The We in Wellness

In this intimate personal episode, Dr. Kay opens her heart on her mother's birthday, sharing reflections on grief, healing, and the intuitive gifts she inherited. She offers updates on her evolving practice—transitioning from traditional therapy to community-centered retreats—and shares what's ahead, including upcoming experiences in Costa Rica, Mexico, and Brazil.Dr. Kay discusses her journey with seasonal grief, learning to swim as a metaphor for emotional healing, and how her spiritual gifts like clear cognizance inform her work. She reflects on her mother's legacy, the intuitive lineage in her family, and how she's reshaping her offerings to honor both her capacity and her calling toward deeper, more intimate healing spaces.This episode is a heartfelt glimpse into the personal journey behind the work—perfect for anyone who values authenticity, community healing, and the courage to evolve.Key Topics: Honoring her mother's birthday and legacy, seasonal grief and healing, intuitive gifts and clear cognizance, shifting from therapy to retreat-based work, upcoming retreats in Costa Rica, Mexico, and Brazil, community-centered healing, learning to swim and emotional metaphors, balancing personal growth with professional capacity.

Join Dr. Kay for a fascinating conversation with Biba Atta—an intuitive healer, facilitator, and student of Sumerian astrology who bridges ancient wisdom with modern spiritual practice. Biba shares her journey from personal awakening to becoming a community healer, specializing in energy work for Black communities and exploring the oldest astrological system known to humanity.In this episode, Biba reveals the unique insights of Sumerian astrology compared to Western and Vedic systems, practical ways to connect with your body and deepen your intuition, and the crucial importance of boundaries and discernment in spiritual work. She discusses everything from energy clearing and EFT techniques to recognizing your innate clairvoyant, clairaudient, or clairsentient abilities.Whether you're just beginning your spiritual journey or deepening an existing practice, Biba offers actionable advice on trusting yourself, choosing tools that resonate with your energy, and respecting the unique path of every seeker. This conversation is a masterclass in curiosity, humility, and embracing the transformative power of spiritual exploration.Key Topics: Sumerian astrology, energy healing and EFT, intuitive development (clairvoyance, clairaudience, clairsentience), spiritual boundaries and consent, healing for Black communities, choosing spiritual tools, trusting your intuitive gifts, collective awakening, oracle and tarot practice, herbalism and energy work.

In this intimate bonus episode, Dr. Kay shares personal life updates and reflections on how travel expands our understanding of what's possible in life. She explores how stepping outside our familiar environments opens us to new beliefs about what we can do, have, and become.Dr. Kay also announces the upcoming retreat in Costa Rica—an intimate gathering focused on authentic connection, collective wellbeing, and remembering who we truly are. With waterfall hikes, drum making, beach time, and optional psilocybin ceremonies, this retreat is designed for deep personal exploration and meaningful community connection.If you're interested in joining, reach out soon to ensure your preferences are included in the planning process. This is your invitation to expand, connect, and come home to yourself.

Join Dr. Kay and co-host Ben Benitez as they reflect on the profound experiences from their recent Awakening Intuition Retreat in Mexico. In this intimate facilitator debrief, they share personal breakthroughs, integration challenges, and the transformative power of indigenous ceremonies including Temazcal, ice baths, and psilocybin journeys.From encounters with spiritual entities and ancestral connections to visions of sacred realms and African patterns, Dr. Kay and Ben explore the deep spiritual terrain they navigated alongside retreat participants. They discuss the cultural significance of Mayan practices, the role of water in spiritual downloads, and how personal questions can guide profound psychedelic experiences.This episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at facilitation, the importance of boundaries with spiritual entities, techniques for grounding overwhelmed participants, and the ongoing integration work that continues long after ceremony ends. Ben also shares his calling toward future iboga work in Gabon, while both facilitators reflect on messages of self-love, forgiveness, and divine connection that emerged throughout the retreat.Key Topics: Retreat facilitation experiences, Temazcal and ice bath ceremonies, psilocybin integration, ancestral and spirit communication, Mayan spiritual practices, shadow work, grounding techniques, water as spiritual conduit, setting intentions for plant medicine, self-love and forgiveness, future iboga journey.

