Wisdom of the Way

Some conversations stay with you long after the Camino ends.In this episode of Wisdom of the Way, I share a treasured moment with Gary, a man whose presence on the Camino touched many lives.After our meeting, Gary wrote to me:"Another friend on the Camino. Another reason to stay alive. Such a precious gift."Those words stayed with me.In this conversation we explore something rarely spoken about:The CAMINO AS A FORM OF PALLIATIVE CARE.Not as an escape from life…but as a way of entering life more fully.When time becomes precious, something shifts.Priorities fall away.Small moments become sacred.And walking becomes something deeper than a journey.Gary shares openly about:• Living fully in the face of terminal illness• Walking the Camino with stage-four cancer• Why pilgrimage can become a form of healing• The power of friendship and human connection• Walking not away from death - but toward lifeGary has walked the Camino since 1994.After a previous cancer in 2008 and a recent diagnosis of advanced prostate cancer, he returned again to Spain, carrying his own pack and continuing his pilgrimage.For Gary, the Camino became something profound:a form of medicine.This episode is a tribute to a beautiful human being and a reminder that sometimes the Camino offers the simplest and most powerful medicine:one step at a time.OFTEN THE CAMINO IS NOT ABOUT REACHING SANTIAGO.IT IS ABOUT REMEMBERING HOW TO LIVE.---------------TOPICS in this EPISODE:Camino de Santiago pilgrimageWalking the Camino with cancerCamino healing journeyPilgrimage and personal transformationSpiritual lessons from the Camino----------------00:34 Meeting Gary03:00 Gary’s Remarkable Life05:34 Terminal Diagnosis13:21 Walking Without Pressure17:37 Camino as a Palliative Tool26:44 Post Camino Blues28:37 Letting Go of Expectations32:05 Camino as First Internet33:46 Returning Home Integration47:22 Toolbox for Terminal Illness55:26 Walking Meditation Method______________________________________________________________ABOUT Wisdom of the WayWisdom of the Way explores pilgrimage, inner transformation, and the deeper lessons found while walking the Camino de Santiago.Website:wisdomoftheway.comCamino Transformation Journeys:2026 retreats and pilgrimages(www.wisdomoftheway.com/retreats2026)Insta: @wisdomoftheway_

In this episode, I sit with Kian, an Iranian pilgrim living in Belgium, whose Camino walk carries a quiet but powerful message of Woman, Life, Freedom.Kian shares what it means to leave Iran as a refugee after years of activism, to walk in solidarity with the women of his country, and to keep speaking with humility and care, even when silence might feel safer.As the conversation unfolds, it softens into something deeply human. Kian reflects on how the Camino becomes people, how love is tasted through simple encounters, and how meditation helped him through depression - not by fixing anything, but by learning acceptance, again and again.This conversation was recorded some time ago, yet it arrives in a tender and urgent moment. With information inside Iran heavily restricted, reports of deaths in recent crackdowns vary widely. Wherever the numbers settle, the human grief is real. Our prayer is for the people of Iran - for protection, dignity, and liberation.A conversation about courage without hardness, practice without perfection, and love that appears when we slow down enough to meet life as it is.05:19 The Woman, Life, Freedom Movement11:10 Cultural Differences and Challenges14:22 Kian's Activism and Refugee Experience17:10 Reflections on the Camino Journey26:42 Practices on the Camino29:18 The Power of Meditation and Yoga32:14 Accepting and Overcoming Depression36:20 Living in the MomentMore details, courses, retreats and updates: www.wisdomoftheway.comInsta: @wisdomoftheway_

