Shadow Mike Podcast

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Dr. Mike Simmons, Goddess Brittney King, and Jessica Alfaqih delve into the multifaceted world of magick, exploring its historical context, the stigma surrounding witches, and the personal stories that connect individuals to their magical heritage. They discuss the power of words as spells, the importance of intention in spellcasting, and the significance of creating sacred spaces for magical practices. The conversation emphasizes the accessibility of magic in everyday life and encourages listeners to embrace their own magical potential.Jessica and Goddess Brittney's LinksPassion Ignited with Jessica and Goddess Brittney: https://www.jessicaalfaqih.com/passion-ignited | A high vibe day retreat in a forest sanctuary just outside Portland,OR | Nov. 8th 2025The Goddess Experience: https://www.goddessbrittneyking.com/goddessA 5 Day Luxury Retreat in the Jungles of Puerto Vallarta | January 26th-30th 2026Conservatory of Magick: https://www.skool.com/conservatoryofmagick/about | Join the Conservatory of Magick! A community gathering place only for modern mystics, witches, healers, and seekers ready to activate their magick and create meaningful transformation in their lives.Chapters00:00 Witchcraft and Its Stigmas05:46 Reclaiming Power and Identity10:44 Family Myths and Personal Stories15:35 Creating Reality Through Words20:33 The Nature of Spells and Intentions31:25 The Power of Words as Spells35:44 Intention and Emotional Charge in Spell Work39:04 Creating Sacred Spaces for Spell Casting44:54 The Role of Nature in Manifestation49:14 Radical Responsibility and Personal Power57:04 Practical Magic: Engaging with Elements01:06:06 Upcoming Offerings and Community Engagement

Summary & DescriptionIn this enlightening conversation, Dr. Mike Simmons sits down with Lisset King explore the transformative power of the Hawaiian practice of Huna. Lisset and Mike vulnerably their stories of healing and the resulting abundance they create and enjoy. They discuss the elemental nature of Huna, the three selves, and the power of focusing action and energy on the life we desire. The conversation emphasizes that change is possible when we release emotional baggage, envision a better reality, take inspired action, and focus attention when we hit barriers.Lisset King Lisset King is an Emotional Ninja, Trainer of NLP, Master Practitioner of Hypnotherapy, and devoted student and teacher of the ancient Hawaiian practice of Huna. As co-host of Honest Feedback Podcast, she blends science and spirit to help high-achievers to master their emotions, rewire their unconscious minds, and reclaim their power. Through transformational retreats, breakthrough sessions, and unapologetic truth-telling, Lisset guides clients to live lives of limitless joy, purpose, and radical self-trust.Lisset's LinksHuna Workshop: https://www.lissetking.com/event-details/huna-intro-february-21st-and-22ndHypnosis Work: https://www.lissetking.com/shopTuesday Morning Mastery Call: https://masterymornings.myflodesk.com/joinHonest Feedback Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@honestfeedbackpodcastMike's LinksYour Shadow Rising (Substack): https://shadowmike.substack.com/1:1 Shadow Work Journeys: https://www.shadowmike.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction to Emotional Breakthroughs01:36 The Role of Huna in Transformation04:40 Understanding the Emotional Ninja07:32 The Power of Neuro-Linguistic Programming10:40 Exploring Huna's Spiritual Lineage13:32 The Elements of Huna and Personal Empowerment16:33 Healing Through Energy Work19:38 The Three Selves: Conscious, Unconscious, and Higher Self22:35 Breaking Free from Limiting Beliefs25:27 The Matrix and Spiritual Awakening28:34 God's Promise and the Nature of Reality40:01 The Power of Self-Discovery and Love41:04 Transformative Experiences and Miracles42:09 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs43:35 Money as a Symbol of Self-Worth44:53 Baking Your Own Cookies: Self-Sufficiency46:56 Redefining Gratitude49:03 Financial Breakthroughs and Abundance52:35 Unpacking Sexual Trauma and Healing59:16 The Interplay of Money and Self-Relationship01:07:32 The Journey of Inner Work and Transformation

