The Connected Community: Exploring Possibility

By Nicky YazbeckAlternative Health Health & Fitness Mental Health Education Self-Improvement

The Connected Community: Exploring Possibility episodes

July 17, 2025Kambo Frog Medicine: Therapeutic Benefits, Contraindications, Medical Considerations
In this episode, Nicky and Adam Yazbeck delve into the science and applications of Kambo, a traditional medicine derived from the secretion of the Amazonian frog. They discuss its physiological effects, health benefits, contraindications, and what individuals can expect during a Kambo session. Adam, with his medical background, provides insights into the peptides involved and their potential therapeutic uses, while Nicky shares personal experiences and the importance of safe practices when administering Kambo.

Takeaways
Kambo is derived from the secretion of the Phyllomedusa bicolor frog.
It has been shown to help with various conditions including depression, PTSD, and autoimmune disorders.
The peptides in Kambo have antimicrobial properties and can aid in gut health.
Kambo can potentially be beneficial for mental health due to the gut-brain connection.
Contraindications include certain medications, heart conditions, and pregnancy.
The experience of Kambo can vary greatly from person to person.
Breath control is crucial during a Kambo session to manage discomfort.
Kambo can help reset the nervous system and improve energy levels.
It's important to have a trained practitioner administer Kambo safely.
Kambo should not be self-administered due to potential risks.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Kambo and Its Significance
03:10 Understanding the Science Behind Kambo
06:47 Peptides and Their Role in Kambo’s Effectiveness
09:28 Benefits of Kambo : A Comprehensive Overview
21:08 Contraindications and Safety Considerations
26:59 Understanding Medication Half-Life and Pharmacokinetics
28:24 The Importance of Professional Guidance in Medication Management
30:16 Risks of Combining Medications with Kambo Therapy
32:37 Contraindications for Kambo Therapy
36:23 The Kambo Experience: What to Expect
48:29 Safety Protocols and Practitioner Responsibilities
52:21 OUTRO

Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
[email protected]
https://www.instagram.com/kambo_mama/

Keywords: Kambo Frog, Kambo, Kambo medicine, Kambo Healing, Jungle Experience, jungle Medicine, Medicine, Kambo Purge, Ethical Treatment, Personal Growth, Spiritual Journey, Peptides, peptide Therapy, Kambo Practitioner, frog medicine, Phyllomedusa bicolor, health benefits, traditional medicine, autoimmune disorders, mental health
53 min
July 10, 2025Kambo Frog Medicine: Meeting Frog, Extracting Medicine, Methods of Application, Emotional and Spiritual Benefits.
In this episode, Nicky and Adam Yazbeck delve into their transformative experiences with Kambo, a traditional Amazonian frog medicine. They discuss the cultural significance, the process of meeting and extracting medicine from the Kambo frog, and the various methods of application. The conversation highlights the importance of surrendering to the medicine, the physical and spiritual benefits, and the science behind Kambo's effects on the body. Through their personal stories, they emphasize the profound impact Kambo has had on their lives and well-being.

Takeaways
Kambo is a traditional Amazonian medicine derived from the secretion of the Kambo frog.
Cultural perspectives on Kambo highlight the blending of Western and indigenous practices.
Meeting the Kambo frog can be a profound and emotional experience.
The preparation process for Kambo involves making tools and understanding the significance of each step.
Hunting for the Kambo frog is a challenging yet rewarding experience.
Extracting the medicine requires care and respect for the frog.
There are different methods of applying Kambo, including wet and dry techniques.
The therapeutic use of Kambo can vary based on individual needs and conditions.
Surrendering to the medicine is a key aspect of the Kambo experience.
The science behind Kambo reveals its effects on the body and its potential benefits.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Kambo Experience
04:24 Cultural Perspectives on Medicine
07:09 Meeting the Kambo Frog
10:09 The Process of Making Tools for Medicine
12:57 Hunting for the Kambo Frog
15:58 Extracting the Medicine
18:33 Methods of Applying Kambo
21:26 The Dry Method of Application
24:27 Understanding Frog Face and Health Indicators
27:22 Using Kambo for Specific Ailments
30:16 The Spiritual and Emotional Aspects of Kambo
33:15 Lessons Learned from the Frog
36:03 Conclusion and Future Discussions
40:51 OUTRO

Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
[email protected]
https://www.instagram.com/kambo_mama/

