When Your Old Life Falls Apart: Death, Rebirth & Transformation

In this episode of Realms of Curiosity, Sarah and Wendy explore the shamanic concept of dismemberment and remembering—death-and-rebirth processes in which old identities dissolve so something new can emerge.Through personal stories and reflections, they discuss experiences of loss, upheaval, symbolic death, identity shifts, and the unexpected ways transformation can unfold.The conversation touches on shamanic journey experiences, resilience, difficult transitions, letting go of limiting narratives, and the role discomfort can play in personal growth.They also explore how periods of breakdown—whether personal or collective—may invite deeper questions about who we are and what remains when familiar identities fall away.As always, the conversation remains open-ended, experiential, and grounded in lived experience.00:43 Why Dismemberment Matters01:57 Sarah’s First Breakdown Rebirth04:56 Defining Dismemberment Rebuilding Self05:57 Classic Shamanic Journey Dismemberment08:02 Wendy’s Visions and Choking Dreams11:48 Vintage Mustang Story16:27 Stolen Car and Life Unraveling21:42 Santa Barbara Struggle and Turning Point25:49 Relationships as Ego Death Catalyst28:20 Shamanism And Divorce28:55 Trusting The Restlessness31:41 Inviting Dismemberment Journeys33:13 Hollow Bone Practitioner Ethics35:31 Couples Work And Clearing39:04 Death Rebirth And Shedding Skin41:05 Training Discomfort With A Dog45:17 Global Dismemberment And Resilience48:17 Finding Space Between Thoughts______________________Visit Sarah's websiteVisit Wendy's websiteRealms of Curiosity theme music created by Keen Mixer