In Flow + On Fire

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In this soul-filled conversation, Quinn and Calli discuss the themes and lessons from the Goldilocks story. They explore the fear of making wrong choices, the discomfort with experimentation, and the pressure to make the 'just right' choice. They also discuss the importance of feeling good and following what feels right for oneself, rather than chasing external validation or societal expectations. They emphasize the need to create safe spaces for each other to experiment and try things, and to trust our own feelings and intuition. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of finding what feels good and living in alignment with our true selves.

Top Takeaways:

• The Goldilocks story brings up themes of fear of making wrong choices and discomfort with experimentation.
• There is pressure to make the 'just right' choice and a lack of flexibility to try different things.
• It is important to trust our own feelings and intuition and to create safe spaces for each other to experiment and try things.
• Finding what feels good and living in alignment with our true selves is crucial for personal fulfillment and happiness.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background 03:25 The Discomfort with Experimentation 10:58 The Difference Between Looks and Feels 18:53 Trusting Your True Nature 27:11 The Importance of Feeling Safe and Connected 33:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Amber, an inspiring teacher, shares her journey and experiences in education. She emphasizes the importance of adapting and finding what's just right for each student. Amber also discusses her own career path and the challenges she faced in balancing her passion for music and teaching. She highlights the impact of arts programs on students' lives and the need for them to have a sense of belonging. Additionally, Amber opens up about her children's experiences as queer individuals and the support she provides them.

Amber emphasizes the importance of finding one's passion and loving what you do. She encourages adults to create a balance between work and play, and to live life to the fullest. She also highlights the need for adults to create a safe and supportive environment for young people, who often feel unseen and unsupported. Amber shares her approach of creating a welcoming and positive classroom environment, infusing joy into everyday activities, and building strong relationships with her students. She urges adults to keep hope for the younger generation and to provide them with opportunities to thrive.

This episode is part of our Goldilocks & the 3 Bears Fairy Tale series where we're diving deep into issues around the power of choice and finding what's "just right" for us.

Top Takeaways

• Adapting and finding what's just right for each student is crucial in education.

• Arts programs provide a sense of belonging and valuable experiences for students.

• Supporting and embracing children's queer identities is essential.

• Balancing personal passions and professional responsibilities can be challenging.

• The stakes and pressures in education and parenting are higher than ever. Find your passion and love what you do.

• Create a balance between work and play.

• Live life to the fullest and make it memorable.

• Create a safe and supportive environment for young people.

• Infuse joy into everyday activities.

• Build strong relationships with students.

• Keep hope for the younger generation and provide them with opportunities to thrive.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Appreciation 08:03 Finding Balance: The Key to Longevity in Teaching 14:34 Supporting Students on the Queer Spectrum: Love and Acceptance 18:47 Education as a Lifelong Journey: Finding What's Just Right 24:32 Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment 32:34 Finding Joy and Fulfillment in Your Career 35:52 Striving for Work-Life Balance 45:12 Having Hope for the Younger Generation

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In this conversation, Quinn and Rebecca discuss their initial impressions of the story of Goldilocks and how it has evolved over time. They explore themes of boundaries, curiosity, innocence, and the fear of making the wrong choices. They also discuss the impact of societal expectations on women's choices and the struggles women face in terms of contraception and reproductive health. Rebecca shares insights from her work in family planning and highlights the burden and stigma associated with contraceptive use. They emphasize the importance of respecting women's choices and the need for a more supportive and understanding society. Pregnancy is a risky condition, and it's important to understand the high level of risk involved. People who have an unwanted pregnancy are less likely to take good care of themselves, which can lead to negative outcomes. It's crucial to support individuals in making their own choices and to recognize that there is no one right path. The Goldilocks myth represents the struggle of choosing and the impact our choices have on others. Women's reproductive issues and sexual health are significant choices with high consequences and risks. It's important for women to be educated and empowered in these areas.

Top Takeaways

• Initial impressions of stories, like Goldilocks, can shape our understanding of archetypes and morality.

• The story of Goldilocks raises questions about boundaries, curiosity, innocence, and the fear of making the wrong choices.

• Women face societal expectations and judgment when it comes to their choices, particularly in areas like contraception and reproductive health.

• The burden and stigma associated with contraceptive use can have a significant impact on women's lives.

• Respecting women's choices and creating a supportive society is crucial for empowering women and ensuring their well-being. Pregnancy is a high-risk condition, and it's important to understand the level of risk involved.

• People with unwanted pregnancies are less likely to take good care of themselves, leading to negative outcomes.

• Support individuals in making their own choices and recognize that there is no one right path.

• The Goldilocks myth represents the struggle of choosing and the impact our choices have on others.

