The Soul Stories Podcast

Bringing you another one of our weekly Patreon videos! To get these episodes, blog posts and resources each week, sign up at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver for as little as $3/mo :) Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here is another one of our Patreon conversations! If you would like to receive these conversations on a weekly basis, please join the community for as little as $2/mo at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver.Here is the link to the original article we based this conversation on: https://www.theschooloflife.com/thebookoflife/know-yourself/ Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shelsea and Danny are experimenting with a new type of podcast episode! Listen as they dive into an in-depth conversation on Faith and The Creative Process. We discuss our relationship to this topic and explore how much substance creativity has brought to our lives. We believe that you will walk away with something for your own creative journeys.Feel free to send us your thoughts, feedback and reflections at danny@soulstoriesdenver.comThis is a part of a larger Patreon initiative where we will be providing our Patrons with weekly videos, resources, and ways to connect with Soul Stories. The podcast will only receive select episodes. If you would like to receive our weekly content, sign up for as little as $2/mo on Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenverOur source material is a book called "The Artists Way" by Julia Cameron Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shelsea and Danny are experimenting with a new type of podcast episode! Listen as they dive into a nuanced discussion on whether or not peace-building can be an effective tool for social change during our current social climate. Let us know what you think of this format! We may move from a 1:1 interview format to episodes where Shelsea and Danny are having dialogue, creating segments and potentially interviewing guests. E-mail danny@soulstoriesdenver.com with your thoughts or find us on social media!This is a part of a larger Patreon initiative where we will be providing our Patrons with weekly videos, resources, and ways to connect with Soul Stories. The podcast will only receive select episodes. If you would like to receive our weekly content, sign up for as little as $2/mo on Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenverFor the original episode we listened to, go to: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7N1H0uLkDelg0Qc4xbIAKf?si=6YlheS-ZSd2AmapZxV0FiQ Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kriste Peoples is a writer, trail runner, and meditator. She is a leader in the Denver community and somebody I really look up to. She makes you feel so comfortable when you are around her and has the best laugh. In this conversation, she talks about growing up in a military family, her internal curiosity, and always wanting to push against the edge while asking the question "what's next?". The first half of the interview is about her journey and how she found her path. In the second half, we discuss the power of mindfulness and nature. We talk about how when we slow down we can turn and face our fears, stories, limiting beliefs and unresolved pain. Kriste an incredible person and I'm excited for you to listen!-------kristepeoples.com@kristepeoples-------Consider joining us on this journey by going to Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver!-------4:47 - Kriste's adventures to find her place in the U.S.16:00 - Following the path of fulfillment25:57 - Leaning into the unknown35:00 - The healing power of nature40:40 - Mindfulness: cultivating our capacity to be with what's difficult49:50 - Being with life as it happens59:47 - Breaking through barriers1:04:45 - Presence in everyday life1:15:03 - Creating space to breathe Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Robert Davies is a Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, and Co-Founder and Director of the UCHealth LGBTQ Mental Health Clinic otherwise known as the Imagine Clinic. He also co-founded their Integrated Transgender program. Bob leads with the intimate details of his story which is inspiring and at times heart-breaking. He talks about being raised Southern Baptist and how before he knew he was gay, he grew up feeling different. Bob describes how the 70's were a much different time. People didn't talk about being Gay or what that meant. Up until 1972 you couldn't practice as a psychiatrist if you were openly gay because you weren't "psychologically sound". In this conversation, we talk about the rampant homophobia and transphobia in this country. Bob gives us an in-depth look at the challenges that the LGBTQ and Trans communities face when trying to receive quality mental health care and medical support. This is an important, informational and hopeful conversation. Here is our episode!-------Imagine Clinic: https://lgbtqcolorado.org/resources/imagine-clinic-lgbtq-mental-health-clinic/Integrated Transgender Program: https://www.uchealth.org/services/diabetes-endocrinology-care/uchealth-integrated-transgender-program/-------Consider joining us on this journey by going to Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver!-------4:48 - Growing up Southern Baptist: "feeling different and wrong"10:20 - Homophobia in the 70's13:56 - Bob's relationship to his mom16:10 - Coming out at 41 after being married for 20 years24:48 - the AiDS epidemic in the 90's27:54 - Fears of being openly gay as a psychiatrist35:16 - The origins of the Imagine Clinic40:20 - What quality LGBTQ mental health care looks like48:30 - Building a Transgender clinic with all-inclusive, integrated services53:35 - The lack of safety and understanding for the Trans community57:28 - A historical perspective on oppression1:02:06 - What LGBTQ youth face today and hope for the future1:11:23 - Misunderstanding body dysmorphia and Transgender folks1:16:31 - "Educating people that were never educated"1:20:12 - The importance of accepting someone as they are Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ryan Harris is a motivational speaker, ex-Denver Bronco, and Super Bowl Champion. You will hear about the NFL, his unique experiences, and the pressures and expectations he endured to play football at that level. He shares relatable tips on how to eliminate distractions, find your discipline, and the very human process of setting boundaries. He talks about how we all need to define our own success in our own lives and surround ourselves with people who will help us reach those goals. I was blown away by his vulnerability, his ability to lead with his own story and share his own shortcomings, and what he had to do to become who he is today. We talk about racism, society and so much more. Enjoy!---------For more from Ryan Harris check out https://www.ryanharris68.com/. He has a book titled "Mindset for Mastery" and can be hired for speaking engagements!---------Considering joining us in this journey at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver.com---------2:02 - Introduction to Ryan's NFL journey4:40 - Choosing your mindset to overcome7:49 - The unexpected pressures of being in the NFL12:24 - Reverse engineer your goals15:19 - Stress is our number one issue18:00 - Ryan's NFL wake-up call21:55 - The importance of having the right people around you25:48 - "Your worth does not come from other people"32:34 - Racial injustice in our society36:15 - How to have these difficult conversations41:34 - Resolving conflict Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kerri-Ann Appleton is an empowerment coach and teacher in every sense of the word. We talk about how to find alignment with our authentic selves and all the challenges we undergo in that process. She gets vulnerable and shares about her childhood wounds along with the tools she is using to work with them. Kerri-Ann discusses a recent experience with gaslighting and manipulation and all the self-growth that has come from that. And I think that's what I respect the most about Kerri-Ann. She is a coach who not only teaches, but leads by example. This is an inspiring episode and I am excited for you to listen!-------www.kerri-ann.comIG: coaching_with_kerriannEmail: connect@kerri-ann.comFB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/InHerPowertribe/-------Considering joining us in this journey at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver.com-------3:33 - Empowerment coaching9:21 - Reprogramming how we were conditioned in childhood16:21 - Letting go of old identities to embrace new ones24:07 - Being gaslighted and manipulated by a significant other31:09 - Understanding manipulation 35:20 - Cultural differences of dating and living in Brazil44:21 - Distinguishing between fear and wisdom; fact and story 50:39 - "Are you going to answer the call for the invite to growth?"58:25 - Stepping into self-acceptance of our imperfections1:03:00 - Setting boundaries with compassion1:06:56 - This is happening for our greatest good Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Note: Since this podcast was recorded, John now identifies as non-binary and professionally uses the pronouns "they / them" and personally uses all pronouns. In drag, they only go by "she".-------John McDermott is the Bodycare Manager at Natural Grocers and a good friend of mine with a gigantic heart. John shares in-depth about their mental health journey and diagnoses. They have been hospitalized eight times and have what is called chronic suicidal ideation. Trigger warning: John discusses multiple suicide attempts. They showcase an incredible amount of strength and ability to persevere throughout this conversation. This episode is equal parts heavy and fun. We end up talking about boxing, masculinity, identity and John's new passion for dressing in drag. I was really grateful to witness a story as powerful as this one and hope you have a similar experience.-------For more from John, check out their event, The Love and Hope Drag show, which will be streamed on Facebook live at 11:00 AM on February 14th, 2021. It'll feature Ximena Latinx, Jessica L'Whore, Bella C Le Cher, Simon Paul, Celeste Brooks, Betty Sparkles, Lola Fierce, and Patricia Del Rosario. -------Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver or sending a small donation to our Venmo account @SoulStories!