Chris Grosso The Indie Spiritualist

Exploring the vital role of boundaries, Dr. Lissa Rankin calls on the medical and wellness fields to confront power imbalances and deepen their understanding of trauma.Check out Dr. Rankin’s numerous books on trauma, medicine, healing, and more HEREThis week on The Indie Spiritualist, Chris and Lissa explore Moral injury and Lissa’s transition out of the medical worldWhat the medical world misunderstands about traumaCult-type dynamics within the wellness community Naive compassion and recognizing that sometimes we are responsible for our own harmWaking up to spiritual bypassing and developing a trauma-informed awarenessHow medical training forces you to dehumanize in order to detach and perform in surgeries etc.Going through a reckoning of power imbalance Internal Family Systems as a wonderful healing modality for traumaStanding up for ourselves and asking for what we needAbout Lissa Rankin, MD:Lissa Rankin, MD, is an OB/GYN physician, author of 7 books, founder of the Whole Health Medicine Institute and the non-profit Heal At Last, and an encaustic artist who researches radical remission, trauma-informed medicine, and spiritual healing. She teaches memoir writing for therapeutic purposes, in addition to being an educator of Internal Family Systems (IFS). Her TEDx talks have been viewed over 6 million times, and she starred in two National Public Television specials. Lissa is currently co-writing her eighth book with Harvard psychiatrist Jeffrey Rediger, MD, MDiv about the link between relational trauma and medical illness, focusing on how healthy boundaries and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy can help reverse diseases related to nervous system dysregulation caused by traumatizing relationships. Lissa lives with her partner Jeff Rediger and her housemate April Sweazy in the Bay Area, now that her daughter has flown the nest. She thrives on daily hikes in nature, dancing with her Bay Area dance community, singing, writing, DJ’ing music whenever she can, and healthy gourmet cooking. Check out Lissa’s website HERE. “I was using my naive compassion to enable and tolerate some of the most narcissistic people on the planet without good boundaries and consequences to that behavior. It was shattering to realize that I was responsible for my own harm, I was continuing to keep the door wide open. I was a porous, boundaryless, gap. That was part of the ecstatic part, it was ‘it’s all one, we’re all connected.’ I wasn’t seeing the boundarylessness of that and the boundary wounding that came from my boundaryless mother.” –Lissa Rankin, MDSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Blending together the clinical and the beautiful, Dr. Robert Krause and Vicki Marnin discuss mental health, psychedelic therapy, and integrative healing.Check out Centered, a pioneering mental health center offering affordable, multidisciplinary care designed to empower individuals on their path to healing. From traditional therapy to advanced psychiatric care and ketamine-assisted therapy, they provide a full spectrum of services to meet diverse needs.  This time on The Indie Spiritualist, Chris, Robert, and Vicki discuss:Bringing together different healing perspectives rather than being strictly clinical Considering what it means to be centered Ketamine as a therapeutic modality and how treatment changed Chris’s lifeConsidering set & setting in mental health spacesThinking of ketamine-assisted therapy as a gradual tool for change (not a cure-all or quick fix)The psychological benefit of creating sharp contrast between everyday life and the psychedelic experience Surrendering into ego dissolution for emotional healingHolistic care, trauma-work, and setting boundariesAbout Dr. Robert Krause:Robert Krause DNP APRN-BC is the Director of Clinical Services & Co-Founder of Centered, a unique mental health center for integrative healing. Dr. Krause pursues his work through various schools of philosophy, psychotherapy and pharmacology, as well as meditation, yoga, tantra, sex therapy and psychedelic therapy. Dr. Krause holds a BA in Philosophy from WCSU, a certificate in Nursing and a Master of Science degree from the Yale School of Nursing, and a doctoral degree in nursing practice from Quinnipiac University. His doctoral research work was focused on using a program of yoga and meditation to decrease incidents of aggression in an inpatient psychiatric unit. He also holds certifications in Global Mental Health: Trauma and Recovery from Harvard University, and certificates in both Psychedelic Assisted Therapy and Research and Sex Therapy from the California Institute for Integral Studies.Robert has been a faculty member of the Yale School of Nursing and the Yale School of Medicine in the Department of Psychiatry. At Western Connecticut State University and Quinnipiac University he has lectured in their philosophy programs; and at the Graduate Institute, he has lectured in Holistic Health and also in the Consciousness Studies Department.  “When I started studying psychedelic therapy about ten years ago, one of the things that was really front and center was the importance of set and setting. The setting for psychiatric work should be as important, but the setting for psychedelic work is very important because if we’re going to give people medicine that’s going to really open them up, in order to do that, they have to feel like they’re in a safe environment.” –Robert KrauseAbout Vicki Marnin:Vicki Marnin, RN, CNM, APRN-BC, is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner.  She has been assisting with ketamine assisted therapies for the past two years at Centered. Vicki has developed her skills for holding space for journeys in her practice as a midwife for the past 27 Years. Her path has turned toward helping people with personal growth, and mental health concerns.  “The day before your ketamine session, I want you to clean up your space so that when you come home it’s beautiful for you. I want you to make some food so you don’t have to struggle. You’re greeting this new, vulnerable, potential self. Put some flowers in your room, make sure your sheets are clean. I want it to signify a beginning that people may hold onto as a sign post, as a commitment to themselves.” –Vicki MarninSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Author, speaker, and harm reduction advocate Ryan Hampton discusses the importance of addressing the social needs of individuals struggling with addiction.Learn more about Ryan’s perspective on the overdose epidemic in America through his 2024 book, Fentanyl Nation.This time on The Indie Spiritualist, Chris and Ryan chat about:The state of the world and the ongoing opioid and overdose epidemic Harm reduction and how recovery has changed throughout the generationsThe peer support model and the critical role of community in addiction recoveryPromoting harm reduction initiatives as a life-saving alternative to punitive approachesPsychedelic therapy and integration sessions Balancing clinical addiction treatment with addressing social determinants like poverty and homelessnessShort-term solutions to addiction versus long-term sustainable strategies for recoveryTackling the root causes of addiction instead of focusing solely on substance useReleasing the identities we cling to pre-recoveryFreedom of thought and freedom of choiceAbout Ryan Hampton:Ryan Hampton is a national addiction recovery advocate, author, media commentator, and person in long-term recovery. He has worked with multiple non-profits nationwide to end overdose and served in leadership capacities for various community organizing initiatives. Hampton is in recovery from a decade of active opioid use and is a leading voice in America's rising recovery movement. He is the