• Women's reproductive issues and sexual health are significant choices with high consequences and risks.

• It's important for women to be educated and empowered in these areas.

Rebecca Simmons, PhD, MPH is a Research Assistant Professor at the University of Utah in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Simmons directs the evaluation for the statewide contraceptive initiative, Family Planning Elevated, and works on other implementation research, including HER Salt Lake. Her research interests and expertise include fertility awareness-based methods, comprehensive contraceptive access, health technology, and implementation science.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background 03:03 Initial Impressions of Goldilocks 06:19 Boundaries, Curiosity, and the Fear of Making Wrong Choices 09:59 Societal Expectations and Burdens on Girls and Women 12:48 Challenges in Finding the Right Contraception Method 16:42 The Stigma and Judgment Surrounding Women's Choices 21:27 The Negative Impact of Unwanted Pregnancy 26:44 Educating Women and Bringing Compassion 30:16 Embracing the Goldilocks Moment 34:54 Being an Alive Version of Ourselves 37:24 Dealing with Overbearing Perceptions 43:18 The Bears as Guides to Rewilding 46:14 Making Your Own Choices and Embracing Change

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Each month here on the In Flow + On Fire podcast all episodes are centered around a specific myth or fairy tale and how it relates to modern life and challenges.

This month we're focusing on the "Goldilocks & the 3 Bears" fairy tale, which will help us explore the themes of choice and finding what's "just right" for us.

Listen in to this episode to hear me reading my favorite version of the fairy tale, "Goldilocks & the 3 Bears" by Jan Brett.

Goldilocks and the Three Bears is a classic fairy tale about a little girl who enters the house of three bears and tries their porridge, chairs, and beds. She finds the perfect fit in the smallest bear's belongings but is discovered by the bears. She escapes and is never seen again.

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Dive in to the enlightening world of myth and symbol in today's discussion about the selkie myth with reknowned historian and theologian, Maxine Hanks. Our love for ancient stories and how they can illuminate deeper truths about ourselves and the world around us is sure to energize and inspire you!

This episode explores the rich tapestry of myth and symbol, with a special focus on the powerful themes found in the selkie myth. Hear as Maxine shares the power of these stories to inspire, heal, and guide us on our journeys. Feel more empowered to embrace the mythic and archetypal in your own life and find beauty and meaning in the world around you.

This episode is part of our Selkie Myth series where we're exploring themes of burnout, over-giving, disconnection, finding ourselves and infusing our life with more aliveness. Be sure to download our free study guide to get the most out of this episode and the Selkie series.

Key Takeaways

• The power of myth & symbol

• The importance of myth and archetype in a world dominated by left-brain thinking.

• The origins of the selkie myth and its various interpretations.

• The evolutionary message of the selkie myth: our dual nature as both animal and spiritual beings.

• The different versions of the selkie myth and its enduring appeal.

• Reclaiming the divine feminine

• The importance of trusting ourselves, honoring our unique perspectives, and bringing forth what is within us.

• Finding balance and harmony in a world of duality.

• The power of myth to help us understand and reconcile opposites.

• The importance of noticing and bringing forth the beauty in our surroundings.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Passion for Myth 03:39 Embracing the Mythic and Archetypal 10:26 The Selkie Myth: Origins and Interpretations 20:03 The Evolutionary Message of the Selkie Myth 22:25 The Symbolism of Water in the Selkie Myth 29:59 The Healing Power of Tragic Stories and Ballads 38:34 Exploring the Different Versions of the Selkie Myth 44:11 The Power of Myth, Archetype, and Symbol in Our Lives 46:04 Reclaiming the Divine Feminine and Overcoming Challenges 52:19 Trusting Yourself and Honoring Your Unique Perspective 59:45 Reconciling Opposites and Finding Balance 01:05:08 Noticing and Bringing Forth Beauty in Our Surroundings

About Maxine Hanks

Maxine Hanks is a historian and theologian who researches and writes about gender in religion, especially recovering and integrating the feminine in religion and culture. She did her bachelors work in gender studes and masters work in history and in chaplaincy, with further graduate studies in theology and liturgy at Harvard Divinity and Holy Cross. Her work has focused on female or feminine aspects of theology and religious practice. She is interested in how myth and archetype in religion shape gender and identity and practice, and how history and theology can recover and integrate subverted aspects of a religion.

If you're looking to feel more connected and alive in your everyday life, this episode is for you! Join me in this potent conversation with my special guest, Calli Sol, as we discuss the themes and lessons from the Sealskin, Soulskin story from the book Women Who Run With The Wolves, by Clarissa Pinkola Estes.

