MoonWise

In this episode of Moonwise, we talk with Sydney Blum about her experience of working with intuition and psychic gifts. We talk about the importance of energetic boundaries, intention setting and consent. She shares her own story of developing a code of ethics as a psychic medium as well as advice for people who want to engage more with their intuition in daily life. We also talk about: Balancing intuition and intellect “Invisible” childhood friends Practical intention setting for busy parents Bringing magic into daily life Expanding our understanding of what's possible Sydney Blum is a nonprofit systems change leader who has embraced her calling as an intuitive guide, intergenerational clairvoyant, and intuition development mentor. Sydney has helped hundreds of people around the world through her intuitive readings, spiritual mediumship, and intuition development mentorship.She holds a BA in Sociology at the University of Chicago and an MSc in Ecological Economics at University of Edinburgh. Sydney blends a lifetime of psychic-sensory attunement with 15 years of formal non-profit leadership experience, designing and scaling holistic community programs and innovative affordable housing solutions.Sydney is the host of The Intuitively Aligned Podcast with Sydney Blum and The Intuitively Aligned Newsletter on Substack. Sydney and her husband, two children and their elder boxer dog live in Toronto, Canada which the traditional territories of many First Peoples, including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnaabe, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat peoples. Links: Website: sydneyblum.comSubstack: substack.com/@sydneyblumInstagram: instagram.com/sydneyrebeccLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sydneyblum Sydney is gifting the Moonwise community 15% OFF of her Deep Dive Intuitive Readings between now and the end of 2023. To access this gift please email Sydney directly at sydneyblum@gmail.com subject line "MOONWISE PROMO" for booking link and payment details. —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show!

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In this episode of Moonwise, Ama Boakye joins us from Ghana to share an urgent message from the trees. We talk about the possibility of collaborating with nature and the ancestors to create more wellbeing in our world. We discuss the difference between following your heart versus following the voice of intuition that leads to true growth. We also dive into Ama's unique story, from being raised in Belgium to traveling the world and awakening to a spiritual way of being. We also talk about: The effects of artificial light on our health The role of grandmother and grandfather trees How to open communication with the ancestors Listening to nature Trust and taking the unknown path Ama Boakye is a joyful woman who loves the wonders of life and the teachings of nature. She was born and raised in Belgium and has lived in different countries in South America. Ama is based in Ghana now and she is creating a multifunctional community center within nature, where the local and global community can come together in unity, heal, create and learn. She especially wants it to become a safe space for the local youth. Ama supports people in different ways in their personal and spiritual growth. In these changing times, her passion is to support people who have an idea, dream or project that they want to bring in the world but are still holding off for one reason or the other. Ama is an aura reader, intuitive coach, inner child healing and breathwork facilitator, group ritual facilitator, and she does cowry shell sessions for individuals, couples and groups.  Ama likes learning from her ancestors in the spirit realm and tuning in with nature spirits. She loves to witness transformation in people, especially when people start to live more in their strength and talents and closer to their spirit. She also likes to write and listen to peoples' life stories. Links: AmaBoakye.com Under the Baobab Tree (Podcast) @amaboakye (Instagram) @sungyata (Instagram) —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show! Learn more at moonwise.co or follow @moonwise.co on Instagram.

In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with Megan DeBoer about financial wellness and how we can reimagine our relationship with wealth and money. We talk about why money is often linked with self worth and intergenerational trauma and why women in particular struggle with empowerment around wealth. She shares her unique approach of guiding folks into a healthy emotional relationship with money through curiosity, compassion and intention. We also talk about: How money can be tied to core wounds Avoidance/obsessive patterns with money Historical context of women, power and money Internal vs. external signifiers of wealth Learning to be ok with earning and receiving Infusing financial choices with reverence Megan deBoer, founder of Tended Wealth, is a wealth doula in every sense of the term. She defines wealth as a multifaceted state of abundance in relationships, health, community, environment, and—of course—finances. Megan is a skillful tender of the relationship between inner shifts and outer results, using money as an entry point into full-spectrum wealth and reinfusing the word with its etymology of well-being. Through her background as a literal birth doula and a certified Financial Recovery Counselor, Megan is equipped to transform her clients' finances from states of potential into breathable, harmonious financial realities. While she currently specializes in empowering self-employed individuals to radically increase their earnings, her voice also plays a vital role in the greater movement of our cultural narrative around money. Megan knows that money is only one energy and currency in our world—albeit a powerful one—and undertakes the joyful work of untangling dialogues of scarcity and fear in order to reweave them into new narratives of possibility, integration, and evolution. Links: THRIVE: Get 15% off Megan's online course to invite financial wellbeing and emotional peace with code MOONWISE23 (this is an affiliate link, we are honored to create mutual support for businesses we believe in) @tendedwealth (Instagram) An Offering (Substack) —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show!

"We spend so much time in the human mind worrying about what we don't want. We're so good at that. But what are you here for? What kind of life do you want to create?" - Krishna Avalon In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with Krishna Avalon about healing subconscious beliefs. She shares her experience of why she added Psych-K work to her healing practice after years of doing acupuncture. We talk about tools for moving on from old stories, learning to ask the right questions about what you really want and how subconscious beliefs can impact our health, happiness, finances and relationships. We also talk about: How neuroplasticity works Understanding which programs you are running The hidden frequency we share with the world Why the stories, music and media you consume matters Krishna is a licensed acupuncturist, certified holistic health coach, psych-k facilitator, pranayama breathwork guide, and somatic practitioner who has guided over 26k patients and clients to their health and wellness goals for the last 20 yrs. She currently specializes in subconscious transformation and the nervous system. Links: krishnaavalon.com @krishnaavalon linkedin.com/in/krishnaavalon —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show! Sign up for weekly inspiration and seasonal wisdom: moonwise.co/magazine

"Mistakes are portals to freedom." - Erin Chalfant In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with Erin Chalfant about navigating the borderlands of our lives by working with the elements. She shares her insights about the Celtic wheel of the year, how to fail gracefully and connect more deeply with inner knowing. We also talk about: Overcoming perfectionism Grace and surrender Navigating the mists of inbetween times Learning to ask for help How the elements weave into our modern life Initiation in the Avalonian tradition Connecting with intuition and our internal compass Embracing the wild unknown and surprising ourselves Erin Chalfant, MA, MFA is an Author, Educator, and is pursuing a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology. She is rooted in Indigenous Earth-Based Wisdom Practices, Hatha Yoga, Hakomi (Mindfulness-based Somatic Psychotherapy), Buddhist Meditation. She has worked with women in re-storying their relationships with their bodies through an understanding of nature, been trained in Zen Hospice Care, and also works with at-risk youth and teens in mind-body techniques for recovering after trauma. She is currently accepting clients of all ages and backgrounds who are navigating big life transitions and wanting to find purpose and fullness in their pursuits. She is adept in integration work for plant medicine experiences and also creates powerful ceremonial and sacred spaces for deep work. Check out The Crossroads Mentoring Series for more details on current offerings. She completed her first book, The Other Side of the River: Stories of Women, Water and the World, under the pen name of Eila Kundrie Carrico in 2015 (Womancraft Publishing), and continues to work on forthcoming projects focused on Wilderness and Rites of Passage and engaged activism for the mutual thriving of people and the planet. Erin is offering a discounted first one-hour session of $90 for Moonwise listeners (reg. $144) Links: Dawnofthewild.com @erinkundrie —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show!

