Today I welcome two previous guests from earlier this season to share their unique experiences and expertise on the topic of vicarious trauma and compassion fatigue. Mark Walsh, an embodiment coach, trauma trainer & host of The Embodiment Podcast, and Christian Branscombe, a restorative justice facilitator and coach. Together we dive into the intricacies of vicarious trauma and compassion fatigue, especially in the contexts of working in prisons and war-torn Ukraine. 

The two of them share experience to help us delve into the ways self-awareness, self-compassion, and structured self-care practices are crucial for managing compassion fatigue. The conversation also touches on the psychological impacts of trauma, the importance of maintaining boundaries, and the role of spirituality and humor in coping with intense and challenging work settings.

This conversation on managing the impacts of trauma in high-stress careers and situations may come as some comfort for you as the world around us changes.

00:00 Introduction to the Guests and Episode Overview

01:39 Discussing Vicarious Trauma and Compassion Fatigue

03:02 Personal Experiences and Coping Mechanisms

07:13 Training and Self-Regulation Practices

17:32 Spirituality and Self-Awareness in Trauma Work

23:27 Challenges and Strategies in Prison Environments

32:13 Exploring Somatic Models

32:44 Understanding Emotional Resonance

34:28 Challenges in the Prison System

35:10 Trauma and Re-traumatization

39:26 The Power of Ideas and Hope

47:09 Connection and Well-being

54:01 Self-Care and Boundaries

55:01 Conclusion and Contact Information

This week I welcome Natalie Silva of God's Eye Oils and Made of Stars prayer circle group. She and I discuss the power of self-love, community, vulnerability, and the integration of prayer in daily life.

Natalie also shares how her relationship with former LaidOPEN Podcast guest, Erica Wright, has been integral to her healing journey. The episode highlights Natalie’s involvement in S Factor, a movement practice that helps women embody their sensuality and heal past traumas.

Throughout the conversation, we discuss the importance of community, self-acceptance, and slowing down to truly connect with oneself. The episode concludes with Natalie singing a song from the animated film Dumbo,  'Baby Mine,' a song imbued with the essence of motherly love, as an illustration and reinforcement of her self-love practices.

Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction to Pathways to Peace

01:18 Meet Our Guest: Natalie Silva

03:48 A Conversation on Vulnerability

07:26 The Role of Prayer in Life

22:07 Healing Through Sisterhood

29:25 Finding Support and Embracing Visibility

30:06 Discovering S Factor and Sensual Movement

32:02 Healing Through Dance and Community

33:50 Teaching and Creating New Movements

40:30 Self-Love Practices and Slowing Down

45:10 Asking for Help and Vulnerability

49:34 Embodied Freedom and Authenticity

51:14 A Heartfelt Song and Closing Thoughts

One of the best things about my podcast is all of the wonderful people doing incredible things that it’s brought into my life. People like this week’s guest, Jessica Graham who’s returning to speak with me about their latest creation. Jessica is an author, actor and trauma resolution guide.  Together we discuss Jessica's latest book, 'Being (Sick) Enough,' and talk about their journey of writing, dealing with physical and emotional pain, and navigating trauma and healing. 

Jessica explains their methods for coping with pain and the importance of self-acceptance and flexibility. The episode dives deep into topics such as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), neurodivergence, chronic illness, and the transformative power of both pharmaceuticals and meditation.

The conversation concludes with a guided exercise to manage physical pain and create a better relationship with one's body.

Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction 

02:05 Meet Jessica Graham: Author and Meditation Teacher

04:29 Writing Process and Challenges

12:53 The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE)

23:38 Navigating Family Dynamics and Healing

30:54 Family Conversations Sparked by Jessica's Book

33:05 The Impact of Positive Childhood Experiences

39:53 Embracing Pain and Healing

45:12 The Journey of Self-Acceptance

48:09 Exploring the Role of Pharmaceuticals

56:53 Mindfulness and Pain Management Exercise

01:01:06 Conclusion and Contact Information

This week I want to acknowledge the wildfires that have ravaged Los Angeles, which also happens to be home to this week’s guest, actress, drag king and comedian, Ruby Marez.

Ruby shares her incredible journey of using humor and play to heal trauma. She opens up about her clowning and drag king persona Ramón. We talk about how embodying this alter ego has transformed her life and inspired a stage show built to entertain and educate. She also opens up about the ways she uses this alter ego to address trauma, self-judgment, and emotional healing in her personal life as well. 

Ruby also discusses nervous system regulation techniques and offers supportive advice for those feeling stressed or dysregulated, especially about the wildfires. The episode also touches on Ruby's community initiatives and workshops aimed at educating people on wellness and housing rights.

Ruby also introduces practical exercises for nervous system regulation—perfect for anyone feeling the weight of the world right now. Tune in for an episode that's as enlightening as it is entertaining. 

