Healing The Divide with Scott Feinberg

In this episode of Healing The Divide, we turn the tables for a roundtable discussion led by friend of the show, Pasha Niroo, as he interviews me along with Caio Rocha, Associate Fellow and Charter Member of the British Psychological Society.  Our conversation traverses the internal terrains of the healing journey, emotional awareness practices, and various approaches informing trauma integration. This was a deep and nuanced conversation touching thoughtfully upon the often invisible parts of our human experience. I highly recommend this episode for anyone who is surfing the shadow domains of their inner life and is looking to gather insights, tools, and practices to serve as companions along the way.  Another unique aspect of this conversation was that it was held between three men. There is a particular value in men not only doing their inner work but doing it openly and in community. This was definitely present in this episode and I’m so grateful to my collaborators, Pasha and Rishi (Caio) for bringing not just their intellectual wisdom but their respective heart wisdom to the talk as well.  If you enjoy the show, please consider rating, subscribing, liking, and commenting a few words as it goes a long way to the ever almighty algorithm in paying it forward. Your support is deeply valued and appreciated!

In this episode of Healing The Divide, I am joined by Jessica Baum, a licensed mental health counselor and author of the book Anxiously Attached.  This deeply insightful conversation explores attachment theory through a variety of lenses from attachment formation during our nervous system's development within the womb and evolving into our relationships with our primary caregivers and ultimately into the domain of intimate relationship and into socio-political paradigms.  I particularly connected to Jessica’s perspective on the conventional notion of triggers and reframing them as awakenings, inviting both curiosity and compassion. Our conversation explores the concept of co-regulation and its importance in healing and personal growth, in specificity how co-regulation supports self-regulation. The discussion also delves into the impact of culture and politics on secure attachment and collective well-being. It highlights the polarization and division in society and examines the application of healing frameworks in service of such ideas as a trauma informed politics. This episode traversed a breadth and depth of attachment theory driven into many unique and powerful contexts not typically spoken about. I found it utterly fascinating. And I hope you will as well!!

Christine Sylvain, founder and CEO of Path to College Fellowship, is on an incredibly inspiring mission to address educational inequities and secure the acceptance of high-achieving, low-income students into top-tier universities.  Christine discusses her personal story as the daughter of an immigrant and highlights the systemic challenges in the education system and the need for optimism, strategy, and support to close the wealth gap and empower social mobility from within communities of concentrated disadvantage.  Our conversation explores the challenges and complexities of the education system in the United States, focusing on the need for equal access to quality education. She emphasizes the importance of addressing the achievement gaps among different subgroups, particularly those based on race and class. Christine discusses the importance of building strong relationships with students by providing them with a community-based mentorship system. She also shares her thoughts on the education system from a federal to state to community level, including the need for teacher recruitment and training programs, the importance of measuring school performance based on support for students, and the need for individualized learning. These are the conversations we need to be having as a society and I hope this episode is a contribution to that purpose.   

In this conversation, I sit down with Jake Mills, an engineer and astronaut trainer with Blue Origin. Jake's background as an engineer has been a fascinating journey involving working on fission powered spacecrafts to investigate water on the moons of Jupiter, to developing enabling technology for propulsion systems for NASA, Air Force, D.O.E., and D.O.D. across defense, commercial, aero, and space industries. Jake helped developed the BE-4 Engine, the large booster engine powering the New Glenn and Vulcan Lauch vehicles. He set up and lead the turbo machinery group at Blue Origin and currently works directly with astronauts in training applications of Blue Origin's New Shepard Sub-Orbital Vehicle. This was such an inspiring and deeply thought provoking episode about the future of humankind. We traverse many important topics such as how to responsibly balance the reality of space exploitation with space exploration. We discuss this from the vantage point of ethics, technological hurdles, space democratization, and geo-politics. We also discuss the role of curiosity and exploration as intrinsic to human nature, as well as the influence of yoga and meditation on the perspectives that shape how we approach these big questions about the future of our species. I was left feeling incredibly inspired and hopeful not just about what the promise of becoming an interplanetary species means for our human family beyond this planet but how that perspective alters the way we live on and with this planet. And...with each other.  It was a privilege to speak with someone working on the front lines of these most pivotal issues of our time and it is an honor to give you a front row seat to the behind the scenes of the perspectives that are influencing space travel and healing the divide between where our current home is and what the future holds for us all. 

