Interview begins @ 5:18

In this episode, we dive into the compelling journey of Greg Wrenn, author of the ayahuasca eco-memoir Mothership. Greg begins by sharing a poignant excerpt from his book that ties back to an early memory of his mother, illustrating the profound impact of growing up with an emotionally dysregulated parent. His memoir not only explores personal trauma but also the psychodynamics that have shaped his life.

Greg, a former Stegner Fellow and an associate professor at James Madison University, discusses the transformative nature of poetry, suggesting that a poem is not merely read but experienced. This belief mirrors his view on life's most impactful experiences—they may not always be pleasant, but they are transformative.

A central theme of our conversation is the role of psychedelics, particularly ayahuasca, in personal healing and growth. Greg offers insights into current research, highlighting how psychedelics can reopen critical developmental periods, fostering integration, trauma recovery, and creativity. He emphasizes the importance of being mindful about what we "feed" our brain during these malleable times, as the experiences can deeply sculpt our mind and consciousness.

We also critique the modern education system's focus on outcomes over experiences, discussing how this emphasis can hinder deep, meaningful engagement with learning processes. Greg shares how his healing was profoundly influenced by his connections with nature and his experiences with ayahuasca, drawing a powerful link between ecological awareness and personal well-being.

Bio:

A former Stegner Fellow and Jones Lecturer at Stanford University, Greg Wrenn is the author of ayahuasca eco-memoir Mothership: A Memoir of Wonder and Crisis (Regalo Press 2024), an evidence-based account of his turning to coral reefs and plant medicines to heal from childhood trauma, and Centaur (U of Wisconsin Press 2013), which National Book Award-winning poet Terrance Hayes awarded the Brittingham Prize.

Greg's work has appeared or is forthcoming in HuffPost, The New Republic, Al Jazeera, The Rumpus, LitHub, Writer's Digest, Kenyon Review, New England Review, The Iowa Review, and elsewhere. He has received awards and fellowships from the James Merrill House, the Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference, the Vermont Studio Center, the Poetry Society of America, the Hermitage Artist Retreat, the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts, and the Spiro Arts Center.

As an associate English professor at James Madison University, he teaches creative nonfiction, poetry, and environmental literature. He also teaches in the low-residency MFA Program at Bennington Writing Seminars and in the Memoir Certificate Program at Stanford Continuing Studies. He was educated at Harvard University and Washington University in St. Louis.

Greg is currently sending out Homesick, his second poetry collection. A student of ayahuasca since 2019, he is a trained yoga teacher and a PADI Advanced Open Water diver, having explored coral reefs around the world for over 25 years. He and his husband live in the mountains of Virginia, the ancestral land of the Manahoac and Monacan people.

www.gregwrenn.com

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Interview begins @ 5:03

In this episode of The Sacred Speaks, we explore the pioneering work of Dr. Ross Ellenhorn, a visionary dedicated to reshaping mental health care. Dr. Ellenhorn introduces us to his unique "hospital without walls," a concept that challenges traditional mental health treatments and seeks to destigmatize the way we approach psychological well-being. Through his innovative psychedelic business, he emphasizes creativity and play as crucial therapeutic tools.

Dr. Ellenhorn shares his personal journey, starting from being labeled as "not normal" by societal standards, and discusses how such labels feed into a detrimental power dynamic that fosters dependence and hopelessness. He critiques the pharmaceutical industry, conventional education systems, and the medicalization of mental health, prompting us to question whether mental health issues are truly "diseases."

The episode explores the limitations of reductive diagnoses and the potential harms of treating mental health with a purely medical approach that overlooks the human element of healing. Dr. Ellenhorn highlights the significance of play in therapy, describing it as a process where rigid experiences of suffering can become malleable and manageable.

Further, Dr. Ellenhorn recounts his personal struggles with learning differences and how these experiences fueled his passion for writing and advocating for a system that embraces playfulness and creativity as essential components of healing.

Bio:

Dr. Ellenhorn is a pioneer and leader in the development and promotion of community integration services, types of care that serve and empower individuals diagnosed with psychiatric and/or addiction issues while they remain in their own communities and outside institutional settings.

