The Awakened Heart Podcast

Episode #128 - Born in Nazi-occupied Hungary, Katherine MK Mitchell’s life began in the shadow of war and loss. After fleeing Budapest with little more than courage and determination, she arrived in New York and eventually made her way to Hollywood, where she built a career in film and television.

Inspired by her late husband, Katherine first became an agent—famously discovering Nick Nolte before he became a household name- before stepping into her own creative path as a screenwriter and story analyst.

Her career includes work on productions such as General Hospital, The Bionic Woman, The Six Million Dollar Man, Fantasy Island, and the ABC movie Hitchhike. 

She later became a proud member of the Writers Guild of America West. Beyond Hollywood, Katherine authored three romantic adventure novels—Yours Forever…Maybe, Wasted…Maybe, and Shelby’s Way…Maybe—as well as her powerful memoir From Budapest to Hollywood: Searching for the Promised Land (2023), chronicling her harrowing escape, resilience, and reinvention.

In this soulful conversation, Katherine shares her extraordinary journey—from childhood survival in war-torn Europe to creative triumph in America. We explore themes of trauma, resilience, creative passion, and the power of storytelling to transform lives.

Today, Katherine continues to inspire as both an author and speaker, encouraging audiences to persevere, embrace their true selves, and live with authenticity.

Takeaways

• The journey from Budapest was fraught with challenges.
• The Red Cross played a crucial role in aiding refugees.
• Katherine's mother struggled under the weight of their escape.
• Katherine had to take on adult responsibilities at a young age.
• The experience was both traumatic and formative for Katherine.
• Writing a memoir helps in processing past emotions.
• The moment of crossing the border marked a significant change.
• Katherine's perspective on her mother's struggles evolved over time.
• Survival often requires immense physical and emotional strength.
• The experience shaped Katherine's understanding of adulthood.

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Keywords

Budapest, refugee, Red Cross, memoir, trauma, coming of age, responsibility, family, survival, history

In this episode #127 - of the Awakened Heart Podcast, Phyllis Okun shares her extraordinary journey of reinvention, resilience, and spiritual awakening. From her beginnings as a teacher to co-founding BLS Limo with her late husband and growing it into an international business, Phyllis has continually embraced new chapters of life. 

Following the profound loss of her husband, she discovered her natural gifts as a medium-work that has been endorsed by Thomas John, the “Seatbelt Psychic.” 

Beyond her spiritual work, Phyllis is also an award-winning, bestselling author with over 83 books published under the names Carole P. Roman and Brit Lunden, including The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids and the young adult novel Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex, which has been optioned for a screenplay. 

Known today as Lady Phyllis, she works as a professional medium with a steady clientele and has created courses to demystify mediumship for new generations. 

Together we explore her path of transformation, the role of intuition and family in her journey, the misconceptions around mediumship, and the beauty of embracing reinvention at any age with an awakened heart.

Takeaways

• Phyllis transitioned from teaching to entrepreneurship while maintaining her passion for writing.
• Her family's involvement in mediumship showcases a unique dynamic of shared spiritual abilities.
• Mediumship is not a gift but an ability that anyone can develop with practice.
• Evidential mediumship focuses on providing specific information that validates connections with the deceased.
• Misconceptions about mediumship often stem from a lack of understanding of its true nature.
• Reinvention is a vital part of life, and change should be embraced as an opportunity for growth.
• Phyllis's journey into mediumship began after personal loss, leading her to explore her abilities.
• Trusting one's intuition and spirit guides is essential in the practice of mediumship.
• Life is a smorgasbord of experiences, and trying new things can lead to unexpected joys.
• Living with an awakened heart means being of service to others and finding fulfillment in one's journey.

Sound Bites

"It's not a gift, it's an ability."

"Life's a smorgasbord."

"I feel privileged to be of service."

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Keywords

mediumship, entrepreneurship, personal growth, family dynamics, teaching, spirituality, reinvention, evidential mediumship, Phyllis Okon, Awaken Heart Podcast

Episode #126 - In this episode of the Awakened Heart Podcast, Nancy Walters sits down with Victoria Pippo, a former child actor turned spiritual disruptor whose personal healing journey ignited her psychic gifts and a mission to help others reclaim their power.