"Birth is a transformational event, it's a rite of passage, it's an initiation. It is an event that is meant to change you. And it's meant to bring you to the very edge." In this episode of Moonwise, host Dorothee Sophie Royal shares her thoughts about the transformative portal of birth and the keys that made her second postpartum a joyful experience. She touches on: Learning to care for our bodies as a part of Mother Earth Connecting with the goddess in birth A bit of her own birth story in the water Envisioning your most empowered birth Plans, gear and herbs that helped in postpartum Dorothee Sophie Royal is a writer and media producer, focusing on feminine wisdom, nature connection and motherhood. She is the founder of Moonwise.co which produces a weekly magazine and monthly podcast. She is the author of Rooted, a pregnancy journal honoring the inward path to motherhood. She lives in Portland, Oregon with husband, son and daughter. Links: Moonwise Magazine Rooted Pregnancy Journal Wild Feminine by Tami Lynn Kent —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show!

“When a woman decides she has had enough of living by anyone else's rules but her own, she usually decides to change her life.” - Jessie Harrold In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with coach, women's mentor and doula Jessie Harrold about supporting women through radical life transformations. We discuss her approach to rites of passage as identity shift and why she feels we're collectively being called toward transformation. We talk about reconnection with our authenticity and reclaiming parts of ourselves that were framed as “too much.” Jessie shares her 4-element model of radical transformation and why a framework for navigating these shifts is so helpful. We also talk about: The lack of research in Western culture about rites of passage Why the shift to motherhood is so profound for many women How capitalism conditions us to believe mother is a demotion The importance of rewilding and connecting to the earth Core competencies we gain through a rite of passage Mothering as a counter-cultural act Jessie Harrold is a coach, women's mentor and doula who has been supporting women through radical life transformations and other rites of passage for over a decade. Jessie works one-on-one with women and mothers, facilitates mentorship programs, women's circles and rituals, and hosts retreats and wilderness quests. Jessie is also the author of "Project Body Love: my quest to love my body and the surprising truth I found instead,” as well as the forthcoming title, “Mothershift: Reclaiming Motherhood as a Rite of Passage.” Jessie's work has been featured in Spirituality & Health, Green Parent, Expectful and Explore Magazine. She is also the host of The Becoming Podcast. Jessie lives on the east coast of Canada where she mothers her two children, writes, and tends to her land. Links: JessieHarrold.com Instagram: @jessie.es.harrold Four Elements of Radical Transformation Quiz Chrysalis —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show!

In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with herbalist and holistic wellness facilitator Tamu Mosley about the spiritual significance of perimenopause. We discuss her experience of hosting a women's womb circle for those going through this transition and some of the common symptoms and themes that have come up. We talk about reframing the menopause process as a potent opportunity to step into our power and how she embraced her own grey hair. Tamu shares her personal insights and tips for self care in perimenopause, including herbal allies and practices that have been supportive on the journey. We also talk about: Mourning the end of the child bearing years Honoring your last moon blood Stepping back from habits of care-taking The importance of sharing our stories in community Unapologetically sharing our gifts with the world Tamu Mosley is an Oakland born mama of 3, a teacher, a wholistic wellness facilitator, a kitchen alchemist, a home herbalist & herbal maker, and a budding flower essence practitioner. Tamu is founder and CEO of Wholistic Shine (established in 2014) and Uchū Botanical (established in 2018). She is deeply nourished by a consistent self care practice cultivated over the past 27 years that includes preparing healthy plant based meals, natural skin care & herbal remedies in her ‘kitchen healing laboratory', seasonal wholistic detoxes, yoga, connecting with nature and working with flower essences. Tamu is passionate about a wholistic approach to eating and living by bringing more mindfulness and intention to daily choices along with cultivating wellness practices that support mind, body and spirit. She is honored and humbled to support others on their wellness journey by inspiring, educating and empowering them through her Wholistic Shine and Uchū Botanical offerings. SPECIAL OFFER: Mention moonwise and receive $5 off purchase of Uchū Botanical WISDOM BODY Pink Magnolia/Rose Quartz Essence (email wholisticshine@gmail.com to purchase) Links: IG @wholistic_shine and @uchubotanical Wholisticshine.com Women's Wisdom from the Heart of Africa by Sobonfu Somé Menopausal Years: The Wise Woman Way by Susun Weed 13 Moons: Harnessing Every Day Magic in Practical Ways - Monique Ruffin Wild Omen Oils Woman of Wisdom Formula from Desert Essence WISDOM BODY Pink Magnolia/ Rose Quartz Essence from Uchu Botanical —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show!

In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with diviner Gregory Meredith about the magic of runes. We discuss runes as living beings and why a good question can spark healing and transformation. He shares his story of reconnecting with ancestral knowledge and how the runes came to him. He shares insights about fatherhood, magic and respecting the role of the feminine and our nonhuman kin. We also talk about: Prioritizing experiential knowledge Reframing the rune origin story of Odin Ancestral terror and persecution of divinatory arts Dismantling human and white supremacy in European lineages The birth of a new story for humanity Links: Rune Journey with Gregory Handmade Rune Sets —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show! —> Get access to bonus content, seasonal herb guides, meditations and more by joining our community on Patreon: patreon.com/moonwise

In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with author, doula and spiritual mentor Kelly Van Zandt about the transformative power of the postpartum time. She shares her insights about new motherhood as a unique opportunity for growth and how this often looks and feels like an unraveling of the self. “You are allowed to take down your facade to make space for your full potential.” - Kelly Van Zandt We talk about: Meeting ourselves with compassion The complexity of feeling loss, grief and joy at the same The big shift from the external to the internal world The true length of the postpartum process The leadership skills and wisdom gleaned from motherhood Links: PowerfulPostpartum.com Get 15% off a digital copy of Powerful Postpartum with code: MOON15 —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show!