Trained as a sociologist, psychotherapist and social worker, Ross Ellenhorn, Ph.D., created the first fully operational intensive hospital-diversion and wraparound program in Massachusetts, and went on to establish and lead one of the first public Programs for Assertive Community Treatment

teams in the state. He is the owner and CEO of Ellenhorn, the most robust community-integration program in the United States, which offers services outside of a hospital or residential setting for individuals experiencing addictive behaviors and/or extreme and complex states of mind and mood. Ellenhorn has offices in Boston, New York and Los Angeles.

Dr. Ellenhorn has authored three books on human behavior: “Parasuicidality and Paradox: Breaking Through the Medical Model” (Springer Publishing, 2007) addresses psychiatric hospital recidivism and techniques for diverting hospital use; “How We Change (and Ten Reasons Why We Don’t)” (HarperCollins Publishers, 2020) takes a deep dive into the dynamics that influence all human change; and “Purple Crayons: The Art of Drawing a Life,” (HarperCollins Publishers, 2022) addresses play as a central and vital human activity in our modern times. He has authored numerous articles, gives talks and seminars throughout the country, and provides consultation to mental health agencies, psychiatric hospitals and addiction programs.

https://www.ellenhorn.com

https://cardea.net

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Interview begins @ 5:58

Annie Lamott and Neal Allen invite us into the heart of their relationship, where creativity, curiosity, and vulnerability intertwine. Annie introduces Neal's latest book, "Better Days: Tame Your Inner Critic," while Neal shares insights into Annie's newest work, "Somehow: Thoughts on Love." As we delve into their dynamic, we're reminded of Annie's infamous KFKD radio – a familiar concept for anyone acquainted with her writings – and how Neal's exploration of the inner critic seamlessly complements Annie's work. Reflecting on the early days of their relationship, Annie and Neal recount moments of openness and vulnerability, testing the waters of acceptance and understanding. Their willingness to confront their deepest wounds and expose them to the world underscores their authenticity and likability. Neal challenges the corrosive nature of identity politics, emphasizing the importance of transcending rigid notions of identity to foster genuine connection. In a candid discussion, Annie shares her experience with cancel culture and the anxiety it breeds in our social landscape. Together, we explore the implications of cancel culture on personal relationships and societal discourse, pondering the importance of genuine communication and compassion. As we journey deeper into their relationship, Annie and Neal offer a masterclass in marriage, highlighting the value of acceptance, curiosity, and patience. They demonstrate how years of spiritual and psychological work pave the way for navigating conflicts with grace and understanding.

Midway through the interview, Annie steps away, allowing Neal and John to explore the realm of the inner critic. Through an active Gestault exercise, Neal provides a firsthand example of confronting the superego and shedding the layers of defensiveness that obscure our true selves. Together, we explore the perception that shame and the superego serve as sufficient motivators for progress, while also examining the divisive nature of identity politics and its impact on our culture. Neal offers insights into the role of defensiveness in protecting against vulnerability, urging us to embrace authenticity over superficiality.

Bio:

Anne Lamott is the author of twenty books, including the New York Timesbestsellers Help, Thanks, Wow; Dusk, Night, Dawn; Traveling Mercies; and Bird by Bird, as well as seven novels. A recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship and an inductee to the California Hall of Fame and Neal Allen is a spiritual coach, workshop leader, and author who began his transformative journey about ten years ago. Bob Birnbaum, introduced him to the teachings of notable figures like Fritz Perls, Carl Rogers, and Adyashanti, as well as spiritual practices such as Eckhart Tolle's neo-Buddhism and Hameed Ali's Diamond Approach. His exploration deepened into self-realization, guiding him through phases of shedding personal narratives and societal beliefs, embracing the absurd, and confronting the concept of death, which included volunteering at hospice and dealing with personal loss. These experiences have profoundly shaped his practice and writings, including his books "Shapes of Truth: Discover God Inside You" and "Better Days: Tame Your Inner Critic."

www.shapesoftruth.com

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Interview begins @ 4:06

In this episode Dimitri Mugianis shares his captivating journey from a tumultuous early life marked by drug use as a means to alleviate pain and delve into alternate states of consciousness, to a life-transforming encounter with iboga. This African sacrament catalyzed his confrontation with trauma, miraculously eradicating his heroin dependency post-experience. Our conversation navigates through the realms of alternate states of consciousness, religion, healing, harm reduction, and the significance of art in recovery.