Join Dr. Kay for an inspiring conversation with Amaris, known as the Threadworthi, who bridges the worlds of data engineering and intuitive healing with grace and authenticity. Amaris shares her journey of spiritual emergence, navigating disability in a changing world, and discovering true sovereignty through self-love and divine connection.In this deeply personal episode, Amaris explores the metaphor of the diamond to understand worthiness, the symbolism of butterflies and emergence, and how oracle cards and tarot help her tap into internal wisdom. She discusses the concept of Earth Angels as beings of light, the importance of releasing resentment through loving kindness, and how she cultivates resilience through patience, trust, and presence.From the harmony between science and spirituality to practical reflections on collective energy and divine timing, this conversation offers profound insights for anyone seeking to deepen their connection to self while honoring their unique journey. Amaris also shares her upcoming projects, including a series on traveling as a disabled person and a tribute to a dear friend.Social MediaInstagram: @threadworthi_insideYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@threadworthiTikTok: @threadworthiSubstack: https://substack.com/@threadworthiKey Topics: Sovereignty and worthiness, intuitive development, navigating disability, oracle cards and tarot, Earth Angels and spirit guides, healing resentment, divine timing, science and spirituality harmony, emergence and authenticity, loving kindness practices.

In this powerful continuation with Chamika Bernadeau, we explore the wisdom of numerology, the interconnectedness of community, and receive guidance through a collective card reading that speaks to where we are right now.Chamika shares how numerology reveals our divine gifts and life themes, the profound insights from her Bufo experience about union and the dissolution of separation, and how art becomes a language for spiritual communication. We dive into the relationship between giving and receiving, navigating fear and shadow through gratitude, and the collective movement toward unity that's calling us all forward.The episode culminates with Chamika offering a card reading for the collective, providing insights and guidance for anyone listening. This conversation bridges the mystical and the practical, showing how everyday acts of kindness and presence are the real work of spiritual transformation.Contact Chamika: @mariposaebanoKey Topics: Numerology and divine gifts, collective card reading, Bufo visionary experiences, community and unity, art as spiritual communication, shadow work and gratitude, integration practices, everyday spirituality, channeling collective energy.

Join Dr. Kay for an illuminating conversation with Chamika Bernadeau —a spiritual guide, tarot reader, numerologist, multi-linguist and artist, who teaches us how to trust our inner voice and embrace our authentic spiritual path.Chamika shares her unexpected journey from renewable energy engineering to spiritual work, offering profound insights into intuition development, the transformative power of Bufo medicine, and the practical ways we can serve others through love and presence. From visions of creation to understanding the symbolism of numbers, this episode explores how to differentiate fear from love in your spiritual practice and why trusting that "small voice within" can change everything.Whether you're curious about plant medicine, developing your intuition, or simply seeking more authentic connection with yourself and others, this conversation offers practical wisdom and deeply personal revelations.Key Topics: Intuition development, Bufo ceremony experiences, recognizing fear vs. love, spiritual authenticity, collective energy healing, tarot, and the courage to follow your true calling.Chamika's Instagram: @mariposaebano

Dr. Kay discusses her growth during and since the first season of The We in Wellness and her plan for the upcoming season. She also introduces Rumi!

Looking Back on Season OneThe journey from listener requests to launching a full podcastKey lessons learned through interviewing guests and sharing insightsFavorite moments and unexpected discoveries along the wayHow the podcast evolved from the initial visionThe Power of CommunityWhy your feedback and engagement matter so muchThe role of community in wellness and personal growthGratitude for everyone who's been part of this journeyWhat's NextWhy Dr. Kay is taking a break for personal integration and season planningSneak peek at Season Two plans and upcoming themesBonus content to expect during the hiatusHow you can shape future episodes with your suggestionsA Personal Thank YouReflections on finding her voice through podcastingThe joy of connecting with listeners and guestsAn invitation to stay connected through the breakSeason Two launches in February with fresh conversations, deeper explorations, and the topics YOU want to hear about. In the meantime, keep an eye out for bonus content and stay connected with the community.Have ideas for Season Two? Dr. Kay wants to hear from you! Share your thoughts, topic requests, and feedback.What to Expect