"STORIES THAT CHANGE LIVES"In this episode I sit down with Bambu — travelling storyteller, photographer, and creator of the YouTube project All These Humans, which now has more than 430k subscribers.For the past ten years, Bambu has been living on the road, the last five in the same motorhome with his family. What began as photographing people living on the streets of Madrid has grown into a global project of human stories, alternative ways of living, and quiet revolutions of the heart.This conversation — Bambu’s first ever interview in English — explores purpose, fear, simplicity, connection, and what it truly means to live “a life worth living.” We talk about travelling as pilgrimage, facing the fear of change, the art of human connection, and how small, consistent steps can move us toward a very different kind of life.It’s a gentle, honest invitation to look at your own path: the stories you’re living, the dreams you’ve deferred, and the next small step that might bring you closer to a life that feels real._________________Bambu & I met on the Camino de Santiago when Bambu came to create one of his films about my life and introspection along on the Way.🎥 Watch the film Bambu made with me here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FtlKyZ4UyMExplore more of Bambu & All These Humans here:📺 YouTube: @AllTheseHumans🌐 Website: https://allthesehumans.com/___________________02:23 Bambu's Journey and Philosophy04:47 The Impact of 'All These Humans'07:19 Balancing Passion and Purpose11:36 The Power of Photography and Human Connection13:25 Lessons from Traveling and Pilgrimage16:33 Capturing Moments and Making Connections24:46 Overcoming Fear of Rejection27:16 Teaching Digital Nomadism29:44 Manifestation and Discipline33:59 Defining a Life Worth Living36:35 Reflecting on Happiness and Purpose40:28 Inspiring Stories from the Road46:41 Facing Fears and Taking Steps

A chance intention. A synchronistic connection. And a shared friend in spirit.Just hours after setting the intention to record a new episode, I met Caitlin Purcell—a fellow pilgrim—through pure synchronicity. What we soon discovered was our deep, unexpected link through our dear friend Jen Hutchison, who passed away three years ago. Caitlin and Jen were from the same small country town in Australia… and I had my own powerful, life-changing meeting with Jen 13 years ago on the Camino.In this heartfelt conversation, we explore the inner pilgrimage beneath the kilometres—expectations and surrender, the stories we tell ourselves, listening to the body, and the tender thresholds of life: motherhood, mid-life transitions, and returning home changed.Caitlin speaks candidly about blisters, knee pain, and “mother guilt,” but also about learning to receive, and how love, community, and courage make the Way accessible to all. Together we touch the Hero’s Journey, the magic of synchronicity, and how to bring Camino wisdom back into daily life.A gentle, grounded and luminous exchange—honouring Jen, the Way, and the quiet guidance that meets us when we’re open._____________________________________________________Timestamps 02:51 Caitlin’s Journey and Family Life 04:14 Synchronicity and Connection with Jen 05:21 The Healing Power of the Camino 15:05 Challenges and Lessons on the Path 21:45 Reflections on the Camino Experience 22:17 Seeking Inner Learning and Self-Discovery 22:47 The Unexpected Gifts of Crisis 24:18 The Hero’s Journey and Personal Growth 28:48 Returning Home and Integrating Lessons 34:31 Navigating Life Transitions 38:59 The Importance of Connection and Community______________________________________________________🌏 Join us for a PILGRIMAGE OF A LIFETIME — INDIA, November 2025 (ONLY 2 SPOTS LEFT!) → wisdomoftheway.com/indiapilgrimage An incredible journey to align with your deepest self, supported by sacred lands, rituals, and community.🕊️ Stay connected — retreats, practices, and Camino wisdom: → wisdomoftheway.com/about#subscribe

Join us for a PILGRIMAGE OF A LIFETIME to INDIA, this NOVEMBER 2025!!https://www.wisdomoftheway.com/indiapilgrimageThis will be an incredible journey to align with our deepest self, with the support of life and these sacred lands and rituals! We are so excited to be able to offer this opportunity to you and live this life shaping experience together._________________Pilgrimage of a Yogi and Inner Journey: Camino Wisdom & Sacred IndiaI’m very excited to introduce you to a dear friend Karenji, an experienced pilgrim who has taught yoga to hundreds in India. Together, we explore reflections on our recent walking retreat along the Camino de Santiago and the power of pilgrimages both external and internal. We delve into Karen's experiences teaching in India and explore the value of yogic practices in living a connected and fulfilled life. AND… drum roll… in the last part of the episode WE SHARE EXCITING PLANS for our journey to INDIA in NOVEMBER, offering you an opportunity to join for the last places on this transformative pilgrimage.00:38 Meet Karen: A Journey of Yoga and Pilgrimage02:35 Karen's Reflections on the Camino03:32 The Essence of Pilgrimage04:42 Personal Growth Through Repeated Pilgrimages12:47 The Yogic Approach to Life16:44 Integrating Yogic Practices28:43 The Importance of Space and Reflection37:57 The Long-Term Benefits of Consistent Practice40:23 Living an Integrated Life42:27 Upcoming Journey to India44:24 The Inspiration Behind the India Pilgrimage52:33 Itinerary of the India Pilgrimage__________________________For other retreats, practices and more Camino wisdom, sign up to our newsletter at:https://www.wisdomoftheway.com/about#subscribe