“The warrior of light, the warrior for love, they're not the ones who have the swords out battling people. They're the ones who stand rooted for what's right and true. That's what the warrior feels like for me. It's standing in integrity, standing for truth, standing for life, standing for love and being a mountain, really...unshakeable.” — Natalie Zacharias In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with healing practitioner Natalie Zacharias about embracing our inner warrior and staying calm in chaos. She shares her experience with energetic discernment, healthy boundaries and stepping into personal sovereignty especially in confusing and troubled times. We also talk about: Overcoming childhood programming Working with collective grief The difference between intuition and fear Our true creative potential as humans Continuing to choose life on our path Natalie is passionate about healing, helping people reconnect with their true essence, learning, teaching, and giving gratitude for the gift of Life. Over the past 20 years, she has learned from healers and teachers from different lineages around the world. She completed her Reiki Master certification in 2014 in the White Light Reiki lineage. Natalie graduated with her Bachelors in Psychology in 2008 and after spending 6 years working in the corporate world, she decided to pursue a Master's in Transpersonal Psychology. She was specifically looking for the ways in which Psychology and Spirituality intersect and integrate. This led her to pursue her Master's at the California Institute of Integral Studies where she completed her degree in Integral Counseling Psychology in 2017. She completed her certification for The Emotion Code® in March, 2019. In 2020, she attended Psychic Surgery Training from Sergio Magaña Ocelocoyotl and in the Fall she attended the Sounds True Trauma Skills Summit. In 2021, she completed her training with the Òran an Rìbhinn: The Venusian Song Certification Program facilitated by Liv Mokai Wheeler. Natalie continues to study and learn new/old ways of healing. She relates to sessions with her clients as their own sacred healing ceremonies and creates a safe ritual container for each session. She sees healing as a way for all of us to clear out the density that trauma creates in our bodies and rediscover the true essence of our beings by reconnecting with our hearts and bravely living from that space. She believes in the power of healing both individually and in community. Links: TendingYourSpirit.com Sacred Discernment Training and Ceremonial Gathering —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/moonwise/message

“Your joy matters, it's the greatest strength you have.” - Woman Stands Shining In this episode of Moonwise, I speak with Diné grandmother, activist, artist, and ceremonial leader Woman Stands Shining about joy as strength and remembering our role as women in the sacred hoop of life. Woman Stands Shining is a voice for global peace, and her paintings are created as tools for individual, earth, and global healing. She has presented at numerous conferences, events, and indigenous gatherings around the world. She lives in Taos, New Mexico, and hopes all peoples of the earth "can learn from Indigenous experience and re-member themselves and their own birth-right relationship with Mother Earth." Woman Stands Shining draws upon the deep Indigenous sciences of thriving life to reframe inquiries about sustainability and balance, and she is devoted to supporting the next generations, the “Women's Nation” and the “Men's Nation” in being functional members of the “Hoop of Life" and upholding the honor of being human. In our conversation, she talks about women's role as visionaries for the community and her powerful experience in the moon lodge. She reminds us that in this time of great transition as a species, we need to listen to the women because they are built to give and receive instructions from Mother Earth about how to be on the planet now. She says, "we need the feminine language again." She urges women to express themselves, "the way you think is needed, your language that's not linear is needed, your emotional content is needed." She also affirms that the role of woman as spiritual conduit transcends cultural differences. She says, "I've put women of every race in moon lodge and the same thing happens to them every single time." We also talk about: Joy as a compass for life A woman's body as a spirit gateway Navigating the dark night of the soul The non-linear nature of the feminine language How the European witch hunts are connected to the suppression of indigenous peoples Being a translator of indigenous culture to the modern world Links: Woman Stands Shining website --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/moonwise/message

"Love is present in all spaces where things grow." - Susan Lipshutz In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with sacred feminine activist Susan Lipshutz, LCSW about the magic of mentorship. Susan shares her experience with finding mentors in her life and we talk about our own relationship over more than ten years of working together. We discuss vulnerability and alchemy in mentorship relationships and the importance of healthy boundaries and reciprocity. Susan also offers advice for those seeking mentorship in their lives. We also talk about: The difference between a mentor and a teacher The importance of intergenerational friendships Being seen by another before you fully see yourself Seeking a mentor vs. a mentor finding you Intimacy and respectful exchange Listening to your intuition Getting out of your comfort zone Susan Lipshutz, LCSW is a sacred feminine activist with more than 30 years of experience teaching and practicing integrative psychotherapy. Devoted to building strong communities that reawaken and integrate the divine feminine into daily life, Susan combines the ancient wisdom of our grandmothers with her own powerful teachings attuned to the complexities of modern life. She's the founder of Everyday Medicine Woman, offering workshops, meditation courses and retreats around the world. Links: Everyday Medicine Woman Rooted pregnancy journal —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/moonwise/message

"How we welcome babies has the impact of changing the entire world." - Sarah Dickey In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with soul doula and childbirth educator Sarah Dickey about holding space for transformation. We talk about how our birth story influences the way we meet life and how we can hold ourselves in difficult moments. Sarah shares her insights about conscious conception, somatic memory and reparenting ourselves. We also talk about: Working with preconception energy and intentions Dreaming and collaborating with spirit Heart-centered hypnosis Calm Birth meditation practice Sarah Dickey is a transpersonal coach, heart-centered hypnotist, published author, and APPPAH childbirth educator with a particular focus on prenatal and perinatal psychology. Links: Sarah Dickey Rooted pregnancy journal —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show! SUBSCRIBE: APPLE PODCASTS / SPOTIFY BONUS CONTENT: PATREON --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/moonwise/message

"Highly sensitive people need a little bit more time to adjust to changes and new experiences because we are processing so much information at any given time." - Anna King In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with clinical social worker and perinatal mental health specialist Anna King about parenting as a highly sensitive person. We talk about the characteristics of this evolutionary trait and some of the gifts and challenges that it presents. Anna shares tips for dealing with overstimulation and how to support HSPs so that they can thrive in parenthood. She also shares her unique insights about why HSPs are at a higher risk for postpartum depression and anxiety and some of systemic and cultural barriers for understanding this trait within communities of color. We also talk about: HSPs and altered states of consciousness Inequity in maternal mental health The myth of the “strong black woman” Expanding our concept about what it means to be a parent Anna King, LCSW, PMH-C, (she/her) is a licensed clinical social worker and certified perinatal mental health specialist who uses an integrative, trauma-informed approach in her work grounded in reproductive and transformative justice. Anna serves as Clinical Training Specialist at Maternal Mental Health NOW, where she curates training events and curriculum and facilitates live and pre-recorded training to educate providers on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs). Prior to joining the MMH-NOW team, she served as a full-time social worker in the emergency department and eventually found her home when she transitioned to serving a birth center and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Throughout her experiences, Anna has realized the significant barriers to care for birthing people, especially for Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC), and queer, trans, and gender diverse individuals and families. Her work centers on the embodied liberation of marginalized groups in reproductive spaces. She is also currently a part-time psychotherapist with ARC Counseling and Wellness and a third-year Ph.D. student in the Integral and Transpersonal Psychology program at the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS). Her research interests include spiritual activism, the highly sensitive person (HSP) trait, birth and postpartum tradition, and the transition to parenthood as a rite of passage. Links: Maternal Mental Health NOW ARC Counseling and Wellness The Highly Sensitive Parent Rooted pregnancy journal —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/moonwise/message