We dive into really important topics like finding one's sense of self, reconnecting with the soul, healing, and the impact of relationships. We also delve into the characters in the selkie story and how they relate to our lives, especially discussing the concept of soulful connection and the pursuit of external validation. Calli shares the importance of being in a state of "rest and digest" and the power of storytelling to shape our beliefs and experiences.

In this conversation, we also get real and raw about the journey of self-discovery and healing. We explore the idea of losing and reclaiming one's 'soul skin' and the process of finding oneself. We look at emotionally charged concepts like what's "right and wrong" and how every experience, even the painful ones, can be a part of our growth and learning. Our conversation concludes with a discussion on finding happiness and the everyday practices that can support personal growth and connection.

This episode is part of our Selkie Myth series where we're exploring themes of burnout, over-giving, disconnection, finding ourselves and infusing our life with more aliveness. Be sure to download our free study guide to get the most out of this episode and the Selkie series.

Key Takeaways

• The Sealskin, Soulskin story explores themes of finding one's sense of self, reconnecting with the soul, and healing.

• The pursuit of external validation and the belief that external things will bring happiness is a lie that many people believe.

• Connection is a physical reaction in the body and being in a state of rest and digest allows access to the right brain, which is connected to everything.

• The ego, represented by the lonely man in the story, can be taught the truth and the story of its own immortality.

• Being in a state of rest and digest and connecting with oneself is essential for true contentment and peace. Breathing and being present can help in moments of fear and discomfort.

• Every experience, even the painful ones, can be a part of our growth and learning.

• Finding happiness is about perceiving experiences in a positive way.

• Every individual has the power to heal and reclaim their 'soul skin'.

• Personal growth and connection require everyday practices and self-reflection.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview 03:35 Exploring the Themes of the Sealskin, Soul Skin Story 09:14 The Pursuit of External Validation and the Lie of Happiness 19:30 The Power of Connection and Being in a State of Rest and Digest 25:48 Teaching the Ego the Truth and Embracing Immortality 30:27 Finding Contentment and Peace Through Self-Connection 33:38 Losing and Reclaiming One's 'Soul Skin' 36:53 The Cage We Build for Ourselves 38:37 The Point of Life: Experiencing What We're Not 41:40 Choosing Yourself and Putting Your 'Soul Skin' Back On 44:52 The Power of Surrender and Forced Healing 50:32 Embracing the Idea That Everything's Okay 53:24 The Equality of Human Experience 01:02:33 The Power of Personal Creation 01:05:17 Embracing the Perfection of Life

Join me today for an inspiring conversation with May Simpkin, a nutritionist and coach, as we explore the art of self-care and reigniting your passion.

From the enchanting setting of her French chateau to the depths of nourishing your body and soul, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips. Discover how to cultivate harmony within yourself and keep your inner fire burning bright.

This episode is part of our Selkie Myth series where we're diving deep into themes around burnout and reclaiming your sense of soul, aliveness and passion in life.

Episode Highlights:

• May Simpkin's journey of owning and renovating a chateau in France

• The connection between self-care and achieving big dreams

• Practical tips for nourishing your body and mind

• The importance of keeping your inner fire alive

Want to connect more with May Simpkin? Check out her website MaySimpkin.com or connect with her on Instagram @maysimpkinnutrition

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Ever since the pandemic, it seems more and more people are trying to get out of working for corporations and are trying to find other ways to thrive. However, in this episode we discuss the much more nuanced aspects of what leads people (especially women) to experience so much burnout in corporate roles and how to shift into a much healthier way to work and do life (regardless of if you stay in corporate life or not).

Each month I'm bringing together an "empowerment panel" of women who have pushed the limits of the glass ceilings in what's possible in career, raising families & their own personal growth paths. From dominating the board room to seeking out meaning and magic in life's everyday mysteries, my hope is that these women's stories will inspire you.

In this episode, we discuss the selkie myth and how it relates to women's experiences in the workplace and in life. We explore themes of burnout, loss of self, and the pressure to outperform. Each of us shares our personal stories and insights on what it actually looks like to try to find balance, set boundaries, and prioritize self-care.

Our conversation emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with oneself, embracing both the masculine and feminine energies, and finding fulfillment outside of work. We also highlight the need for women to reclaim their "soul skin" and create a life that aligns with their true selves. This conversation explores the importance of play, self-care, and surrendering control in order to find fulfillment and joy in life. We also discuss the struggle of letting go of control and the need to shift from a mindset of productivity to one of wholeness. Listen in to hear our personal experiences and insights on how to recognize the signs of burnout and the importance of self-awareness and self-compassion.

