffering and finding gratitude. Through Chris's journey, we uncover the resilience of the human spirit and the profound healing power of empathy and connection. Join us for an insightful, heartfelt discussion on navigating trauma, spirituality, and healing.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> https://www.urbangriefshamans.com John Moir Buzzsprout-15494142 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0400 2384 Emotional Growth, Spiritual Insights 14 full false Healing Narcissistic Wounds: Exploring Recovery Healing Narcissistic Wounds: Exploring Recovery Unlock the secrets to understanding and healing from relationships with narcissists in our eye-opening conversation with therapist and shamanic practitioner Alex Solomon. We promise you'll gain profound insights into the roots of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), its ties to childhood trauma, and the manipulative behaviours it engenders. Alex shares invaluable strategies for setting boundaries, restoring self-esteem, and achieving a balanced emotional and spiritual life. Plus, we tackle the rampant misinterpretations of narcissism on social media, providing a clearer picture of the fragile self-esteem and deep-seated shame that underlie the disorder. This episode sets the stage for an even deeper dive with our upcoming guest, Chris Wasco.

Shame, trauma, and community—how do they interconnect and shape NPD? We'll explore this intriguing question, analyzing shame as a biological mechanism for maintaining social cohesion and examining both its adaptive and maladaptive forms. Discover how NPD can emerge as a trauma response aimed at counteracting deep-seated shame and the role of epigenetics and intergenerational trauma. From a shamanic viewpoint, we also delve into soul loss due to disowned parts of oneself. As we navigate the intricate paths of healing, Alex Solomon guides us in choosing between therapy and shamanic practices based on personal needs. Stay tuned as we invite you to our next episode with Chris Wasko for further enriching discussions.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> Unlock the secrets to understanding and healing from relationships with narcissists in our eye-opening conversation with therapist and shamanic practitioner Alex Solomon. We promise you'll gain profound insights into the roots of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), its ties to childhood trauma, and the manipulative behaviours it engenders. Alex shares invaluable strategies for setting boundaries, restoring self-esteem, and achieving a balanced emotional and spiritual life. Plus, we tackle the rampant misinterpretations of narcissism on social media, providing a clearer picture of the fragile self-esteem and deep-seated shame that underlie the disorder. This episode sets the stage for an even deeper dive with our upcoming guest, Chris Wasco.

Shame, trauma, and community—how do they interconnect and shape NPD? We'll explore this intriguing question, analyzing shame as a biological mechanism for maintaining social cohesion and examining both its adaptive and maladaptive forms. Discover how NPD can emerge as a trauma response aimed at counteracting deep-seated shame and the role of epigenetics and intergenerational trauma. From a shamanic viewpoint, we also delve into soul loss due to disowned parts of oneself. As we navigate the intricate paths of healing, Alex Solomon guides us in choosing between therapy and shamanic practices based on personal needs. Stay tuned as we invite you to our next episode with Chris Wasko for further enriching discussions.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> https://www.urbangriefshamans.com John Moir Buzzsprout-15418956 Mon, 15 Jul 2024 18:00:00 -0400 1343 Emotional Growth, Grief & Shame, Shamanic Healings 13 full false Create a Spiritual Journey Beyond Traditional Beliefs Create a Spiritual Journey Beyond Traditional Beliefs In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Bob Martin, a man whose life story reads like a film script, transitioning from a mob lawyer during Miami's tumultuous "Cocaine Cowboy" days to a serene meditation teacher and Mindfulness Coordinator at Elon University. Bob shares the riveting details of his past and the profound spiritual awakening that reshaped his future. Guided by the teachings of a 72nd-generation Taoist Master, Bob found a path to redemption and a renewed purpose through the integration of Taoist, Buddhist, and Christian philosophies.

Join us as Bob delves into the pivotal moments that led to his transformation, his approach to blending diverse spiritual practices, and how he applies this ancient wisdom to modern-day challenges. Whether discussing his legal battles, personal struggles, or the quiet moments of reflection that led to significant breakthroughs, Bob’s journey is a powerful testament to the transformative power of spirituality and the human capacity for change.

This episode is more than just a narrative of personal redemption. It's a universal story of hope and resilience, a beacon for anyone facing life's challenges. Bob Martin's journey shows us that no matter our background or circumstances, we all have the potential for transformation through spirituality. Tune in to discover how embracing our diverse spiritual heritage can lead to profound personal and societal healing.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Bob Martin, a man whose life story reads like a film script, transitioning from a mob lawyer during Miami's tumultuous "Cocaine Cowboy" days to a serene meditation teacher and Mindfulness Coordinator at Elon University. Bob shares the riveting details of his past and the profound spiritual awakening that reshaped his future. Guided by the teachings of a 72nd-generation Taoist Master, Bob found a path to redemption and a renewed purpose through the integration of Taoist, Buddhist, and Christian philosophies.