What does it really take to create meaningful change in your community? Marcos sits down with Dr. Kay to discuss the transformative power of mutual aid, the radical act of feeding people, and why waiting to feel "ready" is the biggest obstacle to activism. From his work with Food Not Bombs and Karmic Action to the personal challenges of balancing activism with self-care, Marcos offers honest, practical wisdom for anyone who wants to make a difference but doesn't know where to start.What You'll DiscoverIn this powerful conversation, Marcos shares:The Reality of Grassroots ActivismWhy mutual aid is fundamentally different from charity and how community members helping each other creates lasting changeThe truth about getting started: you don't need to be fully prepared, you just need to beginHow direct action teaches you more than any training ever couldFood as a Tool for LiberationWhy providing food is a radical act that challenges systems of oppressionHow Food Not Bombs operates on the principle that food is a basic human right, not a commodityThe impact of local community efforts in addressing hunger and building solidarityNavigating Activism Without Burning OutEssential self-care strategies for activists working in high-stress environmentsHow to disassociate from overwhelming situations while staying engagedBuilding a supportive community that sustains both personal and collective growthThe Personal Side of Political WorkBalancing activism with personal relationships and mental healthWhy being a whole person makes you a better activistLearning accountability, accepting feedback, and growing through community engagementThe importance of challenging your own beliefs and staying open to learningGetting Started in Your CommunityPractical advice for those who want to engage but feel overwhelmedWhy collective action matters more than individual heroism • • Learning valuable organizing skills through hands-on involvementAbout the GuestMarcos Luna is a community organizer and activist deeply involved in mutual aid work through Food Not Bombs and Karmic Action. His grassroots approach to social justice emphasizes direct action, community building, and the radical power of meeting people's basic needs as a pathway to collective liberation.

Join Dr. Kay for an intimate conversation with osteopath Paco Plascencia about the profound connection between physical touch, emotional healing, and personal transformation. From his practice in San Cristobal de las Casas to his experiences with plant medicine, Paco shares raw insights about vulnerability, love, and the lifelong journey of healing.In this deeply personal episode, Paco opens up about:The Healing JourneyHow empathy transforms osteopathic practice and why the body serves as a map of our emotional livesThe power of touch in accessing deep-seated trauma and painWhy healing is never a destination but a continuous process of self-discoveryLiving in CommunityLessons from life in the transient community of San CristobalHow family dynamics shape our healing journeyThe role of community in personal growth and transformationPlant Medicine & ConsciousnessPersonal experiences with psychedelics and their role in healingThe importance of integration after ceremonial experiencesSeparating tradition from trend in the world of plant medicineLove & VulnerabilityNavigating relationships from monogamy to polyamoryWhy vulnerability is essential for meaningful connectionThe hard truth about love: setting boundaries and practicing honest communicationAbout the GuestPaco Plascencia is an osteopath based in San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico, who brings deep empathy and intuitive understanding to his healing practice. His work explores the intersection of physical bodywork, emotional release, and spiritual growth.

In this heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation, Dr. Kay sits down with Douglas Valdez, a licensed mental health counselor and sex therapist, to explore the intersections of mental health, intimacy, and authenticity.Douglas shares how conversations within the kink community inspired his path into sex therapy, the challenges of living as a queer clinician in rural Minnesota, and why safety and self-care are essential foundations for emotional well-being—especially in today’s political climate.Together, they unpack the importance of counselor education for marginalized populations, the integration of Chinese medicine with psychotherapy, and the courage it takes to live—and love—authentically.The role of intimacy and connection in therapeutic workThe importance of safety planning for marginalized communitiesHow Chinese medicine supports holistic mental healthNavigating isolation and belonging in rural spacesBuilding authentic relationships through vulnerability and careSelf-care as a political and emotional necessitymental health, sex therapy, counselor education, marginalized populations, self-care, Chinese medicine, community, safety, emotional well-being, authenticity🧭 Key Takeaways:🔑 Keywords:

In this episode, Dr. Kay reflects on previous podcast episodes, shares insights on her own wellness, and discusses the upcoming retreat focused on Activating Intuition. She emphasizes the importance of personal growth, community, and the healing journey, while also leading a spontaneous guided meditation to connect with heart and intuition.And don't forget to comment questions to ask me anything!Card Decks: The Herbal Astrology Deck by Adriana AyalesBeyond Lemuria Oracle Deck by Izzy Ivy

In this episode of The We in Wellness, I sit down with Sean Hill for an expansive dialogue on identity, purpose, and community.We talk about:Facing fear and embracing self-discoveryCreative partnership and mutual growthNon-violent communication in today’s timesNavigating change, love languages, and relationshipsThe role of poetry in social justice and activismBuilding bridges through dialogue, compassion, and friendshipFinding purpose through art while avoiding burnoutThis is a conversation about vulnerability, resilience, and the transformative power of creativity. Together, we imagine how dialogue, artistry, and compassion can help us shape a more connected and peaceful world.Podcast IG: www.instagram.com/theweinwellnessDr. Kay: www.artkure.comRetreat: malinalco.carrd.coSean Hill is an award winning multidisciplinary artist & humanitarian with the focus of supporting universal inner & outer peace in a realistic, fun, & passionate way. As a SAG actor, host, speaker, touring spoken word artist & workshop facilitator he has shared stages and pages with Oscar winners, platinum singers, Grammy winners, literary giants like Kevin Powell, V (formerly Eve Ensler), Jessica Care Moore, Nikki Giovanni & children from youth homes sharing poems for the first time. He traveled to help build two gender equal schools in Malawi & Nepal. "It is better to light a candle than to curse the dark.”www.patreon.com/LetsBendRealitywww.instagram.com/LetsBendRealitywww.youtube.com/LetsBendRealitywww.LetsBendReality.comCard Deck: Spirit Junkie by Gabrielle Bernstein

Dr. Kay is joined by retreat co-leader Ben Benitez for a deep conversation on spiritual gifts, the role of plant medicine in healing, and the experience of being called to serve. Together, they discuss the power of listening to spirit, the challenges of stepping into a healing path, and the importance of service in this work. Whether you’re curious about plant medicine, spiritual journeys, or the call to serve, this dialogue offers insight and inspiration.If you are interested in attending the retreat, please leave a comment and check out https://malinalco.carrd.co for more details!Deck: Xultan Tarot

In Part 2 of my conversation with my brother, Willy Hubbard, we dive deeper into his wellness practices and transformative healing journeys. Willy shares how journaling has become a grounding tool for creativity and emotional clarity, and he opens up about his powerful psilocybin and ayahuasca experiences—stories of insight, surrender, and connection that reshaped his perspective on trauma and growth.To close the episode, I offer a card pull, adding an intuitive reflection on the themes of healing, courage, and transformation that arose in our conversation.🌿 Topics We Explore:Journaling as a tool for healing and self-expressionThe lessons and openings of psilocybin journeysAyahuasca as a teacher of perspectiveNavigating trauma, growth, and spiritual connectionUsing ritual and reflection to ground personal wellnessAn intuitive card pull to anchor the conversationThis is a heartfelt and illuminating exchange on the many ways we find our path back to wholeness.Card Deck: The Light Seer's Tarot by Chris-Anne

In this candid and vulnerable episode, Dr. Kay sits down with her brother, veteran and writer Willy Hubbard, to explore the many layers of mental health and self-discovery. Together, they reflect on growing up in a challenging environment, the impact of childhood trauma, and the healing role of therapy, writing, and meditation. Willy shares candid insights on procrastination, fear of success, and the importance of humor in facing life’s hardest lessons. They also dive into spirituality and the ongoing work of unlearning patriarchal values. This conversation is both tender and inspiring—an invitation to embrace growth, even when it feels uncomfortable.Part 2 is coming up next!