She’s a living embodiment of energy mastery. From child actor to addiction survivor, queer woman to soul strategist, Victoria has walked through it all. Now, as a psychic gatekeeper and disruptor of the spiritual norm, she teaches high-level entrepreneurs, healers, and public figures how to protect their energy and reclaim their divine power. 

As the founder of the world’s leading psychic development school, her teachings go beyond surface-level spirituality. Victoria helps her clients develop true discernment, dismantle New Age illusions, and connect with their soul in a real, raw way. No fluff. No fakery.

This conversation is a deep dive into what it really means to live with spiritual sovereignty in a world full of noise and distortion. Victoria shares how her awakening sharpened her vision, what it takes to lead with integrity, and how to cut through spiritual performance to stay rooted in truth. 

Together, we explore the importance of discernment, energy protection, and the role of self-love and intuition in a grounded spiritual practice.

We also touch on “The Great Merge,” a collective healing initiative Victoria is part of, and reflect on the importance of maintaining childlike wonder as we navigate adulthood.

Victoria’s work isn’t just about spiritual mastery—it’s about survival, embodiment, and truth. She’s not here to entertain you. She’s here to wake you up.

Takeaways

• Grounded spirituality is essential in today's chaotic world.
• Sovereignty and discernment are crucial for spiritual seekers.
• Meditation can unlock psychic abilities and connect with spirit guides.
• Addiction can stem from a lack of understanding of one's gifts.
• The Great Merge is a movement for collective healing and support.
• Cleansing your energy is vital for maintaining spiritual health.
• Intuition should guide decisions, not impulse or emotion.
• Childlike wonder can coexist with adult responsibilities.
• Living with an awakened heart means embracing life fully.
• Soul-led leadership requires blind faith and trust in the process.

Sound Bites

"Trust your intuition."

"You can grow up and grow in."

"I'm dying to live."

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Keywords

spirituality, psychic gifts, meditation, energy healing, discernment, sovereignty, awakened heart, soul-led leadership, intuition, collective healing

From Menstruation to Moonpause: The Spiritual Rite of Passage No One Talks About

Episode #125 - In this soul-stirring episode, I sit down with Tanishka, also known as The Moon Woman - a global leader in the women’s spirituality movement. For nearly three decades, Tanishka has empowered women to reclaim their birthright of ancient mystic traditions.

She’s the author of 6 transformative books, including Goddess Wisdom (Hay House), which explores the power of archetypes, emotional healing, and relationship dynamics. Her lunar guidance blog was followed by over 500,000 people for 11 years, and she has trained women in 44 countries to lead Red Tent circles that offer support during the darkest lunar phase - menstruation and emotional descent.

In this conversation, we explore the rising voice of midlife women, the spiritual opportunity of perimenopause, and how honoring the moon’s wisdom reconnects us with our feminine essence. Tanishka also shares a glimpse into her upcoming book Metaphysical Moonpause and retreats in Bali and Morocco designed to initiate women into this sacred new chapter.

This episode is a call to remember, reclaim, and rise.

Takeaways

• The understanding of life and woman as mysteries is crucial.
• Viewing women through a rational lens is a disservice.
• Reinstating the lost aspects of the feminine is essential.
• The sacred feminine helps make sense of life's mysteries.
• Observing natural cycles aids in understanding transitions.
• Historical contexts have impacted the perception of femininity.
• The role of the sacred feminine is to guide through change.
• Astrological ages influence our understanding of cycles.
• Connection to nature is vital for feminine wisdom.
• Embracing the mystery of womanhood enriches our lives.

Sound Bites

"Life is a mystery and woman is a mystery."

"We do that through observing the cycles of the sun."

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In this episode of the Awakened Heart Podcast, I sit down with author and mindfulness coach April Dávila to explore the profound connection between creativity and conscious living.

April shares how her writing journey transformed when she began meditating regularly in 2016 - leading to the publication of her award-winning novel, the growth of her blog, and a newfound sense of purpose.

We discuss how mindfulness can ease the emotional rollercoaster of the writing process, why fiction still matters in a noisy world, and how writers can face rejection and inner criticism with greater self-compassion. 

April also opens up about her two-year training with Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach, the upcoming release of her nonfiction book Scribbling Buddha, and how meditation can help anyone—not just writers—live more intuitively and authentically.

April’s journey is an inspiring reminder that turning inward and getting honest with ourselves can unlock creative flow and a more fulfilling life. 

