Holistic Healers Community Podcast

In this episode of the Holistic Healers Community Podcast, Crystal sits down with Mara Aguilar to explore her firsthand experience as a gestational surrogate and the journey that led her to make the decision to carry a baby for intended parents.Mara shares what motivated her to become a surrogate, what she looked for when choosing an agency, and what an ideal relationship with intended parents looked like for her. She walks us through some of the practical aspects of the process, including the requirements to qualify as a surrogate, what goes into a contract between a surrogate and intended parents, and the many decisions that have to be considered before the journey even begins.Mara also gives an honest look at the physical and emotional experience of surrogacy. From the hormonal preparation and embryo transfer to the unexpected challenges she encountered throughout pregnancy and the different things she tried to do to manage and mitigate those issues. She opens up about labor, delivery, postpartum recovery, and what the experience was actually like from her perspective.And, of course, Mara answers the question that she gets asked all the time: Would you do it again?Whether you’ve considered becoming a surrogate yourself, know someone who has, or are simply curious about what the process is really like, this episode offers an opportunity to hear about surrogacy directly from someone who has lived it.Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or ask Mara any further questions you may have on her IG.IG: @mara.aguilar11Music credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

In this episode of the Holistic Healers Community Podcast, Crystal sits down with Dr. Zerri Gross - a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Reiki Master, crystal and sound healer, trauma-informed yoga instructor, Goddess Temple Priestess, author, retired veteran, and holistic life coach - for a deeply honest conversation about transformation, burnout, spirituality, and learning to make space for every part of ourselves.Dr. Z shares her journey from the military into the mental health field, the early experiences that challenged her to reflect on her own growth as a therapist, and the gradual shift toward holistic healing that initially began as something she pursued for herself. She opens up about the internal and religious beliefs she had to work through in order to make space for these modalities, as well as the barriers that kept her from believing her trainings and gifts were meant to be shared with others.Eventually, burnout and life’s challenges pushed Dr. Z toward opening her own private practice, only to reveal a whole new layer of healing around money, visibility, social expectations, and the narratives we inherit about what we’re “supposed” to do. Together, Crystal and Dr. Z explore what happens when the person who has spent years caring for everyone else finally gives herself permission to be cared for, too.Dr. Z also shares about her upcoming Disconnect to Reconnect event at HHC on August 29th, created specifically for the teachers, therapists, healers, and “strong friends” who are so accustomed to being the ones everyone else relies on.And in one of the most memorable parts of the conversation, Dr. Z introduces a powerful reframe for working with the inner child: Instead of making our inner child responsible for healing us, what if we fired them from the role of “healer” and hired them as a consultant? Someone whose experiences, needs, creativity, and wisdom can inform the way we move forward.This episode is an invitation to reconsider what healing, spirituality, success, and self-care can look like when we stop abandoning parts of ourselves in order to become who we think we’re supposed to be. Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or find out more about Dr. Z and how to work with her on her website & IG.IG: @greaterself_dr.zWebsite: www.greaterself.orgMusic credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