Keywords: Kambo Frog, Kambo, Kambo medicine, Kambo Healing, Jungle Experience, jungle Medicine, Medicine, Kambo Purge, Ethical Treatment, Personal Growth, Spiritual Journey, Peptides, peptide Therapy, Kambo Practitioner, frog medicine, Phyllomedusa bicolor
42 min
July 03, 2025Kambo Frog Medicine - Phyllomedusa Bicolor: Western vs. Indigenous Practices
In this episode of the Connected Community Podcast, Nicky and Adam Yazbeck delve into their transformative experiences with Kambo, a frog medicine from the Amazon. They share insights from their recent trip to Peru, where they engaged in Kambo training and learned about the ethical considerations surrounding the use of this powerful medicine. The conversation covers their personal experiences with the 3x3 method, the significance of the purge, and the differences between Western and indigenous practices. They emphasize the importance of the correct amount of water and the body's natural responses during the Kambo experience, concluding with a promise to explore more about the application methods in future episodes.

Takeaways:
Kambo is a powerful medicine derived from the secretion of the Kambo frog.
The 3x3 experience is a Western adaptation that can be profound and transformative.
Ethical treatment of the Kambo frog is crucial in the extraction process.
The purge during Kambo sessions can manifest in various ways and is an important aspect of the experience.
Water intake is critical during Kambo sessions to avoid complications.
The experience of Kambo can vary greatly between individuals and settings.
Indigenous practices offer valuable insights into the use of Kambo medicine.
The relationship with the Kambo frog can deepen through personal experiences and training.
Understanding the body's responses during Kambo can enhance the healing process.
Future discussions will explore different methods of applying Kambo medicine.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Kambo Frog and Personal Experiences
05:08 Understanding the Kambo Frog's Habitat and Ethical Considerations
07:53 The 3x3 Experience: A Deep Dive
10:58 Journey to the Jungle: Meeting the Kambo Frog
13:43 Experiencing Fresh Kambo Personal Stories
16:26 The Importance of Dieting the Frog
19:32 The Purge: Understanding Its Significance
22:21 Analyzing the Purge: Medical Perspectives
25:13 Conclusion and Next Steps
38:10 OUTRO

Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
[email protected]
https://www.instagram.com/kambo_mama/

Keywords: Kambo Frog, Kambo, Kambo medicine, Kambo Healing, Jungle Experience, jungle Medicine, Medicine, Kambo Purge, Ethical Treatment, Personal Growth, Spiritual Journey, Peptides, peptide Therapy, Kambo Practitioner, frog medicine, Phyllomedusa bicolor
39 min
June 26, 2025Navigating Perimenopause, Menopause, and Beyond with Ease
In this episode of The Connected Community: Exploring Possibility, Nicky Yazbeck is joined by Sarah Haas, a Women’s Weight Release & Body Love Coach, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Certified Personal Trainer, and yoga instructor. Sarah brings her deep expertise and personal journey as a fifty-something single mom and breast cancer survivor to a conversation about supporting women through midlife, menopause, and beyond.

Together, they explore the physical and emotional changes that come with menopause—particularly hormonal fluctuations, weight gain, and the impact of stress. Sarah shares insights into the importance of strength training, adequate protein intake, and mindful nutrition to maintain muscle mass, boost metabolism, and support overall well-being. The conversation also touches on the role of self-compassion, body acceptance, and navigating dietary challenges like dairy sensitivity. Sarah offers practical tips for reading food labels and making empowered, nourishing choices that align with the body’s evolving needs.

** Side note: While recording this podcast, I was struggling with allergies and the massive amounts of pollen in the air, so please ignore the extremely red eyes, random tearing, and stuffiness! **

Takeaways:
Many women struggle with hormonal imbalances during menopause.
Nutrition plays a vital role in managing health during menopause.
Weight gain can be rapid and unexpected during midlife.
Maintaining muscle mass is crucial for metabolism as we age.
Stress significantly affects hormonal balance and weight.
Strength training is essential for women, especially in midlife.
HIIT workouts can efficiently combine strength and cardio.
Women often under-consume protein, impacting muscle health.
Protein is necessary for muscle repair and growth.
A balanced diet and exercise can alleviate menopause symptoms.
A good starting point for protein intake is 0.8 grams per pound of body weight.
Protein helps keep you satiated longer than carbohydrates.
Fiber and protein together can help control hunger throughout the day.
Nuts are primarily fats, not proteins, and should be consumed in moderation.
It's essential to balance fat intake with protein and fiber for overall health.
Dietary trends often swing between extremes, leading to confusion.
Vegetables are crucial for a balanced diet; aim for 5-7 servings a day.
Dairy can be hard to digest for many; listen to your body.
Reading food labels is essential to avoid misleading claims.
Body acceptance is vital as we age; focus on nourishing and respecting your body.

Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
[email protected]

Connect with Sarah:
https://sarahhaaswellness.com/
https://www.facebook.com/sarahhaaswellness/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahhaaswellness/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCans4T9oK_RYiq9YBumOTZA
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1922289
https://sarahhaaswellness.lpages.co/rev-up-your-metabolism-guide/

Keywords: hormones, nutrition, wellness, strength training, protein, health, women, weight gain, stress, nutrition, protein, satiety, dietary trends, vegetables, hormonal health, dairy, food labels, body acceptance, aging, menopause, perimenopause
54 min
June 19, 2025Religious Trauma: Religion vs. Spirituality
In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck welcomes transformational coach and Self-Care Alchemist, Samantha Gregory, for a powerful conversation about religious trauma and the path to spiritual freedom. With a background that includes surviving a dysfunctional family, cult upbringing, domestic abuse, divorce, bankruptcy, and early menopause from chronic stress, Samantha has turned her pain into purpose. She now teaches women how to reclaim their well-being through radical self-care, feminine embodiment, and sovereign leadership.

Samantha shares her personal story of growing up in a restrictive, fear-based religious environment and the impact it had on her sense of self, mental health, and identity. She offers an honest look at how religious control can manifest as trauma and the inner work required to heal from it. Through her journey of leaving the church and reclaiming her spirituality, Samantha discovered the difference between externally imposed beliefs and an internally guided spiritual path. Together, Nicky and Samantha explore the nuances of family dynamics, the courage to question long-held beliefs, and the role of self-care and inner wisdom in rebuilding a life of authenticity, sovereignty, and self-acceptance.

Takeaways
Religious trauma is defined by control and manipulation.
Fear-based teachings can lead to mental health issues.
Separation from religion can lead to self-acceptance.
Spirituality offers freedom and personal growth.
Leaving toxic environments is essential for well-being.
Community can be found outside of traditional religious structures.
Self-worth is not determined by religious dogma.
Miseducation in religion can hinder personal development.
The journey to spirituality can be challenging but rewarding.
Recognizing one's own power is key to spiritual freedom. There are phases of transition when leaving a religion.
Internal validation is crucial for self-acceptance.
Going no contact can be necessary for healing.
Family dynamics can complicate personal growth.
Reframing relationships with family can aid in healing.
Questioning beliefs is essential for personal growth.
Self-care is foundational for transformation.
Trusting your own voice is vital in the healing process.
Journaling can help clarify thoughts and feelings.
Suffering is not a requirement in spirituality.

Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
[email protected]

Connect with Samantha:
SamanthaGregory.com
SamanthaGregory.com/links
blyss.substack.com

Keywords: religious trauma, spirituality, self-acceptance, fear-based control, toxic environments, mental health, church, personal growth, community, freedom, religion, spirituality, self-discovery, trauma, family dynamics, personal growth, critical thinking, inner wisdom, self-care, healing
50 min
June 12, 2025Healing with Somatic Therapy: The Body Remembers
In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck sits down with Shena Jade Jensen, a licensed therapist and relationship coach with over 15 years of experience. Shena brings a deep, body-oriented perspective to her work, drawing from extensive training in somatic modalities including Somatic Experiencing and Hakomi.

Together, Nicky and Shena dive into the world of somatic therapy, exploring how the body holds emotional experiences and the powerful role present-moment awareness plays in healing. The conversation touches on how trauma shows up in the nervous system, the importance of grounding and embodiment, and why a trauma-informed approach is essential to effective therapeutic work.

Shena also offers insight into the distinctions between coaching and therapy, and the value of having professional guidance when working with deep emotional patterns. Throughout the episode, Nicky and Shena illuminate the layered nature of healing and the importance of connection, mindfulness, and compassion on the path toward emotional well-being.

Takeaways:
Somatic therapy focuses on the mind-body connection.
Memories can be stored in the body as tension and pain.
Trauma can manifest in small, everyday experiences.
Talking about trauma has limitations; somatic therapy addresses the body.
Dissociation is a common response to trauma.
Present moment awareness can help in processing trauma.
Somatic release can take many forms, including shaking and crying.
Professional guidance is crucial in trauma work.
Healing involves rewriting patterns in the nervous system.
Grounding through the body is essential for healing.
Embodiment leads to empowerment and self-acceptance.
Changing posture can transform self-perception.
Trauma-informed therapy is crucial for effective healing.
Therapists must be trained to hold space for clients' emotions.
Mindfulness practices are foundational in somatic therapy.
Repatterning thoughts requires a complex understanding of trauma.
Healing is a layered process that unfolds over time.
Connection with others enhances the healing journey.
Practicing self-compassion is vital for emotional growth.

Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
[email protected]

Connect with Shena:
https://bayfamilycounseling.com/
https://www.instagram.com/themarriagetherapist/
https://www.facebook.com/ShenaWakeUpInLove

Tags: somatic therapy, trauma, Hakomi, emotional healing, body awareness, mindfulness, dissociation, personal growth, therapy techniques, mental health, somatic work, overcoming trauma, grounding, embodiment, healing, empowerment, therapy, coaching, emotional processing
43 min
June 05, 2025Brainspotting: A Therapy Modality for Processing Deep Emotions
In this episode of the Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck interviews Nichole Jones about brain spotting, a therapeutic technique that evolved from EMDR. Nichole Jones, LPC is a Certified Brainspotting Practitioner (soon to be consultant), Ayurveda+Yoga Therapist, and Money mindset coach who has been practicing brainspotting for the last decade. Nichole explains the origins of brain spotting, its process, and how it differs from traditional therapy methods. The conversation delves into the importance of body awareness, the client-centered approach in therapy, and the use of grounding techniques to manage activation during sessions. Nichole emphasizes that clients do not need to recount traumatic stories, making brain spotting a gentle yet effective method for processing trauma and anxiety. In this conversation, Nichole Jones shares her insights on brain spotting, a therapeutic technique for addressing trauma and emotional distress. She discusses the importance of understanding each client's unique needs and experiences, emphasizing that while brain spotting can be beneficial for many, it may not work for everyone. Nichole also reflects on her personal journey with brain spotting, revealing how it helped her navigate postpartum anxiety and other challenges. The discussion highlights the significance of small T traumas and the role of licensed therapists versus coaches in facilitating healing. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the necessity of support and self-awareness in the therapeutic process.

Takeaways:
Brain spotting evolved from EMDR and focuses on body awareness.
The technique was discovered by David Grand while working with athletes.
Brain spotting allows clients to process trauma without reliving the story.
It emphasizes a client-centered approach, adapting to individual needs.
Grounding techniques are essential for managing client activation.
Clients can find their own 'brain spots' for processing emotions.
Therapists follow the client's lead during sessions, known as 'the tail of the comet.'
The technique can be used for various issues, including anxiety and trauma.
Clients do not need to have a detailed story to benefit from brain spotting.
Everybody's a candidate for brain spotting.
Small T traumas can have a significant impact.
Healing often occurs between therapy sessions.
Support is crucial during the healing process.
Licensed therapists may offer more comprehensive care.
Coaches can be effective if they have the right training.
Self-awareness is key in therapy.

Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
[email protected]

Connect with Nichole:
www.nicholejones.com
www.awakened-wealth.com
https://www.instagram.com/therealnicholejones/

Keywords: brain spotting, EMDR, therapy, trauma, mental health, anxiety, counseling, healing, mindfulness, body awareness, mindfulness, emotional healing, coaching, licensed therapist, personal growth
41 min
May 29, 2025Ceremonial Cacao: Heart Opening Medicine from Indigenous Cultures to Us
In this episode of the Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck interviews Charlotte Nieuwenhuis about the profound relationship humans can cultivate with cacao. Charlotte shares her journey of connecting with cacao as a spiritual teacher, the differences between ceremonial cacao and commercial chocolate, and the importance of ethical sourcing and sustainability in the cacao industry. The conversation delves into the fermentation process, regional variations, and the significance of honoring the ancestral roots of cacao. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes cacao's role in reconnecting humanity with nature and fostering a deeper understanding of our relationship with the earth. In this enlightening conversation, Charlotte Nieuwenhuis shares her profound experiences with cacao, exploring its spiritual significance, cultural reverence, and its role in healing and women's health. She emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with nature and the wisdom of indigenous practices, while also addressing the commercialization of cacao ceremonies in the West. The discussion highlights the continuous journey of learning and the messages received from the cacao spirit, advocating for a deeper understanding and respect for this sacred plant.

Takeaways:
Cacao serves as a spiritual teacher and a connection to the earth.
Ceremonial cacao differs significantly from commercial chocolate.
The fermentation process enhances the nutritional value of cacao.
Regional variations in cacao affect its flavor and quality.
Cultivating a relationship with cacao requires intention and openness.
Ethical sourcing is crucial for sustainable cacao production.
Honoring the farmers and indigenous cultures is essential.
Cacao ceremonies can deepen our connection to nature.
Cacao is a living being that offers wisdom and teachings.

Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
[email protected]

Connect with Charlotte:
https://heart-to-earth.com/
https://www.instagram.com/heart.toearth?igsh=MTB1c3hjMW1nd29uNg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-nieuwenhuis-30b6b424b?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Tags : cacao, chocolate, ceremonial cacao, fermentation, sustainability, indigenous cultures, cacao ceremonies, ethical sourcing, plant medicine, heart opening, Cacao, Heart Opening, Spirituality, Nature Connection, Women's Health, Indigenous Wisdom, Healing, Mindfulness, Cultural Reverence
45 min
May 22, 2025EMDR: Resolving Childhood Trauma
In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck speaks with Tiffany Freer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDRIA Approved Trainer and Consultant. Tiffany shares her deep expertise in using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy with children and adolescents, drawing from her experience in community mental health and the foster care system. Their conversation explores how trauma, both big and small, can impact a child’s development and emotional regulation, often leading to internalized beliefs of self-blame and unworthiness. Tiffany discusses the nuances of adapting EMDR for young clients, the importance of building positive memory networks, and how therapeutic storytelling can support healing, particularly for adopted children. Together, Nicky and Tiffany unpack the power of EMDR to address complex trauma and the vital role of a skilled, attuned therapist in guiding children and families toward lasting transformation.

Takeaways:
Childhood trauma can have lasting effects into adulthood.
EMDR requires modifications when working with children.
Concrete tools are essential for engaging children in therapy.
Children can experience dysregulation similar to adults during therapy.
Small traumas can have significant impacts on self-worth.
Memories are stored state-dependently, affecting emotional responses.
EMDR helps synthesize maladaptive and adaptive memory networks.
Building positive memory networks is crucial in therapy.
Therapeutic storytelling can be effective for adopted children.
Many people experience trauma that they may not remember until later in life.
Therapists should not act as fact-checkers but rather support clients in their journey.
Children often internalize negative experiences, leading to self-blame.
EMDR helps clients process trauma by alternating between past and present memories.
The effectiveness of EMDR can vary based on the individual's prior experiences with trauma.
Finding a qualified EMDR therapist is crucial for effective treatment.
Therapists should be aware of the importance of resourcing clients before diving into trauma work.
Children's memory networks are shorter, allowing for quicker reprocessing in therapy.
Building a trusting relationship with clients is essential for effective therapy.
Therapists must accept the limitations of their role in a child's healing process.

Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
[email protected]

Connect with Tiffany:
https://greenwoodcounselingcenter.com/
https://emdroftherockies.com/

Keywords: EMDR, child therapy, trauma, mental health, childhood trauma, EMDR consultant, therapeutic techniques, emotional regulation, memory processing, attachment theory, childhood, therapy, mental health, healing, memory, internalization, therapist, counseling
59 min
May 15, 2025Art Therapy: Healing Through Creativity
In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, Christine Peine joins us to explore the healing potential of therapeutic art. Christine is a Holistic Business Coach and Therapeutic Art Facilitator who supports entrepreneurs feeling stuck or creatively drained, helping them reconnect with their true selves and rebuild their businesses with clarity and purpose. With a Master’s in Art Therapy, Christine integrates polyvagal theory, somatic practices, and parts work into her unique approach.

She shares her personal journey from burnout to discovering the power of art as a tool for healing and transformation. We dive into how creativity, body awareness, and nervous system regulation work together to support emotional well-being. Christine also guides listeners through an accessible art exercise, inviting connection with the inner child and the body’s innate wisdom. This inspiring conversation offers a fresh perspective on creativity—not as a talent, but as a vital part of healing and self-discovery.

Takeaways:
Therapeutic art is about expressing inner feelings, not creating perfect art.
Polyvagal Theory explains how our nervous system affects our emotions.
The body holds wisdom that can guide us in healing.
Art can help make subconscious feelings visible.
Engaging in creative practices can reconnect us with our inner child.
Movement and breath are essential for regulating our nervous system.
Therapeutic art can be done with simple materials at home.
Self-discovery through art is a personal journey.
Creativity is vital for mental health at any age.
Listening to our intuition can lead to meaningful creative expression.

Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
[email protected]

Connect with Christine:
https://christinepeine.com/
https://www.christinepeine.com/courses/conscious-clarity-practice
https://www.instagram.com/create.with.christine/

Keywords: art therapy, therapeutic art, polyvagal theory, self-discovery, inner child, creative expression, mental health, emotional regulation, healing through art, mindfulness
44 min

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The Connected Community is a place to explore possibility through mindfulness, movement, and self discovery. Our intention is to deliver inspiration, insight, and authenticity, while fostering…

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