Join us as Bob delves into the pivotal moments that led to his transformation, his approach to blending diverse spiritual practices, and how he applies this ancient wisdom to modern-day challenges. Whether discussing his legal battles, personal struggles, or the quiet moments of reflection that led to significant breakthroughs, Bob’s journey is a powerful testament to the transformative power of spirituality and the human capacity for change.

This episode is more than just a narrative of personal redemption. It's a universal story of hope and resilience, a beacon for anyone facing life's challenges. Bob Martin's journey shows us that no matter our background or circumstances, we all have the potential for transformation through spirituality. Tune in to discover how embracing our diverse spiritual heritage can lead to profound personal and societal healing.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> John Moir Buzzsprout-15089527 Fri, 17 May 2024 17:00:00 -0400 1998 12 full false Discover the Sacred in Your City: Insights from a Manhattan Shaman Discover the Sacred in Your City: Insights from a Manhattan Shaman In this enlightening episode, a native New Yorker and urban shaman, shares his deeply personal journey into shamanism sparked by a significant loss in 1996. He recounts how a spiritual workshop helped him rediscover laughter and joy amidst grief, leading him to explore shamanism's rich practices. Tony describes the serendipity of his spiritual awakening through various workshops in New York City and the lasting connections he made there, including drum circles and mentorships that deeply influenced his path.

As an urban shaman, he finds sacredness in the bustling environment of New York City. From the robust greenery of Cypress Hills in Brooklyn to the spiritual stability he feels from Manhattan’s bedrock, Tony illustrates how the city’s natural and architectural elements contribute to his shamanic practices. He shares fascinating insights into creating sacred spaces in his apartment, where he conducts drum circles and spiritual gatherings that leave visitors with a lasting impression of peace and harmony.

Please feel free to leave a comment here.

Subscribe to our newsletter

🌱 Support the show

Transcription

Guest Bio, here

Links to additional resources

Gay Soul book by Mark Thompson View Here:

Wikipedia: Margaret Mead

Sandara Ingerman, website

Nan Moss, website

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> In this enlightening episode, a native New Yorker and urban shaman, shares his deeply personal journey into shamanism sparked by a significant loss in 1996. He recounts how a spiritual workshop helped him rediscover laughter and joy amidst grief, leading him to explore shamanism's rich practices. Tony describes the serendipity of his spiritual awakening through various workshops in New York City and the lasting connections he made there, including drum circles and mentorships that deeply influenced his path.

As an urban shaman, he finds sacredness in the bustling environment of New York City. From the robust greenery of Cypress Hills in Brooklyn to the spiritual stability he feels from Manhattan’s bedrock, Tony illustrates how the city’s natural and architectural elements contribute to his shamanic practices. He shares fascinating insights into creating sacred spaces in his apartment, where he conducts drum circles and spiritual gatherings that leave visitors with a lasting impression of peace and harmony.

Please feel free to leave a comment here.

Subscribe to our newsletter

🌱 Support the show

Transcription

Guest Bio, here

Links to additional resources

Gay Soul book by Mark Thompson View Here:

Wikipedia: Margaret Mead

Sandara Ingerman, website

Nan Moss, website

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> John Moir Buzzsprout-15011472 Sun, 05 May 2024 12:00:00 -0400 2357 full false Melding Minds and Mysteries: Discover the Benefits of Integrating Psychology with Shamanic Healing Melding Minds and Mysteries: Discover the Benefits of Integrating Psychology with Shamanic Healing Merging Minds and Spirits
Please don't hesitate to leave a comment here.

An insightful dialogue between host John Moir and his guest, Diane Puchbauer, discussing the integration of psychology, shamanism, and the profound impact of horses on healing and personal growth. Diane shares her journey from a troubled relationship with horses in her youth to embracing shamanism and energy psychology, revealing how these elements have transformed her professional practice as a psychologist and shamanic healer. The conversation explores the challenges of merging traditional and alternative healing methods, the role of animals in therapy, and navigating the realms of energy and spirituality within therapeutic contexts.

