Spiritual Sexual Shamanic Podcast

Komala Lyra has been teaching the art of realness for decades. That might sound strange. Isn’t everything real? But Komala helps people distinguish between what is truly authentic for them and what comes from external expectations. She guides people to become sensitive to their inner experience, to what life is calling them toward, and to what is happening in their hearts and bodies. Following your impulses, she suggests, can lead you down the path of realness. In this episode, Komala speaks with Simon about how learning to trust those inner signals can open the door to a more liberated life. Along the way, she shares three powerful insights. When we listen to our impulses and say “yes” to them, we invite transformation. Ayurveda offers a framework for understanding how we digest not only food but also energy and experience. And when someone disappoints us, it can be a valuable opportunity to reflect on why we did not see it coming. These ideas may sound bold, even provocative, but Komala presents them with warmth, care, and deep humanity. She shares personal stories, including deciding to marry her partner after knowing him for just 24 hours, growing up in an environment where her body could move freely, and why she enjoys knitting, even in the height of summer. Simon and Komala also discuss her latest book, Intimacy: Ayurveda & Sexuality, as well as the immersive community experiences she hosts on her land in southern Portugal. Tune in for an intimate, thought-provoking, and joyful conversation. To learn more about Komala and her work, visit her links: Website: https://www.komalalyra.com/ Land project, Monte California: https://www.montecalifornia.net/ Latest book: Intimacy: Ayurveda & Sexuality (2025) Instagram: @komalalyra And to learn more about ISTA, visit our website: https://ista.life/ Or follow us on Instagram: @ista.community

In this episode, men’s coach Mischa Byruck shares how we can use our biggest mistakes as catalysts for profound personal transformation. For Mischa, coming to terms with our mistakes leads to a deeper understanding of what true integrity means. Integrity is not just about following rules, but about aligning your actions with your foundational values and being in wholeness with yourself. It is a nuanced, lifelong practice, not a state of perfection. And there are many life-enhancing benefits of this inner work: a sense of calm, satisfaction, and the ability to walk through the world with pride in how you're living. But this process cannot be completed alone. Mischa underscores the importance of having accountability structures and being open to feedback from others to maintain this integrity. Whether you're looking to deepen your own self-awareness and authenticity, or seeking to support others in this journey, this episode offers valuable insights. Mischa’s expertise as a men's integrity coach, combined with his humble, relational approach, make this a must-listen for anyone interested in personal transformation and building a more whole, integrated life. About Mischa: Mischa Byruck is a men's integrity coach who supports his clients to turn their biggest mistakes into their greatest opportunities for transformation. He also consults organizations to bring accountability, power awareness, and trauma-informed practices into leadership. Mischa is certified in somatic trauma therapy with extensive training in harm reduction, counseling, sexuality, and anti-racism. His clients include Sacred Sons, ISTA, kink.com, and DanceSafe.

There are moments when effort ceases to have the effect it once did. When pushing, planning, and deciding create more tension than less. At these junctures, we can sense that the next step won’t come from thinking harder, but from listening more deeply. In this episode, Simon Marvell is joined by artist, creator, and transformational guide, Dane Tomas, for an exploration of how we can each embrace magick, release ourselves into sensitivity, and learn to listen to the current of life. Dane shares his understanding of magick not as spectacle or superstition, but as intentional action aligned with the deepest layers of self, cosmos, and consciousness. He guides us through the relationship between will and surrender, and the surprising overlap between the path of the magician and the path of the mystic. The conversation weaves through themes of cultural lineage and spiritual inheritance, questioning where our practices come from and what it means to work with traditions that genuinely fit our bodies, nervous systems, and lived realities. Dane reflects on his journey through Western esotericism, sex magic, shadow work, and non-dual practice, and on the moments where letting go of identity became a doorway to profound change. A central thread of the episode is listening to the current: learning to attune not just intellectually, but somatically and energetically, to what wants to move through us — in ritual, creativity, sexuality, and major life decisions. This episode invites a shift in orientation away from forcing clarity, and toward trusting the subtle movements already shaping our lives. To learn more about Dane’s work, visit his links: 👉 https://www.danetomas.com/ 👉Instagram: @dane.tomas If you loved this episode, please rate the podcast and share it with your friends — it helps this work reach more people. To learn more about ISTA, visit our links: 👉 https://ista.life/ 👉 Instagram: @ista.community