About Goddess Brittney King:Goddess Brittney King is a sought-after Pleasure Priestess, somatic alchemist, and transformational guide for women ready to live turned-on, soul-led lives. Her work blends practical tools with sacred practices, empowering women to reconnect to their bodies, trust their desires, and create lives that feel deeply nourishing, alive, and aligned. Whether through retreats, mentorship, or pleasure rituals, Brittney creates spaces where women feel seen, supported, and safe to come home to themselves. She is a stand for you to remember and reclaim pleasure as your birthright.Link:The Goddess Experience: https://www.goddessbrittneyking.com/goddess- A 5 Day Luxury Retreat in the Jungles of Puerto Vallarta- January 26-30, 2026Pleasure Awakening Meditation (Complementary Gift): https://www.goddessbrittneyking.com/giftExplore all Goddess Brittney King has to offer here: https://bio.site/goddessbrittneykingEpisode Description:In this conversation, Dr. Mike Simmons and Goddess Brittney King explore the themes of sexuality, pleasure, and the impact of purity culture on personal empowerment. They discuss the importance of reconnecting with one's body, the dichotomy between spirituality and sexuality, and the journey of self-discovery. Brittney shares her experiences and insights on how to build safety and trust in pleasure, emphasizing that it is never too late to embrace new experiences. The conversation culminates in an introduction to the Goddess Experience, an initiation retreat designed to help women reconnect with their divine selves and transform their lives through pleasure and empowerment.Chapters00:00 Embracing Sexuality and Pleasure10:39 The Impact of Purity Culture11:54 Purity Culture & Fear of Sexuality12:36 Purity Culture and Fear of Sexuality16:00 Connecting with the Body18:53 Building Trust and Safety21:41 The Power of Pleasure24:15 Connecting with your Body31:59 Your Unconscious Mind: Keep You Safe, Make You Right33:23 Unpacking the Roots of Pleasure and Safety35:25 Navigating Personal Stories and Societal Norms37:44 The Cost of Transformation and Embracing Change39:34 Choosing Joy Amidst Grief and Loss42:17 The Power of Initiation and Divine Connection46:23 The Goddess Experience: An Invitation to Divinity53:50 Integration: The Key to Lasting Change57:30 Embracing Pleasure as a Path to Power

DescriptionIn this episode, Shadow Mike interviews Brian Recker about his highly anticipated book, Hell Bent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love. Hell Bent s available for pre-order (link below), and hits the shelfs officially September 30th.LinksPre-order Hell Bent: https://www.amazon.com/Hell-Bent-Holds-Christians-Spirituality/dp/0593853199/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0Brian's Substack: https://brianrecker.substack.comBrian's website: https://www.brianrecker.comMike's Substack: https://substack.com/@shadowmikeMike's Website: https://www.shadowmike.com/Top TakeawaysReclaiming Christianity involves a new paradigm focused on personal spirituality rather than a collective 'should'.Deconstructing the concept of hell is essential for a positive spirituality.Many Christians struggle with the idea of spirituality being rooted in punishment and fear.The journey from fundamentalism to a broader understanding of Christianity can be complex and challenging.Fear of hell often distorts relationships and spirituality, leading to alienation from loved ones.The Good Samaritan story illustrates that those we often reject may be our greatest teachers.A spirituality of love emphasizes connection and community over fear and punishment.The macro impact of a hell-centered spirituality can lead to neglect of social justice issues.Reimagining Jesus involves seeing him as a model for love and connection rather than a punitive figure.True spirituality is about flourishing in this life, not just avoiding punishment in the next.Chapters00:00 Spirituality and Language01:45 Deconstructing Hell: A New Paradigm05:48 Personal Experiences of Fear and Punishment08:50 The Impact of Early Spiritual Conditioning11:37 The Journey of Deconstruction14:57 The Role of Love in Spirituality17:36 Fear-Based Spirituality and Its Effects20:24 The Alienation of Relationships23:30 The Complexity of Family Dynamics26:39 The Struggle for Authenticity in Faith29:21 The Impact of Spirituality on Relationships31:35 Colonization of Spirituality and Learning from Others40:54 Reimagining Christianity and the Path Forward50:41 Finding Authenticity and Love in Spirituality