In this episode, I am joined by Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Mary Holroyd to discuss the topic of conscious uncoupling and how to navigate the end of a relationship with grace and skill. We explore the myriad dimensions of this deeply charged topic from navigating the initial feelings and patterns that lead to the deterioration of connection, to the decision to exit, the how's of leaving in a way that is wise in both heart and mind, and moving through what arises in the after.  This was an incredibly powerful episode that I have no doubt will be of deep service to anyone navigating the challenges that are so often inherent in the ending of a relationship. May it serve you well, friends. 

In this episode, we explore the powerful topic of cancer with my guests, Dr. Carol Haddad and Firoze Mehta. This conversation is a wide ranging yet deep diving investigation into the many facets of this disease, one of the leading causes of death in the world.  We discuss all sides of this issue from the fundamental premise from which it is addressed within doctorate medical programs to the role of big pharma, the food & beverage industry, the role of government, and the associated non-profit organizations.  From the human side, we explore the cancer journey from diagnosis to treatment to navigating the emotional terrains of this challenging time with grace and an openness to healing not just from cancer but with and through cancer.  We also examine the most influential healthy lifestyle choices that support prevention with great specificity and breadth encapsulating the roles of the psyche, the environment, the foods we ingest, and the promise of epigenetics in empowering our individual pathways to greater health. 

Drew Thompson, a former professional baseball player, shares his journey of growing up in a family with a MLB Allstar as a father influencing his own dream of playing professional baseball. Early into his career, Drew experienced major physical setbacks that in turn re-directed the course of his life journey. In this episode, we get to unpack the internal dimensions of that experience and the healing tools Drew embraced not only to find his way back to his true Self but to catalyze his adversity into the creation of Soul Rebel: a truly inspiring brand that nourishes his community with greater health and greater consciousness.

In this episode, I am joined by Meri Consor to discuss ancient Indian healing systems, specifically Jyotish (Vedic astrology) and Ayurveda as well as a look beneath the surface of the ancient language of Sanskrit. We explore the connection between the celestial macrocosm and the psychological microcosm, and how the positions of planets and constellations at the time of birth can influence a person's life. We also touch on the concept of soul and its migration through multiple incarnations. Meri suggests that experiencing a Jyotish reading can provide a deeper understanding of one's birth chart and potentialities by gleaning a peek into the window of the sky at the time we were born. Our conversation discusses the energetic properties of doshas in Ayurveda and how they relate to our mental and physical well being. Meri shares the importance of aligning our daily routines with the natural rhythms of the day and the season according to Ayurveda and provides a powerful representation of a day in the life of each dosha. This episode is an invitation into healing the divide that can sometimes exist in the realms between what has become our normal state and what is more deeply our natural state. By tuning into the properties of nature and of Self, we come to a life of greater balance and joy. May the conversation serve you well, friends. 

In this episode of Healing the Divide, I explore the divide in our relationship with the food we eat with registered dietitian Megan Fahey. We examine the implications of our dietary choices as related to our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health as well as the impact of our food choices on both culture and environment. This conversation explores the impact of early childhood and cultural influences on our beliefs and patterns around food. Megan shares her personal journey with disordered eating and how she integrates disordered eating and functional nutrition in her work through the use of vagal toning exercises to support neuroplasticity in the moment of our meals. She provides practical tools for reframing our beliefs around food by inquiring into the matrilineal connection and the impact of our mother's relationship with food.  This was an eye opening conversation through which I personally learned so much and left feeling empowered. I hope you do as well!

