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A conversation unlike any other unfolds as Elena Box invites her alter-ego Tabitha Crain—a former NPR correspondent with a BA in performance art and global economics—to interview her about resilience. The result is a profound, often humorous exploration of how we build strength through life's initiations.

The dialogue begins with Elena's earliest memory of resilience: a childhood playground moment that taught her about her inner magic and power. Through Tabitha's theatrical questioning, Elena shares the extraordinary experience of her father's passing, including a transcendent moment when golden light filled her room after his death—a sign that "he had made it and was sending a message to let me know all is well."

At the heart of this episode lies Elena's philosophy of holding "the sacred in one hand and the silly in the other," as she explains how levity serves as a lifeline during our darkest moments. This approach has shaped her work as a death doula and now informs her newest initiation: motherhood.

With remarkable candor, Elena discusses the gap between her expectations and reality as a new mother, despite her extensive preparation. "Our culture still doesn't know what proper support looks like," she reveals, detailing her mission to rebuild the village through women's circles like "The Mother's Well" at her ritual studio. Drawing inspiration from wisdom keepers like Jane Hardwick Collings and Sister Morningstar, Elena advocates for reclaiming meaningful rites of passage around birth, death, and transformation.

Throughout this intimate conversation, Elena and Tabitha weave together spirituality, humor, and practical wisdom about building resilience. Whether you're navigating grief, embracing a new chapter, or simply seeking connection in an increasingly isolated world, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on finding strength through community and self-trust.

Listen, reflect, and perhaps discover your own unique path to resilience. As Tabitha reminds us: "The more you trust yourself and your path and your gnosis, the more the world becomes whole."

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What happens when the veil between worlds grows thin? Both birth and death represent profound thresholds where we're asked to surrender while somehow maintaining our power. After returning from maternity leave, host Elena Box welcomes her birth doula Alexandra Monahan for a raw, intimate conversation about resilience during life's most challenging transitions.

Alexandra shares her journey of walking her mother through end-of-life care after a long battle with cancer and addiction. This profound experience directly influenced her approach to supporting birthing families, especially in creating sacred space during transformative moments. The conversation reveals why Elena specifically sought a doula who understood death transitions to guide her through birth—recognizing the spiritual connection between these universal human experiences.

Then Elena opens up about her own dramatic birth experience—a placental abruption that forced her to abandon her carefully crafted home birth plans. With continuous bleeding, medical interventions, and moment-by-moment life-or-death decisions, Elena faced her greatest fear while still maintaining agency in her care. Through their shared recollections, we witness how resilience manifests not in controlling circumstances but in how we respond when plans crumble.

The most powerful revelation? Surrender does not mean giving up bodily autonomy. Even in the most challenging circumstances where options seem limited, we always retain the choice of how to meet the moment. Both women emphasize that difficult experiences don't diminish the beauty of life's transitions but highlight our capacity to find strength in unexpected places. Their wisdom extends far beyond birth and death, offering profound insights for navigating any of life's challenges with grace, presence, and what Elena calls being "badass about it."

Ready to build your resilience for life's transformative moments? Listen now and discover how to hold sacred space even when everything goes differently than planned. Then follow Alexandra @moonandSundoula to learn about her upcoming village-building workshops.

Listen to my birth playlist: PORTAL

Shout out to Gaia Midwives for their impeccable care!

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What happens when childhood dreams and a love for glittery My Little Pony watches collide with the world of professional music? This week on the Ode to Joy podcast, Sammi Garett, my dear friend and an exceptionally talented musician, joins us for a heartwarming and hilarious chat. From our shared memories in Port Washington to her captivating journey from a high school drummer to a celebrated performer, we recollect the joyful and funny moments that have shaped her path. Sammi also reveals a surprising hobby—archery—that adds another layer to her creative and multifaceted life.

Sammi shares her love for percussion, the thrill of her first lead role in a middle school musical, and the undeniable energy exchange with audiences that has fueled her career. Our conversation covers the serendipitous moments that led her to join the funk band Turkuaz, and the resilience required to thrive as an artist amidst the inevitable challenges and criticisms. Sammi’s heartfelt insights into maintaining a positive mental attitude and staying true to oneself are both inspiring and relatable, especially for anyone navigating the pressures of performing and social anxiety.