Join us for a PILGRIMAGE OF A LIFETIME to INDIA, this NOVEMBER 2025!!https://www.wisdomoftheway.com/indiapilgrimageThis will be an incredible journey to align with our deepest self, with the support of life and these incredible lands, and amazing guides such as Shankara! I'm very excited to be able to offer this opportunity to you and live this life shaping experience together._________________Transformative Pilgrimage to the Sacred Mountain of Arunachala: In this episode of ‘Wisdom of the Way’ I am blessed to meet with Shankara, who shares his profound experiences and wisdom from his transformative journey that has led him to live his calling at the feet Arunachala Mountain in India - a famous pilgrimage walked by thousands daily. In this heartfelt conversation, Shankara discusses the significance of pilgrimage, the power of devotion, and the impact of spiritual practices like Agni Hotra (sacred fire ceremony). He beautifully shares some of his life story, his brave transition from being a pilot in the United States to following his heart’s calling to return to his mother land, India. Shankara speaks about his 90 days in silence, the importance of trust and surrender, and how aligning with one’s true calling can not only change the course of life but lead us to a life of much greater fulfilment and peace. The episode invites us to connect deeply with the sacredness of our inner journey and the wisdom already exists within us.00:34 Meeting Shankara: A Journey of Pilgrimage01:32 Invitation to our Indian Pilgrimage02:44 Shankara's Story: Living at Arunachala06:11 Shankara's Pilgrimage to India08:38 The Call to Freedom and Healing19:42 Finding a Master and Surrendering28:42 The Practice of 'I Am' and Inner Silence34:20 Arriving at Arunachala37:43 Introduction to Arunachala and Its Spiritual Significance38:37 The Practice of Sadhana and Its Importance40:24 Understanding Karma and the Mind's Conditioning43:34 The Power of Silence and Personal Transformation46:47 The Journey of 90 Days in Silence55:59 Founding Shivalaya and the Role of Agni Hotra (Fire Ceremony)01:04:15 The Technology and Benefits of Agni Hotra (Fire Ceremony)__________________________For other retreats, practices and more camino wisdom, sign up to our newsletter at:https://www.wisdomoftheway.com/about#subscribe

Welcome to Wisdom of The Way Podcast!I’m Sai, your host, and I'm really excited to be bringing this podcast to you. It's a project that has been a vision of mine for many years, filled with heartfelt conversations and recorded interviews with incredible souls from all walks of life. The purpose of this podcast is to inspire, enliven, and explore the wisdom found on the Camino de Santiago and in life. In this first episode, recorded a couple of years ago, I delve into what you can expect from the podcast and share some of my own story—the journey that brought me here. From growing up in the ‘bush’ in Australia to eventually being led to the Camino. I reflect on various adventures and pivotal moments in my life—from a 4 month solo kayaking journey to living with Australia's First Nations people in the desert, and even a 2 year motorbike journey from Ireland to Ghana via Iran :) I also discuss the creation of Terra de Luz, a healing space on the Camino de Santiago, which has served and accompanied thousands of pilgrims along this sacred path over the years. I invite you to reach out, ask questions, and share with us as we explore the depths of our inner and outer journeys together.00:00 Introduction to Wisdom of The Way00:42 The Vision Behind the Podcast03:09 The Significance of the Camino de Santiago06:08 The Metaphor of the Camino for Life12:08 Personal Journey and Background18:41 Adventures and Learnings30:35 Creating a Healing Space on the Camino-For retreats, practices and more camino wisdom, sign up to our newsletter at:https://www.wisdomoftheway.com/about#subscribe

