The Urban Grief Shamans

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. Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here “The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here Explore Soulful Sorrows, our grief-tending website Light Through Shadows: Our monthly newsletter, Subscribe 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. Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here “The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here Explore Soulful Sorrows, our grief-tending website Light Through Shadows: Our monthly newsletter, Subscribe 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 Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here “The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here Explore Soulful Sorrows, our grief-tending website Light Through Shadows: Our monthly newsletter, Subscribe 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 Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here “The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here Explore Soulful Sorrows, our grief-tending website Light Through Shadows: Our monthly newsletter, Subscribe 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. Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here “The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here Explore Soulful Sorrows, our grief-tending website Light Through Shadows: Our monthly newsletter, Subscribe 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. Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here “The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here Explore Soulful Sorrows, our grief-tending website Light Through Shadows: Our monthly newsletter, Subscribe 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. Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here “The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here Explore Soulful Sorrows, our grief-tending website Light Through Shadows: Our monthly newsletter, Subscribe 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 Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here “The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here Explore Soulful Sorrows, our grief-tending website Light Through Shadows: Our monthly newsletter, Subscribe 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/ Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here “The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here Explore Soulful Sorrows, our grief-tending website Light Through Shadows: Our monthly newsletter, Subscribe 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 Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here “The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here Explore Soulful Sorrows, our grief-tending website Light Through Shadows: Our monthly newsletter, Subscribe 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 Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here “The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here Explore Soulful Sorrows, our grief-tending website Light Through Shadows: Our monthly newsletter, Subscribe 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 Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here “The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here Explore Soulful Sorrows, our grief-tending website Light Through Shadows: Our monthly newsletter, Subscribe 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 Foundation for Shamanic Studies: Explore here “The Way of the Shaman” book by Michael Harner Society for Shamanic Practice: Explore here Explore Soulful Sorrows, our grief-tending website Light Through Shadows: Our monthly newsletter, Subscribe here. Connect John@urbangriefshamans.com