Wrapping up this episode, we celebrate the joy of music touring and express our gratitude to our listeners. Sammi gives us a sneak peek into her exciting upcoming projects with her band Cool Cool Cool, including new music releases and tour dates. Don’t miss the chance to follow her journey on social media and catch her live for an unforgettable experience. Tune in for a delightful ride filled with laughter, music, and a touch of nostalgia.


Follow Sammi:
IG @sammigarett
https://sammigarett.com/
Join Cool Cool Cool on Tour https://wearecoolcoolcool.com/tour


Follow Elena:
@elenabox

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Have you ever witnessed the transformative magic of movement, or felt the intricate connection between your creative spirit and the ancient practice of yoga? Sondra Loring, our esteemed guest, embodies this synergy as a queer witch, interdisciplinary artist, and the Director of Sadhana Center for Yoga and Meditation. Her life's work weaves a stunning narrative that connects the fluidity of dance with the grounding practice of meditation, offering a revitalizing perspective on trauma-informed yoga through her impactful program, Moving Potential.

This episode is an intimate exploration of the threads that bind yoga, creativity, and the joys of living a mindful life. Sondra's candid recollections—from her early days as a ballet dancer to a beacon of hope for those dealing with the repercussions of incarceration and addiction—paint a vivid picture of a journey rich with learning and humility. Her stories serve as a guide, revealing how we too can integrate movement and meditation into our daily rituals, fostering spaces where sorrow is met with gratitude and personal growth is achieved through the mentorship of brilliant minds from diverse disciplines.

As we bid adieu to Sondra, we find ourselves wrapped in the warmth of community and self-care, embracing the simple pleasures of vibrant attire, morning candle rituals, and the comfort of our shared human experiences. It's a heartfelt reminder of the resilience found in the fabric of our collective narratives and the beauty that arises when we honor our individuality within the tapestry of life. Stay with us as we continue to bring forward voices that resonate with the soul's longing for connection, creativity, and, of course, a dash of joy.

Get in touch with Sondra:
Visit Sadhana Center for Yoga and Meditation
Moving Potential
Follow on IG: @sadhanacenter

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Have you ever felt the stirrings of an untapped creativity, a wild muse whispering secrets of transformation and connection? Brittney Bliss, Asheville's own somatic intimacy coach and wilderness witch, joins us to weave tales of awakening this inner magic. From the whispers of childhood to the roar of an authentic life, Brittney's insights into nurturing the magic within offer a roadmap for those ready to embark on a journey of profound self-discovery.

As we wander through the forest of our psyche, Brittney illuminates the synergy between somatic intimacy coaching and wilderness, and how these elements can harmonize to foster growth and healing. By tapping into the wellspring of sexual energy as a creative force, we discuss strategies to integrate our desires and passions, from the playful inner child to the fiery rebellion within. Each chapter of our conversation is a step deeper into understanding how embracing our multifaceted selves leads to true enrichment of our lives and relationships.

Ending on a practical note, we take to heart the art of self-expression and facing our inner critic. Brittney offers a glimpse into the safe spaces she creates for individuals to bloom, sharing her wisdom on balancing the thrill of intense exploration with the grounding need for safety. Her story is a call to those ready to dance with their muse, a summons to align with joy, creativity, and the deep connections that await in Brittney's world of transformational coaching and international retreats. Join us for an episode that's more than just talk—it's an invitation to live a life enchanted.


Work with Brittney:
https://brittneybliss.com/
Instant download to a free sex magic practice + FREE access to Brittney's upcoming event on Jan 11th (New Moon / New Year Sex Magic Ritual)

Follow Brittney:
@brittney.bliss


Follow Elena:
@elenabox

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Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box"
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Have you ever wondered if the stars could be your guide through life's tumultuous journey? Evolutionary astrologer Ben Kibby joins us to shed light on how combining astrology with aromatherapy and shamanic practices can illuminate the path to personal mythology and joy. Our conversation veers into the unexpected as we draw parallels between celestial movements and the peculiar technical difficulties, as if Mars itself had a quirky sense of humor about our recording schedule!