Camino Wisdom with B: ‘We’re on a Pilgrimage to a better future’In this episode of 'Wisdom of The Way', I sit down with ‘B’, a very charismatic, long-time resident of the intentional and transformative community of Auroville in India, who I met whilst on my pilgrimage. B shares his inspiring journey from studying with the Jesuits to living a life rooted in spiritual and ecological harmony. Filmed in B’s unique and very creative home, the ‘Trash Mahal’, this conversation delves into themes of the Sunlit Path - the title of one of B’s many books that he has authored. We explore the understanding of all matter being sacred, the creation of a conscious community, and the power of an inner pilgrimage for personal and collective transformation. Discover how these lived insights and an enthusiastic, positive attitude can kindle a vision for a brighter, unified future.01:04 Meeting ‘B’ in Auroville, India02:28 B's Journey and Transformation05:55 Building the ‘Trash Mahal’ - B’s charming and creative home07:39 The Philosophy of Sacred Matter12:11 B's Early Life and Jesuit Experience16:19 The Founding of Auroville24:36 Innovative Solutions for a Global Mess25:27 The Role of Love and Optimism26:44 Spiritual Insights and Teachings27:46 The Power of Calmness and Presence34:40 Permaculture and Sustainable Living36:01 The Importance of Following Your Bliss36:48 Granting Permission to Pursue Dreams-If you’re feeling called to journey with me to INDIA FOR A PILGRIMAGE OF A LIFETIME, get in contact and sign up for more info below. November 2025 vamos!For other retreats, practices and more camino wisdom, sign up to our newsletter at:https://www.wisdomoftheway.com/about#subscribe

In this episode of Wisdom of The Way, we have a beautiful, spontaneous and insightful meeting with Tommy Rosen, a renowned yoga and addiction recovery expert. We delve into the nature of addiction (which is not always what and how we think it is), and we understand it as often disconnection from self, others, and the world. Tommy shares his personal journey hitting rock bottom and his insights on finding recovery through openness, humility, and introspection - and how the yogic technology also provided him with the opportunity to re-establish the connection with himself, his life and to heal. We discuss the importance of daily practice (Sadhana), compassion, and creating intentional communities for sustained growth. The episode also touches on the transformative power of pilgrimage and how integrating these profound experiences into daily life is crucial for continuous personal development. Tommy emphasizes the need for self-forgiveness and the courage to seek help before hitting rock bottom. This heartfelt discussion offers practical and compassionate approaches to living a fulfilling life and recovering from various forms of disconnection.00:50 Meeting Tommy Rosen: A Serendipitous Encounter03:25 Exploring Addiction and Recovery10:27 Personal Journey and Rock Bottom16:01 The Gift of Desperation and Asking for Help24:04 Living a Full Life and Finding Fulfilment29:46 The Importance of Compassion and Forgiveness32:50 The Power of Self-Forgiveness33:32 Challenges of Human Experience34:50 Understanding and Compassion36:15 Purpose of Yoga41:11 The Role of Community42:30 Pilgrimage as a Path to Recovery50:09 Integrating Transformative Experiences56:56 Final Thoughts and Encouragement____________To follow, connect and learn with Tommy:Recovery 2.0https://r20.comIn The Circle Podcast with Tommy Rosen___________For retreats, practices and more camino wisdom, sign up to our newsletter at: https://www.wisdomoftheway.com/about#subscribe

In this episode of 'Wisdom of the Way,' we meet with Tomi Kokko, a successful entrepreneur from Finland who undertook a deep inner journey of healing and self-discovery. Tomi shares his story of experiencing a complete breakdown despite his outward success, and how his time on the Camino de Santiago, supported by practices like meditation, yoga, and self-inquiry, helped him to rebuild his life. We discuss the importance of dedication to inner work, breaking old habits, and integrating newfound consciousness into everyday life. The conversation, held around a fire in freezing Finland, is a profound exploration of creating a mindful and meaningful life. Tomi, who is so relatable, open and authentic, shares with us great wisdom about how to traverse such challenging life situations.00:37 Meet Tomi Kokko: A Journey of Transformation00:58 Tomi's Crisis and Camino Experience02:28 The Inner Journey: Meditation, Yoga, and Self-Inquiry03:53 Tomi's Background and Entrepreneurial Struggles07:54 The Turning Point: Embracing the Inner Camino14:32 Practices and Dedication: The Path to Healing23:45 Returning Home: Integrating the Journey26:05 Mindful Habits and Environment-------------Follow Tomi at: www.tomikokko.com/www.instagram.com/tomikokko/For camino retreats, powerful practices and more camino wisdom, sign up to our newsletter at:www.wisdomoftheway.com/about#subscribe

