In this episode, Michael Gungor (musician, author, and philosopher) joins me, Dr. Neel Bulchandani, to discuss the subtleties and layers of creative and spiritual life. From the "Eddies" of our personality to the "Hurricane" of our emotions, Michael and I explore how to move from a state of lack and "torsional debt" into a life of integrated presence. This episode explores the intersection of music, the Enneagram, somatic healing, and the profound simplicity of "being here."
Michael Gungor is a creative mystic living in Pasadena, California. Primarily known for his music, Gungor is the co-founder and primary songwriter of the eclectic indie band Gungor. The group's acclaimed albums blend elements of folk, rock, electronic, and world music, with Gungor's thoughtful, introspective lyrics exploring the divinity of the human experience.
Gungor began his musical career writing worship music for the church, inspired by his Christian upbringing. However, as his own spiritual perspective expanded and evolved, so too did his artistic experimentation. Aside from his work under his musical moniker, Gungor, Michael has also released three ambient instrumental albums with his friend and bandmate Tyler Chester as “On Earth”, as well as an experimental side project called “Weiwu.”
Beyond his music, Gungor is also the co-founder of the popular The Liturgists podcast, which brings together diverse guests for honest, thought-provoking conversations about faith, science, art, and the nature of the divine. He also has a second podcast exclusively focused on non dual spirituality called “Loving This.”
In addition to his musical and podcast endeavors, Gungor has co-written songs for other artists, produced records, and created music for film and television. He is also an author, having published a book in 2010 titled "THIS: Becoming Free."
An acclaimed live performer, Gungor and his band have toured extensively, building a devoted fanbase around the world. His music has earned him multiple Grammy nominations and numerous other accolades, cementing his status as a unique and influential creative force.
Time Stamp
00:00:00 | Introduction + New Intro Music
00:06:44 | The meaning of my name Neel.
00:12:01 | I share how I used the Enneagram somatically to help people move through integration and disintegration points during my intuitive movement practices.
00:15:52 | Michael describes Enneagram numbers not as who we are, but as "swirls" or patterns in a river that keep us safe and help us feel in control and more about our wounds.
00:24:31 | Instead of trying to escape the storm, Michael suggests moving deeper into it to find the stillness in the eye.
00:32:35 | When we identify as the "imaginary guy" in the future (seeking followers, money, or love), we lose the ability to enjoy the current moment.
00:39:22 | Michael shares his perspective on the meaning of the word “here”.
00:52:18 | True poetry is alive.
00:56:30 | I reflect on Michael’s episode with Pete Holmes, Ryan O’Neal and Rob Bell
01:05:49 | How to explore silence and no longer feel threatened by discomfort.
01:16:59 | Coping mechanisms are sophisticated and there to help you.
01:26:44 | Michael’s upcoming tour Mystic Hymnal
01:35:01 | The importance of sharing presence in person and Michael’s personal legend.
01:43:10 | Using the language of Internal Family Systems (IFS), he explains that every part of the psyche—no matter how lost or distorted—deserves to be treated with the love and gentleness one would give a child.
01:46:00 | Michael’s legend: “The Open Hand Method”
02:55:32 | The FULL SONG Smokeless Fire
Connect with Michael
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelgungor/
- Website: https://www.michaelgungor.com/
- Loving this Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/magnificat-smokeless-fire/id1448995509?i=1000726099164
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gungormusic
Mentions & Resources- The Enneagram: Focusing on Type 5 (The Investigator) and Type 4 (The Individualist).
- Ryan O'Neal (Sleeping at Last): Discussed as a fellow Enneagram explorer and artist.
- Pete Holmes: Mentioned in relation to a formative podcast moment (explicit content).
🎵 like the music? Check out Michael’s Music
Thank you Toshi for the design work!
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