Whether you're a writer or someone navigating your own personal transformation, this conversation offers practical insight and soulful encouragement to support your path.

Takeaways

• Meditation can significantly enhance a writer's perspective and practice.
• Rejection in writing is not personal; persistence is key.
• Mindfulness helps in managing the inner critic and perfectionism.
• Creating a supportive writing community can alleviate self-doubt.
• Fiction plays a crucial role in building empathy and understanding.
• Establishing a writing ritual can enhance focus and creativity.
• The publishing landscape is evolving, and writers should explore various options.
• Self-publishing can be challenging for fiction, but traditional publishing offers valuable support.
• Mindfulness practices can help writers navigate burnout and creative blocks.
• Living with an awakened heart means prioritizing meaningful connections. 

Sound Bites

"It's about where your focus is."

"Isolation just breeds self-doubt."

"Rejection is not personal."

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Insight Timer

Scribbing Buddha (coming soon)

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Keywords

mindfulness, writing, meditation, creativity, community, publishing, inner critic, fiction, personal growth, self-discovery

Episode #123 -In this episode of the Awakened Heart Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Maurice Turmel—a retired therapist, former rock musician, author, and spiritual teacher—to explore his profound journey of healing religious trauma and reclaiming his authentic self.

We talk about the impact of rigid religious conditioning on self-worth, the emotional toll of suppressing feelings, and how the journey toward spiritual awakening often requires facing grief and nurturing our inner child. 

Dr. Turmel has authored numerous books including Breaking the Spell of Religion & Healing the Trauma, The Voice: A Spiritual Sci-Fi Adventure, Conscious Evolution: Mythology in Action, and When Angels Call: Coping with Grief and Loss. His most recent work offers readers a front-row seat on his own Hero’s Journey—a deeply personal exploration of trauma recovery, spiritual liberation, and emotional resilience.

Maurice offers practical tools like journaling for trauma recovery and shares how the hero’s journey mirrors our own paths of transformation. This conversation is raw, real, and deeply inspiring—a reminder that living with an awakened heart means embracing your full humanity, including the messy, tender parts.

Takeaways

• Childhood trauma often stems from rigid religious teachings.
• Self-discovery is a journey that requires unpacking layers of trauma.
• Spirituality plays a crucial role in healing and personal growth.
• Journaling is a powerful tool for self-reflection and healing.
• The hero's journey is an inward exploration of self and healing.
• Living from the heart is essential for emotional well-being.
• Self-acceptance and self-love are key to overcoming trauma.
• Embracing feelings can lead to a healthier, longer life.
• There is always room for more love in our lives.
• Connecting with our inner child is vital for healing. 

Connect with Maurice:

BOOK LINKS at AMAZON: "Breaking the Spell of Religion & Healing the Trauma"

When Angels Call - Coping wth Grief & Loss

Maurice Turmel PhD ( Music )

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Keywords

trauma, religion, self-discovery, spirituality, healing, childhood experiences, journaling, hero's journey, emotional growth, self-acceptance religious trauma, narcissistic wounds, emotional healing

Episode #122 - Why Men Pull Away: Unpacking Fear, Intimacy & Masculine Conditioning

In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Avrum Weiss, psychotherapist and award-winning author of Hidden in Plain Sight: How Men’s Fears of Women Shape Their Intimate Relationships. This conversation dives into the emotional landscape that many men carry but rarely talk about—fears that can profoundly affect the way they connect with women and show up in intimate relationships. We explore fears of being controlled, overwhelmed by emotion, not being enough, or being left. While these fears are often hidden, they quietly influence so many relational dynamics.

Avrum and I discuss how traditional socialization teaches boys to shut down emotionally, how that creates barriers to true intimacy, and what’s needed for men to feel emotionally safe and seen. We also touch on how these patterns shift across generations, and why creating space for emotional literacy and community support is essential—not just for men, but for all of us.

Whether you're in a relationship, raising boys, or simply seeking to understand the masculine emotional experience more deeply, this episode offers a compassionate and eye-opening perspective on what’s really going on beneath the surface—and how we can all relate with more awareness and heart.

Sound Bites

"Men fear being controlled by women."

"Men are often emotionally unavailable."

"We all suffer under the same system."