Embracing the Hero's Journey and walking a Rite of PassageDive into this real and heartfelt conversation with Patrick Holmes, Paddy, an inspiring storyteller, dream chaser, creative and pilgrim on the Camino de Santiago. Paddy shares his journey of transformation, reflecting on themes such as grief, intention, and intuition. This journey for Paddy is really a path of deep healing and celebration, after the recent passing of his mother and the grief that he has experienced. We speak to the power of presence and the power of walking with purpose. Paddy also shares about his journey from boyhood to manhood, and we touch on his creative ventures and dreams, including his rap career, a business called Hammock Temple and his podcast Pddywagon (see links below). It's a cracker!00:42 Meeting Paddy: A Heartfelt Conversation03:36 Paddy's Journey and Reflections06:56 The Hero's Journey and Integration13:34 Teachers and Lessons on the Camino31:55 Embracing Grief and Synchronicities37:32 A Moment of Joyous Laughter39:13 The Mysterious Singing Wizard42:11 Meeting Mao: A Lesson in Presence43:44 The Importance of Silence53:24 The Illusion of Urgency57:02 Chasing Dreams: From Rapper to Author01:00:08 The Hammock Temple: A Dream Realized01:02:43 The Journey to Manhood-Check out Paddy’s creations, music, podcast, poetry, offerings here:https://www.pddywgon.com/For retreats, practices and more camino wisdom, sign up to our newsletter at:https://www.wisdomoftheway.com/about#subscribe

Embracing Gratefulness and Letting Go: Margaret's Camino JourneyIn this episode of Wisdom of the Way, we have a lively conversation with Margaret about her transformative experience walking the Camino de Santiago. Margaret shares her deeply personal journey of recovery from a severe accident and her spontaneous decision to walk the Camino, inspired by her children. She discusses the importance of being present, letting go of unnecessary burdens, and embracing gratitude, love, and compassion. Margaret reveals how the Camino has helped her to discard physical and emotional baggage, leading to profound self-discovery and a renewed zest for life. The episode emphasizes the Camino's power to inspire openness, deep connections, and personal growth.01:54 Margaret's Journey to the Camino03:07 The Accident and Recovery03:22 Preparation and Inspirations05:28 Lessons from the Camino06:53 Letting Go of Material and Emotional Baggage11:25 Gratitude and Love on the Camino17:28 Practical Tips for Staying Grateful20:50 Reflecting on Life's Moments23:52 Lessons from the Camino24:47 Walking Alone and Self-Reflection26:55 Honesty and Connection30:02 Discarding Defense Mechanisms31:24 Returning Home with New Insights36:28 Defining God and Personal Growth38:13 Advice for Future Pilgrims-For retreats, practices and more camino wisdom, sign up to our newsletter at:https://www.wisdomoftheway.com/about#subscribe

This episode of 'Wisdom of the Way’ is a heart-warming and exciting conversation with adventurous couple Dan and Katie, who are walking an inspirational Camino de Santiago with their one-year-old daughter, Aurora. The ‘yarn’ (Australian word for conversation :) ) highlights the challenges and joys of adapting to this journey during the off-season and as new parents, emphasizing the importance of presence, adaptability, and maintaining a positive mindset. Dan and Katie share insights into their motivations for taking on this adventure, their experiences of synchronicities along the way, and the valuable life lessons they've learned about trust, communication, and kindness. Synchronicity, Dan & I grew up in the next town from each other in outback Australia! So of course we had to have this chat! The conversation also touches on the profound impact of parenting on their lives as well as the importance of embracing life's opportunities with a resounding 'yes.'01:54 Meet Dan, Katie, and Aurora02:13 The Adventure of Walking the Camino with a Baby02:42 Synchronicities and Connections on the Camino04:26 Inspiration Behind the Journey07:36 Parenting and Adaptability on the Camino09:43 The Joy and Challenges of Traveling with a Baby15:31 Meditation and Presence in Parenthood25:39 Stages and Reflections of the Camino Journey29:25 Family Time and the Value of Relationships32:09 The Power of Saying Yes34:57 Embracing Parenting as an Adventure36:58 Keys to a Strong Relationship39:31 Daily Gratitude and Reflection43:30 Advice for Camino with a Child47:35 Documenting the Journey-For retreats, practices and more camino wisdom, sign up to our newsletter at:https://www.wisdomoftheway.com/about#subscribe