Introduction to Diane's Work
The Common Threads of Healing
Early Connections to Horses and Healing
Journey into Shamanism
Blending Psychology and Shamanic Practices
Navigating Professional Challenges
Therapeutic Outcomes and Client Stories
Reflections on Personal Growth
Futurism in Therapy Practices
Final Thoughts and Closing

Diane referred to  her info for Midge Murphy, lawyer and doctorate in energy medicine Here

Credits
Intro: Far Out on the Pier — Christian Andersen, Epidemic Sound
Outro: Lush Dreams-The New Fools, Epidemic Sound

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> Merging Minds and Spirits
Please don't hesitate to leave a comment here.

An insightful dialogue between host John Moir and his guest, Diane Puchbauer, discussing the integration of psychology, shamanism, and the profound impact of horses on healing and personal growth. Diane shares her journey from a troubled relationship with horses in her youth to embracing shamanism and energy psychology, revealing how these elements have transformed her professional practice as a psychologist and shamanic healer. The conversation explores the challenges of merging traditional and alternative healing methods, the role of animals in therapy, and navigating the realms of energy and spirituality within therapeutic contexts.

Introduction to Diane's Work
The Common Threads of Healing
Early Connections to Horses and Healing
Journey into Shamanism
Blending Psychology and Shamanic Practices
Navigating Professional Challenges
Therapeutic Outcomes and Client Stories
Reflections on Personal Growth
Futurism in Therapy Practices
Final Thoughts and Closing

Diane referred to  her info for Midge Murphy, lawyer and doctorate in energy medicine Here

Credits
Intro: Far Out on the Pier — Christian Andersen, Epidemic Sound
Outro: Lush Dreams-The New Fools, Epidemic Sound

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> John Moir Buzzsprout-14943381 Tue, 23 Apr 2024 15:00:00 -0400 2454 10 full false Nature's Embrace in Overcoming Grief and Loss Nature's Embrace in Overcoming Grief and Loss Jen Frey's grandparents' garden was more than just a patch of earth—it was a sanctuary where plants spoke and the heart could heal. As she walks you through her family's legacy of organic gardening and the profound wisdom that plants offer, we'll uncover the intertwined dynamics of nature and nurture. Discover the shamanic paths, herbal remedies that have shaped Jen's journey.

Grief, a path often walked alone, finds an unexpected companion in the flora surrounding us. We delve into the transformative power of the Black-Eyed Susan, a flower that reframes our narratives of trauma and loss. The conversation blossoms into a discourse on the profound role of plants in emotional healing and the unexpected solace they can offer through our connections with them. Join us as Jen from Bridget's Way shares her spiritual insights and how the Celtic goddess Bridget inspires her mission to foster a harmonious bond with the natural world.

Jen's offerings, from plant communication to nature co-creation, beckon us to bridge the human-spirit divide, inviting listeners to join us on this transformative journey of discovery and healing.
Please feel free to leave a comment here.
Transcription


Guest Bio

Jen Frey is a healer, mentor, and advocate for the earth, with a unique voice in plant communication. As the founder of Heart Springs Sanctuary, she enriches people's lives by deepening their bond with nature through plant communication. With two decades of experience in plant essences, energy work, and herbal practices, Jen offers transformative consultations and plant-based solutions for emotional transitions, health crises, and chronic conditions.

 She is the author of "Communicating with Plants: Heart-Based Practices for Connecting with Plant Spirits," a guide to unlocking the healing and wisdom of plants.

Jen's book, view here.   Visit Jen's website here. 



🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> Jen Frey's grandparents' garden was more than just a patch of earth—it was a sanctuary where plants spoke and the heart could heal. As she walks you through her family's legacy of organic gardening and the profound wisdom that plants offer, we'll uncover the intertwined dynamics of nature and nurture. Discover the shamanic paths, herbal remedies that have shaped Jen's journey.

Grief, a path often walked alone, finds an unexpected companion in the flora surrounding us. We delve into the transformative power of the Black-Eyed Susan, a flower that reframes our narratives of trauma and loss. The conversation blossoms into a discourse on the profound role of plants in emotional healing and the unexpected solace they can offer through our connections with them. Join us as Jen from Bridget's Way shares her spiritual insights and how the Celtic goddess Bridget inspires her mission to foster a harmonious bond with the natural world.

Jen's offerings, from plant communication to nature co-creation, beckon us to bridge the human-spirit divide, inviting listeners to join us on this transformative journey of discovery and healing.
Please feel free to leave a comment here.
Transcription


Guest Bio

Jen Frey is a healer, mentor, and advocate for the earth, with a unique voice in plant communication. As the founder of Heart Springs Sanctuary, she enriches people's lives by deepening their bond with nature through plant communication. With two decades of experience in plant essences, energy work, and herbal practices, Jen offers transformative consultations and plant-based solutions for emotional transitions, health crises, and chronic conditions.