In this episode of the Holistic Healers Community Podcast, Crystal sits down with Nikki Hinsen-O’Connor, certified sound therapist and alchemist, to explore the powerful intersection of sound, healing, and self-awareness. Nikki shares her personal journey into this work, which began with her search for relief from chronic migraines. What started with binaural beats eventually led her to the world of sound baths, opening the door to a deeper understanding of how sound can impact the body, mind, and nervous system.In this conversation, Nikki breaks down the science behind sound healing and explains how frequency, vibration, and resonance can support regulation and healing within the body. She also speaks candidly about her first sound bath experience not being relaxing or comfortable, and how a private, in-home session allowed her to truly soften, feel safe, and connect more deeply with herself.This episode also highlights the importance of trauma-informed care within this modality. Nikki shares about her certification through Kin Unified Healing and why proper training matters when working with sound, as dissonance or lack of awareness from an untrained practitioner can potentially be dysregulating or harmful.Beyond the modality itself, Nikki reflects on how sound healing has supported her own mental and emotional health by creating a foundation of awareness. One that has inspired her to incorporate other supportive practices like meditation and therapy. She describes sound as an ongoing invitation to return to her body and reconnect with her higher self.Crystal and Nikki also discuss her Heartfire Family sound baths hosted at the Holistic Healers Community, as well as the unique and often profound effects sound healing can have on children.This episode is both an introduction and an invitation to listen more deeply, to become more aware, and to explore the ways sound can support your healing journey.Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or find out more about Nikki and how to work with her on her IG.IG: @hearthfiresoundMusic credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of sexual abuse and domestic violence.In this episode of the Holistic Healers Community Podcast, Crystal sits down with Yvonne Calderon, a newly graduated massage therapist and founder of Rooted From Ruins, to explore the deeply intentional and healing work of trauma-informed touch.Yvonne shares the story of how her business began long before she even knew what it would become. Starting with a meaningful ritual that inspired the creation of her logo, planting the seed for something much greater. After experiencing the impact of massage for herself, she felt called to pursue it as a career, eventually carving out a powerful niche in supporting individuals who have experienced body-based trauma.This conversation explores Yvonne’s mission to reintroduce safe, intentional touch to the body, especially for those navigating PTSD, anxiety, depression, and the lasting effects of sexual abuse or domestic violence. She offers insight into what trauma-informed massage actually looks like, both before and during a session, and how creating a sense of safety, consent, and empowerment is at the core of her work.Yvonne also speaks to the deeper intention behind Rooted From Ruins. Not just as a massage practice, but as a space designed to support individuals in reconnecting with their bodies, reclaiming their strength, and standing fully in their power.Together, they reflect on how easy it can be to disconnect from the body in the busyness of everyday life, and how important it is to listen to the subtle cues and messages our bodies are constantly communicating.This episode is a powerful reminder that healing doesn’t have to be rushed, and that with the right support, it is possible to rebuild a sense of safety, trust, and connection within ourselves.Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or find out more about Yvonne and how to work with her on her IG.IG: @rooted_from_ruinsMusic credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

In this episode of the Holistic Healers Community Podcast, Crystal sits down with Vincent Edwards to explore the powerful and often misunderstood modality of Structural Integration. Vincent shares how his lifelong love of sports and movement led to a series of injuries that ultimately guided him toward this work. Through his own efforts to heal his body, he discovered that Structural Integration was the only approach that provided him with true, lasting relief. What began as a personal healing journey has since evolved into a deep commitment to helping others reconnect with their bodies.Together, they break down what Structural Integration actually is, including its focus on alignment, body awareness, and the body’s relationship to gravity. Vincent explains how many of us live in ingrained patterns (such as a forward-leaning, chronically activated posture) that can contribute to physical discomfort over time, including common issues like tension patterns and postural imbalances.This conversation also explores the intentional 10-session series that Structural Integration is known for, and how each session builds upon the last to address the body as a whole system. Rather than chasing pain at its source, this modality works with the fascia and overall structure of the body, creating changes that naturally ripple toward areas of discomfort. Vincent also shares insights from his ongoing certification journey, including his path toward completing 1,000 hours of hands-on experience, and his foundational belief that every body is inherently perfect, both when it arrives and when it leaves. His work is not about fixing, but about supporting the body in finding more space, length, and ease.This episode is an invitation to see the body through a new lens. One rooted in curiosity, connection, and trust.Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or find out more about Vincent and how to work with him on his IG.IG: @vxe.siMusic credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

In this episode of the Holistic Healers Community Podcast, Crystal sits down with fellow Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Jacky Rojas, for an honest and grounding conversation about private practice, consultation, and what it really means to build a career in this field without doing it alone. Crystal shares how their consultation group was formed around the same time she launched her private practice, becoming a consistent source of support, connection, and reflection throughout her journey. What started as a space for case consultation has evolved into something much deeper: A place where both therapists can exhale, process, and show up fully as humans navigating both personal and professional experiences.Together, they explore Jacky’s recent decision to step into private practice this year, doing it scared, and the excitement and uncertainty that can come with building something of your own. They talk about the pressure to “niche down,” the challenge of having multiple passions within the field, and how Jacky has found her footing as a relational therapist working with both couples and individuals, as well as specializing in ADHD.This episode also highlights the ways they’ve intentionally expanded their consultation space beyond case conceptualization, incorporating a therapy-related book club, skills-building, and even moments of creativity and fun (like hosting Jacky’s headshot photoshoot in the HHC podcast studio).This conversation is a reminder that therapists need support too, and that when we create spaces to be seen, held, and challenged, we not only grow as clinicians, but as people.If you’ve ever felt alone in your work, this episode is for you. Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or find out more about Jacky and how to work with her on her website.IG: @jrojastherapyWebsite: www.jrojastherapy.comMusic credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