Does it genuinely make you happy when your partner is enjoying themselves on a trip with their other lover? Or perhaps you’ve felt a sense of elation when a friend or colleague receives a well-deserved promotion or prestigious award? If you’ve ever been uplifted by someone else’s positive experience, even when it doesn’t directly involve you, then you’ve encountered "compersion". In today’s episode, Usha Rose delves into the intriguing concept of compersion with guest Dr. Marie Thouin, the author of What is Compersion? Understanding Positive Empathy in Consensually Non-Monogamous Relationships, the first comprehensive scholarly work on this topic. While compersion is often associated with non-monogamous relationships, it’s clear that anyone can benefit from understanding and embracing this experience. You might be wondering: We address these questions and explore: You can learn more about Dr Marie Thouin on her website: https://mariethouin.com/ Or follow her on IG: @drmariethouin To learn more about ISTA visit our website: https://ista.life/ Or follow us on social media: @ista.community

The tales of old tell us about the cruels of fate and great heroes following their destiny. Often, overcoming our fate is exactly how a fictional hero is made. But, as ISTA facilitator Robbie Griffin explains, these are not just myths to be left in fantasy worlds. Fate and destiny are lodged in the DNA of human experience and reflecting on them helps us understand our very human lives. Fate refers to the cards we are dealt in life, both good and bad. It encompasses our family make-up, our upbringing, the culture we’re from, and the opportunities we’ve had. Destiny is both what we choose to do with those cards, and how we go about doing it. As Robbie explains, it's important to take care of those parts of ourselves that feel hurt by fate. Likewise, we can connect to our destiny and find our genius, that inner spirit which is uniquely our own. Through a beautifully spontaneous conversation, Robbie and Simon Marvell explore the tender feelings and vulnerable experiences that we often need to integrate in order to tap into our greatest potential, whatever that may look like. We hope it brings inspiration and insight you can apply to your own journey. Robbie Griffin is a founding member and facilitator of Emergence Brotherhood, the founder of Temple of Alchemy London, and supports people 1-on-1 to embrace their unique gifts. https://www.robbiegriffin.life @robbiegriffinalchemy To learn more about ISTA, visit our website: https://ista.life Or follow us on Instagram: @ista.community

You may have experienced a time in your life when you felt part of some great oneness. Not easy to explain to another person, right? Mystics have grappled with these experiences for as long as there have been mystics, coming up with many poetic ways of referring to them. In this episode, Simon Marvell speaks with ISTA facilitator and psychologist, Laura Deva, about a similar, poetic idea that has become prominent in recent years: it's called "the dark." As Laura explains, "the dark" doesn't refer to shadowy parts of our unconscious, nor to evil. Rather, the dark is, precisely, a difficult-to-explain state of existence. It can be distinguished from the personality and the soul in that it is what exists beyond their limits. And yet, "the dark" can be felt in them. Indeed, we can feel "the dark" in our daily lives, to our great benefit! While this might seem like an abstract topic, Laura brings it right down to earth for us, while still offering a taste of how the dark can be felt. To learn more about Laura, visit her links: Living from the MysteryTandava online course6-month online mentorshipInstagram If you loved this episode, please rate it and share it with your friends! And to learn more about ISTA, visit our website: https://ista.life/ Or follow us on social media: @ista.community

In this episode, Simon Marvell speaks with ISTA Facilitator Aaron Mandelbaum about the importance of integration after transformational experiences. Going to a retreat for spiritual growth or personal development can be like shaking a snow globe. It can send flurries of emotions, thoughts, and experiences wildly into the air. At some point you need to let the snow settle into its new place. Only then can sustainable shifts in how you live your life begin to establish themselves. Aaron reveals the different ways that ISTA teachers suggest people integrate and explains why each of them are so supportive. He and Simon also discuss Aaron's unique approach to facilitation, his transition from the business world to spiritual work, and the significance of community and connection in personal growth. They address the challenges that may arise after intense experiences, especially when shamanic practices are involved, and the power of navigating these emotions alongside other people. They also discuss: To connect with Aaron, visit his website: https://aaronmandelbaum.com/ ISTA offerings many trainings each month, all around the world. To learn more, visit our website: https://ista.life/ Or follow us on social media: @ista.community