“Our creative power [as mothers] is often downplayed because it is so overwhelming, mysterious and it can be so intimidating. We are the beings that stand at the gates of life and death and bring a soul through into our 3D world. If that's not a powerful role, I don't know what is.” - Dorothee Sophie Royal In this episode of Moonwise, host Dorothee Sophie Royal talks about honoring the inward path to motherhood. She speaks about her new pregnancy journal called Rooted and what inspired her to create it. She shares her own experience with pregnancy, including difficulties in the transition from maiden to mother. She talks about her experience of creative power and what motherhood has taught her about boundaries, people pleasing and productivity. We also talk about: Facing shadows during pregnancy Cultivating intimacy and self compassion The power of intergenerational relationships Calling in support in a time of isolation Lessons taught by morning sickness The myth of self care Gratitude for people who are not parents Dorothee Sophie Royal is a writer and media producer, focusing on feminine wisdom, nature connection and motherhood. She is the founder of Moonwise.co and host of the monthly Moonwise podcast. Her new publication Rooted is a pregnancy journal honoring the inward path to motherhood. Dorothee lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband and son. Links: Rooted pregnancy journal Moonwise Patreon —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/moonwise/message

"I think a lot of our problems with our health, when it comes to women, is how we're valued or not valued in our communities." — Nicolle L. Gonzalez In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with Diné nurse and midwife Nicolle L. Gonzales about her mission to make birth sacred again. We talk about birth equity, trauma and weaving traditional practices with medical care. Nicolle shares her experience of growing up with ceremony, birthing her own children, the challenges of leadership and carving her own path to promote reproductive wellness and community care. We also talk about: Systemic racism and inequity in maternal care Engaging a community in preparing for birth The benefits of culturally appropriate care The challenges of work/life balance as a midwife Speaking up and self worth as a woman The importance of sharing women's joy Nicolle L. Gonzales is the Founder of Changing Woman Initiative whose non-profit mission is to “renew cultural birth knowledge to empower and reclaim indigenous sovereignty of women's medicine and life way teachings to promote reproductive wellness, healing through holistic approaches.” She received her Bachelor's of Nursing and her Masters of Nurse-Midwifery at the University of New Mexico. She is a member of the American College of Nurse Midwives and is certified with the American Midwifery Certification Board. She has over 12 years' experience as a nurse and has worked as a Nurse-Midwife doing full-scope midwifery for the last 10 years. Links: Changing Woman Initiative Rooted pregnancy journal —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show! —> Enjoy the show? Get access to bonus content, seasonal herb guides, meditations and more by joining our community on Patreon: patreon.com/moonwise Thank you for your support! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/moonwise/message

"Women are the original creators of life. We're the ones who are able to turn spirit into matter with our bodies.” - Rachael Jean In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with midwife and educator Rachael Jean about honoring pregnancy and birth as a sacred rite of passage. We talk about the wild feminine, parenting as a path of mastery and the missing piece of self care for moms. Ashley shares her experience of working with the five elements to support new mothers with creativity, empowerment and healing. We also talk about: The shadow work of motherhood Shame, grief and death Ancestral healing Embracing the mystery Rachael is the creatrix of the Elemental Birth Rites course journey and has been nurturing and caring for the seeds of this project for several years. Having come to midwifery with a background in Alternative Healing through her study of massage therapy, sound healing, herbal medicine, and many other modalities, she always felt a deep call to fuse these passions. She witnessed many homebirth scenarios where women were left traumatized or let down by how their birth stories transpired. She felt a powerful need to honor the holistic experience of birth by addressing issues beyond the physical reality that had shown to play out and contribute to challenging births. She created a synthesis based on her personal study of ancestral healing, transpersonal psychology, and earth based spirituality that became the basis of the Elemental Birth Rites course journey. Links: Elemental Birth Rites —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/moonwise/message

"We are all artists. We are the artist of our life. Each life is a masterpiece." - Ashley River Brant In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with multidimensional artist, author and feminine wisdom teacher Ashley River Brant about bringing creative dreams to life. We talk about trust, creative courage and weaving ritual into daily routine. Ashley shares her practices and experience of creating structure for wild creativity to flourish. We also talk about: The process of birthing a book Shadow work as fuel for creation Overcoming the fear of being seen Balancing ease and effort, action and receptivity Rest and sacred timing Ashley River Brant is a multidimensional artist, author, Earth-Spirit medium, and teacher of feminine wisdom. Her creative work is a visual dedication to a path of liberation, pleasure, nurturance, and beauty. Through her art and teachings, her intention is to pave a path home to the sacred, assisting us all in returning to our creative nature, and remembering the innate wisdom, magic, and love that lives within ourselves, each other, and all around. Her first book, “Tending to the Sacred: Rituals to Connect with Earth, Spirit, and Self” (Sounds True) releases on June 8th, 2021. Links: AshleyRiverBrant.love Tending to the Sacred —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/moonwise/message

"We as a culture are not necessarily skilled in the deathing and dying process, nor are we aptly prepared for it." - Anne Murphy In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with ceremonialist and death educator Anne Murphy about navigating the sacred wilderness of grief. We talk about aging and eldership, moving through loss and creating ceremonies that deepen community wellness. We also talk about: The importance of initiation rites Honoring our elders Ancestral healing Why death is invisible in our culture Death as a wake up call to life Anne Murphy is a ceremonialist, death educator, home vigil guide and community organizer in the death movement. She brings strength, beauty and balance to support people with a heart-centered approach to death care. Links: Athousandhands.com Grief is Learned  —> Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show! —> Join us on Patreon and get access to bonus content, seasonal herb guides, meditations and more. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/moonwise/message

"Impeccable listening is the roadmap of paying close attention.” — Queen Afua In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with Queen Afua about intuition and healing through impeccable listening. We talk about listening to the voice of your womb and learning to trust spirit. Queen Afua shares her tips for longevity, immune boosting practices and how to turn your home into a wellness retreat. We also talk about: Trusting spirit Healing with plants Turning your home into a retreat center The meaning of the Ankh The rise of the feminine Queen Afua is a Master Holistic Healer and Herbalist, Polarity Practitioner, and lay midwife. She is the author of seven best-selling wellness books, including the popular book SACRED WOMAN which comes out this month in a 20th Anniversary Edition. Queen Afua is the Mother of Womb Wellness Movement and is founder of Womb Yoga Dance. Among her many celebrity clients are Erykah Badu, Vanessa Williams, Stevie Wonder, Lauren London, India Arie, and Common. Links: QueenAfua.com Sacred Woman: A Guide to Healing the Feminine Body, Mind, and Spirit Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts, and get a shout out on the show! Follow Moonwise on Instagram: @moonwise.co --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/moonwise/message

“Flowers are a reminder of what you can do to be kind to yourself and what you can do to be more present.” - Heather McKittrick In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with Heather McKittrick about healing with flowers. We talk about going beyond traditional talk therapy with nature connection, presence and creativity. We discuss the magic of flowers and why they show up during major life transitions. Heather shares her tips for bringing more joy into our lives and leads a beautiful 7-minute guided floral meditation. We also talk about: Plant allies The power of setting intentions Healing anxiety, depression and PTSD Heather McKittrick, LPC, CADC-I, LMHC, SUDP is a licensed mental health therapist and certified substance use disorder counselor since 2017. She is the founder and creator of Floral Healing Therapy, which combines floral arranging with talk therapy. Clients arrange flowers in counseling to heal from depression, anxiety, stress and trauma. Links: Floral Healing Therapy 25 Coping Skills for Anxiety Enjoy the show? Get access to bonus content, seasonal herb guides, meditations and more by joining our community on Patreon: www.patreon.com/moonwise. Thank you for your support! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/moonwise/message