author of Unsettled, American Fix, and Fentanyl Nation. Ryan lives in Nevada with his husband, Sean, and their two boxer dogs. Connect with Ryan through his website and check out his work with Mobilize Recovery. “The act of reducing harm in any fashion should never be under political assault...I believe in bodily autonomy. If somebody is consciously making those decisions, then let's help them make better decisions so they are not harming other people and themselves, or reducing harm to themselves. We can support harm reduction, or, we can support death.” –Ryan HamptonSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Environmental activist Robin Greenfield explores why separation is the biggest threat to humanity and how to become a servant to all.Today’s podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.Check out Robin’s newest book, Food Freedom, and learn more about sustainable livingIn this episode, Chris and Robin have a vulnerable conversation about:Living a life of sustainability and protecting the earthThe illusion of separation as a core threat to humanity Healing our relationship with ourselves and others Truth as Robin’s ultimate inspiration and considering what the world could look like if we were all transparent The need for healing, taking responsibility, and righting any previous wrongs Celebrating progress in all forms, from small steps to major breakthroughsNon-violent communication and practicing from both the heart and mindBeing born into chaos, giving ourselves grace, and learning along the way“My objective since the beginning of my awakening has been to bring my life into alignment—to live my beliefs to the deepest level that I can: simply living on this earth in a way that doesn’t destroy the very home that we have, plants, animals, my fellow humanity.” –Robin Greenfield About Robin Greenfield:Robin Greenfield is a truth seeker, activist, social reformer, author, and servant to Earth, humanity, and our plant and animal relatives. Robin Greenfield lives simply and sustainably to be the change he wishes to see in the world and in active resistance to destructive and exploitative systems. His life is an experiment with truth and integrity. He is dedicated to liberation and basic rights for all. Check out Robin’s website to learn more about his many projects. You can also pick up one of Robin’s numerous books HERE. “If we don’t have wholeness and completeness within, we’re going to create a shattered society around us.” –Robin Greenfield See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

<h2>Guitar innovator Joel Korte joins Chris to share how loss, creativity, and community shaped his journey, from founding Chase Bliss and redefining analog-digital sound to discovering freedom by following his bliss.</h2><h6>Today’s podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at <a href="https://beherenownetwork.com/bhnn-guest-podcast-ep-220-dopey-hope-cultivating-resilience-through-honesty-service-with-anne-lamott/betterhelp.com/beherenow" target="_blank">betterhelp.com/beherenow</a> and get on your way to being your best self.</h6><p>[sc name="youtube"]nBfzpCv0ggg[/sc]</p><h5>In this episode, Chris and Joel have a heart-to-heart about:</h5><ul><li>Joel’s profound experience of losing his brother to a drunk driving accident</li><li>Living each moment with the inner knowing that it could be our last</li><li>Joel’s guitar pedal and gear company, Chase Bliss </li><li>Following your bliss and seeing doors open in front of you</li><li>Mixing together analog technology with digital control in the guitar industry</li><li>Parallels between the process of creating guitar pedals and the process of music creation </li><li>Working through introversion and finding comfort in community</li><li>Holding onto a positive outlook for the future </li></ul><p><blockquote><em><strong>“We’ve gotta get out of these echo chambers and see the humanity in one another. After you share space with someone and you’re reflecting on it, you feel this goodness that is indescribable about that connection and community amongst humans. We just need to be around other humans.” –Joel Korte</strong></em></blockquote></p><h5>About Joel Korte:</h5><p>Joel Korte is the founder of <a href="https://www.chasebliss.com" target="_blank">Chase Bliss</a>, one of the most creative, cutting-edge guitar gear companies. As a builder and innovator, Joel Korte is changing the way musicians shape sound from deep textured effects to the intersection of analog and digital creativity.</p><h5>More Be Here Now Network Podcasts:</h5>[div class="wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-1 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex"][div class="wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-column is-layout-flow"]<h6>Lama Rod Owens covers the dharma of freedom, loving ourselves, ancestral work, and the power of meditation: <a href="https://beherenownetwork.com/bhnn-guest-podcast-ep-127-dedication-to-liberation-with-lama-rod-owens/">Dedication to Liberation</a></h6><h6>Through bearing witness, love & service, Llewellyn Vaughan-Lee shares how we can collectively heal the crisis of disconnection & ecological devastation: <a href="https://beherenownetwork.com/llewellyn-vaughan-lee-bhnn-guest-podcast-ep-125-love-service/">Love & Service</a></h6>[/div][div class="wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-column is-layout-flow"]<h6>JoAnna Hardy shares a guided meditation all around the first foundation of mindfulness – mindfulness of the body: <a href="https://beherenownetwork.com/joanna-hardy-bhnn-guest-podcast-ep-126-first-foundation-guided-meditation/"> First Foundation Guided Meditation</a></h6><h6>Buddhist Master Thich Nhat Hanh explores how we can joyfully bring mindfulness into everyday activities like phone calls, driving, and walking: <a href="https://beherenownetwork.com/thich-nhat-hanh-bhnn-guest-podcast-ep-122-the-ojai-foundation-presents-under-the-teaching-tree/">The Ojai Foundation Presents: Under the Teaching Tree with Thich Nhat Hanh</a></h6>[/div][/div]See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Somatic singer and teacher Marisa Michelson shares information on the powerful work of connecting to the body through song and uninhibited self-expression.Today’s podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.In this episode of The Indie Spiritualist, Chris and Marisa have a conversation about:Vocal ‘de-armoring’: working with voice, the body, and the psyche to release blocksBringing somatic relationship and embodiment into the classical music worldHow Marisa discovered that singing could bring her into transcendent blissNavigating information overload in our fast-paced, tech-driven ageA roadmap to reconnect with the body and relearn the language of direct experienceLetting spontaneity flow through the liberating practice of somatic singingA jaw-focused practice for releasing tension and unlocking full expressionTrust and vulnerability to open up our bodies, hearts, and mindsSimple somatic practices to weave into day-to-day lifeAbout Marisa Michelson:In addition to being a sought-after somatic singing teacher, Marisa is an award-winning composer of music-theatre, experimental musicals, oratorios and choral works, and was the founding director of the psychedelic singing ensemble Constellation Chor | an immersion in voice, movement, and spirit. Marisa has written four full-length musicals, two of which were produced off-Broadway by Prospect Theater Company. Her most personal composition project to date was her Desire|Divinity Project, a three part music-theater piece exploring the connection between sexuality and spirituality through an exegesis of the Song of Songs and a musicalization of Sappho’s poetry fragments.  