In this episode, Usha Rose sits down with her longtime friend and colleague Kay’aleya Hunnybee, a clinical herbalist and integrative health coach, to explore the true power of herbs as aphrodisiacs, not just for boosting libido, but for supporting whole-body vitality, nourishing the nervous system, and enhancing pleasure from the inside out. Rather than offering a generic list of aphrodisiac herbs, Kay’aleya guides us through a holistic, nuanced approach to understanding our sensuality and sexual well-being. Together, we dive into how herbs work, why not all aphrodisiacs are the same, and how to choose the right plants for your unique body, lifestyle, and needs. Kay’aleya shares 5 core areas for enhancing pleasure from an herbal perspective, along with practical insights and examples of herbs that support each one. You’ll also learn how to develop an intimate relationship with herbs and plants as allies for long-term sexual vitality, not just quick fixes. In this episode, you’ll discover: aphrodisiac individual If you’ve ever wondered which herbs might actually help you feel more alive, nourished, and sensually vibrant, this episode will give you a rich foundation to start your own herbal pleasure journey. About Kay’aleya Hunnybee Kay’aleya is a clinical herbalist, bodyworker, and integrative health coach specializing in menstrual, hormonal, and sexual health. Her work supports everything from menstrual cycle care and breast health to postpartum healing and navigating menopause. She teaches an online Natural Contraception program, offers pelvic and abdominal bodywork & herbal care in midcoast Maine, and hosts the Herbal Womb Wisdom podcast. Her greatest wish is for others to experience the healing potential of their bodies and cultivate deep kinship with the earth and its plants. Learn more at: https://www.herbalwomb.com/ To learn more about ISTA, visit our website: https://ista.life/

In this episode, Jeff DeLone shares his journey from a conventional, yet emotionally suppressed, upbringing in the United States to discovering the power of feeling and releasing emotions. Growing up in a large Catholic family, Jeff was surrounded by people but often felt alone. Looking back, he recognizes signs of inherited depression and the impact of unexpressed emotions. After excelling in school and sports, he entered the corporate world, only to find it unfulfilling. His turning point came when he began attending transformational workshops, where he encountered tools that helped him navigate life’s challenges without relying on old patterns like drinking. This exploration eventually led him to become a teacher of the Release Technique, a method that helps people fully feel and then let go of difficult emotions instead of repressing them. As Jeff emphasizes, the technique is less about intellectual understanding and more about direct experience. In the episode, he guides listeners through simple yet powerful exercises for noticing and releasing stuck feelings. One of his key insights is about working with fear: rather than resisting it, we can meet fear with love and allow it to move through us. He also explains how the ego resists letting go, preferring to stay in the mind. In contrast, this practice opens the door to truly living, not just thinking or doing. Jeff also touches on: It’s a rich and inspiring conversation with a down-to-earth teacher exploring some pretty “out there” ideas. Links from the episode: Release Technique Healing the Heart of America If you enjoyed this episode, please rate it and share it with friends! Learn more about ISTA at ista.life

Jasmeen Hana, Egyptian spirituality facilitator (and previous ISTA facilitator), speaks with Caitlyn Cook about her journey of self-discovery, spirituality, and community living. From a multicultural background, she has moved through crises of identity, spiritual revelation, and many years of global travelling, to finally settle in her community in rural Egypt. Drawing deeply from her expertise in ancient Egyptian mythology and culture, Jasmeen explains the importance of bringing offerings to the land (not just taking) and of commitment. When we can let go of our striving and driving to achieve, she says, we can become like nature, allowing life to emerge from within. Jasmeen emphasizes the importance of *taking action* to bring the mystical world, to which many of us are connected, into reality. As we aim to do this more, it seems, shadow work is essential, but so too is drawing on what is in our light. In fact, there are several things that could be in the way of us slowing down and committing to our chosen path... Jasmeen and Caitlyn also explore: Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jasmeen Hana and Her Journey 04:58 The Role of Land and Community in Spirituality 09:56 The Importance of Giving Back to the Land 14:52 Commitment as a Path to Freedom 19:47 Finding Balance Between Movement and Stability 26:58 The Nature of Commitment 29:31 Shadow and Light Work 31:57 Embracing Self-Worth 34:53 Life Beyond Materialism 36:35 Bridging Spirituality and Daily Life 39:58 The Power of Action 43:37 Community and Shared Vision 47:22 The Beauty of Imperfection About Jasmeen Hana Jasmeen is a Kemetic spiritual and shamanic facilitator, community builder, and founder of Bliss School, a digital platform offering holistic education, leadership development, and shamanic awareness programs supported by the ancient Egyptian wisdom teachings. She is currently based in southern Egypt, where she has co-founded the development of an Ancient-future regenerative village project focused on community well-being and sustainable living, as well as temple life. Jasmeen’s website: https://www.bliss.school/ SPECIAL OFFERJasmeen on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Blissschool-JasmeenHana Jasmeen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasmeen_hana_/ And to learn more about ISTA, visit https://ista.life/ Or follow us on social media: @ista.community

