In this episode, Rachel Luke and Brian R. King engage in a deep and heartfelt discussion about personal growth, emotional authenticity, and the challenges and rewards of self-discovery. She reflects on the importance of play and maintaining a childlike curiosity even in adulthood, which she believes helps counteract the mundanity often felt by adults, especially parents.Brian shares his own struggles with family dynamics and how stepping back from enmeshed relationships has been crucial for his emotional health. Both discuss the powerful impact of therapy in realizing and embracing one's authentic self, shedding imposed roles and expectations. Rachel speaks on the liberating process of distancing herself from toxic familial influences and finding solace in her "chosen family" who accept and celebrate her true self.They both advocate for the concept of 'surrender'—allowing oneself to experience and process emotions fully as a path to healing and personal growth, rather than resisting or suppressing them. This episode explores themes of resilience, the therapeutic power of creative expression, and the ongoing journey toward living authentically.

Topics Discussed:

• Rachel's aerial/circus arts hobby (lyra, fabrics) and the benefits like improving body awareness, mindfulness, play

• The importance of play and curiosity for adults

• Rachel's journey to embracing her true authentic self after years of trying to be who she "should" be

• How therapy helped Rachel have this realization shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic

• Letting go of toxic family influences and finding a "chosen family"

• The ongoing work of being your true self and noticing when you slip into old patterns/voices from childhood

• Brian's story of realizing he didn't have to stay enmeshed in his family's dysfunctional dynamics

• The emotional release Brian experienced when he decided to confront his pain and rage

• The power of surrendering to difficult emotions instead of resisting them

• Using metaphors (book chapters, dominos, river currents) to understand personal growth

• The special connection Brian and Rachel have developed through vulnerability and realness