-------3:29 - Suicide in our country11:33 - John's attempts and their love for others17:16 - Experiencing a Mental Health Hospital25:12 - Planning for a downward spiral30:01 - "Seeing myself as worth it and deserving a life"35:47 - Boxing and privilege43:21 - White privilege and mental health co-existing51:20 - Borderline Personality Disorder58:36 - John's fluid identity and reckoning with masculinity1:05:49 - Living in Alaska1:11:09 - Pursuing the feminine 1:16:22 - Discovering drag Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gabriel is a Brazilian therapist and an incredibly warm, meditative and introspective person. This is a really special episode because he is my current therapist. And we dig deep into the therapeutic process. I talk about what I'm working through and Gabe shares intimate stories that really illuminate how beautiful and challenging healing can be. We talk about being triggered, childhood wounds, and strategies that we use even when they don't serve us. This conversation is informative and insightful. It feels like you are sitting down for coffee with a good friend. I had a good time and I believe you will too!-------To contact Gabriel, you can find him at gabrieldeoliveiraduarte@gmail.com -------Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver or sending a small donation to our Venmo account @SoulStories!-------1:14 - Gabriel's work and his wounds14:21 - Introduction to Danny and Gabriel's therapeutic relationship16:59 - Triggers: an opportunity for healing18:56 - What prevents us from facing painful truths?24:50 - Owning your own projection as a therapist27:53 - Danny and Gabriel's boundaries34:00 - Gabriel's body-based process with Danny and everyone else42:09 - Abandonment and childhood fear46:00 - Getting in touch with your heart - Gabriel and his brother53:19 - One woman's incredible journey to set boundaries59:39 - Why should we pursue healing? Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marisa Gullicksrud is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the State Clinical Director of Child First. I'm so excited that she is leading off our first episode of this season. She has been a mentor to me, is a leader in the Denver community and is an overall shining light of a person. In this episode she shares her experiences with depression and opens up about close family members she lost. We talked about the balance of human centered vulnerability and rigorous academic training in therapy. Marisa sheds light on why the mental health system is so challenging to navigate and how important it is that we de-stigmatize seeking help. I had a blast talking with her and hope you enjoy this one. Here is our episode!-------Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver or sending a small donation to our Venmo account @SoulStories!-------1:44 - Marisa's journey to mental health work12:32 - When the color drained from her life19:40 - Self-discovery and purpose23:20 - Working through shame and valuing vulnerability29:15 - The challenges of accessing quality mental health care33:23 - What does quality mental health care look like?43:04 - The importance of creating vulnerable and empowering dialogue 46:22 - "I was only able to stand up because other people were lifting me up"50:36 - How to take the first step to get help53:23 - Finding the right therapist and resources to do so56:08 - The Colorado mental health crisis58:40 - How mental health and the conversation needs to evolve1:04:30 - Hope for the future Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

https://www.patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olufemi Nassi is an author, poet, and host of The In-Betweeners Podcast. Kamga Tchassa is a poet, writer, and multi-format content creator. In this special three-way conversation, Femi and Kamga share the nuances, complexities and challenges that come with immigrating to America. It's one of those conversations that will open your eyes and expand your perspective. I had a lot of fun in this conversation and I think you will thoroughly enjoy it. Here is our episode------For more from Femi:Her book, Ji Sokee: https://www.amazon.com/Ji-Sokee-Awakening-Femi-Nassi/dp/2376120241The Inbetweeners Podcast: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1vigv4LkTBCUuDYx06Oy9z iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-in-betweeners-podcast/id1504104900Instagram: https://instagram.com/femiche_Website: https://feminassi.com/------For more from Kamga:Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/tchassakamga Medium : https://medium.com/@tchassakamga------Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver or sending a small donation to our Venmo account @SoulStories!------6:56 - Femi's introduction to the U.S.11:34 - Kamga's introduction to the U.S.16:54 - Adjusting to an Individualistic culture23:29 - American racism from an African's perspactive27:28 - Having to constantly explain their identities34:30 - The expectations and assumptions of family back home37:38 - Discovering their own identities42:10 - Mental health and understanding loneliness50:28 - The dark side of African collectivism58:43 - Self-expression and making an impact through writing 105:48 - What's next for Kamga and Femi1:14:08 - How to find their creative work Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