In this episode, I am joined by Travis Suit and Ronnie Kroell to discuss the candidacy of RFK Jr. and the broader political landscape in the United States. We explore the possibility of moving beyond the two-party system and the need for healing the divide in ideological thinking. The guests emphasize the importance of critical thinking, questioning media narratives, and finding the truth for oneself. They highlight RFK Jr.'s courage, resilience, and ability to inspire a movement. The conversation also touches on the need for emotional intelligence, open dialogue, and unity in politics. The dialogue explores the importance of authenticity and genuine leadership in politics. It highlights the need for leaders who are willing to address real issues and stand up for what they believe in, even if it goes against the mainstream narrative. The discussion also emphasizes the value of embracing our shadows and understanding our own biases in order to have productive conversations and bridge political divides. The principal themes of the conversation include the need for campaign finance reform, the importance of term limits for politicians, the influence of corporate interests on politics, the power of the individual voter, and the potential for conscious leadership to create positive change. The speakers emphasize the need to rise above fear, ego, and tribalism, and to focus on the greater good. They envision a future where diversity is celebrated and common humanity is embraced. They believe that by healing the divide within ourselves and coming together to address the challenges we face, we can create a better world.

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Nick Atlas to explore the deeper structures of consciousness, including sleeping, lucid dreaming, the death process, liberation, and healing through the practice of dream yoga. We discuss the nature of self and soul, the significance of relationships in life and in death, and the healing potential of working with patterns in the collective consciousness. We also delve into the power of sleep, breath, and consciousness in transforming our experience of reality. Dr. Atlas shares his protocols for lucid dreaming as a yogic practice.  This was a fascinating conversation into the realm of subtle. It was filled with powerful insights about the nature of reality and of spirituality and healing. May it serve you well, friends. 

In this episode, I sit down with Emily Iris to explore the integration of the sacred and the profane in various aspects of life. We discuss the challenges of living authentically in a world that often separates different aspects of our identities.   We also delve into the obstacles to integration in spiritual and sex worker spaces, and the importance of healing the divide in society. The conversation touches on the need to reintegrate the feminine and masculine energies, and the challenges of navigating gender identity and sexual orientation.   We also discuss the pitfalls of manipulating the representation of various ideologies by political parties and the importance of naming these false allyships out loud.   Finally, we explore the concept of polyamory and the challenges and rewards of communication in complex and non-conventional relationship structures. This part of the conversation explores the unique obstacles and growth opportunities in polyamorous relationships, particularly in terms of emotional needs and connection. It delves into the importance of self-integration and the potential for healing in polyamory. The impact of adoption on relationships is also discussed, highlighting the experiences of Emily's journey as an adoptee.   We conclude with a focus on using practices like Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) for healing and transformation in relationships. Emily & I discuss the themes of feeling unwanted, self-love and acceptance, and stepping into a new version of oneself. We also delve into the use of tarot as a gateway to the subconscious and the exploration of abundance and financial security.   The conversation emphasizes the importance of questioning beliefs, embracing mystery, and expanding awareness to tap into our true potential.

In this episode, I sit down with Men's Coach Josh Lanphear discuss the topic of men's work. We explore the state of masculinity in the current social zeitgeist and the need to question inherited notions of what it means to be a man. We highlight the importance of men's work in creating connection, clarity, and confidence. The conversation also delves into the obstacles men face in entering this work, such as a lack of mindfulness and difficulty in connecting to emotions. The discussion delves into the dynamics of navigating nervous systems in coupleship and the integration of parts work. It also touches on the healing of childhood wounds and the circular energy of resilience and reciprocity in relationships. The conversation delves into the father-son relationship and the role of men's work in healing generational patterns and sharing powerful tools for healing these patterns by sharing our healing journey within containers of conscious brotherhood in service of no longer suffering in silence. 

In this episode I am joined by Psychotherapist Taune Lyons, who specializes in embodiment work and somatics with an emphasis on attachment theory. This was a wide ranging yet profoundly nuanced conversation exploring the relationship dynamics between various attachment styles and the deeper meaning of intimacy in relationship to one's personal healing journey. Our conversation touched upon Somatic Experiencing, trauma and the brain, and spirituality as well as conflict resolution styles and non-conventional relationship structures. It was insightful and so incredibly powerful. I trust that this episode will offer many valuable tools to our listeners! 