“Every single person’s voice is a blueprint...our voices are each unique.” — SOPHIE COOPER In this episode of Moonwise, we speak with Sophie Cooper about finding your sacred sound. We talk about the voice as a bridge and how singing can be a healing practice. We discuss reverence for tending to a song and the way sound connects to the unseen. Sophie also shares her tips for beginners and those wishing to activate their own voice. We also talk about: Vulnerability Ancestral songs Humming for stress relief Sounding without judgement The connection of songs and seeds Sophie Cooper is a song carrier, songwriter, artist, mother and life-long student of personal healing and collective transformation. As a voice coach, she brings together more than a decade of dedication to a ceremonial path, the tools gathered from numerous sound and voice teachers and over 10 years of somatic experience as a Qigong practitioner. Sophie founded Voice Alchemy in 2016 to support embodied healing and vocal empowerment through voice lessons, singing workshops and group singing circles. You can listen to Sophie's original album of music ‘Rewilding’ on Bandcamp, iTunes, & Spotify. She says, “I want to express my gratitude to all the indigenous teachers, elders and communities I have had the incredible honor to spend time with and learn from. I have received such help in my personal healing from these relationships. It feels important to me to acknowledge the dedication of indigenous peoples to keep the ancient ways alive even with the ongoing violence and imposition of European Colonialism. As a descendent of European settlers and immigrants on Turtle Island, it is my hope to be a good ally and do my humble part to participate in the healing and repair that is being called for at this time. May my voice be used in service of this intention.” Links: voicealchemy.com rewilding.bandcamp.com Sophie Cooper on Spotify --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

"How are you dancing through your day?” - Heather Fraelick In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with Heather Fraelick about embodiment and the art of dancing through life. Heather Fraelick began her professional life as a dancer. Throughout her career, she experienced several dance related injuries that left her unable to perform. As a result, she decided to learn about healing and attend massage therapy school. The experience changed her life, and she chose to dedicate her career to the service of helping others heal.  Now with over 15 years of massage therapy experience and over two decades of professional dance and movement education experience, she brings forth an intuitive blend of bodywork modalities to tailor each session to meet her clients' individual needs. Many of Heather's clients are world renowned dancers, musicians, actors and circus performers. She also works with a number of physicians, nurses, and office workers; many who are experiencing chronic pain and injuries. Her latest venture is completing her 200 hour yoga teacher training and is enjoying sharing her love of yoga with others in group workshops and private sessions.  We talk about reconnecting with the childlike joy of movement. We discuss the connection between emotions and physical symptoms and how a healing crisis can be a wake up call. Heather speaks about her journey from professional dancer to licensed bodyworker and yoga teacher. She shares some simple practices you can do at home to transition out of a ‘fight or flight’ response and into ‘rest and digest’ mode. She says, “when you’re connected with yourself, I don’t think anything can really stop you.” We also talk about: Working with the body as a friend and ally Unlocking memories in the body Dealing with pain and loneliness The power of touch and positive self talk Finding creative ways to move during quarantine

"We’re invited to broaden our perspective, we have an opportunity to make an evolutionary shift.” - Michelle Coleman In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with Michelle Coleman about connecting with Spirit and the Ancestors. An ordained Earth-Based Interfaith Minister, Spiritual Advisor, Aborisha and Intuitive Reader, Michelle Coleman is a natural born healer, leader and nurturer tasked with helping the world remember how to live in healing love. Guided by her own spiritual connections, Michelle believes we'll never feel enough in this world without being in relationship with Spirit. We talk about broadening our perspective through the Akashic records, decolonizing spirituality and love as a guiding star. We discuss humanity’s power of free will and how we can open to our infinite possibilities as a collective. Michelle also shares her tips for nurturing a relationship with the ancestors and engaging with spirit in everyday life.  We also talk about: The power of choice Releasing ancestral pain Praying with the elements Engaging with our personal legacy

"There’s no one way to communicate with nature, it’s all right, it’s all supreme.” - Joanna Ameya Cohen In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with Joanne Ameya Cohen about working with the healing power of flower essences. Joanne Ameya Cohen is the Founder of the Woman Rising Mystery School. She is dedicated to supporting womxn remember and reclaim their embodied essence, guided by the Earth, Sun, Venus, and Moon. Through Ameya’s extensive training in the Mystical Arts of Shamanic Studies, Flower Essences, Moon Wisdom, and her Priestess Path, she expertly guides women to activate their Soul coding and awaken the grace of the Great Mystery that resides within. Ameya lives in Southern California with her partner and son. “We do have an innate connection with the natural world,” says Ameya. We talk about connecting with the spirit of plants, opening our five senses and bringing our full presence to nature. We also discuss awakening to the priestess path, motherhood in the time of a pandemic and the transformative power of asking great questions. She explains, “when we ask great questions, that’s when our reality starts to change.“ We also talk about: Learning to trust ourselves Attuning to a plant or tree Sitting in reciprocity with nature

"Don’t underestimate the power of an herbal tea.” - Erin Lovell Verinder In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with herbalist and healer Erin Lovell Verinder about plant medicine for our current time. We talk about the power of local weeds, the art of foraging and wildcrafting in a respectful way. “This is plant medicine’s time to shine,” says Erin. We discuss nature connection and herbs known to support lungs and the immune system. She explains, “plants are earth’s wisdom keepers.” We also talk about the importance of rest and Erin’s experience with treating the epidemic of burnout. She says, “Plants are our past. Plants are our future. We are diminished if we can’t celebrate plants, properly understand their powers and harness their energy to heal ourselves.” We also talk about: Medicine sovereignty Plants as ancestors Weaving herbs into daily life The wisdom of our bodies

In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with homemaking mentor Alice Engelstad about the practical and spiritual art of tending your nest. We dive into strategies for building inner stability, creating harmony in the home and having the courage to go deep into our belief systems so that we can heal and change. “Our home is really a womb,” says Alice. We talk about decluttering as a doorway to increased creativity and how objects and spaces hold energy. She asks, “do our homes hold our stuff or do our homes hold our family members?” We discuss the role of rhythm in family life and how to create meaningful pauses in our day. We talk about the importance of self-compassion and being gentle with our own self talk. Alice emphasizes humor, levity and flexibility in the process of creating your own sanctuary. We also talk about: Organizing as a practice of inner connection Objects as an avatar of some aspect of ourselves Perfectionism vs. self compassion Approaching daily tasks with care and reverence The nest as a container for growth