A special episode of The Soul Stories Podcast styled a la "This American Life". We explore how a peaceful protest turned violent sparked a national movement. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bubba Peace, formerly Shaun Don ThA TRUTH, is a Father, Partner, Artist, and Poet. He is an extremely reflective and spiritual soul who seems to be wise beyond his years. This conversation is a meditation on transformation, growth and the ills of the world. He offers so much perspective on how sometimes change starts by first taking an honest look at our own lives. Bubba Peace exemplifies compassion and vulnerability in this thoughtful conversation. Enjoy this episode!------Check out his music here! https://soundcloud.com/bubbapeaceInstagram: @Bubba_Peacehttps://www.facebook.com/BabytownProduction------Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver or sending a small donation to our Venmo account @SoulStories!------2:03 - Bubba Peace's family background5:44 - Music and poetry as self-reflection9:37 - Masculinity as an expression of wholeness12:50 - How having a daughter changed his life15:31 - Bubba Peace's big dreams17:29 - Understanding the roots of police brutality21:05 - Returning to who we are24:50 - "Black Community Matters"29:25 - Re-validating the Black man's worth by validating the Black woman's worth34:55 - "Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome"41:35 - Developing his message through the arts45:00 - Cultivating resilient voices in the world47:08 - Presence with God's endless energy52:28 - "Loving people for who they are, not what I want them to become"59:12 - "Love life to the fullest"1:04:40 - Mama Jah Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sarah Jackson is the Founder and Executive Director of Casa De Paz. Casa De Paz's mission is to reunite families separated by immigrant detention, one simple act of love at a time. Sarah's journey is truly unbelievable and she recounts it in her new book "The House That Love Built". I read it and absolutely loved it. I was shocked by how I really didn't want to put it down. In this episode, we talk about the uncomfortable journey she had to go through to discover her life's purpose, the continuing barriers that immigrant families face and so much more. This is a super fun and in-depth conversation where Sarah's passion, empathy, and ability to introspect shines.------Find more out about Sarah's organization at https://www.casadepazcolorado.org/------Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver or sending a small donation to our Venmo account @SoulStories!------2:13 - Casa de Paz during the pandemic6:27 - Oliver's story13:40 - How Sarah's journey started21:00 - Believing in a God of abundance instead of a God of scarcity30:25 - "Where your greatest joy meets the world's greatest need"37:35 - Family and connection at Casa De Paz43:15 - Challenging an oppressive system through dialogue and education48:00 - Creating a bridge to conservative Christianity52:07 - Hospitality homes in America55:30 - Creating a human connection with those who have experienced brutal oppression59:46 - Agustin's Story107:30 - Would I want this to happen to my family?1:11:54 - Can we love others without loving ourselves?1:18:50 - Empathy and laughing at our shortcomings1:23:45 - Appreciation to co-author Scott Sawyer Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hassan Latif is the Founder and Executive Director of the Second Chance Center. The Second Chance Center is dedicated to helping the formerly incarcerated successfully transition into society with proper education, support and resources. Hassan actually spent 18 years in prison himself before becoming the role model he is now. In this episode he recounts his early days of choosing life on the streets in Brooklyn, New York, growing up in segregated America, and the incredible transformation he underwent to becoming the leader so many know and love. You are in for a treat. Hassan is an incredibly engaging storyteller and I'm excited for you to listen. Here's our conversation!-----Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver or sending a small donation to our Venmo account @SoulStories!-----2:00 - Thoughts plus feelings equals behavior6:52 - Growing up in a hostile and segregated New York City12:22 - Shakespeare, intelligence and racism20:57 - Healing wounds and owning our crap24:36 - The first 15 years of incarceration27:45 - A young black man under siege in America33:45 - The system is operating exactly as it was designed42:00 - Cleaning up our lenses to see life differently46:58 - Finding commonality and compassion through trauma52:01 - Making things right in America56:10 - Hassan's transformational moment in prison108:00 - Never going back, a commitment to change1:17:25 - Leaving a mark instead of just scars Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thanks for listening to the episode and taking time to provide us feedback. We are excited to learn about you, our listener!Click here to take the survey :)Link URL: https://forms.gle/7phYx6Us1zqupE5GA Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Valencia started off life feeling extremely isolated both from her family and peers. It's these circumstances that lead her down a destructive path early on. Listen to this transformational episode as Valencia recounts the challenging experiences that led her to healing and changing her life trajectory. It's one that could you make cry and leave you feeling inspired to make changes in your own life. It definitely did so for me. Enjoy!---Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver where you can get bonus podcast content---Valencia is a certified coach and you connect with her at www.radiantcourage.com and her Facebook page, Radiant Courage. You can also find her on Facebook - Valencia Vargas.