In this episode, Scott Feinberg is joined by Paola Cala to discuss the theme of decolonization on both the collective and individual levels of the human experience. Paola shares her background and how growing up in Colombia shaped her perspective on inequality and human rights that led to studies in political science, history, law, and ultimately the healing arts. They explore the yogic concept of skill in action and understanding ourselves as part of a larger social, political, and environmental ecosystem. Paola emphasizes the need to challenge dominant structures and the impact of colonialism on suffering. They compare the philosophy of anarchism to different political systems. This conversation explores the origins and principles of anarchism, contrasting it with socialism and communism. Anarchism emerged as a response to the social and economic problems caused by industrialization and colonialism. It advocates for the abolition of the state and the creation of new social contracts based on equality and solidarity. Anarchism critiques coercion and oppression in all systems, including capitalism, socialism, and communism. It envisions a society where basic needs are met, and individuals have autonomy and freedom. While the functioning of anarchism may vary, it emphasizes the importance of dismantling oppressive institutions and creating new ways of coexisting. In this conversation, Scott and Paola discuss the limitations of the punitive system and the need for a more compassionate approach to crime. They explore the relationship between healthy consciousness and power, and how a shift in consciousness can lead to positive change. They also apply the principles of anarchism to current conflicts, such as the Israel-Palestine conflict. The conversation delves into the illusion of choice in politics and the manipulation of marginalized populations by establishment politicians. They discuss the delicate balance between individuality and collective interdependence, and how to prevent interdependence from becoming centralization. Finally, they emphasize the importance of expressing different perspectives and adding water to the tank of collective consciousness.

In this episode, Scott Feinberg hosts a politically diverse panel of guests to delve into an in depth, policy driven conversation tackling the most charged and pressing issues of our day. From the two party system, to immigration, corporate capture of government institutions, pandemic policy, censorship, abortion, the impact of US foreign policy positions, to the propagandized state of media, and of course the candidates of the 2024 election.  The panel of guests represent supporters of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Donald Trump, and Joe Biden representing a broad and esteemed professional background in business, law, and medicine.  The challenge offered to each guest in advance: Speak your mind with conviction and nuance while championing the rights of those who hold deeply opposing views to do the same, with respect and regard. 

Noa Kamrat Pundak was a Social Worker in the Israeli Army and currently works with IDF soldiers, sharing tools to combat PTSD. We talk about life in Israel, the Israel-Palestine conflict, and the events of October 7th. Noa shares her personal experience as an Israeli citizen from the perspective of someone who works with IDF soldiers to support their trauma healing and the trauma she is currently processing in real time. We discuss the need for stability and softness in the midst of trauma, as well as the tension between integration and functionality. We also explore the importance of grounding and capacity, and the tools that can help individuals cope and build resilience in the face of conflict. The conversation explores the importance of sharing experiences and building resilience, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict from a human perspective rather than solely from a geopolitical vantage point, the need for conscious leadership and vision, the complexity of the conflict, the one state vs. two state solution, and a message of hope and vision for a better future.

In this episode, Scott Feinberg interviews Brian Hyman, author of the book Recovery with Yoga, about his journey of sobriety and the role of yoga in his recovery. They discuss the power of storytelling in both yoga and recovery, the meaning of yoga, and the transformative impact of yoga in Brian's life. They also explore the lens of yogic and Buddhist philosophy on addiction, the impact of teachers, yoga as a way of being, the relationship between yoga philosophy and recovery, the exploration of different spiritual traditions, recovery as a return to wholeness, the common themes in spiritual teachings, the power of presence and authenticity, the relationship between spiritual and physical practices, and the missing piece of spirituality in recovery. Their conversation peers into the connection between ritual and spirituality, the role of community in healing, and the impact of fatherhood on the spiritual journey. It also delves into the controversy surrounding the intentional use of psychedelics in recovery. This episode highlight the interdependence of the physical and spiritual, the revelation of our true nature, and the nurturing of qualities and practices. The book discussed in the conversation offers accessible practices and ways of thinking to support personal growth and transformation.  