 She is the author of "Communicating with Plants: Heart-Based Practices for Connecting with Plant Spirits," a guide to unlocking the healing and wisdom of plants.

Jen's book, view here.   Visit Jen's website here. 



🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> John Moir Buzzsprout-14853282 Mon, 08 Apr 2024 20:00:00 -0400 2997 9 full false Life After Loss Crafting a Narrative of Resilience Life After Loss Crafting a Narrative of Resilience Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

Have you ever faced a shattering moment that reshaped your entire existence? Meet Ashmeeta Madhav, a beacon of strength in the turmoil of loss, who joins us to share her transformative journey through grief. She brings a reservoir of resilience as an educator, author, and grief support advocate, teaching us that our darkest times can lead to profound personal growth. Ashmeeta's tale is not just about navigating the treacherous waters of bereavement but also about the fortitude that comes from within and the unexpected support that can come from those around us. This reassures us that we are not alone, even in our darkest moments.

Transcription

Guest Bio

Ashmeeta Ramamadhov is a resilience and grief support advocate, educator, entrepreneur, author, and committed lifelong learner who has faced numerous life-altering experiences since her early twenties. Her journey through miscarriage, rejection, and the profound losses of her parents and husband has deeply acquainted her with the depths of grief. These challenges propelled her onto a path of self-discovery, leading her to value personal growth and recognize thoughts' profound impact on shaping reality.

Ashmeeta's dedication to aiding others and sharing her insights culminates in her book, "What's Your Story?", in which she unfolds her personal narrative of grief and self-discovery. Her mission is to provide solace, inspire, and guide those enduring hardships to uncover their inner strength and resilience and forge a meaningful life ahead. She emphasizes that while experiencing loss may conclude a chapter in our lives, it also heralds the start of another, signifying hope rather than despair.


Links to additional resources
Ashmeeta Rama Madhav’s book, What’s Your Story?
Visit her website here.
Practical Steps Toward Building Resilience. Read here.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

Have you ever faced a shattering moment that reshaped your entire existence? Meet Ashmeeta Madhav, a beacon of strength in the turmoil of loss, who joins us to share her transformative journey through grief. She brings a reservoir of resilience as an educator, author, and grief support advocate, teaching us that our darkest times can lead to profound personal growth. Ashmeeta's tale is not just about navigating the treacherous waters of bereavement but also about the fortitude that comes from within and the unexpected support that can come from those around us. This reassures us that we are not alone, even in our darkest moments.

Transcription

Guest Bio

Ashmeeta Ramamadhov is a resilience and grief support advocate, educator, entrepreneur, author, and committed lifelong learner who has faced numerous life-altering experiences since her early twenties. Her journey through miscarriage, rejection, and the profound losses of her parents and husband has deeply acquainted her with the depths of grief. These challenges propelled her onto a path of self-discovery, leading her to value personal growth and recognize thoughts' profound impact on shaping reality.

Ashmeeta's dedication to aiding others and sharing her insights culminates in her book, "What's Your Story?", in which she unfolds her personal narrative of grief and self-discovery. Her mission is to provide solace, inspire, and guide those enduring hardships to uncover their inner strength and resilience and forge a meaningful life ahead. She emphasizes that while experiencing loss may conclude a chapter in our lives, it also heralds the start of another, signifying hope rather than despair.


Links to additional resources
Ashmeeta Rama Madhav’s book, What’s Your Story?
Visit her website here.
Practical Steps Toward Building Resilience. Read here.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> John Moir Buzzsprout-14710686 Sat, 23 Mar 2024 11:00:00 -0400 2315 grief,resilience,hope,loss,transformation 8 full false Healing Harmony: Uniting Shamanic Spiritual Healing and Clinical Therapy for Trauma Recovery Healing Harmony: Uniting Shamanic Spiritual Healing and Clinical Therapy for Trauma Recovery Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

In this episode of our podcast, we delve into the transformative journey of blending shamanic practices with traditional psychotherapy. Our guest, Alex Solomon, a seasoned therapist with a rich background in both realms, shares their insights on the challenges and revelations encountered when integrating these seemingly distinct approaches to healing. They discuss the initial hurdles of incorporating spiritual practices within the constraints of conventional therapy settings.

The conversation takes us through the nuanced understanding of trauma from both a psychotherapeutic and a shamanic perspective, highlighting the concept of soul loss in shamanism and its parallels with psychological fragmentation. Our guest elaborates on the therapeutic power of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and its similarities to shamanic soul retrieval processes, emphasizing the potential for healing beyond mere coping with trauma.