Takeaways

• Many men fear being controlled by women in relationships.
• Men are often socialized to suppress their emotions.
• Understanding men's fears can improve relationship dynamics.
• Women often misinterpret men's withdrawal as disinterest.
• Men's emotional needs are often overlooked in society.
• The importance of emotional literacy for both genders.
• Community support is crucial for emotional well-being.
• Generational changes are leading to more emotionally aware men.
• Men benefit significantly from close relationships and marriage.

• Awareness of emotional dynamics can lead to healthier relationships.

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Episode #121 – The Fifth Shock: AI, Spiritual Awakening & Human Sovereignty with Ron Bienvenu

In this episode of The Awakened Heart Podcast, I sit down with my longtime friend Ron Bienvenu—a tech visionary, mystic thinker, and someone who’s never been afraid to challenge the status quo. From our first meeting at The Whaler in Venice Beach to deep conversations in New Orleans, Ron’s perspective has always inspired me.

We dive into his new book, The Fifth Shock, which explores the convergence of artificial intelligence, spirituality, and human sovereignty. Ron shares how AI is reshaping human identity, the need for a Digital Bill of Rights, and the concept of Universal Behavioral Income—an economic innovation designed for our rapidly evolving world.

With over 40 years of experience in technology and finance, Ron’s insights on data assetization and the future of consciousness are both eye-opening and urgent. But this conversation isn’t just about systems—it’s about soul. Ron also shares a deeply personal story about his daughter, a storm in Tulum, and the poem that emerged from that moment—one of courage, resilience, and love.

If you're feeling the pressure of our fast-changing world and are seeking truth, perspective, and grounded wisdom, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Takeaways

• Wisdom is essential in the age of AI.
• Humanity must navigate the challenges posed by AI.
• The need for a Universal Behavioral Income is highlighted.
• AI should enhance human agency, not replace it.
• Geopolitical implications of digital power are significant.
• Data is becoming the most valuable asset in the modern economy.
• Consciousness may be the key to understanding the universe.
• Moral implications of AI must be addressed. 
• Machines rely on human creativity and authenticity.
• Innovation's value is declining due to rapid replication.
• Congress has become ineffective in governance.
• The media has compromised its integrity for profit.
• A grassroots revolution is necessary for change.
• Parenting can instill strength and independence in children.

• Mediocrity should be avoided in pursuit of greatness.
• The meaning of life is a profound question worth exploring.

Sound Bite

"How do we navigate this?"

"My voice is my whip."

"Mediocrity is a disease."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection

01:48 Awakening to Spirituality and AI

05:30 The Human Experience vs. AI

08:46 Data Sovereignty and Behavioral Income

12:20 The Future of AI and Human Agency

15:47 Geopolitical Implications of Digital Rights

19:32 The Evolution of Wealth and Value

22:45 The Broken Accounting System and Change

26:11 Spirituality and the Path Forward

30:34 The Devil's Bargain: A Reflection on Spirituality

31:26 The Metaverse and Voluntary Extinction

32:16 Preserving Human Consciousness in a Digital Age

35:58 The Intersection of Technology, Philosophy, and Spirituality

37:33 Consciousness as the Fifth Element

38:47 Spiritual Recursion and Algorithmic Logic

42:34 Moral Constructs in a Digital World

46:29 The Homogenization of Beauty and Authenticity

49:24 Innovation and the Value of Networks

53:07 Disappointment in Governance and Media

56:34 Global Political Landscape and the Call for Change

01:01:12 A Stormy Journey: Father-Daughter Bonding and Life Lessons

01:10:27 Empowerment Through Authenticity and Courage

01:14:35 Navigating the Future: Technology, Sovereignty, and Human Connection

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Episode #120 - In this powerful episode of the Awakened Heart Podcast, I sit down with Shab Azma—an accomplished brand strategist, talent manager, and founder of Arc Collective. With over 25 years in the entertainment industry, Shab has helped shape the careers of celebrity experts while redefining what it means to lead with heart, purpose, and divine feminine energy.

We dive into her journey from managing blockbuster brands at Universal Studios and top-tier talent at The Firm to launching her own agency after a transformative plant medicine experience. Together, we explore how to bring authenticity and spiritual alignment into traditionally male-dominated spaces, how women can rise in leadership without abandoning their softness, and why it’s so important to balance masculine and feminine energies in our work.