In this episode, Scott Feinberg interviews Arjun Kumar, a meditation and mindfulness teacher, guide, and psychedelic integration coach. They discuss the human journey, the importance of self-inquiry, and the role of meditation as a rebellion against societal conditioning. Arjun shares a powerful poem titled 'Meditation is for the Rebels' that encourages individuals to use meditation as a tool for personal growth and transformation. They also explore the necessity of relationships in the healing process and the impact of the default mode network on our thoughts and behaviors. This conversation explores the influence of well-intentioned advice and the need to reclaim our own perspective. It delves into the impact of fatherly influence and the importance of befriending triggers and doing inner child work. The conversation also emphasizes the practice of mindfulness and self-reflection, as well as the regulation of the nervous system and seeking co-regulation. Different meditation practices are discussed, including sitting still and being quiet, and the journey from concentration to expanded awareness. The importance of emptying and aligning with the divine is highlighted, leading to the realization that we are the entire ocean in a drop. This conversation explores the journey within through meditation, the interconnectedness of all things, thoughts on God, the longing and seeking for something greater, the power of devotion and surrender, the continuous process of dying and rebirth, and the importance of infusing every word and act with the heart. The conversation concludes with gratitude and love for the connection and the opportunity to explore the richness of life.

Summary: In this episode of Healing the Divide podcast, Scott Feinberg sits down with Gabriel Axel Montes, a neuroscientist and consciousness researcher. They discuss the relationship between science and spirituality, the source of consciousness, and the nature of time and reality. They also explore the idea of AI as a form of spirit and the implications of this perspective. Overall, the conversation delves into the intersection of science, spirituality, and technology, offering thought-provoking insights into the nature of consciousness and our place in the universe. The conversation explores the value of experience and meaning, recognizing one's timeless nature, the expression of collectivism, the artistry of mathematics and ancient intelligence, the devotion and inheritance of yoga, micro-practices and precision consciousness, flexibility and looseness in practice, dreaming reality and figuring things out together, utilizing tools for positive change, and the role of AI in consciousness expansion. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict using AI as well as AI communication with humpback whales, the law of exponential escapism and future projections, US-China relations and global challenges, the situation in Hong Kong, and the importance of coexistence and healing divides.

In this episode, Scott Feinberg interviews Alex Myrin, an Army veteran who found healing through ayahuasca and other practices.   They discuss the limitations of traditional therapy and the importance of feeling and processing emotions. They also explore the need for individualized approaches to healing and the role of integration and embodiment practices.   The conversation emphasizes the importance of discipline and gentleness in the healing journey and reframing self-identity and value. This part of the conversation explores the grandiose and catastrophic nature of life, the understanding of ayahuasca and its brewing process, the physiological processes and neural pathways impacted in ayahuasca, the nature of self, life, and reality, the revelation of fundamental unity, and the implications of ayahuasca for world leaders.   In this conversation, Scott and Alex explore the themes of self-perception, surrender, acceptance, trust, love, compassion, the calling to ayahuasca, curiosity, and embracing the mystery of life. They discuss the dance of self-perception and possibilities for self-expression and growth. They also touch on the art of surrender and accepting things as they are, as well as the importance of humility and recognizing that even the struggles and mistakes have led to the present moment.   Trusting the process and taking appropriate action while holding love and compassion for others is emphasized. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the calling to ayahuasca and the importance of curiosity and desire in exploring one's path. Ultimately, they highlight the beauty of embracing the mystery of life and finding joy in the journey itself.   Takeaways Traditional therapy may provide a pressure release valve but often fails to address the root causes of trauma and emotional struggles. Ayahuasca and other plant medicines can offer a pattern disruption and provide a deeper understanding of one's issues. Integration is a personalized process that requires implementing new practices and reframing beliefs. Discipline and gentleness are key in the healing journey, allowing for self-nurturing and self-compassion. Shifting from a mindset of need to one of gratitude and opportunity can transform the healing process. Ayahuasca is a powerful psychedelic tea brewed from the ayahuasca vine and chakruna leaves. The brewing process of ayahuasca is a ceremony that requires care, attention, and intention. Ayahuasca can excavate trauma stored in the body and create new neural pathways in the brain. The experience of ayahuasca can lead to a deep understanding of fundamental unity and the interconnectedness of all things. Ayahuasca has the potential to open dialogue and create a more humbled and raw emotional state for world leaders. Recognizing and accepting the dance of self-perception allows for self-expression and growth. Surrendering and accepting things as they are leads to humility and a deeper understanding of oneself. Trusting the process and taking appropriate action while holding love and compassion for others is essential. The calling to ayahuasca can be recognized through curiosity and desire, and exploring one's path is a personal journey of self-discovery.