From the wrestling mat to the enlightening tenets of Buddhism, Ben's story of identity transformation reveals the powerful shifts that can occur when we step outside societal norms. Ben and I engage in a heartfelt discussion about those moments in life that force us to confront who we are and who we want to become. As we converse about the liberating journey from an athlete in a world of toxic masculinity to someone more attuned to their spiritual awakening, it becomes clear that our greatest defeats may set the stage for our most profound growth.

We wrap up our session pondering soul contracts, the comfort found in the cosmos during times of grief, and how astrology can act as a navigational tool at life's myriad crossroads. Whether you're new to astrology or seeking deeper understanding of your own birth chart, this episode promises to offer a fresh perspective on the cosmic dance between fate and free will. So, join us for an exploration of the skies and the self, and let's discover together how the heavens might reflect our most human experiences.


Work with Ben:
https://www.the-alchemical-soul.com/

Follow Ben:
@the_alchemical_soul

Resources:
https://www.astro.com/horoscope
“You Were Born For This” by Chani Nicholas

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Ever felt like an inner critic is stifling your creativity? Want to unlock your inner genius and find joy in the process? Tag along with us as we welcome visionary artist, Jake Kobrin, whose insights on the Ode to Joy Podcast are going to turn your world around. Discover how a unique kambo ceremony in Bali helped Jake purge emotional toxins and faced his grief head-on, reinforcing the power of release and healing in our journey to joy.

In this riveting conversation, we'll also delve into the idea of the muse's role in sparking creativity, and how discipline and surrendering intertwine in artistry. Uncover the secrets of how children effortlessly tap into their innate genius, a journey that might just reignite your own creative spirit. As we wrap up, allow Jake's touching account of his teenage years and his struggle with his inner critic to inspire you. Learn strategies to overcome your internal barriers and let your creativity flow. This episode will be a treat for anyone yearning to embrace joy, nurture their muse, and unleash their artistic side. Don't miss out!

Follow Jake:
@_.kobrin._
Learn with Jake: https://jakekobrinartcourses.thinkific.com/
Visit Jake's website: jakekobrin.com






Follow Elena:
@elenabox
Visit Elena's website: elenabox.com 

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Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box"
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Do you ever feel disconnected, 'othered', or not quite fitting into the societal norms? We've all been there. In fact, our guest today, the incredible Chelsea Camin, a past life witch, once felt the same. She took us on an incredible journey of spiritual awakening, self-discovery, and authenticity, inspiring us with her courage to break free from an oppressive education system and the societal norms that held her back from realizing her true potential.

Chelsea deftly guided us to explore the depths of our inner genius and the witch wound, navigating the complex world of imposter syndrome. She shed light on the significance of honing our unique gifts, embracing authenticity, and finding the right community. With her valuable insights into overcoming fears and fostering self-acceptance, Chelsea helped us better understand the power we all hold within ourselves and how we can utilize it to transform our lives.

Lastly, we delved into the intriguing world of past life work and its integration into daily life, with Chelsea sharing her transformative experiences with candle magic. We also discussed practical ways to protect our spiritual wellbeing in the online space and the importance of setting boundaries. Wrapping up our journey, Chelsea reflected on the intricacies of being a healer and the desire to be 'normal.' In an episode filled with wisdom and inspiration, Chelsea's story is a brilliant reminder of the joy that comes from embracing our true selves. Don't miss out on this empowering conversation!

Connect with Chelsea:
https://www.thepastlifewitch.com/
Follow on IG @thepastlifewitch

Follow Elena @elenabox

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Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box"
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What if you could reach across the threshold of the physical world and connect with the spirit realm? That's the intriguing journey we embark on in our latest conversation with Claudia Kubata, the Death Faerie herself, where we explore the fascinating realms of spirituality, mediumship, and communication with spirits. We tackle the uncomfortable, yet essential aspects of our roles as death doulas and shed light on the hope, love, and excitement we find in this unique interaction with the deceased.