She currently travels around singing with the vocal quartet, Agrol Agra, which performs Hungarian folk songs and Bartok arrangements of said folk songs. Marisa is beyond grateful to live and work and teach on acres of land in Upstate New York (Ancram/unceded Mohican land).  Marisa gives her gratitude to the trees, red-winged blackbirds, deer, hares, water and wind, dirt, bees, and non-human life for the profound support. Connect with Marisa on her website.“It’s been such a gift for me to work with processes, particular exercises, and practices that are developing my understanding of how energies are moving through my body, how muscles are moving in coordination with each other, and how emotions are coordinating with the physical body, the nervous system, the energy body. Getting to go deeper into this is like learning a language that can then allow us to have more and more clarity in our own direct experience.” – Marisa MichelsonSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Musician Craig Wedren reflects on his rise to fame in the D.C. hardcore scene, blending together punk rock, spirituality, and healing. In this episode, Chris and Craig converse about:From punk rock roots to a spiritual path: how Craig’s musical journey shaped his creative and personal lifeCraig’s first exposure to meditation in his 20sThe origins of music, sound, and vibration How music transcends language, culture, and generations to connect all peopleTranscendental Meditation and inspirational tricksters Searching for deeper meaning and spirituality in modern, often soulless societyCraig’s improvisational practices: free writing & free-form guitar playingCraig’s work creating original music for a therapeutic ketamine clinic called Kanopy Ketamine treatment for addiction recovery Craig’s rise to fame in the D.C. punk scene with his band Shudder to ThinkThe synergy between performer and audience How Craig’s cancer diagnosis brought him back down to earth and showed him what truly mattered“I found a lot of punk rockers or hardcore people are particularly drawn to eastern religions. A friend of a friend said once, ‘the search for something deeper in a world increasingly devoid of it’. It makes perfect sense that I am meeting people that later on get drawn to different paths, traditions, and teachings.” – Chris Grosso About Craig Wedren:Craig Wedren first gained notice as the dynamic, multi-octave-wielding frontman of Shudder to Think – one of the first Washington, D.C. bands to make the transition from the revered Dischord punk label to the majors during the grunge era. Wedren has released a series of solo albums and related collaborative projects. At the same time, Wedren’s music has become an essential part of some of film and television’s most popular and lauded shows. In recent years, Wedren’s endlessly creative spirit has also seen him release Adult Desire 360--a VR app comprised of 360° panoramic music videos featuring songs from his album Adult Desire; share the limited edition hard-bound book My '90s, featuring photos he took on his Polaroid Spectra in the 1990s and early 2000s that documented his late nights and early mornings on the road with Shudder to Think and time with friends including Fugazi, Smashing Pumpkins, Pearl Jam, members of The State and more; and Sabbath Sessions, his multi-episode podcast featuring musical meditations that represent his first explorations of ambient choral music, where Wedren’s technique of sampling and looping his famously elastic voice results in a unique kind of sound bath. Check out Craig’s website. “In general, the playground of my work, the sandbox of it, is pretty regulating I would say. I’ve been programming playlists and now I am starting to write original music for some friends of mine who have a ketamine therapy clinic.” – Craig WedrenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Blending together hardcore punk and spirituality, Ray Cappo inspires listeners to deflate the ego and serve something bigger than themselves. This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.This time on The Indie Spiritualist, Chris and Ray delve into:The powerful intersection between hardcore punk and spiritualityLiving on the fringes of societyHow the hands of God can touch anybody, even in the most unexpected placesThe beginning of Ray’s spiritual path and being inspired by Harley Flanagan of hardcore punk pioneers Cro-MagsShifting inward: moving beyond the senses and the mind into subtle awarenessFrom chaos to calm: being in Samadhi rather than emotional turmoilKirtan and serving something bigger than ourselves instead of being the center of attentionThe presence of ego even in yogic and spiritual communities Finding oneness and connection with all beings, beyond outer labelsLetting go of idolizing people or things and reserving reverence for the divineConsidering how being in the spotlight can inflate the ego if one does not offer praise back to God and surrenderRecognizing rock bottom as a spiritual turning point and a hidden blessing"Nothing else will fit in that God shaped hole. If you make your spouse your God, or your dog your God, your house your God, that God is always going to let you down." –Ray CappoAbout Ray Cappo:As a teen in the 80s, Ray Cappo founded the hardcore punk band Youth of Today, which championed the principles of clean living, vegetarianism, and self-control. After experiencing a spiritual awakening in India, he formed a new band, Shelter, devoted to spreading a message of hope through spiritual connection. Ray currently leads yoga retreats, trainings, and kirtans at his Supersoul Farm retreat center in Upstate New York, as well as annual pilgrimages to India. He is the co-founder and co-host of Wisdom of the Sages, a daily yoga podcast that has been ranked #1 on Apple for podcasts about spirituality. Check out Ray’s recently released memoir, From Punk to Monk.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Teaching us to relax back into being held by spaciousness, Lama Rod Owens discusses the forces that help us remember real love, awakened freedom, and who we truly are. In this episode of the Indie Spiritualist Podcast, Chris and Lama Rod explore:The practice and embodiment of real love as revolutionaryTranscending violence and harm and the yearning for all to be freeHolding brokenheartedness with a lot of care and viewing it as a teaching Continued practice even as an awakened being Returning to a space of fluidity and opennessRiding the middle line between form and emptiness Cultivating a stronger relationship with Earth, even in an urban environment Mystical breakthroughs and navigating mental health through the lens of spirituality Getting distracted by euphoria / believing we are hyper-special instead of taking spiritual experiences as an opportunity to connect more deeply with humanity Meditative experiences that can be found in daily life and in our pre-existing hobbiesAllowing space for Western medicine when it is needed Untangling the notion that we have to like something or someone in order to love Returning agency back to community and the enduring spiritual traditions that will aid in our survival  This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp & Dharma Seed:Today’s podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.Join Krishna Das, the most well-known voice of Bhakti chanting (Kirtan) in the West, and David Nichtern - a senior Buddhist teacher, founder of Dharma Moon, guitarist in Krishna Das’ band, and producer of several of his albums - for a warm and engaging conversation about these two paths, their shared roots, and how they intersect in contemporary spiritual practice. Learn more about this FREE online gathering - THE HEART & MIND OF PRACTICE: BUDDHISM & BHAKTIAbout Lama Rod Owens:Lama Rod Owens is a Black Buddhist Southern Queen. An international influencer with a Master of Divinity degree in Buddhist Studies from Harvard Divinity School with a focus on the intersection of social change, identity, and spiritual practice. Author of Love and Rage: The Path of Liberation through Anger and co-author of Radical Dharma: Talking Race, Love and Liberation, his teachings center on freedom, self-expression, and radical self-care. Highly sought after for talks, retreats, and workshops, his mission is to show you how to heal and free yourself. A leading voice in a new generation of Buddhist teachers with over 11 years of experience, Lama Rod is highly respected among his peers and the communities that he serves. From these intersections, he creates a platform that’s very natural, engaging, and inclusive. Check out Lama Rod’s most recent publication, The New Saints, and his podcast on the Be Here Now Network, The Spirit Underground.For current offerings and programs, click here.