A Description of episode 134 of Outside The Studio with Tessa:

Outside the Studio presents a conversation with Rachel White, known as the Skeptical Shaman. Rachel shares her journey from a corporate career to becoming a self-employed spiritual practitioner, discussing the challenges of setting boundaries and the importance of self-care. The conversation explores the intersection of business and spirituality, predictions for the upcoming Wood Snake year in 2025, and the significance of herbalism and flower medicine. Rachel emphasizes the need for expertise in spiritual practices and the revival of ancient wisdom in modern times. They discuss the red flags to watch for in spiritual guidance, the impact of social media on mental health, and the challenges of burnout for entrepreneurs. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for joy and connection with the spirit amidst societal pressures.

What you'll gain from listening in:

1. Approach learning with humility.

2. Practice before teaching others.

3. Be aware of cult dynamics in wellness.

Timestamps

(00:00:00) Introduction to Rachel White: The Skeptical Shaman

(00:03:03) Transitioning from Corporate to Self-Employment

(00:05:50) Navigating Boundaries and Self-Care in Business

(00:09:10) The Intersection of Business and Spirituality

(00:12:09) Predictions for 2025: The Wood Snake Year

(00:15:04) Herbalism and Flower Medicine Explained

(00:21:00) Modernization of Ancient Practices

(00:29:44) Understanding Cult Dynamics in Wellness

(00:34:53) The Impact of Cults on Personal Growth

(00:37:28) Maintaining Autonomy in Spiritual Spaces

(00:39:41) Breaking Free from Social Media Habits

(00:44:17) Navigating Burnout as an Entrepreneur

(00:47:35) Finding Joy Amidst Societal Pressures

Resources:

Website: https://www.totemreadings.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/totemrach/

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-skeptical-shaman/id1692028897

Shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TotemReadingsATX

Enjoy the Podcast? Love to give us 5 stars? Help us reach more people and make them feel loved. A simple way is to share what you've learned today on social media.

Connect with Tessa Tovar:

Website: https://tessatovar.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tessamarietovar/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHMYm-7kNZfulgaiCi2w8Cw

Outside the Studio Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/outside-the-studio-with-tessa-tovar/id1483077110

Book of Poetry for Savasana: https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Moon-Book-Poetry-Savasana/dp/1731243588

A Description of episode 133 of Outside The Studio with Tessa:

Outside the Studio presents an epic conversation with Michelle Tea about her latest book, 'Modern Magic,' exploring the themes of witchcraft, tarot, and personal rituals. We discuss the intersection of tarot and witchcraft, the importance of embracing the unknown in spirituality, and the significance of setting up rituals and altars. In this engaging conversation, Michelle and Tessa explore the intersections of spirituality, creativity, and personal growth. They discuss the influence of 12-step traditions on spiritual practices, the syncretism found in various religious practices, and the importance of creating a sacred space for writing. Michelle shares her journey of embracing her creative livelihood, the challenges of overcoming creative blocks, and the significance of betting on oneself despite fears and uncertainties. The conversation emphasizes the power of rituals, both in magic and writing, and encourages listeners to find their own paths in life.

Three reasons to listen to the whole podcast:

1. Rituals can be personalized and should resonate with the individual, for example setting up an altar can include representation of the 4 elements; earth, air, water, fire.

2. Spell work can start with simple practices like meditation and intention setting and maintaining personal practices is essential, especially in relationships.

3. Learn how to overcome creative blocks using magical practices and how embracing fear is essential in pursuing a creative livelihood.

Timestamps

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:02:00) Michelle Tea's Modern Magic

(00:03:37) The Intersection of Tarot and Witchcraft

(00:07:46) Reframing Witchcraft and Spirituality

(00:12:46) Setting Up Rituals and Altars

(00:17:58) Exploring Spell Work for Beginners

(00:22:51) Balancing Relationships and Personal Practices

(00:25:30) Embracing the Mysteries of Life

(00:27:35) The Influence of 12-Step Traditions on Spirituality

(00:29:43) Syncretism in Spiritual Practices

(00:32:35) The Writing Process as a Sacred Ritual

(00:37:44) Overcoming Creative Blocks with Magic

(00:41:13) The Journey to a Creative Livelihood

(00:48:09) Betting on Yourself: Embracing Fear and Uncertainty

Resources:

Website: https://www.michelle-tea.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelleteaz/

Twitter: https://x.com/TeaMichelle

Modern Magic Book: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/modern-magic-michelle-tea?variant=41384105181218

Enjoy the Podcast? Love to give us 5 stars? Help us reach more people and make them feel loved. A simple way is to share what you've learned today on social media.

Connect with Tessa Tovar:

Website: https://tessatovar.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tessamarietovar/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHMYm-7kNZfulgaiCi2w8Cw

Outside the Studio Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/outside-the-studio-with-tessa-tovar/id1483077110

Book of Poetry for Savasana: https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Moon-Book-Poetry-Savasana/dp/1731243588

A Description of episode 132 of Outside The Studio with Tessa:

This month on Outside the Studio, we welcome David Benedicktus RN/BSN (retired). David has a 40-year career as a mental health professional working in a variety of mental health settings and focusing on system integration, and patient education projects.

In retirement he became a founding member of Complementary Medicine Practitioners of PNW. He organized wellness health promotion talks for the City of Vancouver WA, the local library system and patient support groups. He also became an instructor at Clark College in Vancouver, Washington, for ten years lecturing on the neuroscience of trauma and the relationship between trauma and adaptive lifestyle choices which can lead to chronic disease and addictions. He teaches courses on the Neuroscience of Healing and Resiliency, Preventing Cognitive Decline as You Age, Cannabis and Your Health and Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.

Leaning on David's life experience and subject matter expertise, today's conversation explores the theme of inequality and the divide between the haves and the have-nots. It begins with Tessa sharing her childhood realization of the difference between those who have safety and those who are in danger due to war, poverty, and mental health issues. Her father, David Benedicktus, discusses his involvement in the civil rights movement and his work with marginalized communities, particularly the homeless. They discuss the importance of empathy and taking action to address social issues. The conversation also touches on the impact of poverty, and the role of neuroscience in understanding human behavior.

Key Takeaways:

1.The divide between the haves and the have-nots is a significant issue that affects society. Empathy and understanding are crucial in addressing social issues and helping marginalized communities.

2. Poverty and homelessness are complex problems that require structural support and resources. Neuroscience can help us understand the factors that contribute to human behavior and the need for compassion. Cultivating compassion and empathy is essential for addressing the challenges faced by marginalized communities.

3. Trauma plays a significant role in shaping individuals and communities, and trauma-informed approaches are crucial for providing effective support. Providing resources such as mental health services and affordable housing can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need.

Timestamps

(00:00:00) Introduction: Childhood Realization of Inequality

(00:05:00) David's Work with Marginalized Communities

(00:07:50) Apathy in Current Culture

(00:19:23) The Importance of Caring for the Poor and Marginalized

(00:24:31) The Impact of Poverty and the Need for Sensible Tax Reform

(00:29:42) Understanding Human Behavior through Neuroscience

(00:33:25) Cultivating Compassion and Empathy

(00:37:35) The Sacred Pause: Creating Space for Reflection

(00:45:46) Understanding the Impact of Trauma

(00:59:40) Taking Action: Asking 'What Happened to Them?'

(01:04:41) Getting Involved: Making a Difference

Resources:

Council for the Homeless: https://www.councilforthehomeless.org/prevention/celebrating-community-and-compassion-through-music/

Podcast with Tara Brach and Father Gregory Boyle: https://www.youtube.com/live/4XYCD_Z8kSY?si=_kMuI-TDqISgI9Ma

Podcast What Now with Trevor Noah and Mayor Karen Bass: https://podcasts.apple.com/hr/podcast/mayor-karen-bass-predicts-los-angeles-future/id1710609544?i=1000639292695

Adverse Childhood Experiences Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/aces/index.html

https://acestoohigh.com/

Connect with Tessa Tovar:

Website: https://tessatovar.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tessamarietovar/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHMYm-7kNZfulgaiCi2w8Cw

Outside the Studio Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/outside-the-studio-with-tessa-tovar/id1483077110

Book of Poetry for Savasana: https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Moon-Book-Poetry-Savasana/dp/1731243588