In this powerful and intimate episode of Begin Within, host Yedda Stancil sits down with Rachel Douglas, former Executive Director of the Inner Work Center, for a deeply personal conversation about leadership, transition, and the profound art of forgiveness.

Key Highlights: - Rachel's unexpected journey from nonprofit management to spiritual leadership - The challenges of organizational transition and personal growth - A candid exploration of forgiveness, healing, and community repair - Insights into the inner workings of a transformative spiritual center

Listeners will discover: - How unexpected life paths can lead to meaningful work - The importance of listening to your body's wisdom - Strategies for navigating difficult professional transitions - The power of curiosity and staying open to personal growth

Rachel shares her raw, honest experience of stepping away from leadership, the pain of an unexpected transition, and her courageous path back to reconnection with the Innerwork Center community.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in personal development, organizational dynamics, and the ongoing journey of inner work.

Memorable Quote: "Forgiveness is a radical act of grace, and repair is possible when we're willing to show up and truly listen."

Connect with us: https://www.innerworkcenter.org/

Episode 18 with Erin Bishop Guest: Erin Bishop, Certified End of Life Doula Key Takeaways:

• Death awareness is a powerful tool for living more authentically and meaningfully

• Understanding mortality can help reduce fear and create deeper connections

• Community support is crucial in processing our relationship with death and dying

Episode Highlights:

• Erin shares her journey of becoming an end-of-life doula after a close friend's death

• Discussion on how Western culture avoids conversations about mortality

• Exploration of the "Memento Mori" practice (remembering you must die)

• Insights into creating healing and closure before death

Memorable Quotes:

• "Our finitude is my motivation these days." - Erin Bishop

• "Life is the curriculum." - Yedda Stancil on Narrative coaching perspective

• "My soul has been caressed." - Describing the transformative power of inner work

Resources Mentioned:

• Death Cafe 

• RVa End of Life Network

• Innerwork Center's Death Matters Group

• Memento Mori sessions

Call to Action: Explore your relationship with mortality, join community discussions, and practice the Hawaiian prayer of forgiveness and love. Upcoming Events:

• Death Matters Group (monthly meeting at IWC) https://www.innerworkcenter.org/community-groups

• Memento Mori Sessions https://www.innerworkcenter.org/

A profound episode that invites listeners to lean into the uncomfortable, find community, and live more fully by understanding our mortality.

Connect with Erin: http://www.nightsongdoulas.com/

Welcome to the Begin Within podcast, where we dive deep into the profound journey of personal development and inner transformation. In this episode, we're thrilled to be joined by Karen Montgomery, an art therapist and certified labyrinth facilitator, who shares her passion for the transformative power of these ancient sacred spaces. Labyrinths have a rich history spanning millennia, serving as tools for meditation, self-reflection, and spiritual growth across diverse cultures. Join us as Karen guides us through the winding path of the labyrinth, exploring how this unique practice can unlock profound insights and foster a deeper connection to our authentic selves. Whether you're new to these practices or a seasoned seeker, this conversation promises to inspire and empower you on your path to inner growth.

Key Takeaways: - Karen Montgomery is an art therapist and certified labyrinth facilitator who shares her passion for the transformative power of labyrinths. - Labyrinths have a rich history dating back thousands of years, with connections to various spiritual and cultural traditions. - Walking a labyrinth can be a profound meditative experience, allowing one to release, receive, and reflect on their inner journey. - The labyrinth's sacred geometry and winding path can mirror the ebbs and flows of life, providing insights and self-discovery. - Art therapy and creativity are powerful tools for accessing the unconscious mind and expressing one's authentic self. - The inner work center offers regular labyrinth walks and creative workshops to support personal growth and transformation.

Topics: - History and significance of labyrinths - Labyrinth walking as a meditative practice - Connecting the mind, body, and spirit through the labyrinth - Art therapy and creativity as pathways to self-expression - Upcoming labyrinth events and workshops at the inner work center

Action Items: - Attend the upcoming labyrinth walks at the inner work center www.innerworkcenter.org - Explore the center's virtual resources and classes on the Mighty Networks platform

www.innerworkcenter.org

On this episode of Begin Within, we welcome Linda Winston, INELDA Trained death doula, to explore the profound work of accompanying individuals and families through the dying process. Linda shares how death doulas differ from hospice care, offering emotional, spiritual, and practical support during life’s final transition. She reflects on her own journey—from a career in advocacy to finding her calling in end-of-life care—and discusses how we can overcome the fear of death by shifting cultural perspectives on mortality. Through personal stories, she highlights the power of presence, legacy, and storytelling in navigating loss with greater peace and intention. We also touch on the importance of end-of-life planning and the upcoming programs at the Innerwork Center designed to support deeper conversations around death and dying. Whether you're facing loss, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about the role of mindfulness in approaching mortality, this episode offers deep insight and gentle guidance. The episode closes with a powerful reflection on the inevitability of death and the wisdom it offers for living more fully.