Dimitri highlights the spiritual longing inherent in addiction, resonating with Jung's insights on the quest for the divine. He reflects on the invaluable lessons and spiritual insights gained from his time within the Bwiti community in Gabon, Africa, underscoring the profound impact of music, specifically rock and roll and jazz, in his survival and healing journey. The discussion extends to the power of community, family, art, connection, medicine, and spirituality in fostering healing environments.

We explore Dimitri's transformative work in Harlem, assisting individuals in overcoming opiate addiction through the principles of the Bwiti tradition and his innovative approach to harm reduction. This episode challenges conventional perspectives on addiction treatment, inviting a reevaluation of success beyond mere abstinence. Dimitri's insights into the fetishization of trauma and the creation of the experiential space, Cardea, in New York City, offer a fresh lens on healing and recovery.

Join us as we dissect the modern "medical gaze," its limitations, and how it parallels with the "shaman’s gaze" in its approach to healing. Dimitri's story is a testament to the potential for radical change, advocating for a broader understanding of addiction, treatment, and the essence of healing itself.

Bio:

Dimitri Mugianis, harm reduction advocate and psychedelic practitioner, musician, writer, and community organizer, became the face of using underground Ibogaine to kick heroin addiction in the United States. He developed a hybrid modality of administration that integrates the ceremonial and musical elements of traditional ibogaine ceremonies with the best safety protocols of Western medicine. His story is the focus of the documentary I’m Dangerous With Love and his work has been documented by The New York Times, The Rolling Stone, This American Life, HBO, and many more. Even though Ibogaine is still prohibited in the United States, it is attracting avid interest from researchers all over the world and becoming accepted among care providers and clinics.

Dimitri has led over five hundred Ibogaine ceremonies and supported numerous individuals with their problematic habits. He’s also performed thousands of ceremonies using sound, art and psychedelics – especially Psilocybin and MDMA – to help individuals break with their psychological suffering and to spark spiritual awakenings.

Immersed in the psychedelic space for the last 20 years, Mugianis is an expert in both the potential and limitations of psychedelic medicines. A respected icon in the field of harm reduction, he co-created a holistic program at New York Harm Reduction Educators (NYHRE), a groundbreaking Harlem-based community organization bringing together acupuncture, ritual, sound meditation, reiki, bodywork and other treatment modalities for people experiencing homelessness, active drug users, sex workers and the formerly incarcerated.

https://www.dimitrimugianis.com

https://cardea.net

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Interview begins @ 4:08

In episode 106 of "The Sacred Speaks" podcast, John and guest Lisa Marchiano dive into the complex realms of anger, manipulation, rage, and their inherent values for the feminine in our conversation as we discuss her book, The Vital Spark: Reclaim Your Outlaw Feminine Energies and Find Your Feminine Fire. Our conversation starts with a focus on the feminine wisdom tradition, contrasting the masculine and feminine as psychological principles. These principles are hard to define precisely, and it's essential to clarify our terms to truly understand them.

Lisa brings her clinical experience into the discussion, highlighting the subtle yet significant differences she observes in men and women, despite their underlying similarities. This episode explores the notion that, regardless of gender, we all have access to a spectrum of psychological attributes. Lisa illustrates how it might be easier for individuals to access certain aspects of these masculine or feminine poles, though we all possess the capacity for both. Within her book Lisa uses Lilith, a figure from early Jewish mystical lore, as an emblem of empowered women who challenge cultural and hierarchical norms. This discussion segues into Lisa's book-writing process, which she describes as a journey of self-discovery, particularly in the realm of claiming personal authority. We discuss the concepts of archetypes, developmental theories from Freud to Jung, and the role of archetypes in shaping our psychological expressions, family systems, and early environments. The episode further examines the use of fairy tales in Lisa's book as a means to illustrate these archetypal patterns and universal psychological themes. An intriguing aspect of our dialogue is the concept of the 'worthy opponent' and how gender polarities seek this dynamic in various relationships, be it professional, romantic, or otherwise. These relationships challenge us to express the fullest version of ourselves. We discuss the differences between men and women in sexual dynamics, the operation of these polarities, and the importance of mutuality in sexual relationships.