Show Notes

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

01:05 Trigger Warnings and Coping Strategies

02:37 Interview with Ruby Marez Begins

02:59 Experiencing the Fires in Los Angeles

05:09 Navigating Trauma and Nervous System Regulation

07:01 Personal Stories of Displacement and Resilience

16:27 Creating Art from Adversity

18:42 Developing the Ramón Character

19:23 Spiritual Cheerleading 101

25:50 Therapeutic Insights and Audience Engagement

28:47 Embracing Emotions: The Key to Joy and Peace

29:00 Connecting with Diverse Audiences

29:30 The Universal Need for Emotional Education

30:34 College Students and Emotional Awareness

31:53 The Power of Performance and Presence

32:23 Overcoming Stage Anxiety

32:55 The Role of Somatic Practices in Healing

34:24 Acting and Auditioning: A Journey of Self-Acceptance

35:13 Understanding Rejection in the Acting World

36:06 The Importance of Self-Compassion

38:43 Creating a Supportive Inner Voice

41:14 The Therapeutic Power of Alter Egos

47:58 Practical Exercises for Self-Kindness

53:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Happy New Years Eve! In this episode of the LaidOPEN Podcast, I’m joined by Jessica Lindsey, a trauma-informed energy healer, animal communicator, and clairvoyant pet psychic. Jessica shares her journey of discovering her ability to communicate with animals and plants and offers tools to attune to these beings.

We explore topics including different species' forms of communication, end-of-life support for animals, and the nuances of intuitive abilities. The conversation also touches on respecting the intelligence and interconnectedness of all living beings, along with a meditative practice for tuning into animal and plant communication. 

Jessica emphasizes the power within everyone to connect deeply with the natural world and urges us all to start refining this relationship today. If you’ve ever loved a pet and wished to be able to communicate with them clearly, this episode is for you.

Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction to Animal Communication

00:25 Meet Jessica Lindsey: Trauma-Informed Healer

02:14 Discovering the Gift of Telepathy

06:56 Understanding the Different Clairs

12:04 The Intelligence of Animals and Birds

16:23 Communicating with Insects

21:49 Gardening and Animal Communication

28:56 Adopting and Understanding Rescue Animals

33:50 Understanding Animal Behavior and Coping Mechanisms

36:30 Supporting Animals Through Grief and Loss

39:13 Clearing Energies After a Loved One Passes

43:59 Animal Reincarnation and Soul Journeys

48:15 Guided Meditation for Connecting with Animals and Plants

01:04:02 Sharing Personal Experiences and Reflections

01:06:08 How to Connect with Jessica Lindsey

01:09:46 Course Information and Closing Remarks

In this episode of the LaidOPEN Podcast, I have an in-depth conversation with my friend Joseph Kramer, Ph.D about my journey into psychotherapy and sex education. Joseph is a sexologist and ex-Jesuit is the founder of Body Electric School for Massage as well as Sexological Bodywork and a past guest of LaidOPEN Podcast. He guided a conversation where I shared my experiences working at Good Vibrations, where I educated people about sexual health and became familiar with sexological bodywork and somatic therapy. 

We also discuss my education at the Strozzi Institute and the impact of my training with Stacey Haynes on dealing with sexual trauma and nervous system regulation. I highlight the importance of embodied freedom and liberation, personally and within my work. We touch on mindfulness, energy medicine, and the necessity of continuous practice to bring about lasting change. Plus, if you have been wondering what somatics is I define it in this episode and get into exactly what embodiment means.

Additionally, Joseph emphasizes the crucial role of being present in the body and the importance of being of service to others. I further explain the development and intent behind my course, Pathways to Peace: Mindful Practices for Transformative and Vibrant Living, aimed at providing accessible resources globally. The episode highlights the necessity of integrating the body into therapeutic practices and provides valuable resources for anyone interested in similar career paths.

Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction to the Episode 00:38 Meet Joseph Kramer 02:28 How Charna and Joseph Met 05:25 Charna's Journey into Sex Education 06:32 Good Vibrations and Early Training 11:16 The Strozzi Institute and Somatic Practices 15:52 Challenges in Psychotherapy Training 21:27 Pathways to Peace: Online Course 24:35 The Importance of Practice 29:27 Influences and Universal Truths 33:29 Integrating Somatics and Trauma 36:03 The Importance of Boundaries in Therapy 38:12 Surprising Client Experiences 41:59 Defining Liberation in Therapy 51:31 Resources for Somatic Practices 54:22 The Role of Somatics in Healing 01:02:48 Conclusion and Course Information

In this week’s episode, I explore a healthier version of intimacy when interviewing Zach Beach, a coach, poet, and yoga teacher who deeply explores the concept of love through various practices. 

His journey from a career in engineering to finding his purpose in love was influenced by the unconditional adoration he received from his parents, especially his mother. Zach emphasizes the importance of the body as an access point for experiencing and opening up, particularly through yoga and breathing exercises. 

We chat about the power of love in overcoming trauma, the significance of forgiveness, and how affection, devotion, and gratitude interplay in healing and cultivating a joyful life. We end the episode with practical advice on creating loving and predictable practices for personal growth and healing. Zach shares a simple breathing exercise to help you get back into your body and access your heart. 

Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction 

00:03 Meet Zach Beach: A Life of Love

02:47 Exploring Love and Life's Purpose

04:06 The Journey from Head to Heart

04:22 Modeling Love and Compassion

05:35 The Body as an Access Point to Love

05:45 Understanding Love and Trauma

19:28 The Practice of Forgiveness

27:43 The Role of Animals and Deities in Healing

31:59 Creating Meaningful Experiences

33:08 The Power of Senses

35:35 Attachment and Warmth

37:26 The Role of Love and Gratitude

38:46 Healing and Trauma

43:50 Micro Practices for Love

47:51 Trauma-Informed Practices

54:12 Guided Breathing Exercise

58:43 Final Thoughts and Resources

In this episode of LaidOPEN Podcast, I chat with the incredibly insightful Erica Wright, a codependency counselor who spends an hour with me breaking down complex relationship dynamics and sharing wisdom on healing and self-love. 

Erica delves into her journey, discussing the roots of codependency within societal frameworks and the transformative role of spirituality and sobriety. From understanding the true meaning of intimacy and interdependency in relationships to practical exercises for grounding yourself, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. 

Ready to reclaim your energy, set boundaries, and foster unconditional love in your relationships? Tune in as we decode codependency and discover the path to genuine connection and self-empowerment.

00:00 Introduction to Today's Guest: Erica Wright

02:07 Defining Codependency

03:53 Historical Context and Personal Journey

13:00 The Practice of Interdependency

17:58 The Radical Act of Self-Love

21:59 Sober Reflections and Reality Checks

26:20 The Power of Friendships

27:59 First Partnership Experience

28:43 Non-Codependency Moments

29:53 Healing Through Intimacy

30:29 Unspoken Understanding

31:31 The Power of Presence

34:26 True Intimacy and Vulnerability

35:52 Sex and Somatic Healing

39:49 Spiritual Practice and Healing

46:29 Grounding and Centering Practice

50:47 Offerings and Final Thoughts

In this episode, I welcome Atlanta-based musician Kennedy Ryon. We discuss Kennedy's journey in the music industry, her experiences with self-doubt, the significance of accepting imperfections, and her creative process.  

Kennedy shares insights from working on the soundtrack for the Amazon show 'Expats,' the challenges of managing artistic blocks, and the healing powers of music and creativity. The episode also highlights the importance of emotional expression, versatility in songwriting, and the impact of supportive mentors like Kennedy's fifth-grade teacher. 

The episode ends with Kennedy's thoughts on gratitude and connection, a musical sample, and the importance of believing in yourself. Overall, this episode provides a candid look into the life of a dedicated artist navigating the complexities of her life and craft.

00:00 Introduction 

02:27 Welcome, Kennedy Ryon!

02:39 Kennedy's Recent Projects and Reflections

03:52 The Challenge of Self-Critique

04:55 Letting Go of Perfectionism

08:24 The Healing Power of Music

13:02 Kennedy's Creative Process

26:24 Themes in Kennedy's Music

28:39 Breaking Out of the Box: Embracing Musical Diversity

29:48 The Challenges and Joys of Being an Independent Artist

31:07 Overcoming Creative Blocks and Self-Doubt

31:25 Navigating Audience Reactions and Staying True to Your Art

34:18 The Importance of Rest and Authenticity in Creativity

37:39 Finding Inspiration and Overcoming Doubt

41:11 Childhood Influences and the Power of Music

43:15 The Impact of Teachers and the Love for Reading

49:33 Concluding Thoughts and Evergreen Performance

53:31 Final Words and Gratitude

In this episode of the LaidOPEN Podcast, I welcome my friend and guest Rachel Kaplan. Rachel hosts the “Healing Feeling Shit Show” podcast and is the author of “Feel, Heal, and Let That Sh*t Go: Your Guide to Emotional Resilience and Lasting Self-Love,” which explores the process and importance of reconnecting with and expressing emotions. 

The discussion delves into the emotional challenges many face, like avoiding uncomfortable feelings, and offers insights and tools on how to move emotions through the body. Rachel introduces her 'emotional potty training' method, emphasizing proactive and reactive emotional release techniques to facilitate healing from core emotional wounds. 

The conversation also explores the significance of nature and reparenting in developing emotional resilience and the nuances of navigating complex PTSD. The episode underscores the revolutionary potential of feeling emotions fully and skillfully as a form of personal activism.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:46 Healing Through Feeling: Rachel's Journey

03:46 The Importance of Emotional Expression

05:31 Avoidance and Its Consequences

09:54 Tools for Emotional Bandwidth

11:18 Nature and Connection

19:29 Reparenting and Self-Love

26:38 Understanding Reintegration Work

27:12 Exploring Childhood Shame

27:44 Building a Whole Self

28:57 Complex PTSD and Shame

29:59 Physical Manifestations of Emotions

33:08 Proactive vs. Reactive Emotional Release

34:21 Core Wounds and Emotional Healing

36:39 Practical Techniques for Emotional Release

41:03 Deep Practice and Commitment

45:43 Navigating Trauma and Trust

52:22 Final Thoughts and Resources