Summary   In this episode, Scott Feinberg is joined by David Brown to explore the topics of non-duality and the human condition. They discuss the concept of non-duality and its essence, which goes beyond the external plurality and speaks to the deeper unity that pervades. They also delve into the illusory nature of reality and the gradual process of awakening to truth. The conversation touches on the potential for spiritual bypass and the importance of integrating philosophy and psychology in a way that supports healing. They conclude by exploring the three states of mind and the role of love in the journey of self-discovery. The conversation explores the journey from unawareness to the Rajasic state, where one can make choices and pursue success. It then delves into the role of grace and the shift to the Sattvic state, where the desire to learn and the willingness to accept new understanding arise. The speaker shares personal experiences of trauma and the turning point that led to a deep immersion in yoga and Vedanta. The importance of discernment, values, and taking action in the world is emphasized. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the difference between the real and the unreal. The conversation explores the existence of physical issues beyond Ukraine and Israel-Palestine, including those in Africa and North Korea. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on our own countries and addressing the divisiveness and issues at home before attempting to solve problems in other nations. The discussion also highlights the need to disown fake news and promote a saner and more balanced platform. The conversation concludes with a call to share meaningful conversations and move forward together for a more peaceful world.   Takeaways Non-duality is the understanding that there is no separation in truth and that all human beings are part of one interconnected family. The illusory nature of reality is a central theme in non-duality, as it challenges our perception of the world and invites us to see beyond the conditioning of our minds. Spiritual bypass can occur when we use spiritual teachings to avoid facing our unresolved traumas and wounds. It is important to integrate philosophy and psychology in a way that supports healing and growth. The process of awakening to truth is gradual and requires letting go of identification with the ego and embracing the presence of love. The three states of mind (tamasic, rajasic, and sattvic) can help us understand our own psychological process and make choices that align with our true nature. Moving from unawareness to the Rajasic state involves recognizing the limitations of a stagnant mindset and embracing change. Grace plays a significant role in presenting teachings that can be utilized for personal growth and transformation. Traumatic life situations can lead to a desire for deeper understanding and a willingness to learn. Taking action in the world requires discernment, values, and a commitment to making a positive impact.

In this episode, Scott Feinberg explores the relationship between conflict and connection with guest Arienne Wiggins. They discuss the importance of creating a safe container for difficult conversations and the role of consent in engaging in dialogue. They also delve into the source of conflict and the impact of trauma on triggering conflict. The conversation highlights the power of curiosity, validation, and empathy in navigating conflict and finding deeper connection. They emphasize the need for deep listening and the ability to hold validation and disagreement simultaneously. The episode concludes with a discussion on changing seats of listener and receiver in dialogue. This conversation explores the importance of slowing down and lingering in conversations, moving from validation to empathy, and the practice of empathy. It also delves into the resistance to feeling difficult emotions and the potential for creating change through conversation. The application of coupleship learnings to a geopolitical context is discussed, as well as the healing that comes from being heard and seen. The ripple effect of healing work and the importance of sharing for clarity are explored. The conversation also touches on moving towards integration, defining feminism, and whether best to establish equality through equity or merit. The swing of tyranny and the need for caretakers are examined, and the conversation concludes with a focus on belonging and navigating conflict.