Lastly, we touch upon the shadow aspect of the feminine, with Lisa providing insightful context and interpretations. This episode is a deep dive into understanding our inner selves and the psychological principles that shape our experiences and interactions.

Bio:

Lisa Marchiano is an award-winning author, podcaster, and certified Jungian analyst. Her highly-acclaimed books draw upon the healing wisdom of fairy tales to help women connect more deeply with themselves. Lisa is a host of the popular depth-psychology podcast This Jungian Life. With over 10 million downloads and a loyal following that includes artists, journalists, and celebrities, This Jungian Life is a top podcast in the US in the health and fitness category. Lisa obtained her BA from Brown University. She holds a Master of International Affairs from Columbia University and a Master of Social Work from New York University. She trained at the Inter-regional Society of Jungian Analysts.

In addition to her books, Lisa’s writing has appeared in numerous publications, including the Journal of Analytical Psychology. She is a sought-after speaking and workshop facilitator who has lectured widely both in the US and abroad.

https://lisamarchiano.com

www.spinningstraw.com

https://thisjungianlife.com

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105: Becca Tarnas – The Imagination and The Red Books of Tolkien & Jung by John Price

Interview begins @ 4:00

In this episode of "The Sacred Speaks," embark on an exploratory journey with Dr. Stephen Aizenstat, diving into the depths of the inner self. Our dialogue begins with the concept of the inner journey, ignited by curiosity, as seen through the lens of Dr. Aizenstat. A masterful storyteller, he intertwines compelling narratives from both his personal and professional realms, offering a glimpse into his distinctive worldview.

Our conversation reveals the notion of 'genius' residing in each individual, transcending the bounds of the extraordinary. Dr. Aizenstat shares enlightening stories that demonstrate how engaging with our imagination can propel us beyond mere rationality, leading us into a life imbued with soulfulness and fulfillment. We confront the nature of resistance, both within ourselves and in others, discussing how a nondefensive, curious approach can pave the way for deeper understanding and personal growth. Dr. Aizenstat's methodology, marked by compassion and openness, provides a novel perspective on personal evolution. As we delve further, we examine the influence of depth psychology on Dr. Aizenstat's work, especially his interaction with inner figures and the transformative power of genuine curiosity. He champions a co-creative journey with these inner entities, illustrating how exploration and engagement can alleviate discomfort and enrich our inner world. A memorable segment of our discussion highlights Dr. Aizenstat's encounter with Joseph Campbell at Esalen, marking the beginning of a significant friendship. He recounts a fascinating story about Campbell's meeting with George Lucas, a pivotal moment that shaped the narrative of Star Wars, exemplifying the exploration of shadow and archetypes. Additionally, we explore the personification of emotions and the inner world, a central element of Dr. Aizenstat's approach. The episode culminates with an insightful discussion on the four quadrants of his Creative Matrix: Earth, Mind, Machine, and Universe, shedding light on the interplay of these elements in our lives.

https://dreamtending.com

Bio:

Stephen Aizenstat, Ph.D., is the founder and Chancellor Emeritus of Pacifica Graduate Institute, Dream Tending, and the Academy of Imagination. For more than 35 years, he has explored the power of dreams through depth psychology and has devoted his life to understanding the profound wisdom and healing power that exist within each of us and has helped thousands of students, individuals, businesses, and organizations through the techniques revealed in The Imagination Matrix. His work centers on the insight that, through our dreams and imagination, we can access limitless creativity, innovation, improved relationships, and, ultimately, our human potential. He has collaborated with Joseph Campbell, Marion Woodman, Robert Johnson, James Hillman, and Native elders worldwide. He conducts dreamwork and imagination seminars throughout the US, Europe, and Asia.

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Interview begins @ 9:25

Father Richard Rohr explores his experiences with men and men's work. Growing up in a Catholic seminary surrounded by males, he became acutely aware of both the beautiful and neurotic facets of masculinity. His time working in an Albuquerque jail exposed him to the ways men suffer and express their pain, which deepened his understanding and prompted reflection on male-centric theories. This allowed him to better address the unique sufferings faced by men. He emphasizes the importance of healthy male role models for men to emulate, ensuring they engage with the world with integrity. Drawing parallels, he narrates a fascinating tale of aggressive young elephants in Africa that were pacified when elder bull elephants were introduced as positive male influences.