In this episode of the Holistic Healers Community Podcast, Crystal sits down with Krishna Lopez: Certified doula, sound healer, Reiki Level 2 practitioner, and community builder. They share a deeply nurturing and expansive conversation on motherhood, healing, and the power of intentional support.Krishna shares the heart behind her recent Matriarchal Magic event, a space created for women to gather, heal, and support one another through a variety of holistic services. She reflects on the magic that unfolded, not only in the connections between attendees, but in her own personal healing and growth through facilitating the experience.Together, Crystal and Krishna explore how Krishna’s personal journey shaped her path. From her conception journey leading her to become a doula, to her pregnancy experience inspiring her work in sound healing. This conversation highlights the deep wisdom that can emerge when women are supported and empowered throughout each phase of motherhood.They also dive into the gaps that exist in accessible holistic care for pregnant women and new mothers, and the importance of postpartum preparation (something that is often overlooked, yet essential). Krishna shares insight into common postpartum experiences, including anxiety, rage, depression, and even psychosis, helping to normalize conversations that are too often kept in silence.This episode also touches on the profound identity shift that comes with becoming a mother, the differences in how motherhood and fatherhood are experienced, and the awe-inspiring process of bringing new life into the world.This conversation is both grounding and eye-opening. An invitation to honor the full spectrum of the motherhood journey, while remembering that no woman is meant to walk it alone.Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or find out more about Krishna and how to work with her on her IG & website.IG: @therainbowdoulaWebsite: www.therainbowdoula.comMusic credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

In this episode of the Holistic Healers Community Podcast, Crystal sits down with community builder Christine Bryant for a timely and thought provoking conversation on connection, visibility, and breaking out of the monotony of modern life.Christine shares her extensive background in creating intentional spaces. From communities for writers, to women, to professional networking, and how each of those experiences led her to her current project: The Like 4 Like Community, a space designed to help small businesses support one another and expand their reach through authentic engagement on social media.Drawing from over 20 years as a massage therapist, Christine reflects on what she’s learned about tension, not just in the body, but in the patterns we fall into in our daily lives. She introduces the idea of pattern disrupters, and how community can serve as a powerful catalyst to bring energy, creativity, and connection back into our lives.Together, Crystal and Christine explore the loneliness epidemic of today’s world, the importance of feeling truly seen, and the gaps that often exist in spaces that focus solely on strategy without fostering real connection. Crystal shares her own experience investing in social media education that lacked community, highlighting the deeper need this work fulfills.Christine also opens up about the challenges of bringing her vision to life, her mission to create spaces where every individual feels valued, and her Like 4 Like Community Coffee and Collabs events designed to foster genuine support and collaboration.This episode is an invitation to step out of autopilot, reconnect with others, and remember that growth (both personal and professional) thrives in community.Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or find out more about Christine and how to work with her on her IG accounts.IG: @like4likecommunity @depodolMusic credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

In this episode of the Holistic Healers Community Podcast, Crystal sits down with Amanda and Aaron Williams for a deeply moving conversation on healing, partnership, and conscious evolution.Amanda shares her life story, including the challenges she faced growing up and the “God wings” (interests and activities) that served as lifelines and moments of light during difficult times. She opens up about what led her to begin her healing journey and the courage it took to face and process her past. Together, Amanda and Aaron reflect on how their very different upbringings shaped their relationship. Aaron shares how his more peaceful foundation allowed him to be a steady source of support, as well as the importance of tending to his own well-being while walking alongside Amanda through her healing process. Their conversation offers an honest look at what it means to grow both individually and as a couple.They also discuss how their experiences have influenced their approach to parenting, and the intentional ways they are raising their children with awareness and care. Amanda shares about her business, Rise Above Coaching, where she offers mindset coaching, somatic Pilates, and sound healing experiences alongside Aaron, including their upcoming Blue Moon sound bath.This episode is a powerful reminder that healing doesn’t happen in isolation. It can be supported, witnessed, and strengthened through connection, intention, and love. Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or find out more about Amanda and how to work with her on her IG & website.IG: @amandarizeabove.coWebsite: www.rizeabovecoaching.comMusic credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