This episode provides a compassionate and insightful exploration of the sacred work of death doulas, offering listeners practical guidance and tools for navigating the profound journey of death and dying with greater awareness and peace.

Learn more @ www.innerworkcenter.org

In this episode, Yedda Stancil sits down with John Taylor, a board member and faculty of the Innerwork Center, to discuss his remarkable journey of self-discovery and the transformative power of mindfulness. Key Takeaways:

• John shares his unique life story, including being born to an unwed mother and the challenges he faced in his early years.

• He describes how he found his way to mindfulness and meditation, and how these practices helped him overcome addiction and suicidal thoughts.

• John discusses his journey to becoming a certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) teacher and his passion for sharing these transformative practices with others.

• The conversation explores the intersection of mindfulness, spirituality, and the church, and how these practices can empower individuals to find inner peace and compassion.

• John emphasizes the importance of psychological safety and the role of mindfulness in advocacy work, helping people show up in a grounded and impactful way.

• The episode highlights the power of silence, stillness, and the innate wisdom within each of us, and how these practices can lead to profound personal growth and transformation.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in exploring the depths of mindfulness, personal development, and the journey to inner peace.

Learn more www.innerworkcenter.org

In this episode of the Begin Within podcast, host Yedda Stancil sits down with Sara Schmatz, the Director of Operations at the Innerwork Center, for an insightful discussion on the power of inner work, the importance of silence and stillness, and the Center's new initiative - the Bench. Exploring the nuances of self-care versus self-nourishment, the duo delves into the transformative potential of creating a sacred, non-denominational space for the community to gather, connect, and explore their own spiritual journeys. This conversation offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of the Innerwork Center as it embarks on a new chapter, inviting listeners to embrace the mystery and find solace in the quiet power within.

Show Notes:

• Sara shares her personal journey into mindfulness and spirituality, and how it led her to the Innerwork Center

• Discussion on the difference between self-care and self-nourishment, and the importance of integrating the physical and the mystical

• Exploration of the Center's new initiative, the Bench, which offers a monthly, open-to-the-public space for silence and stillness

• Emphasis on creating a welcoming, non-denominational environment that honors each individual's spiritual beliefs and practices

• Insights on the transformative power of silence, stillness, and community in the inner work journey

• Invitation for listeners to visit the Bench and engage with the Center's other offerings, both in-person and virtually

• www.innerworkcenter.org

In this thought-provoking episode, host Yedda Stancil sits down with Tiger Coll to explore the concept of a "spiritual renaissance" and the five foundational spiritual truths that can empower personal growth and transformation. As someone who grew up immersed in a spiritual environment before finding discipline and purpose in the Navy SEALs, Tiger shares his unique perspective on tapping into our innate freedom and unlocking our true potential. The discussion delves into the importance of finding the right teachers and modalities, being open to the journey, and taking inspired action - rather than just seeking answers. Listeners are invited to reflect on these universal truths and how they can serve as a roadmap for navigating the changes and opportunities present during this pivotal time.

Key Takeaways: - Tiger Coll grew up in a spiritual environment, with his parents pioneering work in the field. He later joined the Navy SEALs, which provided him discipline and a foundation to build upon his spiritual work. - The five spiritual truths discussed are: 1) Everything is energy, 2) You are here to learn and grow, 3) You have a unique purpose, 4) You have spiritual guidance to draw from, and 5) You are free. - These truths provide a foundation and roadmap for personal growth and inner work, empowering people rather than creating dependency. - The discussion touches on the importance of finding the right teachers and modalities, being open and curious, and taking action rather than just seeking answers. - The "spiritual renaissance" refers to the opportunity for personal and societal transformation during times of change and upheaval.

Action Items: - Reflect on the five spiritual truths and how they apply to your own life and inner work journey. - Explore the programs and offerings at the Inner Work Center and Wayshowers College to continue your personal growth. - Stay curious, open, and willing to take action - the path forward will reveal itself as you engage.

https://www.wayshowerscollege.com/

www.innerworkcenter.org

In this episode, Yedda Stancil sits down with Bob Snead, a long-time supporter and board member of the Inner Work Center (formerly the Chrysalis Group). Bob shares his powerful personal story of overcoming addiction, finding his spiritual path, and becoming an integral part of the organization's growth over the past 30 years.

Key Takeaways: - Bob's journey from a relationship crisis and alcohol abuse to discovering the power of inner work and community support - The importance of distinguishing between the ego, the shadow, and the "still small voice" within - The paradox of suffering and how it can lead to deeper self-discovery and connection to the divine - The transformative experience of engaging with nature and practices like the labyrinth - The evolution of the Inner Work Center and its role in providing a space for personal growth and transformation

Listeners will be inspired by Bob's wisdom, vulnerability, and commitment to his own inner journey, as well as the profound impact the Inner Work Center has had on the Richmond community over the past three decades.

Learn more www.innerworkcenter.org

Episode Summary: In this profound and inspiring episode, host Yedda Stancil welcomes Kristen Lennox to discuss belonging, the impact of moral injury, unconscious bias, and the transformative power of inner work. Kristen shares her deeply personal journey as a social worker, her cultural background, and her commitment to fostering inclusive and brave spaces. This episode explores how personal healing leads to collective belonging and the critical role of curiosity, creativity, and compassion.

• The Concept of Belonging: What it truly means to belong, starting with belonging to oneself.
• Moral Injury: How systems can cause individuals to act against their moral values and the toll it takes on well-being.
• Unconscious Bias: Recognizing inherited, systemic, and personal biases while practicing accountability and self-compassion.
• The Power of Inner Work: Why self-awareness, emotional regulation, and curiosity are foundational for healing and inclusion.
• SoulCollage®: A creative practice Kristen teaches that helps people access their inner wisdom through visual imagery and intuition.

• "Belonging has to begin with belonging to yourself." — Kristen Lennox
• "If we're not curious, we're judgmental." — Yedda Stancil
• "Heal to lead, then lead to heal." — Kristen Lennox

1. Start with Inner Work: Recognize the need to look inward, address personal wounds, and cultivate self-compassion.
2. Practice Curiosity: Replace judgment with curiosity when engaging with others.
3. Explore Creative Modalities: Consider practices like SoulCollage® to discover hidden parts of yourself and deepen self-understanding.
4. Commit to Lifelong Belonging: Understand that fostering true belonging requires ongoing reflection, healing, and change.

• Harvard Implicit Bias Test: A tool for recognizing unconscious biases. Take the test here.
• What Happened to You? by Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Bruce Perry (recommended resource).
• SoulCollage® Workshops: Learn more about Kristen Lennox’s upcoming workshops at the Inner Work Center.
• Inner Work Center Online Classroom: Launching in 2025 for deeper exploration of mindfulness and belonging practices.

• Website: innerworkcenter.org
• Learn More: Explore upcoming programs and events to start or deepen your inner work.
• Support the Innerwork Center: Help us continue to create a more compassionate, inclusive world.

Thank you for tuning in to Begin Within! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation.

“Remember, begin within you.”

Episode Description: In this episode of Begin Within, we sit down with Leslie Greene, a certified yoga therapist and expert in Yoga Nidra, to explore the profound benefits of this practice for the nervous system. Together, we unravel what Yoga Nidra is and how it serves as a bridge between relaxation and deep healing, especially for those grappling with trauma and stress.

Leslie shares her wealth of knowledge on how Yoga Nidra helps "calm the chaos" of the mind, allowing the nervous system to reset and the body to heal. From veterans to overwhelmed parents, this practice offers a powerful tool for addressing the impacts of stress, trauma, and "the drama" that life often throws our way.

Using the analogy of a snow globe, Leslie describes how our nervous system can feel shaken and scattered during challenging times. Yoga Nidra works like gently setting the snow globe down, allowing the "snow" of our thoughts, emotions, and stress to settle, creating clarity and calm within.

We dive deep into the connection between the nervous system and the brain, exploring how calming the nervous system is foundational for anyone beginning the journey of inner work. Whether you're seeking healing for yourself or simply looking to learn about a transformative practice, this episode offers insights, tools, and inspiration for your path.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• What Yoga Nidra is and why it's more than just relaxation.
• How Yoga Nidra heals the nervous system and benefits those who've experienced trauma.
• The role of the nervous system in stress and how calming it helps us prepare for inner work.
• Practical ways Yoga Nidra can benefit everyone, from veterans to caregivers.
• Why settling the body and mind is essential for emotional healing and resilience.

Connect with Leslie Greene: Learn more about Leslie and her Yoga Nidra offerings at the Inner Work Center by visiting Innerwork Center.

Hashtags for Promotion: #BeginWithinPodcast #YogaNidra #InnerWork #TraumaHealing #NervousSystemHealth #MindBodyConnection #YogaTherapy #CalmTheChaos #HealingJourney #SelfCareTools #StressRelief #MindfulnessForAll #VeteransHealing #MomLifeBalance

Call to Action: If this episode resonates with you, don’t forget to share it with someone who might benefit from hearing Leslie’s wisdom. Subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to help us reach more listeners on their inner work journey. Thank you for supporting Begin Within!