SummaryInterested in Shadow Work? I offer Shadow Work Journey for those ready to make massive change, and shift the trajectory of their life. Read more at https://www.shadowmike.com/journeysIn this episode of the Shadow Mike Podcast, I share my own journey of loosening the grip of evangelicalism — not just in my beliefs, but in my body. We talk about what happens when a faith framework shapes your nervous system, and why even after you’ve “left,” the old patterns still show up. I dig into how the unconscious mind holds on to limiting beliefs, why releasing them is so necessary, and how the four requisites of change found in MER (Mental and Emotional Release) work can help you install a whole new way of being. I also share how coaching can guide you through the messy, beautiful work of transformation — from purity-and-confession-driven living to a deeper trust in yourself.ResourcesSubstack: shadowmike.substack.comSubstack Article: Your Unconscious Mind Still Believes in the Evangelical GodBook: Mental and Emotional Release (MER) by Dr. Matt James: Chapters00:00 Introduction06:52 Detaching from Evangelicalism: Attuning to Our Body's Experience10:34 Locating the Negative Divine in Our Feelings, Limiting Beliefs, and Symptoms15:00 The Unconscious Mind: Beliefs and Reactions25:12 You Can Install New Beliefs in Your Unconscious Mind27:13 Mental and Emotional Release: Steps to Transformation27:24 Step 1: Release of Negative Emotion, Belief30:46 Step 2: Set a New Intention32:54 Step 3: Action38:37 Step 4: Focus43:43 You have to Consciously Install the New Operating System

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Dr. Mike Simmons and Jennifer Delliquadri explore the transformative journey of personal growth, focusing on mentorship, midlife evolution, and the importance of subtle shifts in achieving one's goals. Jennifer shares her insights on overcoming self-doubt and perfectionism, the significance of connecting to source energy, and the supportive role of ancestral guidance in one's journey. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of taking action, even amidst healing, and the value of having a mentor to navigate the complexities of personal development.Connect with JenniferJennifer Delliquadri is a Sovereign Life & Business Mentor and the creator of the Subtle Shifts Method—a transformational approach that helps soul-led entrepreneurs reclaim their clarity, embody their purpose, and build aligned lives and businesses with strategy and soul. Through her work, she guides purpose-driven humans to magnetize and monetize their mission—without burnout or self-betrayal.Learn more about Jennifer and her services at www.jenniferdelliquadri.comListen to Subtle Shifts with Jennifer Delliquadri on Apple Podcasts & SpotifyFollow Jennifer on Instagram @jennifer.delliquadriChapters00:00 Introduction03:20 Jennifer's Coaching Philosophy05:18 Midlife Evolution and Initiation12:35 Understanding Subtle Shifts16:32 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Perfectionism21:17 The Role of Action in Healing24:33 Nervous System Regulation31:26 Connecting to Source Energy36:49 Ancestral Support and Legacy40:15 Coaching Container and Client Journey

Summary BelowInterested in Shadow Work? I offer Shadow Work Journey for those ready to make massive change, and shift the trajectory of their life. Read more at https://www.shadowmike.com/journeysIn this conversation, Dr. Mike Simmons explores the complexities of decision-making, particularly within the context of the common Christian myth. He discusses how this myth has led to a systematic mistrust of intuition and self, creating anxiety and decision paralysis. The conversation delves into the impact of spiritual bypassing, the internal conflict between conscious desires and unconscious beliefs, and the importance of reclaiming personal authority. Dr. Simmons emphasizes the need for action and experimentation in decision-making, encouraging listeners to embrace their desires and trust their intuition as they navigate life's choices.Links & Events1. Huna Workshop | October 11th-12th (Portland)2. From Shame to Self Love Retreat | October 3-5: (Portland)3. Keave Process as mentioned in the episode4. Coach Kyle Tennyzen's Website (voice in Keave Recording)Chapters00:00 The Struggle with Decision-Making00:35 Introduction to the Episode04:27 Decision Making06:17 Disconnecting from Intuition, Clinging to Obedience 13:40 The Impact of the Common Christian Myth20:25 Internalized Self-Doubt and Decision Paralysis23:00 Spiritual Bypassing as a Fear Response29:10 Action is the Medicine32:26 Make a Better Dichotomy33:55 Keawe: A Practice of Naming and Dissolving old Dichotomies37:09 You Have Heard it Said, But I sayTakeawaysDecision-making can create anxiety and paralysis.The common Christian myth teaches mistrust of self and intuition.Obedience is often prioritized over personal desires.Plans can limit divine guidance and intuition.Crisis can be a catalyst for growth and clarity.Spiritual bypassing leads to seeking external validation.Internal conflict arises from mistrust in one's own heart.Action is essential for reclaiming personal authority.Life should be viewed as a laboratory for experimentation.Desires are guiding forces, not obstacles to obedience.

Ready to make a massive shift in how you’re relating and living your life? I offer 1:1 Shadow Work Journeys for those ready to embody the life they keep imagining. You can read more here and schedule a Free 30-min Discovery Call.SummaryIn this conversation, Michael Simmons explores the concept of projection and idealization, particularly in relation to spirituality and the divine. He discusses how individuals often project their own qualities onto others, especially figures like Jesus, and the implications of this for personal growth and self-empowerment. The conversation emphasizes the importance of reclaiming one's own 'gold'—the qualities and strengths that have been idealized in others—and integrating them into one's own life. Simmons critiques the church's role in this dynamic, likening it to a multi-level marketing organization that often leads to a psychological split between the idealized self and the shadow self. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to recognize their own divinity and the light within themselves, advocating for a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Projection and Idealization03:50 The Nature of Projection in Personal Growth07:10 The Role of Idealization in Spirituality10:07 Jesus as a Gold Carrier: The Psychological Implications13:08 The Cross as a Metaphor for Personal Burden16:02 The Dangers of Outsourcing Spirituality19:04 The Impact of Idealization on Self-Perception21:51 The Multi-Level Marketing Analogy in Church Dynamics25:14 Reclaiming Your Gold: The Process of Integration28:00 The Exchange of Gold: A Path to Empowerment30:55 The Invitation of Jesus: Embodying Your Own Divinity33:50 The Power of Faith and Personal Agency37:13 Conclusion: Embracing Your Inner Light

Summary Below:Interested in Shadow Work? I offer Shadow Work Journey for those ready to make massive change, and shift the trajectory of their life. You can read more at https://www.shadowmike.com/journeysIn this episode, Dr. Mike Simmons delves into the journey of authentic spirituality, exploring the limiting beliefs that often stem from traditional Christian teachings. He shares personal experiences of spiritual awakening and the dichotomy of feeling connected to the divine while also feeling depleted. Through the lens of Huna wisdom, he emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's inner power and the shift from viewing oneself as a rechargeable battery to understanding oneself as solar-powered, drawing energy from the universe. The conversation culminates in practical principles for embracing personal empowerment and living authentically.Upcoming Huna Workshop October 11th-12th (Portland): https://www.lissetking.com/hunaYou can read a little more about the 7 principles of Huna here: https://www.sacredlomi.com/articles-lomi/principles-of-huna/Chapters00:00 Exploring Authentic Spirituality04:16 The Impact of Limiting Beliefs07:01 Personal Spiritual Awakening09:49 The Dichotomy of Divine Connection13:12 Shifting Perspectives on God16:08 The Journey of Self-Discovery19:00 From Rechargeable Battery to Solar Power21:59 Principles of Huna and Inner PowerTakeawaysThe journey to authentic spirituality reveals inherited beliefs.Limiting beliefs can prevent exploration of new possibilities.Spiritual awakenings can occur in unexpected moments.Connection to the divine should not be transactional.The common Christian myth can create anxiety and fear.Self-empowerment comes from within, not from external sources.Energy dynamics play a crucial role in spiritual practice.We are not rechargeable batteries; we are solar-powered beings.The world reflects our beliefs and perceptions.Now is the moment of power to change our narratives.