In the episode, Claudia takes us through her personal journey of embracing mediumship, the encounters she's had with spirits, and the process of validating the authenticity of these experiences. Delving into the often misunderstood concept of modern-day witchcraft, we debunk the stigma associated with it and stress the importance of authenticity in this realm. Furthermore, we traverse the intriguing subject of spirits attaching themselves to humans and discuss ways to set protective boundaries.

Our chat doesn't stop there. We share insights on how to open oneself up to spirit communication, discussing various psychic senses and how they manifest in interactions with spirits, encouraging listeners to explore spirit communication in their own unique ways. Claudia also gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming workbook, loaded with spirit play activities, to tap into psychic abilities with a sense of wonder and fun. Join us on this spiritually uplifting journey and discover how you can connect with the other side.


About Claudia:

Meet Claudia, known as The Death Faerie, your guide to the Other Side. Claudia has been a Psychic Medium all her life, forging connections with Spirits since as far back as she can remember. Her journey into understanding and harnessing this gift began in the early 2000s when she delved into energy work and honed her Psychic abilities.

What sets Claudia apart is her ability to Trance Channel and her training as an Evidential Medium. When she connects with the Spirit realm, she becomes a conduit for their energy, creating sessions that often feel like a healing embrace.

Her mission? To assist others in connecting with Spirit, nurturing and fortifying their own Psychic capabilities. Claudia is not only a seasoned Psychic Medium but also a trained Death Doula affiliated with Going with Grace, proudly contributing to the Death Positive Movement.

Embracing the inevitability of mortality, Claudia encourages everyone to live their best lives while planning for a peaceful transition. After all, as she says, "Eventually, we will all die. So let's live our best life and plan for a good death."

Connect with Claudia:
Book a session: www.thedeathfaerie.com
Follow her on Instagram @thedeathfaerie


Elena's free e-book -- Elements of an Ancestor Altar

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Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box"
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Do you ever stop to consider the powerful energy that flows from your body and its intricate cycles? Today, we invite you to join us on a transformative journey of discovery with Naema Pierce, a pelvic specialist and women's sex coach. This enlightening conversation will have you contemplating your connection to your body, your femininity, and your innate creativity like never before.

Naema's life-altering experiences in the heart of Peru sparked a spiritual awakening, reconnecting her to the earth and igniting her mission to assist others in honoring their menstrual cycles and reclaiming their sexuality. Let's shatter the shackles of a patriarchal society together, and embrace the freedoms found in recognizing and celebrating our cycles. From discussing the potency of the menstrual cycle to exploring sacred femininity through bodywork, Naema's insights foster a profound understanding of womanhood and our bodies.

We delve into the eye-opening topics of intimacy, pelvic health, and the transformative power of self-pleasure practices. Naema shares her personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with our bodies and our sexuality, and the liberation that can unravel from opening the floodgates of grief. Encouraging us to confidently reclaim our sexuality, and utilize our unique stories for healing and connection, Naema introduces us to the exhilarating world of self-connection through sexuality. It's time to unearth our inner muse and celebrate the vibrant energy within us.


Connect with Naema:

FREE Pussy Love Liberation Practice: https://bit.ly/Free-Pussy-Love-Practice

FREE Art of Sexual Surrender Practice: https://marvelous-experimenter-9517.ck.page/4aa0e46b1c

Website: https://www.naemapierce.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCywaANEFlCtTdE2QwWnC1FA

IG: https://www.instagram.com/naemapierce/


About Naema:

Naema is a pelvic specialist and women’s sex coach - helping women & pussy owners overcome pain, shame and disconnection in their pussy & sexuality so they can experience epic sex, erotic confidence and a thriving relationship to their pussy and selves. 

She helps women unlock this through her VAPPA™  method - an integrative approach to sexual liberation and hands on pelvic care. 

She is a powerful coach, working online with clients globally as well as in person in her thriving bodywork practice in Asheville, NC where she offers somatic pelvic healing sessions to women & pussy owners who are ready to get to the root of their disconnect and discover deep sexual liberation & healing. 

Naema is a total science nerd, esoterically deep, ridiculously playful, and is wildly passionate about helping you to live your most liberated and pleasurable life possible. 

Support the show

Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box"
Follow on IG @elenabox