We also explore the impact of repetitive trauma and the concept of complex PTSD, drawing attention to the compounded effects of multiple traumas and the importance of addressing them through both shamanic and therapeutic lenses.

Finally, we discuss practical advice for those recently exposed to traumatic events, highlighting innovative research on simple interventions like playing Tetris post-trauma and the importance of allowing oneself to feel and process emotions as a pathway to healing.

Links to additional resources

Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma
From Pixels to Peace: Harnessing Tetris for Trauma Recovery
Tetris used to prevent post-traumatic stress symptoms.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

In this episode of our podcast, we delve into the transformative journey of blending shamanic practices with traditional psychotherapy. Our guest, Alex Solomon, a seasoned therapist with a rich background in both realms, shares their insights on the challenges and revelations encountered when integrating these seemingly distinct approaches to healing. They discuss the initial hurdles of incorporating spiritual practices within the constraints of conventional therapy settings.

The conversation takes us through the nuanced understanding of trauma from both a psychotherapeutic and a shamanic perspective, highlighting the concept of soul loss in shamanism and its parallels with psychological fragmentation. Our guest elaborates on the therapeutic power of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and its similarities to shamanic soul retrieval processes, emphasizing the potential for healing beyond mere coping with trauma.

We also explore the impact of repetitive trauma and the concept of complex PTSD, drawing attention to the compounded effects of multiple traumas and the importance of addressing them through both shamanic and therapeutic lenses.

Finally, we discuss practical advice for those recently exposed to traumatic events, highlighting innovative research on simple interventions like playing Tetris post-trauma and the importance of allowing oneself to feel and process emotions as a pathway to healing.

Links to additional resources

Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma
From Pixels to Peace: Harnessing Tetris for Trauma Recovery
Tetris used to prevent post-traumatic stress symptoms.

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> John Moir Buzzsprout-14633731 Mon, 11 Mar 2024 13:00:00 -0400 2846 Mental health,Shamanic healing,Psychotherapy,Trauma,PTSD 7 full false Where Have The Men Gone? Where Have The Men Gone? Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

This compelling episode delves into the seldom-discussed realm of men’s grief and the cultural silence around their emotional expressions. Our guest, Carl Rabke, a seasoned practitioner in somatics, embodiment work, and grief rituals, shares his profound insights into the intersections of physical embodiment and soul work. Through his journey of healing and discovery, Carl illuminates the transformative power of embracing vulnerability and the deep healing that arises from integrating body and soul practices.

Our conversation explores the pivotal moments that led Carl to his work, including his own experiences of injury and the realization of the need for a radical shift toward self-awareness and embodiment. Drawing on the wisdom of mentors like Francis Weller and the influence of seminal texts such as “Women Who Run With the Wolves” and “Iron John,” Carl discusses the vital role of grief work in men’s lives and the societal barriers that often silence their emotional experiences.

Guest Bio

Carl Rabke is a Somatic Naturalist, an Embodiment teacher, and a tender of soul and living culture. For the last 25 years, he has practiced and taught where the streams of somatics, soul-work, and a deep love of this living Earth meet. He is a Feldenkrais and Structural Integration practitioner and loves to support people in returning to and remembering our natural, inherent intelligence in movement, meditation, ritual, song, rhythm and community. He also hosts the Embodiment Matters Podcast with his beloved wife, Erin. View Carl’s website here.

Links to additional resources

●Women Who Run With the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype, Clarissa Pinkola Estes View here

●Iron John: A Book About Men, Robert Bly View here

●The Wild Edge of Sorrow: Rituals of Renewal and the Sacred Work of Grief, Francis Weller 

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

This compelling episode delves into the seldom-discussed realm of men’s grief and the cultural silence around their emotional expressions. Our guest, Carl Rabke, a seasoned practitioner in somatics, embodiment work, and grief rituals, shares his profound insights into the intersections of physical embodiment and soul work. Through his journey of healing and discovery, Carl illuminates the transformative power of embracing vulnerability and the deep healing that arises from integrating body and soul practices.

Our conversation explores the pivotal moments that led Carl to his work, including his own experiences of injury and the realization of the need for a radical shift toward self-awareness and embodiment. Drawing on the wisdom of mentors like Francis Weller and the influence of seminal texts such as “Women Who Run With the Wolves” and “Iron John,” Carl discusses the vital role of grief work in men’s lives and the societal barriers that often silence their emotional experiences.