"Loneliness is a teacher in this time of the ways we’ve gotten away from each other, the ways we’ve gotten away from belonging, the ways we’ve gotten away from ourselves.” - Becca Piastrelli In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with writer and coach Becca Piastrelli about healing loneliness through connection. Becca Piastrelli is a writer, coach, and host of the Belonging podcast. She holds space for womxn to explore ancestral wisdom, connect with the earth, and find meaningful and inclusive sisterhood. In the age of loneliness, Becca shows us how to feel like we truly belong - to each other, to the earth, to a lineage, and to ourselves. “This is not working. There are symptoms showing us this is not working…So maybe the pain now is so severe that we can say, alright what’s on the other side of this? So we can vision something different,” says Becca. We dive into her insights about the history of loneliness, as well her experience reconnecting with ancestors, celebrating the seasons and learning to ask for help. She talks about making space for ritual and how to start recreating the village. We also discuss pregnancy and parenting amid a global pandemic. We also talk about: Whiteness and Connecting with European Ancestors The Story of Sacrifice in Motherhood Creating Meaning as a Collective

"Each and every one of us is meant to be here. None of us is a mistake.” - Lyla June Johnston In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with indigenous scholar and community organizer Lyla June Johnston about leadership, service and humanity’s reciprocal role with nature. Lyla June is an Indigenous environmental scientist, doctoral student, educator, community organizer and musician of Diné (Navajo), Tsétsêhéstâhese (Cheyenne) and European lineages from Taos, NM. Her dynamic, multi-genre performance and speech style has invigorated and inspired audiences across the globe towards personal, collective and ecological healing. Her messages focus on the climate crisis, Indigenous rights, supporting youth, inter-cultural healing, historical trauma and traditional land stewardship practices. “It’s really not that humans are supposed to disappear and the land will be healthy. The land actually needs our touch, it needs our presence,” says Lyla. We discuss how numerous traditional cultures have worked with the land as an integral part of the food web. She talks about human beings as a keystone species and how indigenous science can inform our path forward. We also dive into her insights about leadership in uncertain times and her recent experience running for office. She explains, “sovereignty is no just being able to feed yourself, but being able to lead yourself.” We also talk about: Indigenous Science Food Sovereignty Peak Oil Biodiversity

In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with healer and coach Natalie Zacharias about boundaries, intuition and protecting our energetic bodies in turbulent times. Natalie started her healing journey at a young age when she was introduced to different energy practitioners and spiritual healers. She was 12 years old when she was first introduced to energetic healing through Reiki practitioners and Curanderos from Mexico. Natalie graduated with her Bachelors in Psychology in 2008 and after spending 6 years working in the corporate world, she decided to pursue a Master’s in Psychology. She was specifically looking for the ways in which Psychology and Spirituality intersect and integrate. This led her to pursue her Master’s at the California Institute of Integral Studies where she completed her degree in Integral Counseling Psychology in 2017. Natalie is a certified Emotion Code practitioner who is passionate about healing, helping people reconnect with their true essence, learning and giving gratitude for the gift of life.  “In choosing sovereignty, I can play a role in changing what’s happening around me,” says Natalie. We discuss how to stay grounded in chaotic spaces (like staying centered at the grocery stores these days!) We talk about daily cleansing practices and tools for raising your frequency. We talk about triggers and having compassion for ourselves as we explore our wounds and shadows. We touch on leaning into support from elements, nature spirits and ancestors. We also talk about: Releasing shame around being a spiritual person How to release stuck energy Entities and conflict Connecting with the Earth wherever you are How to make a cleansing herbal bath

Learn about listening to the bees with author and natural beekeeper Jacqueline Freeman. In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with author Jacqueline Freeman about listening to the wisdom of bees. We talk about reverence and how she came to learn about natural beekeeping from the hive itself. Jacqueline Freeman is a biodynamic farmer and natural beekeeper who wrote the popular book Song of Increase: Listening to the Wisdom of Honeybees for Kinder Beekeeping and a Better World. She and her husband Joseph moved onto their biodynamic farm in southwest Washington in 2001 and she got her first hives soon after. Jacqueline attended conventional bee school and immediately knew there must be a different way to care for bees that is more respectful, more compassionate, more like the way feral bees live. A few years later she began teaching this bee-centric approach in her classes. We discuss how the bees sense of unity has influenced Jacqueline’s own human relationships, including her marriage and approach to housework. We talk about bee songs, the magic of pollination, birth as a ritual and how bees approach the death process.  We also talk about: A bee’s understanding of unity Bee mating rituals Listening to intuition Sacrifice and service

In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with Rebekah Erev about loving yourself as an act of liberation. We talk about presence, finding the sacred in the mundane and working with unseen realms. Rebekah Erev is an ordained kohenet (Hebrew priestess), feminist, queer, artist, intuitive, healer, lover, creativity coach and teacher. She lives on the Salish Sea in Olympia, WA., the original village of the Steh-chass people. In her work, she collaborates with unseen and seen beings to make art and ritual with the intention to recover and liberate the earth. She offers intuitive readings and workshops to help people manifest their most true expressions, listening to the wisdom of their bodies. She also makes objects like her beautiful Moon Angels card deck. We talk about self exploration, commitment, and love. We discuss the importance of getting to know yourself in a culture that teaches us to reach externally for happiness and validation. We explore the concept of self partnership and Rebekah’s experience of creating a marriage ritual for herself. We also touch on queer identity, belonging and Rebekah’s path as a Hebrew priestess  We also talk about: Imaginary friends Reclaiming self care culture Exploring our birth stories Following through with our commitments

This moon cycle, it’s time to shift our consciousness and learn something new. We have the opportunity to re-visit our New Year’s intentions and clear our minds with self compassion. In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, Susan shares insights about Aquarius and the first warming of the spring at Imbolc. She encourages us to check in with ourselves and befriend ourselves as we receive a potent flow of star energy into our fields. We can ask ourselves, “what feels right in the moment?” Susan reminds us to think about how to open our mind and step into great leaps of innovation. It’s a great time to learn something new or perfect something you’re already learning. She says, “what does it feel like when your mind feels free? ” She invites us to be aware of our breath and keep our feet on the ground. Susan offers writing prompts, stones and ritual recommendations for working with the energy of the month. Tune in to hear about how we can break free from limited thinking and remember that anything is possible.