---Beginning - Growing up isolated16:28 - Searching for belonging26:05 - Being sent to a boarding school33:05 - Navigating an extremely structured treatment program38:00 - Transformation begins42:47 - Rewiring beliefs50:00 - Taking responsibility and forgiveness58:57 - Re-entering society1:01:28 - Envisioning the future Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Millete is an entrepreneur, founder of the local Denver staple, The Whittier Cafe and overall renaissance woman. In this interview she talks about her family's origins in Ethiopia and their journey from refugees in Sudan to the challenges they overcame to thrive in the U.S. Millete is a true leader, who is a personal hero and role model of mine. Her humility, selflessness and community-centered philosophy shines in this conversation.---A few notes: Suzi Q. Smith, who is mentioned later will be scheduled as a guest on the show for a later date. Also, since this interview was recorded, her cousin's surgery, which we talk about at the end, has been pushed back to the end of January, the week this episode drops. Send her and her family all the love you have. Ok, now let's start the episode.---Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver where you can get bonus podcast content---If you're in the Denver area, Millete wants to invite you to a Sunday coffee ceremony, poetry reading (when they happen), or donate to their Justice Fund. If you would like more information, please reach out to danny@soulstoriesdenver.com---Beginning - Founding a Denver community staple, the Whittier Cafe8:10 - Freedom fighting in Ethiopia and being a refugee17:48 - Moving and growing up in America23:15 - Her father reconnects with his dignity in his final years30:38 - Mom's natural medicines and cooking33:23 - Interviewing historical figures as a journalist41:29 - Giving to the community without expecting return46:11 - Building and investing in the Whittier Cafe community54:48 - Legalities of keeping ownership of the Whittier Cafe57:28 - Coming together for her cousin's surgery Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Edith grew up in the border town of Brownsville, Texas. She describes the many challenges she faced early on while navigating her Mexican-American identity. And how struggling to fit in and severe confidence issues led her into a cult. Edith shares this deeply vulnerable experience with grace and courage. Ultimately, it's a story of human resilience and overcoming. Here's our conversation!---Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver where you can get bonus podcast content---For more from Edith, check out her blog! https://bigediemusings.wordpress.com/---Beginning - Grappling with Mexican-American identity while growing up in Brownsville, Texas12:20 - Growing up non-traditional and the struggle to fit in17:53 - Navigating white and brown spaces22:30 - Seeking solace in the arts29:30 - Overcoming challenges without direction or support34:48 - Depending on religion39:33 - Being manipulated and controlled by the pastor49:15 - Breaking away from the cult1:03:15 - Healing and the path forward Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

I sit down with Chris Bowers-Castillo, Will Parkhill, and Michael Devincenzi of the band Kiltro. Kiltro was originally conceived in Valparaiso, Chile and is on the rise here in Colorado. They weave beautiful narratives within these large musical soundscapes that can been described as Chilean Folk Rock. In this interview we talk all things music. The pursuit of it as a career. How we connect to it. The intimate process that goes into creating it. This band is one of my favorites. They are awesome guys and, as you'll hear, clearly have their hearts in the right place. Check their music out online and go experience their shows. Here is our conversation!---Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver where you can get bonus podcast content---Be on the lookout!1) A new music video will be released in the next couple of months.2) Kiltro will be going on tour with City of the Sun on Jan. 28th. 3) Check out their album "Creatures of Habit", which is out now on all platforms. For Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/15u9sohSPRl0qYMlBQ9b0x---Beginning - Kiltro is born in Valparaíso, Chile (with Chris Bowers-Castillo)14:40 - Wrestling with Chilean-American identity (with Chris)19:50 - The band joins the conversation21:00 - Connecting to the higher power of music (with Will Parkhill)25:47 - Pursuing music over higher education (with Michael)33:05 - Overcoming isolation in Vietnam (with Will)40:03 - Building the song "Ofelia" (with Will and Chris)49:30 - Exploring the intimate process of creating (with Chris)1:00:27 - Crafting the live show (with Chris and Michael)1:06:50 - Participating in something larger than yourself (with Michael and Will)1:10:52 - What does Kiltro mean to you? (with Will, Michael, and Chris) Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Mazur, my dad, is a big hearted man who grew up in inner city Cleveland. Early success in football and business pushed him further into a self-absorbed perspective of the world. You'll hear why my conservative and Catholic dad is both my role model and a major reason why I do Soul Stories. I learned a lot about my dad in this interview and I think you will find his story inspirational for your own. Enjoy!---Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver where you can get bonus podcast content---1:54 - Growing up in inner city Cleveland, OH8:11 - Shifting from selfishness to giving of yourself 16:49 - The personal challenge of dealing with early success 23:05 - The dream begins to crumble 28:00 - Opening to a world of love and generosity 35:04 - Listening is the first step43:46 - Entering dialogue with those you disagree with 56:03 - Forming an internal value system 1:00:05 - The importance of sharing your shortcomings Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Heatherlyn is an interdependent, international singer/song-writer, poet, founder and host of her Storydwelling in-depth talk show. Heatherlyn grew up in, as she describes it, white, patriarchal, purity culture in Maine where her "inner artist" had been crushed early on. In this episode, we take a deep dive into how we both dismantle and perpetuate sexual shame, white supremacy, and patriarchy. The themes are heavy, but the conversation is joyful and full of laughter. I honestly had a blast doing it and hope you do as well.---Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver where you can get bonus podcast content---Main Website :: www.HeatherlynMusic.comLearn more of Heatherlyn's story, download music, enjoy a variety of LIVE recorded concerts! ---Storydwelling Archives :: https://www.heatherlynmusic.com/music-and-conversation/Storydwelling is "cultivating a courageous, compassionate curiosity for ourselves and one another, recognizing the shaping nature of narrative.Each LIVEcast episode is a little different, with the same heart for interconnection and healing - individually and collectively.---Patreon Community :: www.Patreon.com/HeatherlynMusicJoin the Heatherlyn Music community of support to uplift and extend her work of truth-seeking and beauty-making in this world.---Find two 2019 EP Releases from Heatherlyn (Being Breathed and Songs of the Season), as well as her full album STORYDWELLING, and collaboration with the 9BEATS Collective on Spotify and all other streaming platforms!---Beginning - Growing up in Maine and finding community in the church6:02 - Being told her inner artist is not okay9:10 - Experiencing patriarchal, purity culture in the church15:57 - Sexual shame and its traumatic effects19:22 - Storytelling, myths and healing27:30 - Reckoning with white patriarchy and how we perpetuate it 38:32 - Dismantling and deconstructing toxic narratives41:13 - Separating faith from religion and Heatherlyn's journey to discover truth49:50 - Choosing her passion for music and the sacrifices to do so1:02:49 - What's next for Heatherlyn Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jackson is a teacher, student, and author of the forthcoming "Literature: How to Read and Understand the World". In our conversation, Jackson takes us through his transformative journey. He finds himself spiraling into a dark period in which he describes being a slave to himself. Then he has a close encounter with death that changes his life. In this profound and meaningful episode, Jackson and I discuss religion, aligning with your path and whether free will exists or not. This is one of those episodes that will give you plenty to chew on. Here's our conversation!---He blogs and promotes his services through https://jacksonholzbergbuckley.com/ ---Note: You may notice Jackson's voice sounds different than Danny's. This is because the conversation was conducted on Zoom.---Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver where you can get bonus podcast content---Beginning - Growing up in California and exposure to the creative arts7:25 - Spiritual openness, religion and being an old soul18:13 - Self-conscious creativity: "There's this feeling that if I'm my true self, I'm going to be punished for it"24:52 - "The darkest period of my life"32:30 - How a close encounter with death became a wake-up call40:50 - Needing help and investing in relationships45:00 - Going from being a slave to yourself into trusting and loving yourself49:50 - Does free will exist?56:00 - Having a prophetic dream1:01:25 - Finding alignment with your path1:04:20 - What Jackson is creating for the world Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Delia is an artist and co-founder of Stain'd Arts. One of Delia's super powers is being comfortable with quiet, both by herself and with others. In this conversation, you'll hear about how loving with intensity pushed her to take a huge leap in life and how she has learned to find comfort in uncertainty. Delia is someone I deeply love and towards the end, you'll hear how our relationship has been so central to our growth. This is a special one. Enjoy!---Consider supporting The Soul Stories Podcast at Patreon.com/soulstoriesdenver where you can get bonus podcast content---Beginning - Being comfortable with quiet6:12 - Creating with broken mirrors and the transformative power of art19:03 - Taking the leap to create your own life and live without a consistent income31:27 - Loving with intensity and going all in39:30 - Disruption and people wanting to feel special44:06 - Curiosity and the unknown49:20 - Dealing with uncertainty and throwing tantrums53:55 - Aligning with your body1:00:12 - Danny and Delia's inspiring and challenging relationship Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to what's coming up in Season 3! It's going to be a special one :) Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

For our final installment from un/pact, Danny Mazur revisits points from his past that both shaped and distorted his view on sex and consent, from his Catholic upbringing to conversations about his own male privilege. He originally told this story at our live event, un/pact: a creative dialogue on consent, on April 26 in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