Guest Bio

Carl Rabke is a Somatic Naturalist, an Embodiment teacher, and a tender of soul and living culture. For the last 25 years, he has practiced and taught where the streams of somatics, soul-work, and a deep love of this living Earth meet. He is a Feldenkrais and Structural Integration practitioner and loves to support people in returning to and remembering our natural, inherent intelligence in movement, meditation, ritual, song, rhythm and community. He also hosts the Embodiment Matters Podcast with his beloved wife, Erin. View Carl’s website here.

Links to additional resources

●Women Who Run With the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype, Clarissa Pinkola Estes View here

●Iron John: A Book About Men, Robert Bly View here

●The Wild Edge of Sorrow: Rituals of Renewal and the Sacred Work of Grief, Francis Weller 

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> https://www.urbangriefshamans.com/podcast/episode-6-where-have-the-men-gone/ John Moir Buzzsprout-14568528 Sat, 24 Feb 2024 19:00:00 -0500 2418 Men and Grief,Emotional Growth,Soul Work 6 full false Healing Canopies: Stories from the Forest Healing Canopies: Stories from the Forest Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

Personal Reflections and Insights on Forest Therapy Walks

Feel the pulsing heartbeat of the earth and the whisper of leaves as Brenda Martin, a forest therapy guide, leads us on a quest for tranquillity amid the forests' embrace. Her insights promise more than just a walk among trees; they offer a doorway to the soul's unspoken dialogue with nature. In today's episode, we traverse the tender practice of forest bathing, a journey that requires no special fitness level, just an open heart. Brenda peels back the layers of our everyday hustle to reveal a world where every breath and step can heal, where stillness speaks, and where the more-than-human world cradles us in its verdant arms.

As we meander along, the forest's symphony serenades our senses, with Brenda orchestrating an experience of profound connections and shared humanity. Each participant's narrative weaves into the forest's tapestry, revealing insights into our existence and the communal spirit that flourishes in these shared spaces. Brenda's transformation into a certified guide illuminates the path for us, showing how trust in the forest's guidance can lead to startling self-discovery. So tune in, and let the wisdom of the woods wash over you, as we uncover the healing rhythms of forest therapy walks with the guidance of a soul who has listened and learned from the most ancient of teachers—the Earth itself.

Our thanks go out to our intrepid forest bather- Pat Kemp for sharing her experiences.
🌳
ANFT: https://www.anft.earth/guide-training/immersions
Brenda Martin: https://www.soulfulgatherings.ca/

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

Personal Reflections and Insights on Forest Therapy Walks

Feel the pulsing heartbeat of the earth and the whisper of leaves as Brenda Martin, a forest therapy guide, leads us on a quest for tranquillity amid the forests' embrace. Her insights promise more than just a walk among trees; they offer a doorway to the soul's unspoken dialogue with nature. In today's episode, we traverse the tender practice of forest bathing, a journey that requires no special fitness level, just an open heart. Brenda peels back the layers of our everyday hustle to reveal a world where every breath and step can heal, where stillness speaks, and where the more-than-human world cradles us in its verdant arms.

As we meander along, the forest's symphony serenades our senses, with Brenda orchestrating an experience of profound connections and shared humanity. Each participant's narrative weaves into the forest's tapestry, revealing insights into our existence and the communal spirit that flourishes in these shared spaces. Brenda's transformation into a certified guide illuminates the path for us, showing how trust in the forest's guidance can lead to startling self-discovery. So tune in, and let the wisdom of the woods wash over you, as we uncover the healing rhythms of forest therapy walks with the guidance of a soul who has listened and learned from the most ancient of teachers—the Earth itself.

Our thanks go out to our intrepid forest bather- Pat Kemp for sharing her experiences.
🌳
ANFT: https://www.anft.earth/guide-training/immersions
Brenda Martin: https://www.soulfulgatherings.ca/

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> https://www.urbangriefshamans.com Brenda Martin/John Moir Buzzsprout-14362590 Sat, 10 Feb 2024 20:00:00 -0500 2101 Nature, Healing, personal growth 5 full false Celebrating Elder Women's Wisdom in Our Modern World Celebrating Elder Women's Wisdom in Our Modern World Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

When Mora File, a teacher and healer with a background in shamanic practices, joined us, she shared valuable insights about the stages of womanhood. She spoke about the transition from maiden to mother, and then to crone, emphasizing the crone's role in embodying wisdom and life's cycles. Mora highlighted the importance of recognizing and celebrating the transition into being a crone, underscoring the role of elder women as keepers of wisdom. "I reflected on how these teachings positively influenced my family, particularly in the guidance I offered my niece, demonstrating the intergenerational impact of such wisdom."