In this episode, ISTA facilitator Usha Rose speaks with systemic therapist and transformational guide Lars Borgmann about how to engage in conflict with others in a better way. As Lars explains, conflict can occur in any area of our lives, but our experiences of it are often so unpleasant that we aim to avoid it at any cost. Without being dealt with, it can fester underneath the surface of our relationships, causing even more problems. What we should do is stop seeing conflict as an indication that someone has done something wrong. Instead, we should take a systemic approach and see that everyone has their own internal conflicts, and their own complex desires, that are influencing the tense interaction. If we see conflict as an opportunity for us to grow in our relationships with others, then we can begin collaborating with those we’re clashing with and create new solutions to the problems we’re facing. Lars speaks about how we can make this happen. He also addresses: · Bringing love to conflict · Letting go of our need to control the truth · How conflicts are actually made-up of many smaller conflicts · The influence of past experience on present interactions · How 99% of our issues with others have already occurred within ourselves If you loved this episode, why not rate it and share it with your friends! To learn more about ISTA, visit our website: ista.life Or follow us on social media: @ista.community

It's not just the stuff of science fiction. As ISTA Lead faculty member Michal Maayan Don explains, bending time is possible when we drop deeply into what we love to do. That may be easier said than done. But if we aim to be more authentic, and practice healthy boundaries, we might be surprised by how quickly that sense of timelessness can come about. In this spontaneous and bubbly conversation, Michal and Simon Marvell also explore themes of vibrations, connection, and uncaging eros. They delve into the importance of touch in fostering aliveness and the collective intelligence that emerges in group settings. Overall, the emphasis is on our need to reconnect with the spirit in matter and the significance of love and land in our lives. TAKEAWAYS TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to Vibrations and Aliveness 03:10 The Power of Touch and Connection 06:31 Uncaging Eros: Redefining Sexuality 12:44 The Intelligence of the Body and Instincts 19:57 The Role of Boundaries and Emotional Energy 25:30 Experiencing Timelessness in Connection 31:31 Love and Connection with the Land 39:30 Acknowledging Indigenous Connections to Land 43:01 The Spirit in Matter and Animal Instincts 51:44 The Vibrational Intelligence of Groups

Aténougha is an Nganga (teacher) and bridge to the Bwiti Missoko tradition of Central Africa, where he helps people find transformation through this ancient spiritual science. In this conversation, Caitlyn Cook asks him, in a world that seems more and more chaotic, warring and disconnected, how do we relate to it as spiritual people? How does a spiritually mature person act or perceive this without being overwhelmed, disheartened or paralysed? Recorded in Libreville, Gabon, Aténougha explores the link between inner and outer conflict—and how everything begins from within... Rather than being overwhelmed, a spiritual person learns to understand their “position”, embracing both light and dark and choosing grounded ways to create change. The conversation includes.. Learn more about Aténougha and the Bwiti Missoko tradition, www.bwitiinitiations.com Learn more about ISTA, https://ista.life Follow us on Instagram: @ista.community