From Music to Magic with Dan Mullins on the Camino de Santiago. In this episode of 'Wisdom of the Way,' we meet with Dan Mullins, a well-known podcaster and musician in the Camino community. At the time of this interview his podcast ‘My Camino’ had just passed over 1 million downloads! We drop into some of Dan's transformative experiences walking the Camino de Santiago, starting with his first encounter with the Camino in 2007 and highlighting the life-changing journey he embarked on for his 50th birthday. Dan shares insights about love, the importance of listening, and the integration of his Camino lessons into everyday life. He also talks about his deep connection with music and how it helps him connect with others and cultivate kindness and compassion. This heartfelt conversation explores themes of vulnerability, integrating our experiences, and the power of presence. 00:45 Meeting Dan 02:00 Dan's Camino Journey Begins 04:48 The Transformative Power of the Camino 06:52 Dan's Musical Journey 15:33 The Joy of Live Music 18:50 Living with Intention 21:01 A Heartfelt Conversation on the Camino 22:00 The Gift of Listening 24:35 Lessons from the Camino 28:28 The Power of Music 33:33 Integrating the Camino Experience 36:56 Bringing the Camino Home - For retreats, practices and more camino wisdom, sign up to our newsletter at: https://www.wisdomoftheway.com/about#subscribe Dan’s Podcast: My Camino https://open.spotify.com/show/5rNICOEMt74P3CcZEi0VQv Dan’s music https://www.danmullinsmusic.com/

A Journey of Love and Healing on the Camino de Santiago: Lea's Story In this episode of the Wisdom of the Way podcast, we meet Lea from Lebanon, who shares her beautiful journey of love, healing, and self-discovery on the Camino de Santiago. Through her experiences, Lea recounts the calling that brought her to the Camino, the physical and emotional challenges she faced, and the profound lessons she learned about trust, letting go, and opening her heart. A poignant moment in the episode is Lea's encounter with a man from Israel, highlighting the power of open-hearted human connection beyond national and cultural boundaries. This episode underscores the transformative power of the Camino and its lessons applicable to life, inviting all of us to embrace authenticity and love. 00:34 Introducing Lea   04:11 The Call to the Camino 07:16 Challenges and Lessons on the Camino 16:34 Trust and Letting Go 25:36 The Camino: A Journey of Connection 26:41 Life Lessons from the Camino 28:48 Healing and Transformation on the Camino 31:51 Personal Reflections and Insights 39:08 The Power of Authentic Connections

In the debut episode of 'Wisdom of the Way,' I explore the transformative wisdom of the Camino de Santiago with my teacher, Anand Mehrotra, of Sattva Yoga Academy. Recorded during a teacher training in India, this insightful conversation delves into the nature of synchronicity, the essence of pilgrimages, and the lifelong journey of spiritual growth. Anand shares profound teachings on the transformative power of pilgrimages, the importance of evolving our consciousness and awareness, and the necessity of inner practices. Anand also offers insightful advice on facing challenges, preparing for spiritual journeys, the role of teachers and mentors, and the importance of converting belief into experiential knowledge. The episode culminates in a discussion about the deeper aspects of yoga beyond its limited Western interpretation, and how we utilise its comprehensive approach to walk our Inner Camino. 00:00 Introduction to Wisdom of the Way 00:34 Inspiration Behind the Podcast 01:36 Introducing Anand Mehrotra 05:16 The Essence of Synchronicity 06:15 Understanding and Embracing Synchronicity 15:26 Sharing and Validation 19:06 Returning Home and Integrating Experiences 27:33 The Significance of Pilgrimages 33:22 The Transformative Power of Pilgrimages 34:48 Facing Challenges and Inner Growth 36:24 Preparation and Inner Strength 39:00 Embracing Fear and Consistency 40:18 The Role of Teachers and Mentors 43:22 Belief vs. Experience in Spiritual Journeys 51:35 The Essence and Misconceptions of Yoga 58:04 Final Reflections and Gratitude

Join me, Sai, from our home on the transformative Camino de Santiago in Spain as we meet with incredible pilgrims and teachers from all over the world to share inspiring stories, insights and lived wisdom from along the way.