In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with Dr. Kate Sydney and Mandy Asklock, LMT about self care for healthy breasts. They share important information about the anatomy of breasts, the lymphatic system and simple ways to care for this vital part of our bodies. Dr. Kate Sydney explains, “we don’t address things until they become a disease…We’re either not thinking about our breasts at all or we have breast cancer, and nothing in between. It’s important to address these blank spots in our education.” We talk about overcoming shame and cultural messaging around the breasts. We discuss how to pick bras for health and comfort and some recommendations for women-led bra companies. We cover how to do a self breast massage and what oils are easy to use for that. We also touch on some nutrition tips for healthy breasts and how to pick out safe deodorants. We also talk about: How the breasts are connected to the heart The benefits of Poke Root Oil Why Vitamin C is important for healthy breasts Deodorants that work without harmful chemicals

A lunar forecast for December 21, 2019 - January 24, 2020 by Susan Lipshutz featuring tips and practices for Winter Solstice and the New Year. “Be mindful of your inner world.” - Susan Lipshutz This moon cycle, it’s time to bridge into a new decade with Winter Solstice and a New Moon Solar Eclipse on December 25th. We have the opportunity to reset our bones and seed our dreams for 2020. In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, Susan shares insights about Capricorn as we enter winter eclipse season and the new year. She encourages us to take time for self care, to breathe and feel the seasonal shifts. She says it’s a time for magic, color and working with fire and light. We can ask ourselves, “what do we give to the night?” Susan reminds us to examine our past year and our past decade. She says, “is there an element of our persona that we’ve outgrown that is eclipsing our light, that is eclipsing our growth?” She invites us to release toxic aspects of our lives that we’ve outgrown. She says, “to be personally accountable and self-accepting will be the payoff.” Susan offers writing prompts and recommendations for stones and flower essences to work with the energy of the month. She also shares a beautiful guided meditation (around minute 42:50) to take us into our inner vision. Tune in to hear about how we can step into the new decade with renewed clarity and strength.

In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, Dorothée Sophie Royal shares resources for bringing intention and earth-honoring ritual into the holiday season. The show is divided into three short chapters. She shares a holiday planning guide, thoughts on reclaiming the Christmas tree as spiritual practice and the ancient and little-heard story of Mother Christmas. She says, “I hope that this discussion is useful for examining inherited traditions and habits as well as helping us all remember that we have the choice to create more meaningful seasonal rituals for ourselves.

This moon cycle, it’s time to dream and get inspired. We have the opportunity to clear old resentments and embody our truth. In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, Susan shares insights about Sagittarius as we enter the last month of the decade. She encourages us to elevate our wisdom and think expansively. She says it’s time to own the truth about our history and take responsibility for it. At the same time, she reminds us that we don’t need to box ourselves in with our mind. Susan reminds us to pay attention to our dreams, patterns and write down what we’re experiencing. She invites us to challenge our old definitions and to see our lives as an adventure story. What is the next chapter that you want to write? Susan offers writing prompts and recommendations for stones, flower essences and a ritual to work with the energy of the month. Tune in to hear about how we can cleanse our thought field and see the bigger picture of our life.

In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with producer and author Joy Donnell about the power of storytelling. Joy shares her unique perspective on creativity, intention-setting and finding the authentic voice within. As Joy says,"it’s an important time for people who work with words.” We talk about how the spoken word can be an experience of relationship and true reciprocity. We talk about how the spoken word can be an experience of relationship and true reciprocity. We discuss privilege, betrayal and whose story is getting funded in the media today. She explains, "The stories that we know are the stories that got funded…Who ended up on buildings and who ended up buried? Who got pushed to the margins and who got magnified?" As Joy says, “its an important time for people who work with words.”  We also talk about: Positive self talk Affirmations & intention-setting The need for new stories about the feminine Representation in media Her new book, “Beyond Brand”

This moon cycle, it’s time to move into depth and darkness as we enter Scorpio season. We have the opportunity to break spells and agreements that don’t serve us anymore. In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, Susan Lipshutz talks about merging with the dark inside and outside of ourselves. She reminds us that, “it is time to stay awake without fear.” She encourages us to be patient and forgiving with the stormy emotional waters that may arise. She says, “there’s a descent into more depth, that’s where the power lies.” She asks, “how can I merge with my power with love, with grace and with my inner values?” As the veils thin, it’s a time to honor our ancestors and work with the elements in a deliberate way. Susan cautions us, “go slow in the discovery of the magic.” And she encourages us to work with boundaries and trust as we commit to new habits. Susan offers ritual suggestions and recommendations for herbs to support the energies of the month. Tune in to hear about how we can go beneath the surface for emotional healing, shake up old systems and work with our raw creative power. Here are some important dates:  October 28, 2019 New Moon in Scorpio October 31, 2019 Halloween/Samhain/Mercury Retrograde November 2, 2019 Day of the Dead November 12, 2019 Full Moon in Taurus

Learn about nourishing new mothers with author and postpartum healer Sophie Ward Koren. In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with author and postpartum healer Sophie Ward Koren of Milk + Seed about nourishing the soul of new mothers through food, beauty and ceremony. Sophie Ward Koren is a former model, self-published author, initiated shamanic practitioner and Certified Health Coach (IINHC). She is committed to connecting mothers with Mother Earth through healing comfort foods, sustainable life practices and meaningful motherhood ceremonies, especially those informed by her study of Andean cosmology. She lives in the Ojai valley with her family and gratefully spends each day in the kitchen listening to Oprah, playing with fire, being with women and nourishing dozens of families. Sophie shares her story of starving to fit the mold of the modeling industry and how she used writing to bring herself back into authenticity. We discuss worthiness, overcoming the cult of perfection and learning to take up space as a woman. We talk about postpartum depression and the importance of feeding new mothers with nutrient rich foods and gentle care. Sophie describes foods rich in color, texture and joy that she calls “modernized medicinal comfort foods.” She says, “if you don’t take care of the mother, then she will be weakened for the rest of her life.” We also talk about: Healing from anorexia Writing as a soul-feeding ritual Creating Mother Blessing Ceremonies Rebuilding the village for new mothers Sophie’s medicinal kitchen apprenticeship

A lunar forecast for September 28 - October 27, 2019 by Susan Lipshutz featuring tips and practices for working with the energies of the month. “Fall in love with your purpose.” - Susan Lipshutz This moon cycle is a time for getting inside our hearts so we can focus our activism from a place of balance. We have the opportunity to embrace clear boundaries, examine our desires and harvest inner wisdom. In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, Susan Lipshutz talks about the dance of relationship as we move toward the waning cycle of the year. She reminds us, “the shell of the old is the seed of the new.” She encourages us to slow down and think about what gifts we want to share with the collective. She says, “presence is action, our presence is as powerful as what we have to do.” As the winds shift and leaves fall from the trees, it’s a good time to make friends with loss and grief. Susan cautions us, “now you can start to build but don’t rebuild what you’ve just destroyed.” Susan offers writing prompts, recommendations for stones, flower essences and rituals to support the energies of the month. Tune in to hear about how we can center in love and move harmoniously in the autumn season. Here are some important dates:  September 28, 2019 New Moon in Libra October 3, 2019 Pluto Stations Direct October 13, 2019 Full Moon in Aries October 27, 2019 New Moon Scorpio

In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with fungi farmer and herbalist Rae Hart of Ground Culture about trust, deep listening and working with the magic of mushrooms. Rae Hart is a fungi farmer, registered nurse, herbalist, artist and beetender who is dedicated to community health and regenerative agriculture. She is the founder of Ground Culture, a women-owned, community-supported mushroom farm on Sauvie Island in Portland, Oregon. Rae also serves as the apothecary manager, herbal clinician and mentor at the People’s Health Clinic of Portland, a free integrative health resource for those living at the crossroads of economic injustice and other systemic oppressions. Rae shares her story of leaving a career in nursing to grow medicine on the land. We discuss connection with plant allies, working with intuition and the wisdom of darkness. We also talk about the unique transition time we find ourselves in on the planet and the ways in which fungi reveal solutions. We also talk about: Rest as activism Dealing with jealousy as we uncover our gifts Relearning how to grow things Reciprocal relationships Breaking down barriers with delight