Our discussion then expanded to acknowledge the diverse roles women play in their communities, extending beyond traditional motherhood. We discussed the many forms of care women provide, including adoptive and foster mothers, and the role of women as wise elders or crones in their communities. We recognized the nurturing individuals in our society, regardless of their gender identity, and the significance of ceremonies that honour elder women.

The conversation also touched on grief circles, highlighting the respect for elder wisdom in times of loss. We considered how contemplating life's temporary nature can bring peace, especially for those well-rooted in spiritual understanding, as they approach life's end. We invite everyone to join our Urban Grief Shaman's Podcast and Circles, where we explore loss and healing through shamanic practices. This space is designed for connection, learning, and growth, guided by the wisdom of ancestral teachings and the cycle of life.

Show introduction: One Drum: Stories and Ceremonies for a Planet by Richard Wagamese

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

When Mora File, a teacher and healer with a background in shamanic practices, joined us, she shared valuable insights about the stages of womanhood. She spoke about the transition from maiden to mother, and then to crone, emphasizing the crone's role in embodying wisdom and life's cycles. Mora highlighted the importance of recognizing and celebrating the transition into being a crone, underscoring the role of elder women as keepers of wisdom. "I reflected on how these teachings positively influenced my family, particularly in the guidance I offered my niece, demonstrating the intergenerational impact of such wisdom."

Our discussion then expanded to acknowledge the diverse roles women play in their communities, extending beyond traditional motherhood. We discussed the many forms of care women provide, including adoptive and foster mothers, and the role of women as wise elders or crones in their communities. We recognized the nurturing individuals in our society, regardless of their gender identity, and the significance of ceremonies that honour elder women.

The conversation also touched on grief circles, highlighting the respect for elder wisdom in times of loss. We considered how contemplating life's temporary nature can bring peace, especially for those well-rooted in spiritual understanding, as they approach life's end. We invite everyone to join our Urban Grief Shaman's Podcast and Circles, where we explore loss and healing through shamanic practices. This space is designed for connection, learning, and growth, guided by the wisdom of ancestral teachings and the cycle of life.

Show introduction: One Drum: Stories and Ceremonies for a Planet by Richard Wagamese

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> https://www.urbangriefshamans.com John Moir Buzzsprout-14189628 Mon, 22 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0500 1929 4 full false Shamanic Quest for Wholeness: Embracing Soul Retrieval and the Healing Power of Nature Shamanic Quest for Wholeness: Embracing Soul Retrieval and the Healing Power of Nature Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

Have you ever felt like you've lost a part of yourself due to life's challenges? Elaine Egidio, an experienced practitioner in shamanic healing, joins us to discuss how soul retrieval can help regain one's complete sense of self. She shares her insights on recognizing when parts of our essence may be concealed due to past traumas and the healing process involved in reclaiming them. Elaine explains the soul retrieval process, highlighting how it reintegrates lost parts of ourselves, leading to emotional renewal.

In our conversation, we also delve into the connection between our personal grief and the rejuvenating power of nature. Elaine views managing our grief as essential to maintaining the vibrancy of our inner selves. We discuss the significance of various metaphors and symbols in the healing process, often revolving around nature and love. This episode is a journey into understanding how healing our internal wounds can impact the broader world, providing a counterbalance to the hectic nature of modern life. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that goes beyond mere storytelling, offering insights into how to rediscover and reintegrate lost parts of ourselves.

Show introduction: One Drum: Stories and Ceremonies for a Planet by Richard Wagamese

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

Have you ever felt like you've lost a part of yourself due to life's challenges? Elaine Egidio, an experienced practitioner in shamanic healing, joins us to discuss how soul retrieval can help regain one's complete sense of self. She shares her insights on recognizing when parts of our essence may be concealed due to past traumas and the healing process involved in reclaiming them. Elaine explains the soul retrieval process, highlighting how it reintegrates lost parts of ourselves, leading to emotional renewal.

In our conversation, we also delve into the connection between our personal grief and the rejuvenating power of nature. Elaine views managing our grief as essential to maintaining the vibrancy of our inner selves. We discuss the significance of various metaphors and symbols in the healing process, often revolving around nature and love. This episode is a journey into understanding how healing our internal wounds can impact the broader world, providing a counterbalance to the hectic nature of modern life. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that goes beyond mere storytelling, offering insights into how to rediscover and reintegrate lost parts of ourselves.