In this episode, Shadow Mike engages Kayla Felten on the intersections of psychedelics, spiritual abuse, and religious trauma. Kayla shares her personal journey from a fundamentalist upbringing to exploring psychedelics as a means of healing and self-discovery. She also discusses the societal stigma surrounding psychedelics, the impact of the war on drugs, and the importance of consent and agency in healing practices. The conversation emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding in navigating these complex topics, as well as the potential for psychedelics to facilitate profound personal growth and connection to the divine.Kayla Felten, MSW, LICSW (she/her) is a psychedelic therapist and co-founder of the Reclamation Collective, where she supports survivors of religious trauma and spiritual abuse. Her work bridges clinical care and advocacy, helping people reclaim inner peace, autonomy, and authentic spirituality. With over five years of experience leading support groups, integration circles, and retreats, Kayla brings a trauma-informed lens to power dynamics in both religious and psychedelic spaces, championing healing that centers personal agency and radical self-trust.Reclamation Collective // Religious Trauma & Spiritual Advocacy organization offering support groups, workshops, and retreats for survivors around the globe https://www.reclamationcollective.comIntero Psychedelic Therapy // A collaborative clinic of therapists and medical providers offering Psychedelic Therapy located in St. Paul, MN. Currently offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy and Integration support for Minnesota residents. https://www.intero-psychedelic.comPsychedelic Harm Reporting & Resource Initiative is a collaborative of individuals and community organizations focused on anonymous voluntary reporting and community resources for survivors, moving at the speed of trust. https://www.mushwomb.love/maatTakeawaysHealing and wholeness involve living in multiple streams.Deconstruction is a continuous process of understanding one's beliefs.Psychedelics can help connect to a greater force within oneself.Experiences with psychedelics can lead to insights about love and guilt.The war on drugs has created a binary view of substances.Psychedelics can be used as tools for both healing and manipulation.Spiritual abuse can occur in psychedelic and ceremonial spaces.Integration of experiences is crucial for personal growth.Access to psychedelic support is limited in many areas.Trusting one's intuition is essential in the healing journey.Chapters00:00 Exploring Psychedelics and Religious Trauma01:15 Introduction to Psychedelics and Spiritual Trauma04:00 Kayla's Journey: From Fundamentalism to Psychedelic Therapy07:04 The Impact of Religious Trauma on Personal Identity09:57 The Role of Psychedelics in Spiritual Exploration12:58 Navigating the Pendulum of Belief15:20 Understanding the War on Drugs and Psychedelics18:16 Consent and Agency in Healing Practices25:22 Breaking the Binary of Psychedelic Experiences28:12 Religious Trauma and Spiritual Abuse in Psychedelic Journeys31:51 The Role of Integration in Healing37:40 Psychedelic Narcissism and the Dangers of Evangelism42:57 Accessing Psychedelic Support and Resources44:44 The Reclamation Collective and Community Accountability

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Michael Simmons and Jessica Alfaqih explore the transformative power of shadow work, archetypes, and sensuality. Jessica shares her personal journey of self-discovery and empowerment, emphasizing the importance of pleasure and sensuality in shaping one's identity. They discuss practical approaches to engaging with beliefs and archetypes, the significance of elemental magick, and the upcoming six-week course designed to help individuals reclaim their personal power and align with their true selves. The conversation highlights the importance of authentic spirituality and the continuous journey of self-exploration and growth.More about Jessica ALfaqihJess is of mixed Lebanese-European heritage, living and working on Indigenous ancestral and unceded land in the Northwest Coast.She helps women who’ve tried everything break free from frustrating thought and behavior patterns—especially those rooted in anxiety, insecurity, or relationship struggles.Register for Deep Magik 6-week class here: https://www.jessicaalfaqih.com/deep-magickChapters00:00 Introduction to Shadow Work and Sensuality03:42 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Transformation06:35 Connecting Pleasure and Shadow Work09:44 Engaging with Beliefs and Archetypes12:32 The Role of Elemental Magick in Personal Growth15:43 Understanding Energy Movement and Agency18:53 Overview of the Six-Week Course21:55 Practical Applications of Elemental Magick24:41 The Importance of Authentic Spirituality27:40 Creating New Patterns and Rerouting Energy30:50 Final Thoughts and Course InvitationYou can connect with Jessica Alfaqih and register for her upcoming 6 week Deep Magik class below:\Instagram: @jessica_alfaqih & @elemental.archetype.retreatsDeep Magik: jessicaalfaqih.com/deep-magickChemistry call: https://jessicaalfaqihcoaching.as.me/schedule/c9daed24/appointment/42765580/calendar/7492770?appointmentTypeIds[]=42765580

In this episode, Dr. Michael Simmons explores the concept of shadow from both individual and collective perspectives. He emphasizes the importance of understanding how our shadows are cultivated relationally and how the 'Common Christian Myth' can impact our psychological health and range of motion. The discussion delves into the dangers of suppressing our darker experiences, the significance of projections in relationships, and the journey towards authentic spirituality. Shadow Mike encourages listeners to embrace their shadows and explore new ways of understanding the divine, ultimately guiding them towards integration and healing.Chapters00:00 Introduction03:03 The Common Christian Myth and Its Impact09:13 The Consequences of Suppressing the Shadow16:04 Navigating Projections and Authentic Spirituality25:01 Embracing the Divine: A Path to Authenticity27:23 Invitation to 1:1 Shadow Work28:13 ConclusionTakeawaysShadow work begins with the individual before moving to the collective.The common Christian myth shapes our understanding of spirituality and self.Denying darkness can lead to spiritual disconnection and psychological issues.Projections in relationships can reveal our hidden shadows.Authentic spirituality requires a reimagining of the divine.The closer we get to light, the larger our shadow becomes.Our shadow can guide us towards what we need to integrate.Understanding assumptions in our lives can lead to personal growth.Embracing the divine can take many forms, not just traditional ones.Healing involves addressing collective experiences that shape our beliefs.

Thank you to my clients who make this podcast possible! If you’re interested in 1:1 Shadow Work, schedule a free 30-min discovery call (https://www.shadowmike.com/) today.SummaryIn this video, Dr. Michael Simmons explores the concept of projection through a Jungian lens, discussing how our energetic reactions to others can reflect our shadowed traits, qualities, and limiting beliefs. He delves into how our shadow shows up in others, how other's shadow may be lodged in us, and the different types of projection. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing these projections in our relationships and offers practical steps for integrating our shadow to achieve greater self-awareness and authenticity.Chapters00:00 Understanding Projection: An Introduction03:50 The Metaphor of Projection06:33 The Shadow and Its Role in Projection09:38 Receiving Projections: Projective Identification12:07 The Impact of Projections in Relationships14:48 Types of Projection: Personal and Transference20:50 The Role of Projections in Conflict26:16 Practical Steps for Working with Projections34:01 Outro Audio_music-voice.mp3TakeawaysProjection is a metaphor for our unconscious reactions to others.The shadow self contains parts of ourselves we reject or deny.Recognizing projections can lead to personal growth and self-awareness.High-energy relationships often reveal our projections.Cringe reactions can indicate areas of projection.We can absorb others' projections, impacting our self-perception.Understanding projection helps navigate interpersonal conflicts.Personal and transference projections shape our interactions.Integrating the shadow leads to a more authentic self.Shadow work can transform how we engage in relationships.In this video, Dr. Michael Simmons explores the concept of projection through a Jungian lens, discussing how our energetic reactions to others can reflect our shadowed traits, qualities, and limiting beliefs. He delves into how our shadow shows up in others, how other's shadow may be lodged in us, and the different types of projection. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing these projections in our relationships and offers practical steps for integrating our shadow to achieve greater self-awareness and authenticity.Chapters00:00 Understanding Projection: An Introduction03:50 The Metaphor of Projection06:33 The Shadow and Its Role in Projection09:38 Receiving Projections: Projective Identification12:07 The Impact of Projections in Relationships14:48 Types of Projection: Personal and Transference20:50 The Role of Projections in Conflict26:16 Practical Steps for Working with Projections34:01 Outro Audio_music-voice.mp3TakeawaysProjection is a metaphor for our unconscious reactions to others.The shadow self contains parts of ourselves we reject or deny.Recognizing projections can lead to personal growth and self-awareness.High-energy relationships often reveal our projections.Cringe reactions can indicate areas of projection.We can absorb others' projections, impacting our self-perception.Understanding projection helps navigate interpersonal conflicts.Personal and transference projections shape our interactions.Integrating the shadow leads to a more authentic self.Shadow work can transform how we engage in relationships.

SummaryIn this conversation, Michael Simmons explores the profound impact of teachers and guides in our lives, particularly focusing on the emotional and psychological implications when these figures disappear. He discusses the importance of internalizing the wisdom once held by external teachers, the dangers of dependency on them, and the journey of reclaiming one's inner gold. Through various spiritual narratives and personal reflections, Simmons emphasizes the significance of self-discovery and the transformative power of recognizing one's own agency.TakeawaysThe disappearance of a teacher can lead to self-reflection.Teachers serve as mirrors for our growth and potential.The wisdom of a teacher can be internalized after their departure.Symbolism in spiritual narratives helps us understand our experiences.Dependency on external figures can hinder personal growth.Reclaiming inner gold is essential for authentic spirituality.Disillusionment with teachers can lead to personal empowerment.The journey of self-discovery is often painful yet beautiful.Recognizing one's own agency is crucial for development.Shadow work can aid in reclaiming lost aspects of oneself.Chapters00:00 The Role of Teachers in Our Lives06:15 The Disappearance of the Teacher11:09 Symbolism in Spiritual Narratives13:25 The Dangers of External Dependency17:39 Reclaiming Your Inner Gold24:22 The Journey of Self-Discovery

In this conversation, Mike Maeshiro shares his journey of coming out as a gay man after years of living within the constraints of evangelical Christianity. He discusses the challenges of reconciling his identity with the expectations of his upbringing, the emotional toll of hiding his true self, and the liberation he found in authenticity. The conversation delves into the shadow of evangelicalism, exploring its impact on personal identity, family dynamics, and the pervasive shame experienced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Mike emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for healing and self-acceptance, and the role of chosen family in navigating rejection from biological families. He reflects on the fulfillment he finds in supporting others on their journeys to reclaim their identities and live authentically.Thank you to my clients who make this podcast possible! If you’re interested in 1:1 Shadow Work, schedule a free 20-min discovery call today. If you enjoyed this episode, consider buying me a coffee!Check out the video recording at my YouTube Channel.Connect with Mike Maeshiro:Instagram: @MikeMaeshiroWebsite: MikeMaeshiro.comPodcast: Available on major platformsYouTube: Mike MaeshiroTune in for a raw, inspiring, and life-affirming conversation that will challenge you to rethink what it means to live authentically.Chapters00:00 Journey of Authenticity: Coming Out and Self-Discovery04:10 The Shadow of Evangelicalism: Understanding Its Impact07:04 Finding Safety: The Transformation After Coming Out10:03 The Cost of Authenticity: What Is Sacrificed?13:18 Healing from Shame: The Path to Self-Acceptance16:02 Deconstructing Beliefs: Challenging Dogma and Finding Truth19:16 Empowerment Through Anger: The Journey to Justice26:48 The Foundation of Beliefs29:15 Navigating Autonomy and Self-Trust32:16 Family Dynamics and Homophobia36:18 The Pain of Rejection40:16 The Role of the First Responder45:05 Finding Joy in Transformation

Thank you to my clients who make this podcast possible! If you’re interested in 1:1 Shadow Work, schedule a free 20-min discovery call today. If you enjoyed this episode, consider buying me a coffee!In this episode, Michael welcomes Kevin Martin, the visionary founder of SafeHaus Wellness, into a fascinating conversation on the intersections of sexual freedom, non-monogamy, and shadow work. Together, they explore how embracing diverse relationship structures and confronting our unconscious beliefs can lead to greater authenticity, intimacy, and personal growth. We also happen to weave how Christianity has cultivated an assumption of monogamy which has stifled authenticity and life energy needed for living a liberated and whole life. Enjoy!ResourcesPolysecure: Attachment, Trauma and Consensual NonmonogamyMust reads on Non-Monogamy and PolyamoryConnect with Kevin & SafeHaus WellnessConnect with Michael & Inner Work CommunityFollow on Instagram:@[email protected]

Thank you to my clients who make this podcast possible! If you’re interested in 1:1 Shadow Work, schedule a free 20-min discovery call today. If you enjoyed this episode, consider buying me a coffee!In this rich and illuminating conversation, Michael and, creator of the Zenfulnote App, Keila Shaheen explore the transformative power of shadow work and its deep connection to our emotional lives, and hidden potential. Together, they discuss how uncovering and integrating suppressed emotions can lead to profound healing and reveal our “inner gold”.Drawing on personal insights and professional experience, Michael and Keila delve into a poetic discussion around engaging shadow work and shadow play. They also discuss how inner work is truly more relational than functional. This episode offers listeners a compassionate and inspiring guide to embracing the wholeness of their true selves.Tune in for a heartfelt and collaborative dialogue that will leave you empowered and lifted to explore your own inner depths.References and Resources:1:1 Shadow Work with MichaelPreorder The Book of Shadow Work (Available Jan. 7th, 2025)The Shadow Work Journal: A Guide to Integrate and Transcend Your Shadows by Keila ShaheenDownload the Zenfulnote AppRobert Bly, the Long Bag We Drag Behind Us"The Guest House" by RumiRobert Johnson, Inner Gold: Understanding Psychological Projection

Thank you to my clients who make this podcast possible! If you’re interested in 1:1 Shadow Work, schedule a free 20-min discovery call today. If you enjoyed this episode, consider buying me a coffee!Episode Description In this interview, I sit down with Jungian analyst, author, and podcast host, Jason E. Smith to explore the experience of living a symbolic life and how it shapes our path to wholeness.Whether you're familiar with Jungian psychology or exploring new spiritual perspectives, this conversation offers deep insight into the interplay between faith, symbolism, and the pursuit of personal wholeness. Trust me, just listening to Jason speak is a healing experience!Jason's Bio & Links​With over two decades of experience, Jason helps individuals navigate their inner worlds by integrating the teachings of Carl Jung with various spiritual traditions. He is the author of Religious But Not Religious: Living a Symbolic Life, where he explores the psychological depth of religious traditions, especially Christianity, and how symbolic thinking can lead to greater personal fulfillment. He also hosts the Digital Jung Podcast, which many contemplative and spirituality intuitive types will find deeply satisfying!#shadow #shadowwork #jung #psychology #spirituality #symboliclife

Thank you to my clients who make this podcast possible! If you’re interested in 1:1 Shadow Work, schedule a free 20-min discovery call today. If you enjoyed this episode, consider buying me a coffee!Episode DescriptionIn this podcast interview with Dr. Connie Zweig, we explore how shadow work can bring healing to both our relationships and spiritual lives as we welcome our hidden, and often repressed needs, desires, and driving expectations–our shadow. Shadow often show up in our negative or ideal projections onto our romantic partners, creating patterns of conflict and misunderstanding. Through shadow work, we can recognize and reclaim these parts of ourselves, leading to more authentic, compassionate connections.We’ll also discuss how integrating our shadow supports spiritual growth. By embracing the parts of ourselves we’ve denied, we become more whole and capable of true presence in our relationships and on our spiritual path.

Thank you to my clients who make this podcast possible! If you’re interested in 1:1 Shadow Work, schedule a free 20-min discovery call today. If you enjoyed this episode, consider buying me a coffee!Episode Description“When you go out to the wilderness of the psyche, you need somebody to guide you. [Jung’s] map will guide you. You don’t need to make the map. What you have to do is have the experience.” - Dr. Murray Stein  In this first episode of the Inner Work Community Podcast, Michael sits down with renowned Jungian analyst Dr. Murray Stein to explore his groundbreaking book Jung's Map of the Soul. Dr. Stein shares insights into Jung’s core concepts, such as persona, shadow, anima/animus, etc., which offer a map to guide us in our journey toward wholeness. Whether you're new to Jungian psychology or simply looking to dive deeper into your inner world, this conversation provides valuable guidance, reassurance, and invitation to experience life.