In Episode 02 of The Alighted Way, Janelle is joined by award-winning photographer Mark Laurie of Inner Spirit Photography for a deep and thoughtful exploration of fire, photography, and the mysterious beings known as sprites. Together, they examine how working with fire becomes a powerful tool for empowerment, confidence-building, healing, and self-trust—particularly for women stepping into embodied courage.

Mark shares decades of experience capturing fine art photography and describes how sprites—animal, mythic, and symbolic forms—emerge within flames during body fire sessions. These shapes, often perceived differently by each viewer, appear to mirror the inner world of the person working with fire, revealing deeply personal meanings and emotional truths.

The conversation moves beyond spectacle into psychology, boundaries, and integration. Fire becomes a marker experience—a high-water point that recalibrates how fear is measured in everyday life. Through stories of transformation, healing, and reclaimed agency, this episode highlights how consciously chosen challenges can reshape identity and restore personal power.

🔥 Key Moments

• 00:07 — Welcome back to The Alighted Way and introduction of Mark Laurie
• 02:19 — Elementals and body fire: empowerment through safe fire work
• 03:09 — What are sprites? Animals, mythic beings, and meaning in flames
• 05:36 — Perception and symbolism: how sprites differ for each viewer
• 06:36 — Witnessing body fire: fear, awe, and rapid transformation
• 08:29 — Trusting the fire practitioner and the importance of safety
• 09:23 — Fire as a playful but powerful initiatory tool
• 10:49 — Fire as a personal benchmark for fear and resilience
• 12:34 — Boundaries, discernment, and conscious risk-taking
• 15:36 — Integration, healing, and reclaiming agency after trauma
• 17:14 — Closing reflections and invitation to the dragon path

💬 Memorable Quotes

• “The flames speak to different people on different wavelengths.”
• “Fire becomes the high-water mark for fear.”
• “Once you push one boundary, the next one gets easier.”
• “Safety always comes first.”

🪶 Themes Explored

Sprites & Elementals • Empowerment Through Fire • Perception & Symbolism • Boundaries & Consent • Fear Recalibration • Healing & Integration

💠 Takeaway Message

Fire, when approached with preparation and trust, becomes a mirror rather than a threat. The courage cultivated through embodied experiences does not end in the moment itself—it continues as a reference point, reminding us that we are capable, resilient, and far more powerful than we once believed.

🔗 Resources & Mentions

• Inner Spirit Photography – Mark Laurie
• Body fire photography
• Elementals and sprites in flame
• Fire as an empowerment practice
• Public speaking and confidence-building through challenge

✨ Call to Action

If this episode sparked curiosity or reflection, share The Alighted Way with someone who values conscious transformation. Follow the podcast for upcoming episodes exploring dragons, symbolism, and the forces that shape our inner landscapes.