“Is it taking you out of this moment, out of relationship with others around you? Are you having thoughts of being special and extraordinary? Is it helping you to be more human, or is it leading you towards this idealized state that seems to take you out of the messiness of humanity? I think that the real spiritual breakthrough brings us deeper into the experience of being human, of empathy." – Lama Rod OwensSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Paul Levy, a pioneer in spiritual emergence, chats with Chris Grosso about the concept of Wetiko and healing our collective malady.Today’s podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.In this episode, Chris and Paul explore:The diagnosis of our collective malady and defining WetikoWaking up through the darkness Life as a collective dream we are all manifesting The mind virus we are all suffering from and what it can reveal to us The primary importance of the psyche in creating world eventsAccessing our divine inheritance and divine power Psychologist and Dream Analyst Carl Jung’s exploration of Wetiko The danger of turning a blind eye to our shadowsQuantum physics as a dreaming phenomena Shedding light into our unconscious mind Compassion as the ultimate dissolver of Wetiko About Paul Levy:Paul Levy is an author, speaker, and facilitator who describes himself as “a wounded healer in private practice, assisting others who are also awakening to the dreamlike nature of reality.” Paul brilliantly synthesizes wisdom streams from quantum physics, Carl Jung, Buddhism, alchemy, shamanism, Kabbalah, mystical Christianity, and the work of science fiction author Philip K. Dick. He has been a Tibetan Buddhist practitioner for over 35 years, was the coordinator for the Portland Padmasambhava Buddhist Center, and is the founder of the “Awakening in the Dream Community.” Paul’s books include The Quantum Revelation: A Radical Synthesis of Science and Spirituality, Dispelling Wetiko: Breaking the Curse of Evil, and Awakened By Darkness. Learn more about Paul on his website.  "Wetiko is a Native American term but every spiritual tradition talks about it, just in different languages. This is the diagnosis. We've made a huge breakthrough. There's been a diagnosis of what's at the bottom of our collective malady. We're in the middle of a collective psychosis of titanic proportions, that is what Wetiko is.” – Paul LevySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Certified sound healer Kelvin Young joins Chris Grosso to discuss how to find freedom within institutions and systems.Today’s podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.This time on The Indie Spiritualist, Chris and Kelvin explore:Kelvin’s first encounter with holistic healing in the prison systemHow Kelvin became inspired to change his life and get sober for himself and his daughterBecoming anchored through sound healingHow we at the subatomic level, we are vibration and soundHaving spiritual experiences at concerts regardless of genreIntegrating holistic practice into hospitals and other facilitiesMoving from hypervigilance to relaxation through sound healingMeeting people where they are at on their healing journeyThe science of sound and rituals around the world that utilize soundThe power of humming and using our own voice as a toolThe gong as an instrument of interconnection12-step healing as integral piece for many people in recoveryAbout Kelvin Young:Kelvin Young is a Certified Sound Healer and Owner of Kelvin Young, LLC. He is also a person in sustained recovery which means Kelvin hasn’t used alcohol or any other drug to cope with his mental and emotional distress since March, 6th 2009. Kelvin received his recovery coaching training at CT Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR) and Recovery Support Specialist (RSS) certification at Recovery University. Kelvin has presented around the country in diverse settings, including CCAR Multiple Pathways to Recovery Conference, Alternatives Conference, Yoga Reaches Out, Newtown Yoga Festival, The Shift Network, Indie Yoga in San Francisco, CA, Alex Grey’s Chapel of Sacred Mirrors, Copper Beech Institute, CT Women’s Consortium, yoga studios, retreat centers, conferences, high schools, colleges, prisons, addiction treatment centers, psychiatric hospitals and mental health agencies. Today, he publicly speaks on addiction recovery to people from all walks of life. Kelvin also facilitates private and group sound healing sessions at different locations throughout the United States. Keep up with Kelvin HERE.“Sound has been that foundation for me to explore and understand that sound itself is life itself. It humbles me to be in awe of what all of sound is, the vibrations. Down to the subatomic level, we are vibration, we are sound, we are energy, we are frequency.” – Kelvin YoungSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Psychologist Tori Olds helps listeners unravel inner landscapes by examining emotions, identity, and the patterns in our lives.Today’s podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.In this episode, Chris and Tori explore:Tori’s early interest in emotions and psychologyInterfacing with our emotional reactionsHow experiences shape identityIrrational and self-defeating behaviorsHow what we learn as a child influences how we protect ourselves as an adultEmotional knowing versus logical knowingImplicit memory and fear conditioningHow witnessing new evidence can help us unlearn negative patternsMindfulness for regulation of the nervous systemThe importance of working with a trained professionalThe potential within psychedelic-assisted therapyIf you are unable to work with a therapist but feel therapy may be helpful, check out this book recommendation from Tori: Self TherapyAbout Tori Olds:Tori Olds, PhD is a psychologist and a mother, but there is much more to her identity. Songwriting, meditation, and teaching are also important aspects of her life. She helped start Deep Eddy Psychotherapy alongside her sister Charlotte, her husband Glenn, and both her parents, which has provided her with numerous opportunities to train and supervise aspiring therapists. Ten years ago, she began leading a 6-month training group called “Minding the Heart,” offering a deep dive into experiential methods of therapy. She is drawn to these approaches because she believes the most profound transformation occurs when we connect with the deepest parts of ourselves—those that can only be reached through direct, experiential contact. Keep up with Tori on her website.