The episode touches on the intricacies of the masculine archetype, navigating the sensitive conversation surrounding masculinity and femininity, and the unification of separated entities. Father Rohr elaborates on the four central male archetypes: King, Warrior, Lover, & Magician. The discussion then shifts to rites of passage, highlighting how certain traditions may miss the essence of such rites. Father Rohr points out that unlike females, who undergo a natural rite of passage with the onset of menstruation, males lack an equivalent biological marker, necessitating cultural rites to signal their transition to manhood.

The conversation examines the significance of rites of passage in balancing the spirit and soul, the importance of shadow dynamics in personal development, and the paradoxical nature of a religion centered around divine incarnation yet suppressive of bodily pleasures. The conversation doesn't shy away from controversial topics, discussing the Catholic Church's history with pedophilia, the systemic issues that might contribute to such atrocities, and the cyclical nature of sin and redemption.

This comprehensive discussion offers invaluable insights into masculinity, spirituality, and the complexities of human nature.

Bio:

Franciscan friar and ecumenical teacher, Father Richard Rohr bears witness to the deep wisdom of Christian mysticism and traditions of action and contemplation. Founder of the Center for Action and Contemplation, Father Richard teaches how God’s grace guides us to our birthright as beings made of Divine Love. He is the author of numerous books, including The Universal Christ, The Wisdom Pattern, Just This, and Falling Upward.

www.cac.org

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102: Connie Zweig – Meeting the Shadow on the Spiritual Path by John Price

Interview begins @ 4:37

Join your host John Price as he welcomes Miriam Volat, the co-director of The RiverStyx Foundation, co-director of the Indigenous Medicine Conservation Fund, and Executive Director of IPCI. Together, they engage in an eye-opening discussion that bridges the gap between ecology, indigenous traditions, and the Sacred.

Episode Overview

In this episode, we kick things off by learning about The RiverStyx Foundation, discussing its mission and vision for a more connected world. Miriam shares her extensive background in ecology, with a special focus on soil science. She reveals how her work in ecology has been a gateway to explore indigenous traditions, particularly entheogenic healing practices. Miriam argues that a deeper, more direct connection with the Sacred can serve as a catalyst to rekindle our relationship with our immediate environment.

Key Points

• Ecology as a Lens: Miriam explains how her expertise in soil and ecology serves as a unique lens to appreciate and investigate indigenous practices.

• The Disconnect: We discuss the alarming separation people experience from their communities, the Earth, and the cultural touchstones that help define them. The absence of methodologies for navigating traumas exacerbates this disconnection.

• Rethinking Extractive Models: Miriam and John scrutinize modern, extractive approaches to culture, community, and the Earth, highlighting their unsustainability and the damage they've done.

• Colonialism's Impact: A look into how colonialism rejects the importance of context in understanding our environment, history, and relationships.

• Cultural Lineage and Connection: Miriam emphasizes the importance of embracing your cultural roots, being aware of your environment, and valuing the connections you currently possess.

• Consumerism vs Community: Both guests concur on the suffering caused when our inherent need for community and culture is supplanted by consumerism and symptom management.

• Intellectual Property and Healing: The episode challenges the concept of patenting natural compounds, molecules, and healing processes, arguing that these should be communal rather than proprietary.

• Death and Compostable Toilets: Borrowing from her background in ecology, Miriam discusses death and environmentally sustainable practices, including compostable toilets.

• Sacred Medicines and Responsibility: The conversation wraps up with a discussion on how these sacred medicines are not only rites but also responsibilities that make us more aware of what we bring into the world.

Bio:

NON-PROFIT DIRECTOR

Miriam Volat M.S. Co-Director of Riverstyx Foundation & Indigenous Medicine Conservation Fund, Executive Director of IPCI, is an educator, organizer, facilitator and ecologist with a passion for soils and nutrient cycles. She works Nationally and Internationally to increase health in all systems. She is dedicated to the biocultural conservation of Peyote and other sacred medicines supported by the IMC Fund, and works in any way she can to ensure the conservation of these medicines for Indigenous communities and their precious ways of life. As a mom, she is fortunate her daughter, Cora, also supports her work.

https://www.riverstyxfoundation.org

https://imc.fund

https://www.ipci.life

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