Show introduction: One Drum: Stories and Ceremonies for a Planet by Richard Wagamese

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> John Moir Buzzsprout-14189484 Mon, 08 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0500 2087 3 full false Exploring the Sacred Journey of Souls: Insights into Psychopomp, Shamanism, and Healing Grief Exploring the Sacred Journey of Souls: Insights into Psychopomp, Shamanism, and Healing Grief Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

In our latest discussion, we were joined by Catherine Grey Hughes, a teacher and shaman practitioner with a deep understanding of psychopomp, the practice of guiding souls after death. Catherine shared her insights on how soul transitions affect both the living and the deceased. We talked about the reasons why some souls may stay behind and how their journey to the afterlife can bring peace and resolution.

This episode delves into a mix of ancient knowledge, cultural practices, and shamanic rituals. Catherine guided us through these topics, shedding light on the comforting rituals that help people in mourning. She explained the importance of being connected to the spiritual world for those interested in this field. We also discussed how shamanism, influenced by figures like Michael Harner, can encourage self-love, harmony with nature, and kindness in our communities. This conversation offers insights into the soul's journey, shamanic healing, and the importance of connecting with others beyond life.







Show introduction: One Drum: Stories and Ceremonies for a Planet by Richard Wagamese

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

In our latest discussion, we were joined by Catherine Grey Hughes, a teacher and shaman practitioner with a deep understanding of psychopomp, the practice of guiding souls after death. Catherine shared her insights on how soul transitions affect both the living and the deceased. We talked about the reasons why some souls may stay behind and how their journey to the afterlife can bring peace and resolution.

This episode delves into a mix of ancient knowledge, cultural practices, and shamanic rituals. Catherine guided us through these topics, shedding light on the comforting rituals that help people in mourning. She explained the importance of being connected to the spiritual world for those interested in this field. We also discussed how shamanism, influenced by figures like Michael Harner, can encourage self-love, harmony with nature, and kindness in our communities. This conversation offers insights into the soul's journey, shamanic healing, and the importance of connecting with others beyond life.







Show introduction: One Drum: Stories and Ceremonies for a Planet by Richard Wagamese

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> https://www.urbangriefshamans.com Catherine Hughes Buzzsprout-14189104 Thu, 21 Dec 2023 16:00:00 -0500 2069 Grief, healing, spirits, psychopomp 2 full false Alchemy of Heartache in Artistic Expression Alchemy of Heartache in Artistic Expression Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

In our latest episode, we talk with Kathy Gleason from “As I Live and Grieve” about the relationship between grief and creativity. We explore how historical periods, from the Renaissance to the Blues Era, have shown that sorrow can inspire great art. Kathy shares her own stories from childhood, explaining how these early encounters with grief shaped her later work.

We discuss the idea of grief as a transformative journey, where personal loss leads to a deeper understanding and purpose. I reflect on how my own experiences of loss influenced my career, even amidst the complexities surrounding end-of-life decisions. We also look at how unexpected connections can bring light during our darkest times, offering healing in surprising ways. To conclude, I extend an invitation to our monthly Soulful Sorrows circles, designed to provide comfort and insight to those navigating the spiritual aspects of grief. Join us for this meaningful conversation about the interplay of creativity and the universal experience of sorrow.
Show introduction: One Drum: Stories and Ceremonies for a Planet by Richard Wagamese

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> Subscribe to our Light Through Shadows newsletter

In our latest episode, we talk with Kathy Gleason from “As I Live and Grieve” about the relationship between grief and creativity. We explore how historical periods, from the Renaissance to the Blues Era, have shown that sorrow can inspire great art. Kathy shares her own stories from childhood, explaining how these early encounters with grief shaped her later work.

We discuss the idea of grief as a transformative journey, where personal loss leads to a deeper understanding and purpose. I reflect on how my own experiences of loss influenced my career, even amidst the complexities surrounding end-of-life decisions. We also look at how unexpected connections can bring light during our darkest times, offering healing in surprising ways. To conclude, I extend an invitation to our monthly Soulful Sorrows circles, designed to provide comfort and insight to those navigating the spiritual aspects of grief. Join us for this meaningful conversation about the interplay of creativity and the universal experience of sorrow.
Show introduction: One Drum: Stories and Ceremonies for a Planet by Richard Wagamese

🌿 Feeling stuck or spiritually disconnected?
At Soulful Energy Medicine, I help you release energetic blocks, clear emotional pain, and reconnect with your true self. You’ll find a safe, grounded space for soul-level transformation through virtual healing sessions.

✨ Book your free discovery call: Soulful Energy Medicine

Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here
“The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner
Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here

Connect
John@urbangriefshamans.com


]]> https://www.urbangriefshamans.com John Moir Buzzsprout-14184439 Wed, 20 Dec 2023 23:00:00 -0500 1860 Shamanic practises, Conversation 1 full false