“Making a prediction and seeing that what is happening is not what we predicted makes the memory labile…it’s in a state where it can change. If we introduce new knowing in two seconds the whole neural network can be rearranged or dissolved.” – Tori OldsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Diving into the meaning of existential kink, Dr. Carolyn Lovewell joins Chris Grosso to discuss unlocking our unconscious desires.Today’s podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.This time on The Indie Spiritualist, Chris and Dr. Lovewell discuss:The meaning of existential kinkThe practice of orgasmic meditationHow vulnerability and truth can lead to more sensationConsidering what our unconscious desires may bePracticing enjoying what is already happeningRealizing the darkness / pain we may be attracted to subconsciouslyThemes within the myth of PersephoneThe power addictions hold over us and admitting powerlessnessA guided meditation from Dr. CarolynLiving as characters in God’s dreamBecoming aware of our own wholeness and non-dualismSleep Over Mystery School and the heart of western mysteriesAbout Dr. Carolyn LovewellDr. Carolyn Lovewell (formarlly Elliott) is an American scholar, author, and occultist. She is the author of the book Existential Kink which focuses on shadow integration as a means for creating positive change in the self. She obtained a doctorate in Critical and Cultural Studies at the University of Pittsburgh. Check out Dr. Lovewell’s podcast, Sleep Over and learn more on her website.If you are interested in integrating the opposites in the psyche, join the 9 month program with Dr. Lovewell at the Sleep Over Mystery School“Existential kink is the idea that pretty much all of us human beings have an unconscious attraction to painful things. We’re all kinky, we’re all in a sadomasochistic relationship with the universe. The universe, God, whatever we want to call it is a dom that has no safe words. It just keeps coming, all the time. We can learn to make those unconscious attractions to painful or negative patterns conscious. When we do that, we liberate all sorts of energy that had been unconsciously stuck. Existential Kink is a deep tool for change.” – Dr. LovewellSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Reflecting on our ability to peacefully coexist, Nina Rao and Krishna Das join Chris Grosso to talk politics, practice, and more.This week, Chris, Krishna Das, and Nina all converge upon:Maharaj-ji’s response to being visited by politiciansKeeping the heart calm and open regardless of what is happening around usRecognizing everyone as a part of our own selvesCoexisting with all beings, human and non-humanLiving out our karma and doing the best can to not harm anyoneConsidering feelings about the upcoming electionHow it took returning to the west for Nina to connect to devotional practiceFinding a way to unlock the love that lives within usConnecting to the guru even after they have left the bodyThe ways we are born programmed by our culture, parents, etc.Chris’ experience with Ketamine therapy for his mental healthChanting as self releasing rather than self expressingAbout Krishna Das:Layering traditional Hindu kirtan with instantly accessible melodies and modern instrumentation, Grammy nominee, Krishna Das has been called yoga’s “rock star.” With a remarkably soulful voice that touches the deepest chord in even the most casual listener, Krishna Das – known to friends, family, and fans as simply KD – has taken the call-and-response chanting out of yoga centers and into concert halls, becoming a worldwide icon and the best-selling chant artist of all time. His album ‘Live Ananda’ (released January 2012) was nominated for a Grammy in the Best New Age album category.Krishna Das now travels the world sharing his kirtan practice and wonderful stories of his life, of Maharaji-ji, of his life on the Path and discusses bringing chanting into our lives through retreats and workshops. To date, KD has released 15 well-received albums, most recently Trust in the Heart released in October 2017. For more on Krishna Das events, music, and other offerings visit: KrishnaDas.comAbout Nina Rao:Nina Rao is a devotional singer. She tours with Krishna Das, playing cymbals, singing, and acting as his business manager. Nina has two of her own albums, “Antarayaami – Knower of All Hearts” and “Anubhav”. Nina regularly leads kirtan, workshops, and retreats in her hometown of Brooklyn, New York and beyond. Together with Chandra and Genevieve Walker, Nina operates the 21 Taras Collective. You can keep up with Nina on her website or find her on Instagram @nina_rao and on Facebook @NinaRaoChant.“If people’s hearts are open and calm and connected to other people, the chances of doing things that are destructive is much less. You have to try to get to the deepest place inside and then who could you hurt because everybody is part of your own self.” – Krishna DasSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Calling attention to the healing properties of psychedelics, author and therapist Sean Lawlor talks with Chris about his new book, Psychedelic Revival.Grab your copy of Psychedelic Revival: Toward a New Paradigm of Healing HEREToday’s podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.In this episode, Sean and Chris reflect on:Sean’s inaugural experiences with psychedelicsAccessing altered states of mindIntegrating psychedelic experiences into daily lifeChris’s journey with treatment-resistant depression and psychedelic therapyChanging the ongoing damage from the war on drugsWhat psychedelics are and what they can doBreaking out of our habituated thoughts patternsEnduring the challenging parts of a psychedelic journeyThe different types of psychedelics and their pros and consThe amazing effect of placebo and having intentionsPlant medicines versus more western psychedelicsAbout Sean Lawlor:Sean is an author, therapist, and developer of online course content. He received his Masters of Fine Arts from Chatham University and completed a 3-year Master’s program in Mindfulness-Based Transpersonal Counseling at Naropa University. Sean’s new book, Psychedelic Revival: Toward a New Paradigm of Healing, is currently available in print and digital formats. Learn more about Sean on his website.“A theory that I do believe in is that everything that comes up in the (psychedelic) experience can be helpful for one’s own healing journey, even if it is really challenging and dark.” – Sean LawlorSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Through the inspiration of Sufism, Matt Winkley describes how he merged the business world with spirituality to form heart-centered companies and find financial freedom.This time on The Indie Spiritualist, Matt and Chris chat about:Matt’s youth and leaving for California with only the shirt on his backBuilding his own business out of his apartmentGetting below the hood of painHow meeting a Sufi healer taught Matt to go into his heart-spaceWalking through the door of the ego and surrenderingBuilding a trusting relationship with the divineSufism as a sweet, mystical path rather than a rule-centered religionMerging the material world with the spiritual worldAdvice on having a conscious relationship with moneyMatt’s experience with chronic stress, burnout, and auto-immune diseaseFinding financial freedom and learning about passive incomeAllowing ourselves to experience abundanceExamining what we really want, finding purpose, and taking actionAbout Matt Winkley:Matt Winkley is a businessman and mystic who doesn’t see a difference between the spiritual world and the external world, finding meaning in both. He built companies with integrity and has a passion for bringing spiritual principles into the workplace. Matt studied intensely under the tutelage of the great spiritual Sufi master Sidi Muhammad al-Jamal. During these years of study Matt transformed himself from the inside out. Taking these teachings into the area of business, Matt seamlessly integrated both worlds, creating unique leadership styles and heart centered business practices. As a savvy investor Matt was able to create financial freedom in his 30’s and now uses his time to give back. He mentors young conscious entrepreneurs, teaches meditation classes and supports charitable causes. Keep up with Matt on his Instagram.