A lunar forecast for August 30 - September 28, 2019 by Susan Lipshutz featuring tips and practices for working with the energies of the month. This moon cycle is a time for rooting into our daily life as we enter Virgo season. We have the opportunity to detox our habits and cleanse stuck areas so we can be of greater service. In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, Susan Lipshutz talks about examining our daily work and health habits and finding the sacred within the mundane. She reminds us, “our body is our temple, our body is our home.” She encourages us to take stock of what has blossomed over the summer and digest what we’ve learned. It’s a good time to apply common sense to systems in our life and work. It’s also a good time to pay attention to our relationships and make sure our responsibilities feel balanced. Susan offers recommendations for stones, flower essences and practices to aid in working with healthy boundaries, protection and healing. Tune in to hear about how we can tune into our intuition and engage with practical magic.

Learn about the urgent stand for Mauna Kea with Native Hawaiian water protector Pua Case. In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with Native Hawaiian and Wimea resident Pua Case who is currently on Mauna Kea with her family and community working to protect their sacred mountain from desecration. Since July 17th 2019, thousands of protectors have gathered at the base of the mountain to peacefully block the road leading to the proposed construction site. In this episode, Pua shares her urgent update about the threat to Mauna Kea. We talk about standing for the sacred, the spirit of place, the importance of traditional ceremonies and building a nation. Pua also shares some specific ways that you can help support the movement.  Pua Case is a former elementary school teacher and lifelong water protector who was raised on the slopes of Mauna Kea. Along with her community, she has been working to protect the mountain from a 10-year, $1.3 billion 30 meter telescope project has been proposed on the Northern Plateau of Mauna Kea, where there are already 13 telescopes. Pua says, “the Mauna has brought us together…make no mistake that we are building a nation here.” She explains, “this mountain is not just the most sacred for Hawai'i but all of the Pacific…and the mountain says to us that from me is a connection to mountains around the world and we hold this vibration of the earth together.” We also talk about: Why the TMT telescope project does not meet legal criteria for construction The discipline and commitment of Kapu Aloha The top three ways to support the #protectmaunakea movement Music in this episode is from Hawane Rios’s new album “Kū Kia‘i Mauna – Together We Rise” which was released on the four year anniversary of the powerful frontline stand to protect Mauna Kea. Her music is available to purchase on iTunes or via her website hawanerios.com.

A lunar forecast for July 31 - August 20, 2019 by Susan Lipshutz featuring tips and practices for working with the energies of the month. This moon cycle is a time for growing authentic confidence as we enter Leo season. We have the opportunity to alchemize our past experiences and turn them into gold. In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, Susan Lipshutz talks about working with sun energy and tapping into love as our powersource. She reminds us that it’s a sweet season to feel joy and be fully present. She encourages us to turn to breath practices to access more life force energy and embrace enthusiasm, positivity and expansion. At the same time, she encourages us to ask,” What did I learn about boundaries these past few months?” Susan offers a flower essence, writing prompts and crystal ally for this sun-powered month. Tune in to hear about how we can access natural confidence and move from the heart.

Learn about art as a path of healing with multi-dimensional artist, activist and educator Naima Penniman. In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with multi-dimensional artist, activist, healer and educator Naima Penniman of Climbing Poetree about art as a path of survival, evolution and healing. We discuss overcoming shyness to find a voice and purpose, honoring ancestors and the courage to challenge dominant stories in our society. We also talk about the difference between calling in vs. calling out in movement culture. And Naima shares her thoughts on where creative passion and activism intersects for the greater good. We also talk about: Being raised in an activist home Creativity as a place to metabolize grief Connecting with our inherent gifts How communities can increase empathy

A lunar forecast for July 2 - July 31, 2019 by Susan Lipshutz featuring tips and practices for working with the energies of the month. This moon cycle is a time for nurturing our inner life as we enter Cancer season. We have the opportunity to interrupt old emotional patterns and mature our self care. In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, Susan Lipshutz talks about soulful growth as we gain insight into where we hide emotionally and suppress our feelings. She reminds us that we can use the power of the solar eclipse and the energies of this month for self mastery. She encourages us to ask,” when do I feel the most safe, free and at peace?” Start today from the perspective of your most wise self and have the courage to be emotionally honest. It’s a great month to embrace vulnerability and look at your home and professional life as we all reset. It’s also a fruitful time to explore how family lives inside you and where your inner child may need reparenting. Susan offers a flower essence, writing prompts and other tips for this active month. Tune in to hear about how we can fish the depths of our tender unconscious and flow in tumultuous waters.

Learn about awakening your senses to nature and building your sanctuary with healer and teacher Shayne Case. “To be bored with plants is one of the most beautiful places to be.” - Shayne Case In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, we speak with healer, teacher, writer and medicine maker Shayne Case about awakening the senses for nature connection and building your sanctuary in an increasingly tense world. Born from the forest's edge in southwestern Germany and hand fed by the prairie ghosts of her Lakota ancestry, Shayne Case derives her inspiration from these two disparate landscapes. The world of the unseen is her mother tongue and she uses this to bridge communication between the people who come to see her for healing and their spiritual guides. Shayne is a mother, healer, teacher, writer, medicine maker, and an enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. Each of these roles she holds with sacred intention and equal passion. We discuss her work with the plant people in creating flower essences, unlearning institutional knowledge and developing an intuitive relationship with the natural world. Shayne also shares her favorite self-mothering practices and ways to cultivate beauty in daily life. We also talk about: Working with plant and stone people Finding your unique medicine bundle The wisdom of weather Creating feasts for the senses Using the medicine of call-out culture The importance of play

A lunar forecast for May 4 - June 3, 2019 by Susan Lipshutz featuring tips and practices for working with the energies of the month. What have you always wanted to build? - Susan Lipshutz This moon cycle is a time for innovation and persistence as we rebuild in earthy Taurus. We have the opportunity to evolve and do things we didn’t know were possible. In this episode of #moonwisepodcast, Susan Lipshutz talks about finding a fresh approach to a fixed situation. She reminds us that we have the right and need to keep changing as we uplevel and rebuild our lives. She encourages us to ask,” what have I always wanted to build?” It will take patience and ingenuity to bring forth something new. Learn to see every barrier as an opportunity, “what do we preserve, let go of or rebuild?” It’s a great month to get physically healthy and remember that your body is a landscape. Examine everything you are constructing and be sure to look at any myths that say you’re not enough. Susan offers some practices to support during this month including a ritual for the Full Moon in Scorpio on May 18th. Tune in to hear about this month of embodiment and innovation.