Kamela Love is an integrative mediator, transformational relationship coach, and former lawyer who blends diverse teachings—from mystical Sufism to neuroscience and Tantra—to explore personal and organizational growth. She is the founder of Transform Into Love and co-founder of Queer Tantric Arts. With over 15 years of experience identifying as queer and poly, Kamela is passionate about awakening humanity to societal justice and divine love. In recent years, she has worked with ISTA faculty and organizers as a meditator, helping to improve their conflict resolution skills and capacity to take accountability. In this conversation with Usha Rose, Kamela speaks in depth about the importance of taking accountability. She emphasizes that good leadership is actually founded on the ability to acknowledge where harm has been caused, entering into a process of repair, and seeing if there is a way for all to consensually move forward. It’s a rich exploration, relevant to leaders everywhere, indeed to anyone participating in a relationship where power dynamics are at play. It might be between a manager and employee, teacher and student, coach and client, or facilitator and group. It could even be within personal relationships like parent and child, or between romantic partners. Topics Covered Include: Learn more about Kamela Love here: https://www.transformintolove.com/ To learn more about ISTA visit our website: https://ista.life/ Or follow us on social media: @ista.community

In this first episode of the 6th season, Simon Marvell talks to blockchain pioneer and ISTA ally Jamie Zigelbaum about how the evolution of digital governance models can help us create smarter organizations and communities. Jamie's insights come from his career as a researcher, artist, and from contributions to billion-dollar Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO) projects. Most of his work has been carried out under an online pseudonym, so the name might be unfamiliar! His message is that while the sophisticated blockchain technology that has been developed in recent years might not have many real-world applications yet, it promises to provide solutions, in the future, to some of the most complex problems we face. And these problems and solutions are not only technical ones. Jamie says that how we communicate with each other, how we trust one another, how we arrange ourselves into groups, and how well we work together in those groups can be enhanced as a result of these innovations. Tune in for this thoughtful and clarifying conversation, especially if you’ve previously been turned off by the subject of digital technology! To get in touch with Jamie, please email us and we will link you up: media@ista.life If you love this episode, please rate it and share it with your friends! And to learn more about ISTA, visit our website: https://ista.life/ Or follow us on social media: @ista.community

It’s a situation straight out of the movies, or a teen magazine: jealousy causing a rift between two lovers. It could be as simple as your partner mentioning getting close to one of their co-workers, or as complex as negotiating the ups and downs of an open relationship. No matter how big or small the circumstance, or how experienced the people involved, jealousy can come on strong! In this episode, researcher and self-described relationship counsellor “for people who color outside the lines,” Joli Hamilton, talks with Usha Rose about how jealousy can be an incredible force for growth, pleasure, and increased connection in your romantic relationships. They focus on how to create non-monogamous partnerships without shrinking away from the difficult feelings they can bring up. These are feelings Hamilton knows well. She had been in only monogamous relationships until having a sudden awakening into the possibility of relating with more than one person at once. And in her research, Hamilton has found that the people who have the most successful experience with non-monogamy know how to notice the sensations of jealousy and then name it. This, she says, is one of the first things we can do to embrace non-monogamy in a supportive way. They also discuss: We hope you enjoy the episode! To learn more about Jolie, follow her on social media: @drjoliehamilton To learn more about ISTA, visit our website: https://ista.life/ Or follow us on social media: @ista.community

It’s one thing to summon the courage and create the safety to dive into an altered state of consciousness. It’s another thing entirely to know how best to care for ourselves, and be cared for, after the experience is over. But as our guest in this episode, psychedelic integration coach, Amánda Argot, explains, this post-experience phase is vital to being able to bring the gems we uncover in altered states into our non-altered reality. In this rich conversation, Simon and Amánda explore the therapeutic potential of altered-state experiences like breathwork, psychedelics, and other methods. Amánda emphasises the importance of intention-setting and preparation in shaping the quality and outcome of these experiences. This integration phase extends beyond immediate care to include practices like rest, journaling, and somatic exercises. Amánda explains the unique 'Recíprico' method she has co-developed as a structured approach to guide individuals and facilitators through this process effectively. They then dive really deep into their ethical and cultural ramifications, including how different cultural and spiritual traditions approach and interpret these experiences. They contrast the perspectives of shamans, traditional healers, and clinical psychologists, and underscore the ethical responsibilities and liabilities associated with guiding individuals through these potentially challenging and intense journeys. The need for informed and culturally sensitive support systems is strong, they find. They also cover sexuality as an altered state, drawing parallels with psychedelic experiences. As you may have experienced for yourself, sexual experiences can facilitate deep introspection and connection, both within oneself and with others. Overall, It illuminated the transformative potential of these experiences when approached with intention, respect, and informed guidance. Learn more about Amánda's work here: https://www.amandaefthimiou.com/ Join her mailing list here: https://integra-guide.ck.page/fd0fd46815 To learn more about ISTA, visit our website: https://ista.life/ Or follow us on social media: @ista.community