In this episode of the Holistic Healers Community Podcast, Crystal sits down with Marcella Reyes of SoCal Fitness and Massage Therapy for a powerful conversation on strength, healing, and redefining our relationship with the body.Crystal reflects on her personal journey of committing to over a year of consistent fitness training with Marcella, and how that experience helped her move beyond subconscious patterns around body image, weight, and self-perception. Together, they explore how fitness can become a tool not just for physical change, but for mental, emotional, and even generational healing.Marcella shares her evolution from focusing solely on rehab massage to offering a more integrative, full-circle approach that includes movement, nutrition, and open conversations about health. She speaks to her deep sense of responsibility to educate and support others, emphasizing that the cost of avoiding these conversations can be far greater than the discomfort of having them.The conversation also touches on the ripple effect of this work. How Crystal’s journey has influenced her family, particularly her son, and Marcella’s newest offering, Maya Abdominal Therapy, which was inspired by her own personal healing journey. She also shares about her upcoming Mental Wellness Workshop and her continued mission to support others in reconnecting with their bodies in a more empowered and informed way.This episode is an invitation to rethink what it means to care for your body, and to recognize the deeper impact that commitment, awareness, and support can have on your life and those around you.Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or find out more about Marcella and how to work with her on her IG & website.IG: @socalfitandmassageWebsite: www.socalfitandmassage.comMusic credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

In this episode of the Holistic Healers Community Podcast, Crystal sits down with her tarot teacher and Reiki Master, Gina Rabbin, for a rich and insightful conversation on intuitive development, spiritual practice, and lifelong learning.Gina shares about the tarot and Reiki classes she offers at the Holistic Healers Community Center, and how she introduces these modalities in a way that feels accessible and approachable for those who are new or skeptical. Together, Crystal and Gina reflect on how integrating tarot and Reiki into daily life can support growth, self-awareness, and deeper connection to intuition.With nearly 40 years of experience reading tarot, Gina speaks to the evolving nature of the cards and how they continue to reveal new layers of meaning over time. They explore the significance of cards repeating themselves across days or weeks, and what those patterns may be inviting us to pay attention to. The conversation also expands into the intuitive gifts that can unfold as we deepen our practice, moving from tarot, to Reiki, to a more embodied and trusting relationship with inner guidance.This episode is an invitation to stay curious, open, and connected to your own path, wherever you are in your journey.Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or find out more about Gina and how to work with her on her IG & website.IG: @ginarabbinWebsite: www.ginarabbin.comMusic credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

In this deeply meaningful episode of the Holistic Healers Community Podcast, Crystal sits down with Jose Orozco for a conversation that feels nothing short of destined.What began as a simple connection within the Holistic Healers Community unfolded into something far more personal, revealing that Jose is the cousin of Crystal’s late biological father. This unexpected relationship opened the door for Crystal to revisit her own perceptions, memories, and unresolved emotions surrounding her father, creating space for a new layer of healing.Together, Crystal and Jose explore how two people can hold very different experiences of the same person, and how both truths can coexist. They reflect on the significance of our individual perspectives, the meaning we assign to our experiences, and how those interpretations shape our healing and growth.Beyond their shared story, this conversation expands into Jose’s path of service: Facilitating a men’s support group within the community, becoming a Reiki Master alongside Crystal, and integrating energy work into daily life. Jose also shares about his incense-making practice, how it supported his 26 years of sobriety, and his growing desire to guide others on their own recovery journeys. Rooted in a philosophy of service, this episode is a powerful reminder of the unexpected ways healing, connection, and purpose can find us.Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or find out more about Jose and how to work with him on his IG.IG: @joseph_dean_orozcoMusic credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

In this deeply expansive episode of the Holistic Healers Community Podcast, Crystal sits down with intuitive healer Kyana Coburn for a conversation that bridges energy work, spiritual awakening, and personal sovereignty.Crystal shares how Kyana has supported her own healing journey, opening the door to deeper embodiment, awareness, and trust in the unseen. Together, they explore what a Reiki massage experience can look like, Kyana’s personal path into channeling and intuitive sight, how these gifts first revealed themselves, and the ongoing process of learning to trust, strengthen, and responsibly hold them.This conversation dives into the nuance of spiritual work that may not always feel logical or easily explained, yet holds deep truth for those who experience it. Kyana speaks to the importance of sovereignty, reminding us that the messages she channels are not meant to create dependency, but to guide individuals back to their own inner knowing. They also explore the discomfort that often accompanies awakening, the necessity of stepping away at times to integrate, and the challenges of staying committed to this path.Kyana closes with a powerful message of remembrance, an invitation for each listener to reconnect with their own divine nature and inner authority. This episode is for those who feel called to deepen their trust, expand their awareness, and explore what it means to come home to themselves.Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or find out more about Kyana and how to work with her on her IG.IG: @revivethedivine Music credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