In this heartfelt conversation, Dr. Kay sits down with mindfulness advocate and coach Jordan “Dxtr” Holmes to explore the deep connections between wellness, vulnerability, and community. Jordan opens up about his journey from anxiety and shyness to finding healing through writing, mindfulness, and creative expression. Together, they reflect on the role of community, the challenges of living nomadically, and the practice of emotional durability. The episode closes with a reminder of impermanence — and the invitation to treat each moment as sacred.✨ Topics include:The power of vulnerability, especially for menWriting as a gateway to self-expressionCommunity as a catalyst for personal growthEmotional durability as a tool for resilienceCherishing sacred moments in the flow of impermanenceBio:https://www.howmencry.com/Jordan "Dxtr" Holmes was raised in Prince George’s County, Maryland, Jordan's curious mind led him to become a jack of all trades: scientist, engineer, musician, spoken word artist, and entrepreneur. After graduating from Virginia Tech with a degree in Material Science Engineering and meeting his mentor, Dr. Nikki Giovanni, he relocated to Chicago in 2014. There, he began his performance career as Dxtr Spits, a witty, impactful, and energized lyricist. He most recently launched a movement called "How Men Cry" which is changing the narrative around mens relationship to vulnerability and mental health, with the intention of making compassion contagious.Current society and culture offer strong criticisms about the state of men in the world. This is understandable, however there are few places for men to go to find community, support, and encouragement. The constant pressures and lack of support make it easy for men to rely on hyper masculine narratives instead of compassionate spaces of acceptance and vulnerability. We found that these spaces seldom exist, so we created them.

In this soulful conversation, Dr. Kay is joined by retreat facilitator and men’s work guide, Jason Ighani, to explore the transformative power of friendship and community in healing. Together, they dive into what it means to hold space with presence and intuition, the role of retreats in deepening connection, and why true friendship is essential for spiritual growth. Jason shares wisdom on the ways community supports both individual and collective wellness, reminding us that healing is rarely a solitary journey.✨ Topics include:Friendship as a foundation for healingThe rise of men’s work and the need for connectionHow presence and intuition shape the healing processRetreats as containers for profound transformationCommunity as a catalyst for spiritual growthCo-creating self-discovery through shared experiencesBio:https://www.thehcn.org/Jason Ighani is a coach, facilitator and team development practitioner with over 15 years of experience, working extensively in the humanitarian and global development fields. He has unique expertise in the re-design and development of mission critical teams and has dedicated his professional career to creating the conditions for effective and meaningful collaboration where it is most needed.He is also the founder and CEO of The Humanitarian Coaching Network, a global community of coaches that subsidizes large scale individual and group coaching support to humanitarian staff, particularly those serving in the most isolated and unstable contexts. At this stage, his passion lies in supporting the inner work of men and curating spaces for men to heal in the company and with the support of other men.He is currently based in Costa Rica.

In this episode of The We in Wellness, Dr. Kay dives into your audience questions—covering how to know if you're on a spiritual journey, implications of procrastination, whether wellness only exists at the finish line, and examples of community wellness. There's also an oracle card pull!Deck: The Herbal Astrology Oracle by Adriana AyalesMusic: Meant to Be by Mimmi Bangoura

Episode 1 – Welcome to The We in WellnessIn this opening episode, I share the vision and format of The We in Wellness — a space for intimate conversations on health, spirituality, and community connection. I introduce myself and my work as a Naturopathic Doctor and therapist, and together we explore what collective healing can look like in these times. I pull a card for the collective, offering insight for our shared journey, and close with a short guided meditation to help you ground, connect, and center yourself in the present moment.Tarot Deck: The Light Seer's Tarot by Chris-Anne

Before we begin our regular conversations and meditations, I wanted to share something close to my heart — the very first guided meditation I ever recorded. It’s a gentle invitation to pause, breathe, and reflect on life’s moments of transition. Whether you’re moving through a season of change or simply need a mindful reset, this is a space to ground, release, and welcome what’s next.