What would it be like for us to use the tools that we learn in workshops to create a life, and a partnership, that is not just ordinary but extraordinary? This is the big question driving the work of this episode’s guest, relationship coach, Michael Gibson. For example, he says, fighting between partners is “ordinary.” This is not to judge the realities of relating between two humans. Difficulty is totally normal! But Michael is most interested in what we can do to digest that ordinary reality and create the possibility of a wonderful alternative. He has been on this journey with his own partner, ISTA Lead Facilitator Laurie Handlers. Years ago, they began guiding people with the tools they discovered to be effective in their own lives. They give people homework on how to be juicy, and how to be in love again… The main thing they teach people is how to return to love. “It’s when you know that you can say something hard to your person,” Michael says, “and they can say it back to you, and you can return to love even if it was painful. That’s really what we practice.” It’s about letting the walls we often place between us melt. One of the key reasons to be able to return to love is so that you can speak your truth. It’s not just about being mean to one another and then being able to be loved after that. But rather, to speak our truth. When we can speak our truths, we are not holding onto little resentments and pain that can hold our relationships back. And your sex life is going to benefit as well! In this candid conversation, Ria and Michael also talk about: If you loved this episode, please share it with your friends! To learn more about ISTA, follow us on social media: @ista.community And visit our website: https://ista.life/

Temple nights. They are popping up like wildfires! Some say there should be more of them. One of those people is Celeste Gonzalez, who runs some of the best in Berlin. For her, it is super important that they are deeply attuned events for sensual and soul connection. Not events even. Art pieces! In this episode, Celeste talks with Simon about what a Temple Night is and how you can best prepare for one. It’s all about care and intention. She shares what some of the key ingredients of a great experience are, things like authenticity and good f’cking lighting. So participants and facilitators, take note. She also helps us feel into just what makes Temple nights such special spaces for self-exploration beyond the hold of the personal. They might be erotic or solitary, spicy or subtle, a big celebration or a time for grieving. Whether you’ve been to 1000 Temples, or are a total newbie, this conversation is bound to reveal something from between the layers of live experience… To learn more about Celeste's wide-ranging work, visit her website: https://www.devoteeoftheheart.com/ Or follow Celeste on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/devoteeoftheheart/ To learn more about ISTA, visit our website: https://ista.life/ Or follow us on social media: @ista.community

Asis Aviv is one of a kind, and the newest faculty member of the International School of Temple Arts. A self-described “rich witch, radical faerie, love priestexx, and shy-ning diva,” they are here for falling back in love with being humxn. In this conversation with Simon Marvell, Asis–a name which means “JUICE!” in Hebrew–shares their reflections on a vast array of topics, all anchored in the idea that we are so much more than our identity, whether influenced by parents, society or anything else. Gender and identity fluidity has nothing to do with some ‘woke agenda,’ but rather is about letting ourselves experience all that we are and all that we can be. Exploring all our inner parts/ selves/ voices, especially when they challenge the norms we grew up with is a wonderful way to free ourselves of our limiting beliefs and prejudices that keep us from living in love and acceptance. Asis shares how they work to embrace their shyness, how grief can be a transforming factor in dealing with issues of self-worth, and how they navigate the complexities of queer existence in a world that often demands performance and perfection. Through the lens of Somatic Shamanic Voice Dialogue (SSVD), Asis invites us to explore the concept of "binge-watching" our inner selves and our identifcation with them, encouraging a deeper understanding of the ever-evolving nature of identity and personality. Asis shares insights on collapsing conventional binaries of masculine and feminine (and more), examining the walls we erect around ourselves, and a way to find peace through surrender and self-exploration. They offer a powerful message of empowerment and liberation, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique expression and celebrate the colourful tapestry of humxn existence. To learn more about Asis, follow them on Instagram: @goddexxfactor To learn more about ISTA, follow us on social media: @ista.community Or visit our website: https://ista.life/