“I think you can be a cautious, spiritual, heart-centered person and have abundance. I don’t believe money changes you, I think it amplifies you. I think if you’re a kind, generous, heart-driven person, you’ll be able to do more of that with resources.” – Matt WinkleySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Encouraging listeners to examine their relationships with death and endings, Frank Ostaseski and Chris Grosso talk about living fully.This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.In this deep conversation, Chris and Frank Ostaseski go over:Death, dying, and what we can learn about living fullyDeath as our secret teacherThe relief of impermanence versus the oppression of permanenceRam Dass’ idea of death being like taking off a tight shoeBreaking the walls of our identity and living a life that is more curiousFrank’s 5 invitations to living well and dying without regretWitnessing transition through a different lensPerspectives on what happens after we dieBeing with people who are dying and walking side by sideWorking with fear and distinguishing emotion from objectSetting aside our judgments and welcoming experiences“To imagine that at the time of our dying, we’re going to have the mental stability, the emotional strength, the mental clarity to do the work of a lifetime, is a ridiculous gamble. The time for the conversation is now.” – Frank OstaseskiSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Come hang out with Chris Grosso and Brian Fair from the band Shadows Fall as they chat about life, meditation, and the golden eras of skateboarding and punk rock.Today’s episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.In this episode, Chris and Brian dive into: The new wave of skateboardingBrian’s initial exposure to metal musicSkateboarding in the 1980’s and 90’sGrowing up catholic and being disillusioned with religionBrian’s dabbling into meditation and Hatha yogaMusic and movement as a form of meditationMoving away from perfectionismBeing there for each otherAbout Brian Fair:Brian Fair is an American musician from Massachusetts, best known as lead vocalist of the metalcore band Shadows Fall. He is a skateboarder, father, and thrives off yelling at people on stage. Keep up with Brian on Instagram.“That’s what’s funny about meditation, and a reason why I think people may not realize it’s not just about sitting in silence. It’s about being fully in a moment regardless of what transported you there. It can happen through music, through physical movement, or through silence or stillness.” – Brian FairSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In an enthralling discussion on the archetypes, myths, and symbols within the 12-step recovery program, Kikan Massara joins Chris Grosso.This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.This time on The Indie Spiritualist, Chris and Kikan dive into: A.A. and Chris’s journey with recoveryThe ways that everyone can benefit from the 12-steps of recoveryLiving an accountable life filled with integrityKikan’s work making recovery more accessible for allSeeing universal principles within the stepsAdmitting powerlessness and recognizing this as a human experienceReading through Kikan’s interpretation of all of the 12 stepsThe beauty of having a community on a recovery journeyTurning our will over to God and learning to ask for helpHow the ego can get in the wayMaking emotional decisions and why people end up in addictive processesGetting well for ourselves so we can help othersGet your copy of Kikan’s book, The 12 Steps — Symbols, Myths, and Archetypes of Recovery, HEREAbout Kikan Massara:Kikan is a psychotherapist, author, and creative. A passionate researcher of consciousness studies, meditation, and emotional health, she has long used visual arts, symbols, and myths in her practice to facilitate access to the empowering resources of the inner world. Her new book, The 12 Steps — Symbols, Myths and Archetypes of Recovery was published by TASCHEN in November 2023. Learn more about Kikan on her website.“Admit powerlessness. Who hasn’t felt powerless over something in their lives? Who hasn’t been in despair over something they couldn’t change? Who hasn’t felt like an utter failure when they couldn’t change something by willpower alone? We’re not talking about helplessness here, which is so often learned in childhood, we’re talking about just the limits of being human.” – Kikan MassaraSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a politically charged return to the Indie Spiritualist Podcast, Chris Grosso sits down with John Fugelsang to talk about finding humor as a weapon against the world's chaos.In this episode, Chris Grosso and John Fugelsang converse about: - Politics, the state of the world, and Joe Biden’s accomplishmentsSpiritual and emotional burnout preventing us from looking at global suffering- The frightening accuracy of post-apocalyptic movie Leave the World Behind- Atrocities vs. benevolence committed by Christian people- The criminalization of abortion compared to what the bible says- Melding religions and the book The Sermon on the Mount According to Vedanta- Similarities between Christ consciousness and the Buddha mind- The upcoming election and America’s rejection of Donald Trump- Finding joy in difficult times and how humor can be an act of resistance- Loving our enemies and knowing we are not better than anyone else- John’s in-progress book called Separation of Church and HateAbout John Fugelsang:John Fugelsang is a New York-based political commentator, comedian, TV and radio personality, performer, and writer. He was the host of America’s Funniest Home Videos and has appeared frequently on news commentary shows on CNN, CNBC, MSNBC, Fox News, and NPR. Recently, Fugelsang was the host of Current TV’s daily show, Viewpoint, where he analyzed the news and facilitated conversations about current affairs. Currently, he hosts a daily program called “Tell Me Everything” on the new SiriusXM Insight Channel. Keep up with John on Instagram or his website.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Legendary artists, Allyson and Alex Grey join Chris in conversation around Ram Dass, psychedelics, spirituality, and Entheon—their new visionary art sanctuary & interfaith temple.Visionary artists, wise psychonauts, and podcasters, Allyson and Alex Grey are co-founders & Ministers of CoSM, the Chapel of Sacred Mirrors, a transformational art based non-profit which grew into an interfaith church and thriving artist community. Allyson and Alex are currently in the process of constructing Entheon, a sanctuary for visionary art, and sacred, nondenominational temple and hub for visionary artists and inner-seekers. Allyson and Alex host Sunday Art Church events, fusing creativity and dharma; as well as Full Moon Gatherings, which bring together artists, musicians, wisdom teachers, and free-thinkers to honor our cosmic alignment with nature and the creative forces. For a deep dive into their minds, check out their new podcast, The CoSM Podcast, and for updates on Entheon, CoSM, their art and events, visit their website CoSM.orgSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chris Grosso welcomes director Sebastian Siegel for a conversation about his new movie, Grace and Grit, which is based on the book by philosopher Ken Wilber. Sebastian Siegel is a British-American director, producer, screenwriter and author. His modes of storytelling range from filmmaking to contemporary art and psychology. His latest movie, Grace and Grit, is now available to stream on Amazon, Apple TV, YouTube, Google Play, and more. Learn more about Sebastian and his work at sebastiansiegel.com, and be sure to follow him on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hardcore Zen master, Brad Warner, rejoins Chris for a talk on death, discernment, cosmic meaning, Zen Buddhism, and making sure your crazy wisdom isn't too crazy.Brad Warner is the author of Letters to a Dead Friend About Zen and numerous other titles including Don't Be a Jerk, Hardcore Zen, and Sit Down and Shut Up: Punk Rock Commentaries on Buddha, God, Truth, Sex, Death, and Dogen's Treasury of the Right Dharma Eye. A Soto Zen teacher, he is a punk bassist, filmmaker, and popular blogger who leads workshops and retreats around the world. In addition to his books, his writing appears in Lion's Roar, Tricycle, Buddhadharma, and Alternative Press. He lives in Los Angeles where he's the founder and lead teacher of the Angel City Zen Center. You can learn more about Brad at HardcoreZen.infoSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Christian Conte joins Chris to share life lessons on knowing yourself, stepping towards conflict, facing wounds, emptying your cup, understanding, and walking through anger with non-attachment.Dr. Christian Conte is one of the country’s most accomplished mental health specialists in the field of anger and emotional management. A familiar figure on TV and radio, he is also a prolific writer, powerful communicator, and sought-after media expert. He was co-host of Coaching Bad and The Secret Life of Kids, and was the resident therapist for Family Therapy. Dr. Conte produces daily Emotional Management Minutes for over 300 radio stations, as well as hosting his own weekly show in Pittsburgh. He discussed his prison outreach in the TEDx talk, “Why I Chose to Go to Prison.' His latest book, "Walking Through Anger" is out now. For more info, please visit, Dr.ChristianConte.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Author Laura McKowen talks with Chris Grosso about the process of addiction and recovery, her resistance to defining herself as an alcoholic, and working with guilt and shame.Laura McKowen is the author of We Are The Luckiest: The Surprising Magic of a Sober Life. She had a successful career in public relations and the Mad Men–esque drinking culture of advertising. After getting sober, Laura became recognized as a fresh voice in recovery, beloved for her soulful and irreverent writing online and in print. She now leads sold-out retreats and courses, teaching people how to say yes to a bigger life. Learn more about her at lauramckowen.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bestselling author, Gary Renard, joins Chris to discuss training the mind, Jesus’ and Buddha’s lifetimes together, and how to communicate with the Holy Spirit.Gary R. Renard is the best-selling author of The Disappearance of the Universe, Your Immortal Reality, Love Has Forgotten No One, and the newly released The Lifetimes When Jesus and Buddha Knew Each Other. Gary is a winner of the Infinity Foundation Spirit Award, among the likes of Ram Dass, Byron Katie, and Neale Donald Walsch; and has been featured on Gaia TV‘s, “Open Minds.” Combining a disarming sense of humor with radical, cutting-edge metaphysical information and experiential exercises, Gary is well versed and well traveled in the spiritual community. For more info visit www.GaryRenard.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Legendary hip-hop artist, R.A. The Rugged Man joins Chris to talk about writing albums, emotions and mental health, how storytelling can heal traumas, and how to stay true to yourself.R.A. The Rugged Man is one of the most fascinating figures in hip-hop history. His career spans decades, and defies simple narratives. The Rugged Man has been an up-and-coming star, an industry outcast banished and forgotten, an underground cult hero, an independent success story, and an influential master of the art form. Check out his newest album All My Heroes Are Dead, and for more music, blogs, and offerings, visit his website RAtheRuggedMan.netSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Musician and writer, Norman Brannon joins Chris to discuss his Hare Krishna punk music past, & share how we can find skeptical euphoria by moving beyond our stories.Over the last 25 years, Norman Brannon has worked as a musician, critic, author, DJ, university lecturer, television host, documentary filmmaker, marketing creative, and record label manager. Although best known for cofounding Texas is The Reason, he first made his mark in hardcore punk bands like Shelter and 108, and capped his performance career with New End Original and Gratitude. He is also the author of the Anti-Matter Anthology, a 1990s post-punk and hardcore reader featuring work that originally ran in Alternative Press, Vibe, and Anti-Matter, his very own seminal fan-zine. Norman is currently working on an expanded second edition of the Anti-Matter Anthology, in addition to a second book that examines the relationship between queer language, ethnicity, and his own personal story. Norman lives in Brooklyn with his partner John and their Dotson.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Inspirational underground hip-hop artist, Sage Francis, joins Chris to discuss music as a teacher, the resonance of truth, cultural shifts, and the magic of writing.Sage Francis is CEO of Strange Famous Records, and half of the Epic Beard Men. He is widely considered one of our generation's greatest lyricists. His gifted wordplay creates vivid narratives to instigate as well as inspire, often deriving from an accumulation of public disdain and personal turmoil. Dubbed the forefather of Indie Hop, Francis originally earned worldwide acclaim in the 2000s by winning highly coveted titles in the MC battle circuit. At the advent of file-sharing, Francis' unique brand of music spread like wildfire and he gained a cult following. In 2005 Sage Francis was the first hip-hop artist signed to Epitaph Records and soon became one of the highest selling independent artists of his genre. Sage Francis has returned to releasing music independently and has a podcast in the works. For more info check out StrangeFamousRecords.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Author, musician, and transformational speaker, Justin Michael Williams joins Chris to discuss using meditation and mindfulness techniques to help discover your passion and fulfill your life's purpose.Justin Michael Williams is an author, speaker, and top-twenty recording artist who is using music and meditation to wake up the world. By working at the intersection of music, mindfulness, and social justice, Justin has become a pioneering millennial voice for diversity, inclusion, and wellness. He has been featured by Billboard.com and Yoga Journal, shared the stage with Deepak Chopra, and presented at events such as Wanderlust and SXSW. Justin just released his new book, Stay Woke: A Meditation Guide for the Rest of Us, and is committed to using his voice for change. His greatest wish is to empower people from all walks of life to wake up to their life's purpose and accomplish the dreams they once thought were impossible. For more information please visit www.StayWokeGiveBack.com and follow @wejustwill on Twitter and Instagram.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Actor and musician, Michael Imperioli, joins Chris to discuss finding Tibetan Buddhism, sharing meditation with others and acting his final scenes for The Sopranos.Michael Imperioli is best known for his Emmy Award winning acting performance as Christopher Moltisanti on The Sopranos, as well as writing five episodes of the show. Co-screenwriter for the Spike Lee film, Summer of Sam, Michael has appeared in six of Lee's films, and has also acted in films by Martin Scorsese, Abel Ferrera, Walter Hill, Peter Jackson, and the Hughes Brothers. Michael has also been involved in New York's rock 'n roll scene since the mid 1980s, playing guitar in the post-punk band Black Angus with filmmaker Tom Gilroy. Currently Michael is the guitarist and lead singer for the band, Zopa, and shares a steady stream of meditation tutorials and Dharma on his Instagram.