Some top takeaways from the episode:

• Women often experience burnout and a loss of self due to societal expectations and the pressure to outperform in the workplace. "Women often have to outperform their male counterparts just to be considered equal."

• It's important for women to prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and find balance between the masculine and feminine energies.

• Reconnecting with oneself and embracing personal interests and passions outside of work can lead to greater fulfillment.

• Women should focus on building a life, not just a career, and avoid outsourcing their self-worth to their achievements.

• Creating a supportive community and having open conversations about burnout and self-care can help women navigate these challenges.

• Prioritize self-care and make time for activities that bring joy and nourish the soul.

• Be present in the moment and reconnect with your inner child.

• Shift from a mindset of productivity to one of wholeness.

• Recognize the signs of burnout and prioritize self-awareness and self-compassion.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction 01:05 Exploring the Selkie Myth and Personal Experiences 07:56 The Impact of Burnout and Loss of Self 13:06 The Pressure on Women in the Workplace 22:43 Finding Balance and Prioritizing Self-Care 27:49 The Importance of Role Models and Supportive Networks 29:53 Reconnecting with Your True Self and Avoiding Burnout 30:18 Reconnecting with Your True Self Outside of Your Career 41:01 Insourcing Self-Worth and Letting Go of Control 44:16 The Importance of Play and Finding Joy 50:10 Embracing the Darkness and Finding Light 58:40 Reclaiming Your Authentic Self in Everyday Life

Welcome to Season 2 of the In Flow + On Fire podcast! Download the Free Study Guide // Send us a voice memo

We're switching gears and bringing something really special to the podcast. I have always had a passion for fairy tales and myths, primarily because of the powerful archetypes they hold, along with the ability to help us better understand our inner and outer worlds. My enthusiasm for creating children's books is based in a major desire to bring back many of the gorgeous old myths and fairy tales for our modern audience. However, I realized that I don't have to wait until I have all my book dreams realized to start bringing more focus to these potent stories.

Now each month on the In Flow + On Fire podcast all episodes will be centered around a specific myth or fairy tale and how it relates to modern life and challenges.

To kick it all off, August is going to be focused on the Selkie (seal woman/man) myth… one of my all-time favorites! This powerful myth deals with issues around burnout, disconnection, loneliness, and over-giving (all relevant themes for women especially in modern life).

Listen in to this episode to hear me reading my favorite version of the myth, "Sealskin, Soulskin," by Clarissa Pinkola Estes, from her book "Women Who Run With The Wolves."

The story follows a lonely man who encounters a group of seal women and steals one of their sealskins. He convinces one of the women to be his wife, and they have a child. However, after seven years, the seal woman's true nature calls her back to the sea, and she leaves the child behind. The child grows up to be a storyteller and drummer, and he can still be seen communicating with a certain female seal near the shore.

Key Insights

• The selkie myth is a powerful tale that explores themes of loneliness, love, and the connection between humans and nature.

• The story highlights the longing for companionship and the sacrifices that come with it.

• It emphasizes the importance of honoring one's true nature and the consequences of trying to possess or control another being.

• The selkie myth invites reflection on our own inner worlds and how we navigate the external world.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Selkie Myth 02:14 Loneliness and Longing for Connection 04:07 Dazzled by Beauty: Possession and Control 08:41 Mother's Love and Sacrifice 10:39 Returning to True Nature 13:02 Reflections on the Selkie Myth

Is negative self-talk a near-constant struggle in your brain? Do you dream of doing something different and wonderful with your life, but feel stuck?

In this episode of the "In Flow +, On Fire" Podcast with special guest Stephanie River, we delve into the powerful impact of shame on our lives and explore how to break free from its shackles and unleash our true potential.

We'll discuss the various ways shame manifests in our lives, from negative self-talk and limiting beliefs to feelings of loneliness and low self-worth. We'll also uncover the hidden gems of self-love and kindness that lie dormant within us, waiting to be unearthed. Through insightful conversations and practical strategies, we'll guide you on a journey of self-discovery, empowering you to live a life even more aligned with your authentic self.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand the deep-rooted impact of shame on our lives and its various forms of expression.
• Discover the transformative power of awareness and community in overcoming shame and limiting beliefs.
• Uncover practical strategies to silence negative self-talk, cultivate self-compassion, and embrace a more intentional way of living.
• Learn how to break free from self-imposed boundaries and unleash your true potential to live a more fulfilling and empowered life.

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Access all episodes of the"In Flow + On Fire" Podcast here: https://quinncurtis.com/in-flow-on-fire-podcast/

Connect with Quinn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quinncurtis_ Work with Quinn on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/QuinnCurtis

Connect with Stephanie River on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephwillinspire/