LaidOPEN Podcast

Trigger warning: this episode contains discussions of sexual assault.

In part 2 of this powerful conversation, Charna sits down again with Ariella Daly: dream worker, animist, and beekeeper — to continue exploring how dreams can become profound guides for healing, recovery, and transformation. Ariella shares more of her personal path, weaving together the wisdom of dreams, ritual, and the natural world to show how the subconscious can support deep repair after trauma.

Together, we discuss practical tools for reclaiming your body, rebuilding your relationship with eros and creativity, and reconnecting to nature as a source of restoration. Ariella also offers insights into sensory practices, embodiment techniques, and how to integrate dream work into everyday life so it's not just a nighttime experience but a living practice.

We also touch on the magic of collective dreaming — how shared dream spaces can reveal hidden truths, spark collective healing, and open up surprising pathways of growth. If you've ever been curious about how your dreams might be guiding you, this episode offers both inspiration and grounded practices to begin listening more deeply.

Show Notes:

00:00 Welcome Back and Episode Overview

01:05 Continuing Ariella's Healing Journey

03:20 Rituals and Dream Integration

07:45 Embodiment Practices for Recovery

12:30 Reconnecting with Nature Through Dreams

18:15 Collective Dreaming and Group Insights

26:50 Sensory Exercises, Sensory Remediation and Practical Applications

38:40 Closing Thoughts and Resources

Trigger warning: discussion of seggsual assault near the end

In this episode, Charna interviews Ariella Daley, a seasoned dream worker, animist, and beekeeper with over 15 years of experience. Ariella shares her fascinating journey into beekeeping and dream work, influenced by a blend of naturalism from her mother and mysticism from her father. She recounts a significant experience where wild bees moved into her home, deeply intertwining her dream work with her beekeeping practice.

Ariella and Charna discuss the profound healing and intuitive lessons bees can impart, the importance of intentional dreaming, and the animist worldview that sees life and consciousness in all things. Ariella also touches on her personal healing journey through profound experiences with snakes and bees, and later discusses her recent experience of seggsual assault and how dream work has been a vital resource in her healing process.

Show Notes: (You can also watch the episode on YouTube)

00:00 Welcome, Trigger Warning and Introduction

01:03 Meet Ariella Daley: Dream Worker and Beekeeper

03:33 Ariella's Journey: From Childhood to Dreaming with Bees

05:40 The Healing Power of Bees

09:41 Intentional Dreaming and Animism

12:17 The Animist Worldview

15:33 Connecting with Nature and Intuition

19:29 The Meditative Presence of Bees

24:33 Exploring the Connection Between Bees and Dreams

25:10 Ancient Dream Healing Practices

26:08 The Symbolism of Snakes and Bees

28:25 Personal Stories of Dream and Snake Encounters

34:03 The Impact of Trauma and Healing

42:36 Concluding Thoughts and Future Episodes

Resources To Reach Out To:

National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN):

Voice: (800) 656-HOPE (4673) | Web: https://centers.rainn.org/

SF Women Against Rape: 415-861-2024

Book Resources:

Judith Herman "Trauma and Recovery"

Babette Rothschild "The Body Remembers and 8 Keys to Safe Trauma Recovery"

Peter Levine "Waking the Tiger"

Staci Haines "Healing Sex"

In this powerful episode of LaidOPEN Podcast, I sit down with medical researcher, writer, and host of Modern Hysteria, Micah Larsen, to dive deep into her deeply personal and courageous journey through PMDD, menopause, and preeclampsia. With warmth and unflinching honesty, Micah illuminates the painful gaps in our healthcare system and the persistence of medical misogyny—and, more importantly, how we can begin to dismantle those barriers.

We explore:

• The courage it takes to speak openly about taboo topics like incontinence, childbirth, postpartum challenges, and menopause.

• How narrative and advocacy are essential tools for transforming women's healthcare.

• Micah's Montana farm: a place of solace, healing, and self-acceptance that has helped her reclaim her body and spirit amid the storms.

This episode is equal parts urgent call to action and celebration of resilience—a reminder that better women's healthcare starts with brave conversations and compassionate communities.

Note: This episode includes discussions of very heavy themes, including suicide. If you're feeling fragile, you might choose to listen in gentle doses, on a different day, or skip it altogether. But know this: this is an inspiring conversation—and I hope it helps ignite a true women's medical rights movement.

Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction to the LaidOPEN Podcast

00:06 Meet Micah Larson: Advocate for Women's Health

02:10 The Inspiration Behind Modern Hysteria

04:13 Navigating Women's Healthcare Challenges

05:30 Addressing Taboos and Listener Engagement

09:29 Personal Stories and Medical Advocacy

11:46 Understanding Surgical Menopause

16:31 The Struggles of PMDD and Hormone Therapy

20:43 Challenges in the Healthcare System

30:08 The Struggles of Menopause and Misdiagnosis

31:45 The Last Fertility Taboo: Egg Donation

33:58 Women's Healthcare and Systemic Issues

36:35 Personal Stories of Medical Trauma

51:46 The Healing Power of Gardening

57:34 Reflections on Embodied Freedom

01:00:38 Closing Thoughts and Resources

What do you really want—and how do you even begin to ask for it?

In this episode of laidOPEN, I'm joined by somatic sex therapist Susan Morgan Taylor, a healer and teacher who guides people through the often-overlooked terrain of embodied desire. With over 25 years in somatic healing, Susan brings a grounded, intuitive approach to what she calls the Pleasure Keys Process—a set of practices designed to help individuals and couples reconnect with their sensuality, emotional truth, and authentic connection.

We dive into how early wounding, stress, and disembodiment can short-circuit intimacy—and what it really takes to come back into alignment with your body and your partner. Susan shares how her background in massage therapy and intuitive healing shaped her path, and offers practical, heartfelt wisdom on navigating low libido, sacred sexuality, and the art of noticing, naming, and negotiating in relationships.

Whether you're in a long-term partnership or simply curious about deepening your relationship to pleasure, this conversation is an invitation to slow down, tune in, and reclaim the wisdom of your body.

Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction to LaidOPEN Podcast

00:07 Meet Susan Morgan Taylor: Somatic Sex Therapist

02:48 The Pleasure Keys Process

03:20 Intuitive Healing and Somatic Work

04:50 The Importance of Touch and Consent

05:39 Navigating Desire Mismatches in Relationships

09:24 The Wheel of Consent

11:19 The Pleasure Keys Framework

16:55 Understanding Low Libido in Women

23:44 Exploring Sacred Sexuality

32:11 Exploring Sensitivity and Numbness

33:03 The Role of Physical Sensation in Relaxation

33:41 Martial Arts and Body Work in Emotional Healing

34:54 Understanding Numbness and Its Origins

36:25 Pathway to Emotional and Physical Healing

38:45 Sacred Sexuality and Emotional Depth

43:34 The Paradox of Polarity and Union

49:56 Sexual Freedom and Self-Knowledge

52:49 Practical Steps for Emotional and Physical Awareness

55:43 Conclusion and Resources

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