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Horror icon Ken Foree joins Chris to discuss his legendary acting career, African Americans in cinema, helping his mom heal with yoga, and his experiences facing discrimination.Ken Foree is an incredibly versatile American actor widely known for his role as Peter Washington in George Romero’s 1978 genre-defining classic horror film, Dawn of the Dead, as well as his role of Roger Rockmore on Nickelodeon’s television comedy series, Keenan and Kel, amongst many other well known movie and television appearances such as the A-Team, Knightriders, The X-Files, The Devil’s Rejects, and Rob Zombie’s remake of Halloween. Ken has his own horror festival called Foree Festival, and is a well-loved cult-icon and legend within the horror and sci-fi film community.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Rick Hanson joins Chris to share practices and discuss the neuroscience behind cultivating traits of inner resilience and mindfulness.Rick Hanson, Ph.D., is a psychologist, senior fellow of UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, and New York Times best-selling author. Founder of the Wellspring Institute for Neuroscience and Contemplative Wisdom, he’s lectured at NASA, Google, Oxford, and Harvard, and taught in meditation centers worldwide. Learn more about Dr. Rick Hanson, his new book Neurodharma, his courses, and his podcast, Being Well, at rickhanson.net.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Actor Michael Berryman joins Chris Grosso for a conversation around the gift of light, the masks we all wear, and how the horror genre connects to social consciousness.Veteran actor and horror/sci-fi genre icon Michael Berryman is a native of Los Angeles, California. He was born prematurely with Hypohidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia, a rare condition leaving him with no sweat glands, hair, fingernails, or teeth. Michael has appeared in films such as One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, The Hills Have Eyes, and Weird Science.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Spring Washam joins Chris Gross for a conversation about working with the fertile grounds of suffering, cultivating the fierce heart, and how plant-based medicine can help with trauma.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bill Barbot joins Chris to discuss his punk rock beginnings, embracing the mystery, Alan Watts, Buddhism, and finding wisdom in insecurity.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dan Cortese joins Chris to discuss finding yourself amidst fame, becoming the narrator of your own story, and the innate wisdom programmed into parenthood.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Steve-O joins Chris for a conversation about his journey searching for identity, struggling with addiction, and finding a new life through recovery.Since his national debut on MTV's Jackass as a skateboarder and stuntman, Steve-O has had continued success as a New York Times best-selling author with the release of his memoir, 'Professional Idiot', and has established himself as a force in the world of stand-up comedy. Subscribe to Steve-O's podcast, The Wild Ride, at steveo.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you enjoy The Indie Spiritualist Podcast, we think that you will appreciate this dharma talk from Insight Meditation (Vipassanā) teacher JoAnna Hardy that offers a toolkit for working with our emotions and thoughts.JoAnna Hardy is a guest teacher on the Be Here Now Network Guest Podcast. You can subscribe to the Be Here Now Network Guest Podcast in your podcast player to receive regular dharma talks and guided practices from a collection of today's leading mindfulness and meditation teachers.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Indie Spiritualist interviews his friend and former band mate, Darrell Tauro, about music, addiction, recovery, sexuality, and getting punk as f##k.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Psychotherapist Linda Graham joins the Indie Spiritualist for a discussion around the importance of strengthening our resilience, and creating new patterns of response to trauma.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lead singer of the band Dissolve, Paul Thorstenson, visits Chris Grosso on the Indie Spiritualist Podcast for a conversation about his journey as a musician and how music can offer a deeper connection to ourselves.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Podcaster and author Cory Allen joins the Indie Spiritualist to talk about modern mindfulness, dealing with anxiety and depression, and transcendence through music.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Therapist Sarah Buino joins the Indie Spiritualist for a discussion around addiction, speaking your own authentic truth, and working with shame and self-compassion.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chris Grosso speaks with author Neale Donald Walsch about his new book and how the biggest problem in the world today is the belief that we are separate from everything and everyone.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this new episode of The Indie Spiritualist Podcast, Colin McEnroe joins Chris Grosso for a conversation about our spiritual health, how we are shaped by faith, and staying connected beyond death.Colin McEnroe hosts the daily WNPR show, The Colin McEnroe Show. He is a weekly columnist and blogger for The Hartford Courant and a contributing editor at Men's Health. He is the author of three books and one play. His work has appeared on the New York Times Op-Ed Page and in Bicycling magazine, Best Life, Cosmopolitan and Forbes FYI. Be sure to subscribe to The Colin McEnroe Show on your favorite podcast player to check out Colin's exploration of Ram Dass' life and legacy with Chris, Sharon Salzberg, and Mirabai Bush on the Jan 9th Episode of The Colin McEnroe Show. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Indie Spiritualist sits down with musician East Forest to talk about the auspices of working with Ram Dass, and how his album for mushrooms works as a digital shaman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Author Christina Rasmussen joins the Indie Spiritualist for a conversation about her book on the afterlife and the many people she’s guided on their journeys to reconnect with lost loved ones.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Television star and Life Coach Rosie Mercado joins The Indie Spiritualist for a conversation around self-esteem issues, listening to your body, and living life to your fullest purpose.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Author and journalist Preston Fassel joins Chris Grosso for a conversation around the power of storytelling and how the genre of horror can help us work through the most difficult aspects of the human experience.Preston Fassel is an award-winning writer, journalist, and screenwriter. His work has appeared in FANGORIA, Rue Morgue magazine, Screem magazine, and on Cinedump.com. His first novel, Our Lady of the Inferno, was published to widespread critical acclaim, being named one of the ten best horror books of the year by Bloody Disgusting and winning the 2019 Independent Book Publisher Gold Medal for Horror.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.