Scott Raymond and Warren Gendel sit down with psychologist, teacher, and master circle facilitator Dr. James McLeary for a profound conversation on emotional fitness, trauma, shadow work, and the power of intentional group healing. James shares his extraordinary life journey — from growing up under Jim Crow laws and navigating dyslexia to leading transformational work inside prisons, indigenous communities, and high-impact social systems.

This episode explores how true wellness goes far beyond the physical body, revealing why emotional intelligence, accountability, ritual, and vulnerability are essential for healing individuals and repairing fractured communities.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What emotional fitness really means and why it is foundational to holistic health
• The difference between your “medicine” (your gift) and your “shadow” (its distorted expression)
• How trauma shapes identity and how it can be transformed through awareness and ritual
• The role of indigenous rites of passage and circle work in restoring connection and purpose
• How group vulnerability creates deep healing and lasting transformation
• The origins of Inside Circle and the award-winning documentary The Work
• How James’ methods are reducing violence and rebuilding trust in gang-impacted communities
• How to manage stress and reactivity through breath and mindfulness
• The P.I.E.S. practice (Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, Spiritual) for daily self-check-in
• Why emotional intelligence is the missing link in modern health and leadership

About our guest:

Dr. James McLeary is a clinical psychologist, educator, and master facilitator of transformational group work. He is the executive producer of the award-winning documentary The Work and co-founder of Inside Circle, an organization dedicated to healing trauma and restoring connection in prisons, communities, and social systems. His work spans indigenous traditions, restorative justice, leadership development, and emotional intelligence.

Learn more about Inside Circle and James’ work at insidecircle.org

Watch The Work on Amazon Prime.

For information on James’ upcoming documentary and social impact initiatives, or to support the film through tax-deductible donations, contact:

[email protected]

About The Evexia Exchange

A podcast by Club Evexia—a wellness community in Southern Marin focused on fitness, longevity, and belonging. Founders Scott Raymond & Warren Gendel interview practitioners, members, and thinkers on living well together. Produced by Resonate Studio, LLC.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.