In this episode of the Holistic Healers Community Podcast, Crystal sits down with human design guide Rae Minot for an expansive and practical conversation about understanding your energetic blueprint.Rae shares how she discovered human design during the pandemic and began using it as a powerful framework for exploring energy management, decision-making strategy, and permission to live more authentically. Together, Crystal and Rae discuss the five human design types, what profile numbers represent, and how this system can help us better understand not only ourselves, but our partners, children, and families.Crystal and Rae also open up about the ways they’ve adapted their own lives based on their individual types, and the profound shifts they’ve experienced as a result. This conversation frames human design as a tool for awareness and alignment, offering listeners practical insights for honoring their natural rhythms and building more harmonious relationships. Rae also shares about her current offerings and how to connect with her for personalized readings and guidance.Whether you’re brand new to human design or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode invites you to explore what becomes possible when you give yourself full permission to be who you were designed to be.Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or find out more about Rae and how to work with her on her IG and website.IG: raeminotWebsite: www.iamraeminot.comMusic credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

In this deeply personal episode, Crystal invites listeners to get to know the heart behind the Holistic Healers Community Podcast. With previous seasons now closed, this conversation serves as a new beginning. She takes this opportunity to share the experiences, relationships, and turning points that shaped both her personal healing journey and professional path.Crystal opens up about her upbringing, family dynamics, and the pivotal life experiences that influenced her understanding of connection, resilience, and growth. She reflects on meeting her husband and the evolution of their relationship, the profound transition into motherhood, and the internal and relational challenges that reshaped her identity along the way. She also shares the path that led her to become a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and the vision and intention behind building the Holistic Healers Community.This episode is an honest introduction, not just to what Crystal does, but to who she is. It offers listeners a deeper understanding of the lived experiences that inform her work, leadership, and commitment to holistic healing.Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or find out more about Crystal on her IG and website.IG: @crystalvenegaslmftWebsite: www.crystalvenegas.comMusic credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

In this empowering episode of the Holistic Healers Community Podcast, Crystal sits down with special guest Sally Zailo for a meaningful conversation at the intersection of mindfulness, self-awareness, and personal safety.Sally shares how her own mindfulness practice supported her in supporting her team through the demands of a corporate environment and inspired her to begin teaching meditation. She also discusses what inspired her to begin teaching self-defense classes. Together, they explore what it really takes to build a consistent meditation practice, deepen self-awareness, and recognize the mindset patterns and subconscious programming that can lead to unsafe or unhelpful behaviors.You’ll also learn practical insights into personal protection, including how defense strategies may shift when facing a stranger versus someone you know, and how cultivating awareness, confidence, and embodiment can be a powerful form of prevention.This episode is a reminder that true empowerment begins within. Through presence, education, and practice, we can reconnect to our intuition, strengthen our boundaries, and move through the world with greater clarity and confidence.Whether you’re new to mindfulness, curious about self-defense, or seeking deeper personal growth, this conversation offers tools and inspiration to support your journey.Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or ask Sally questions by emailing her: [email protected] credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove

After a six month hiatus, the Holistic Healers Community Podcast returns with an honest and heartfelt reflection on a season of profound transition, shedding, and self-trust. In this episode, Crystal shares about navigating the difficult decision to part ways with her former co-host and what that experience awakened within her. She talks about complex emotions, long-held narratives, and deeply rooted patterns that were ready to be released. Rather than focusing on the past, this conversation centers on growth, resilience, and the courage it takes to choose what is truly aligned with the health of a community and oneself.Through stories of synchronicity, embodiment, discomfort, and divine timing, Crystal explores what it has meant to fully step into her gifts and deepen her trust in the universe. She reflects on learning to inhabit her body in new ways, honoring both the challenges and breakthroughs that came with that journey. This episode is an invitation into vulnerability, integration, and intention, offering space for listeners to witness, reflect, and reconnect. Crystal closes by welcoming community feedback and connection, honoring the collective role we play in supporting one another in being fully seen, heard, and expressed.Have a listen & don't forget to follow the podcast to stay up to date on episodes! You can also leave feedback on the episode over at HHC’s Instagram @holistichealerscommunity or find out more about Crystal on her IG.IG: @crystalvenegaslmftWebsite: www.crystalvenegas.comMusic credit: Blind Love by TuneTrove