This conversation is a beautiful blend of business wisdom, spiritual insight, and soulful storytelling. Tune in if you're ready to lead from your heart, align your career with your calling, and embody your fullest feminine power.

Takeaways

• Clients come to us with their stories and passions.
• It's essential to identify your North Star.
• Creating a strategy requires patience and collaboration.
• Authenticity is crucial in leadership roles.
• Balancing masculine and feminine energies is key to success.
• Delegation and trust empower team members.
• Money is just energy; it should come from the right sources.
• Meditation helps strip away distractions to find clarity.
• Plant medicine can catalyze profound personal transformation.
• Spirituality is about tuning into your higher self.

Sound Bites

"What is your North Star?"

"Money is just energy."

"It's an inside job."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Connection

02:14 Journey into Branding and Entertainment

05:05 The Shift from Performer to Manager

08:06 Building Brands and Intellectual Property

10:52 The Realization of Purpose

13:43 Merging Spirituality with Business

18:33 Creating a Collective and Authentic Space

22:26 Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energies

28:00 The Path to Conscious Leadership

40:18 The Journey of Transcendental Meditation

42:44 Embracing Spirituality Over Religion

46:01 The Role of Plant Medicine in Spiritual Awakening

48:43 Experiences with Ayahuasca and Other Plant Medicines

53:27 The Importance of Intentional Use of Plant Medicine

58:35 Integrating Spirituality into Professional Life

01:03:19 The Shift Towards the Divine Feminine

01:07:19 Navigating the Impact of AI on Human Connection

01:08:51 Living with an Awakened Heart

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Streaming: The Sabrina Soto Show & Cultural Eats now available on Hulu, Disney+, and Samsung TV+Channels 

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Keywords

spirituality, leadership, authenticity, feminine energy, plant medicine, business strategy, collective energy, mentorship, personal growth, women's empowerment

Episode #119 - In this week’s conversation on the Awakened Heart Podcast, Heather Fischer-Page opens up about embracing her intuitive gifts and the transformative journey of navigating spiritual awakening’s challenges. 

As a Spiritual Guide and Mentor, Heather helps individuals who feel a calling for deeper purpose and spiritual practice to clear their blocks and step fully into their gifts. She integrates a wide array of tools in her work, including Human Design, psychic mediumship, spiritual energy healing, mindfulness, and techniques such as E-motion and Thought Form Release.

Heather highlights the importance of integration and grounding in the spiral process of personal growth. She also discusses the role of Archangel Metatron and other multidimensional light beings in her teachings and the influence of animals in spiritual work. 

Throughout the conversation, Heather offers practical insights on how to trust your inner guidance, connect with your spiritual team, and find clarity on your life’s path.

Listeners will gain valuable wisdom on overcoming common spiritual blocks and the power of combining intuitive gifts with grounded, heart-centered mentorship to live an empowered and authentic life.

Takeaways

• Heather's journey began with childhood intuition and punishment.
• Human design helped Heather embrace her gifts.
• Archangel Metatron plays a significant role in Heather's work.
• Healing is a non-linear process, often spiraling back to previous issues.
• Integration is crucial after any healing experience.
• Grounding techniques are essential for spiritual practice.
• Animals can sense and assist in spiritual energy work.
• Resistance and fear are common blocks in spiritual growth.
• Cutting out external noise aids in self-discovery.
• Living with an awakened heart means being authentic and vulnerable.

Sound Bites

"Healing is not linear."

"Animals are so sensitive to energy."

"The void can be very scary."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Intuition and Mediumship

02:33 Reawakening Intuitive Gifts

05:19 The Role of Archangel Metatron

08:01 Navigating Duality and Personal Power

10:33 Health Challenges and Holistic Healing

13:02 Integrating Nutrition and Spirituality

15:42 The Impact of Human Design

18:24 Thought Leaders and Spiritual Mentorship

20:58 Healing as a Spiral Process

23:42 Addressing Root Causes of Anxiety and Chronic Conditions

31:16 Integrating Spiritual Practices into Daily Life

33:05 Energy Work and Spirit Guides

37:45 Understanding and Clearing Energies

45:21 Overcoming Resistance in Spiritual Growth

48:23 Grounding Techniques for Spiritual Practice

Connect with Heather:

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Keywords

intuition, mediumship, spiritual awakening, human design, energy healing, Archangel Metatron, holistic wellness, personal growth, integration, grounding techniques