For our next to last episode in our series of live stories on consent, intimacy coach Susan Coates gets personal and digs into the nitty gritty on working towards consent on both a cultural and an individual level. She originally told this story at Unpact: a creative dialogue on consent, our live event on April 26 in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the fourth episode in our series of live stories from un/pact: a creative dialogue on consent, Shelsea Ochoa helps us explore two different worlds⁠—one of consent and one of non-consent⁠—and a cultural transformation based on love. She originally told this story at our live event on April 26 in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the third installment in our series of live stories from un/pact: a creative dialogue on consent, Devin Pitts-Rogers offers a cautionary tale. Here, he talks about what happens when consent becomes too transactional, the horrors of high school locker-room talk and how adults contort to avoid the discomfort of substantive conversations about sex with younger generations. He originally told this story at our live event on April 26 in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

The second episode in our consent series comes from Denver-based writer Rebecca Hannigan. She originally told this story at our live event called “un/pact: a creative dialogue on consent” on April 26, in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Although Rebecca typically writes absurdist fiction, here she takes us back to a couch during her college years and a bitter last encounter with a former partner that that forced her to reckon with power dynamics that can govern sex and consent. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

This season, The Soul Stories Podcast is featuring live stories from "un/pact: a creative dialogue on consent.” This event was Held in April for Sexual Assault Awareness Month and will be recurring annually. The whole idea is to create a space where people can share vulnerable stories, poems, songs and other forms of oral artistic expression in a space where the audience is uniquely prepared to listen. We hope both the event and this season of the podcast can spark dialogue on this very important topic. The first episode features poetry from Denver writers Taylor Heussner, Suzi Q. Smith and Kate West. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Patricia Alley is a certified coach, mentor and author, who has had to navigate childhood trauma, mental illness, and addiction. Early in her 20's she joined the Army and was deployed to Iraq. It was there she was faced with her own pain and destructive habits. In this episode she recounts how humility, vigilance and a myriad of supports saved her life. She now works to serve those on similar paths. She advocates for the fight against stigma and for our society to reclaim interdependence. Her resilience is remarkable and truly shows the power of the human spirit to overcome. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

I was lucky enough to be a guest on The Loving Creative where Kamga helps me share my story. We dig really deep in this interview and I reveal a lot about myself and my journey that many do not know. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did! Below is Kamga's description."Daniel "Danny" Mazur considers himself a "born-again creative". This episode of the podcast takes us on an emotional journey from the time he became an accidental poet, what he calls 'the year of mania', and the first iteration of what we see today as Soul Stories.Danny and I talk about: Creating from pain The people you attract with your creativity The unique exercise that helped solidify his calling. The support he's had on his journey, How he handles negative feedback.Discipline, rest, and self-care as a creative."For more from the Loving Creative visit: https://shows.pippa.io/the-loving-creative-with-kamga-tchassa/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-loving-creative-with-kamga-tchassa/id1462844185 Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chris is a lifelong community activist, organizer, and family man. Growing up, Chris navigated multiple identities both within his family and in the community. This helped him develop an extraordinary understanding of how to build bridges between cultures. He is dedicated to his community, Montbello, an ethnically diverse neighborhood on the Northeast side of Denver that has gone through many changes in the last couple of decades. He has traveled the world, worked in education & community development, and is currently helping create a large scale affordable housing & supermarket project. Chris is not afraid of change, discomfort, difficult conversations, and has solutions that I believe can make this world more inclusive, understanding, and connected. His wisdom, mindfulness and experience come through strong in this interview and I believe we all have a lot to learn from listening to him. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shelsea is an artist, activist, and educator. She has a special ability to approach life with a sense of wonder and awe and hopes to inspire that feeling in others through creating meaningful experiences. Shelsea was home schooled, lived homeless for a short period of her teenage years, and has traveled the world. She is constantly seeking social change and believes that service with integrity comes from a place of human connection and mutual benefit. This conversation was a special one for me. Shelsea has been one of my closest friends and inspirations in life. It's a fun one! Enjoy. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kamga Tchassa, The Soul Stories Podcast Producer and Engineer sits down to discuss his journey as a husband, storyteller and immigrant from Cameroon. Starting out in his home country's education system, he was placed on a track to become a professional in the sciences. Growing up, he was shy and considered himself "boring". It wasn't until he learned how to choose himself, develop a love for writing, and express himself openly, did he really come alive. He speaks to dealing with mental health issues, meeting the love of his life, Queenie, his intention to become a father and how we wants to his writing to connect with those who have had similar experiences to himself. Kamga is a good a friend and incredibly sweet soul. I think you will really enjoy this one. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dave Glaser is a fitness entrepreneur who is developing authentic community and vulnerability in a world overrun with toxic masculinity and pride. He speaks about how exercise has been his number one tool to overcome anxiety and depression and he hopes that he can do the same for his clients. What started as 1:1 physical training with his mother has now blossomed into a successful business and community. In this conversation, I press him on what healthy masculinity looks like and how vulnerability can show up in the world of sports and athleticism. I have been so fed up with performative masculinity in the sports world and the lack of emotional depth. Dave had some unique solutions to these issues in the latter half of this conversation. I'm curious what you all think. Feel free to leave comments. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Individualized Learning, Sparking Curiosity in Education, and the Pursuit of Knowledge w/ Tanise FoxTanise has a passion for secondary education, individualized learning styles and museum exhibit design. She learned to navigate the education system with Dyslexia and ADHD on her own. Far before she was diagnosed, Tanise took it upon herself to identify creative strategies to learn. This was met with resistance from several of her teachers. She has taken those challenges and focused her efforts on creating individualized experiences to spark curiosity in youth and adults. It was really inspiring to talk with someone who is so dedicated to improving education for our community. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sexual Consent, Journalism and the Pursuit of Nuance in Social Issues w/ Hannah SkewesHannah is a writer and advocate for mental health awareness and sexual assault prevention. She comes from a journalistic background and seeks the nuance in difficult social conversations. Hannah grew up in Mississippi in a somewhat conservative household and has learned the importance of creating space for productive dialogue where minds can be changed. Since this conversation took place, Hannah and I hosted "Un/pact: a creative dialogue on consent" which was an extremely impactful evening. 10 performers shared personal stories on consent including topics like "hot consent", the gray spaces of power, how to ask for what you want, sexual assault, being a survivor, religion's impact on sex, and much more.In this episode, Hannah details parts of her own story and what she learned from an abusive and coercive marriage. This is an important conversation that I encourage you to listen to. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Masks and Self-Destruction to Heart-centered creativity w/ Mike BrancatelliMike Brancatelli, the Host of the Mikeadelic Podcast, is dedicated to liberty, psychadelics, and self-empowerment. Mike has been plagued with depression, escapism, and destructive habits in what he describes as his version of hell. He finds himself masking these through stand-up comedy, corporate success and travel. In 2016, his life changed when he found his healing through Ayahuasca while living with the Shipibo people in the Amazon.Mike has been on a profound and inspiring journey for personal and social truth. Through his transformation, he has found that his process has moved from the ego into vulnerability and heart-centered creativity. He hopes that this can ripple into people developing a stronger sense of curiosity, community and raw honesty in their paths. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Becoming a doctor as a black & female immigrant w/ Queenie Kisang Talking with Queenie was truly inspiring and easily one of my favorite conversations I have ever had. She talks about the challenges of being 1 of 2 black students in med school, coming from Cameroon to find asylum in the U.S., overcoming traditional gender roles, dealing with ADHD and dyslexia, and adapting to the American education system on her road to becoming a doctor. She describes how a strong sense of self-confidence, acceptance, and creative problem-solving helped her navigate the obstacles in her way. In a few years, her goal is to specialize in family medicine and psychiatry. She credits her family and community as the foundation that has lead her to be as successful as she has been.Since this conversation has taken place, Queenie has been accepted into a family medicine program in Pueblo, Colorado and will be starting her first year of residency. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.