Welcome to the first episode of July 2025, where I have a fascinating conversation with Nick Brancato, a relationship systems architect and author of 'Prioritize Us.' Nick shares his unique journey from being a professional poker player to stepping into the world of personal development and relationship coaching. 

We talk about the significance of aligning priorities within relationships, enhancing communication, and strategies to maintain focus under stress. Nick also introduces his 'Prioritize Us' test, a powerful framework designed to help couples (and friends and anyone else you want to build a more connected relationship with) understand each other's core life priorities and values. 

We also explore coping mechanisms during crises, the concept of parallel play, and turn-based communication for resolving conflicts. Join us as we dive into these insights and more, plus we end with a simple mindfulness exercise that can help prioritize our personal resources when we want to accomplish something. Truly useful for all people.

Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction to Nick Brancato

02:15 Nick Brancato's Unusual Path to Coaching

03:24 The Impact of Poker on Relationships

05:00 The Concept of Prioritize Us

06:39 Practical Applications and Micro Rituals

12:44 Understanding the Prioritize Us Test

15:15 Real-Life Examples and Success Stories

25:45 Personal Story: Overcoming Crisis

29:58 Creating Shared Moments in Relationships

30:34 Dealing with Cognitive Decline in Loved Ones

32:07 The Importance of Self-Care Rituals

33:15 Breath Work and Content Consumption

36:06 Prioritizing Growth and Understanding in Relationships

46:26 Turn-Based Communication for Difficult Conversations

51:38 Grounding Exercises for Mindfulness

54:47 Conclusion and Resources

In this episode of LaidOPEN Podcast, I have an insightful conversation with activist and author Dean Spade about his extensive work in movements for queer and trans liberation, anti-militarism, and the abolition of police and prisons. 

Dean and I discuss his new book titled 'Love in a Fucked Up World: How to Build Relationships, Hook Up, and Raise Hell Together,' covering topics such as mindful practices for managing stress, the evolution of his book over nine years, and personal growth in relationships. 

We also delve into the romance myth, decentralizing romantic relationships, and the importance of community support. Dean shares valuable insights and practices for generating internal safety and the importance of collective care in social movements. 

This episode is an enriching dialogue aimed at anyone interested in social justice, personal growth, and transformative community practices.

Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction and Course Announcement

00:55 Introducing Dean Spade

02:01 Dean Spade's Book Journey

02:28 Healing Modalities and Personal Growth

03:05 Non-Monogamous Relationships

03:34 Challenges in Writing the Book

05:15 Self-Help Literature Critique

06:45 Emotional Awareness in Movements

15:27 Decentralizing Romantic Relationships

23:49 Self-Generated Safety and Belonging

31:40 Therapy Misconceptions and Realities

32:38 The Overuse of Pathologizing Language

33:23 Forgiveness and Self-Inquiry in Relationships

36:05 The Impact of Alcoholism on Relationships

37:28 The Process of Forgiveness and Healing

41:34 Sexual Trauma and Cultural Narratives

44:18 Transformative Justice and Community Response

49:52 Decentralizing Romantic Relationships

You can watch this episode on my YouTube channel, just search LaidOPEN. Plus, I have free guided visualizations and a host of other tools and resources available to you there and on my website at CharnaCassell.com.

In this episode, Charna Cassell discusses the profound topic of silence, featuring an interview with Justin Talbot Zorn and Leigh Marz, authors of 'Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise.' They delve into experiences and practices from their book that encourage finding clarity and peace amidst external and internal noise. The conversation covers the political and cultural relevance of silence, its role in addressing trauma, and techniques to incorporate it into daily life. The episode concludes with an invitation to listeners to reflect on their personal relationship with silence.

Show Notes

00:00 Introduction to the Concept and Need For Silence

00:22 Personal Experiences with Noise and Silence

03:39 Introducing the Justin Talbot Zorn and Leigh Marz

05:37 Exploring Noise and Silence

07:11 The Impact of Noise on Wellbeing

10:35 Navigating Noise in Relationships

13:18 The Role of Silence in Healing

17:06 Mindfulness and Meditation

23:35 Embodiment and Silence

29:13 Finding Personal Pathways to Silence

31:08 The Essence of Silence

32:13 Scientific Insights on Silence

33:00 Holy Uselessness and Capitalism

36:05 Silence and Healing from Trauma

37:49 An Invitation to Silence

41:10 Self-Acceptance and the True Self

42:37 Sphere of Control and Influence

45:45 Cultural Perspectives on Noise

49:26 Silence as a Tool for Justice

50:40 Practical Exercises for Silence

55:11 Final Reflections and Farewell

In this episode of Laid Open Podcast, I welcome back Dr. Keesha Ewers, a specialist in integrative medicine and functional sexology. We discuss the critical yet often overlooked topic of menopause, highlighting how women's health issues, particularly post-childrearing, are neglected in society and underfunded in research. 

Dr. Keesha and I provide insights into hormone replacement therapy (HRT), discussing various options like pellets, patches, and creams and emphasizing the importance of bioidentical hormones. We explain why not everyone needs HRT and the significant role of lifestyle choices, diet, and exercise in managing menopause symptoms. 

Our conversation also delves into how the body communicates its needs through everyday signs like urine color, vaginal health, and bowel movements. Additionally, we explore the impact of trauma, stress, and genetic factors on hormone levels. 

Dr. Keesha and I encourage listeners to tune into their bodies and get curious about their symptoms, offering practical advice on how to start addressing menopausal issues holistically.

Every episode is now on YouTube, which you can watch via the link in my bio or by searching LaidOPEN. 

Additionally, the best way to support my work is by liking, sharing, and leaving a review for my podcast. 🧡

Show Notes

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:15 Understanding Menopause and Its Impact

02:26 Personal Experiences and Medical Insights

05:17 The Role of Hormones in Health

06:48 Addressing Hormonal Imbalances

10:42 The Connection Between Trauma and Hormones

21:49 Managing Stress and Hormonal Health

31:38 Understanding Embodied Sensations

32:54 The Role of Energy Systems

33:52 Exploring Water and Fire Elements

36:14 Hormone Replacement Therapy Options

37:25 Genetics and Migraines

38:55 Personalized Hormone Treatments

50:11 Lifestyle Choices and Hormone Health

54:43 Final Thoughts and Resources

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