Begin Within: The Inner Work Journey

Podcast Show Notes:

Episode Highlights: - Dive deep into the world of esoteric psychology with wisdom teacher Jacquelyn Pogue - Explore the seven rays of energy and their impact on personal transformation - Discover practical insights for connecting with your true self

Key Takeaways: - Understanding your soul's energy configuration - The importance of creative imagination in personal growth - Recognizing the power of love and wisdom in personal development

Guest: Jacquelyn Pogue - Spiritual teacher and esoteric psychology expert - Experienced meditation instructor - Traveled and studied with spiritual teachers in India

Special Invitation: Join Jacquelyn's upcoming class on the Seven Rays of Energy at the Inner Work Center

Memorable Quotes: - "Love and wisdom. Is it?" - "What trains are passing by in your life?" - "Creative imagination is a definite field of service"

Recommended for: - Spiritual seekers - Those interested in personal development - Individuals looking to understand their soul's purpose

Connect: - Visit InnerWorkCenter.org for more information - Follow Begin Within Podcast for future episodes

Episode Summary: In this captivating episode of Begin Within, host Yedda Stancil sits down with renowned astrologer and psychotherapist Debra Silverman for an enlightening conversation about self-understanding, personal growth, and the transformative power of astrology. Joined by special guests Ash Ruiz, Jacquelyn Pogue, and Steven, Debra's nephew, the discussion explores the deeper meaning of our individual journeys and the importance of awakening to our true selves.

Key Highlights: - Debra Silverman's journey into astrology and psychology - The role of the "observer" in personal transformation - Understanding astrological elements and personal nature - The critical moment of human evolution and collective awakening - Practical insights for personal growth and self-acceptance

Special Moments: - Ash Ruiz delivers a powerful spoken word performance - Jacquelyn Pogue shares profound insights on spiritual identity - Debra discusses her books "I Don't Believe in Astrology" and "The Missing Element"

Takeaways: - Embrace your unique astrological blueprint - Practice mindfulness and self-observation - Recognize the importance of serving others - Stay open to personal growth and transformation

Recommended Resources: - Books: "I Don't Believe in Astrology" and "The Missing Element" by Debra Silverman - Website: DebrahSilvermanAstrology.com

Closing Wisdom: The episode concludes with a collective moment of silence and intention-setting, reminding listeners to connect with their higher selves and contribute to collective healing.

Title: "Healing in Nature: Reconnecting with Our Primal Wellness"

Guest: Jayme Vance, Occupational and Nature Therapist

Episode Highlights: - Explore the profound healing power of nature and its impact on human wellness - Discover the science behind forest therapy and its benefits for the immune system - Learn about the Biophilia theory and how our bodies are naturally designed to heal outdoors

Key Insights: - Trees emit phytocides that boost natural killer cells and improve immune function - Barefoot contact with the earth helps balance free radicals and supports overall health - Our nervous system is fundamentally hardwired to respond positively to natural environments

Takeaways: - Spending just 30 minutes in nature can significantly improve physical and mental well-being - Natural sounds and environments have therapeutic effects on our nervous system - Reconnecting with nature is a powerful tool for personal healing and transformation

Recommended for: - Wellness enthusiasts - Those seeking natural healing methods - Individuals interested in holistic health practices

Call to Action: Step outside, take off your shoes, and experience the healing power of nature firsthand!

Connect with Jayme:

If listeners would like to stay connected and follow along with what she is doing, the preferred space is Instagram: @thenatureofmindbody

In this powerful episode of Begin Within, host Yedda Stancil sits down with Sheila Battle, a remarkable spiritual guide and community leader, to explore her transformative inner work journey.

Key Highlights:

• Sheila shares her childhood experiences growing up in a multicultural Philadelphia neighborhood

• Discusses her unique spiritual path and "eclectic theology"

• Reveals the origin of her "15 Minutes of Grace" practice

• Explores the profound impact of community healing and spiritual awareness

Memorable Moments:

• A touching story of getting lost at age three and ending up in a convent

• Insights into navigating family challenges, including her sister's addiction

• The powerful moment of surrender in her bathroom that sparked her grace practice

Takeaways:

• Healing happens in community, not in isolation

• The importance of self-awareness and spiritual curiosity

• Creating safe spaces for genuine connection and personal growth

Guest Bio: Sheila Battle is a spiritual leader, community advocate, and founder of the Battle Station, dedicated to supporting healing and transformation through grace and compassion.

Closing Blessing: Sheila blesses listeners with "the ability to hear, to be creative, and courageous enough to ask the questions your soul most wants to answer."

Connect with Sheila:

Episode Overview: In this captivating episode of Begin Within, host Yedda Stancil sits down with Liza Newell, a storyteller and performance artist who reveals the transformative power of storytelling, song, and creative expression.

Key Highlights: - Liza's journey from an 8-year-old storytelling festival attendee to a professional performing artist - The neuroscience behind storytelling and communal singing - How stories create empathy, connection, and synchronicity - The importance of play, creativity, and imagination in personal growth

Fascinating Insights: - Neuroscience research shows that when people hear the same story, their brain activities sync up - A Swedish study found that group singing can synchronize heartbeats - Stories are a universal language that helps us process emotions and experiences

Special Moment: Liza shares a mesmerizing original story about Story and Truth traveling together, symbolizing how storytelling always carries truth.

Memorable Quote: "Story is the only thing large enough to contain me." - Liza Newell

Perfect for: - Personal development enthusiasts - Creativity seekers - Those interested in storytelling, psychology, and human connection

Recommended Next Steps: - Explore storytelling workshops - Embrace creativity and play - Listen to more stories with an open heart

Connect with Liza: https://www.lizanewell.com/

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