Episode 17 Unlocking the Labyrinth of Self-Discovery with Karen Montgomery
Begin Within: The Inner Work Journey
Release Date: 03/16/2025
Begin Within: The Inner Work Journey
Episode Overview: In this captivating episode of Begin Within, host Yedda Stancil sits down with Liza Newell, a storyteller and performance artist who reveals the transformative power of storytelling, song, and creative expression. Key Highlights: - Liza's journey from an 8-year-old storytelling festival attendee to a professional performing artist - The neuroscience behind storytelling and communal singing - How stories create empathy, connection, and synchronicity - The importance of play, creativity, and imagination in personal growth Fascinating Insights: - Neuroscience research shows that...
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In this powerful and intimate episode of Begin Within, host Yedda Stancil sits down with Rachel Douglas, former Executive Director of the Inner Work Center, for a deeply personal conversation about leadership, transition, and the profound art of forgiveness. Key Highlights: - Rachel's unexpected journey from nonprofit management to spiritual leadership - The challenges of organizational transition and personal growth - A candid exploration of forgiveness, healing, and community repair - Insights into the inner workings of a transformative spiritual center Listeners will discover: - How...
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Episode 18 with Erin Bishop Guest: Erin Bishop, Certified End of Life Doula Key Takeaways: Death awareness is a powerful tool for living more authentically and meaningfully Understanding mortality can help reduce fear and create deeper connections Community support is crucial in processing our relationship with death and dying Episode Highlights: Erin shares her journey of becoming an end-of-life doula after a close friend's death Discussion on how Western culture avoids conversations about mortality Exploration of the "Memento Mori" practice (remembering you must die) Insights...
info_outlineBegin Within: The Inner Work Journey
Welcome to the Begin Within podcast, where we dive deep into the profound journey of personal development and inner transformation. In this episode, we're thrilled to be joined by Karen Montgomery, an art therapist and certified labyrinth facilitator, who shares her passion for the transformative power of these ancient sacred spaces. Labyrinths have a rich history spanning millennia, serving as tools for meditation, self-reflection, and spiritual growth across diverse cultures. Join us as Karen guides us through the winding path of the labyrinth, exploring how this unique practice can unlock...
info_outlineBegin Within: The Inner Work Journey
On this episode of Begin Within, we welcome Linda Winston, INELDA Trained death doula, to explore the profound work of accompanying individuals and families through the dying process. Linda shares how death doulas differ from hospice care, offering emotional, spiritual, and practical support during life’s final transition. She reflects on her own journey—from a career in advocacy to finding her calling in end-of-life care—and discusses how we can overcome the fear of death by shifting cultural perspectives on mortality. Through personal stories, she highlights the power of presence,...
info_outlineBegin Within: The Inner Work Journey
In this episode, Yedda Stancil sits down with John Taylor, a board member and faculty of the Innerwork Center, to discuss his remarkable journey of self-discovery and the transformative power of mindfulness. Key Takeaways: John shares his unique life story, including being born to an unwed mother and the challenges he faced in his early years. He describes how he found his way to mindfulness and meditation, and how these practices helped him overcome addiction and suicidal thoughts. John discusses his journey to becoming a certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) teacher and...
info_outlineBegin Within: The Inner Work Journey
In this episode of the Begin Within podcast, host Yedda Stancil sits down with Sara Schmatz, the Director of Operations at the Innerwork Center, for an insightful discussion on the power of inner work, the importance of silence and stillness, and the Center's new initiative - the Bench. Exploring the nuances of self-care versus self-nourishment, the duo delves into the transformative potential of creating a sacred, non-denominational space for the community to gather, connect, and explore their own spiritual journeys. This conversation offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of the...
info_outlineBegin Within: The Inner Work Journey
In this thought-provoking episode, host Yedda Stancil sits down with Tiger Coll to explore the concept of a "spiritual renaissance" and the five foundational spiritual truths that can empower personal growth and transformation. As someone who grew up immersed in a spiritual environment before finding discipline and purpose in the Navy SEALs, Tiger shares his unique perspective on tapping into our innate freedom and unlocking our true potential. The discussion delves into the importance of finding the right teachers and modalities, being open to the journey, and taking inspired action - rather...
info_outlineBegin Within: The Inner Work Journey
In this episode, Yedda Stancil sits down with Bob Snead, a long-time supporter and board member of the Inner Work Center (formerly the Chrysalis Group). Bob shares his powerful personal story of overcoming addiction, finding his spiritual path, and becoming an integral part of the organization's growth over the past 30 years. Key Takeaways: - Bob's journey from a relationship crisis and alcohol abuse to discovering the power of inner work and community support - The importance of distinguishing between the ego, the shadow, and the "still small voice" within - The paradox of suffering and how...
info_outlineBegin Within: The Inner Work Journey
Episode Summary: In this profound and inspiring episode, host Yedda Stancil welcomes Kristen Lennox to discuss belonging, the impact of moral injury, unconscious bias, and the transformative power of inner work. Kristen shares her deeply personal journey as a social worker, her cultural background, and her commitment to fostering inclusive and brave spaces. This episode explores how personal healing leads to collective belonging and the critical role of curiosity, creativity, and compassion. Key Topics Discussed: The Concept of Belonging: What it truly means to belong, starting with...
info_outlineWelcome to the Begin Within podcast, where we dive deep into the profound journey of personal development and inner transformation. In this episode, we're thrilled to be joined by Karen Montgomery, an art therapist and certified labyrinth facilitator, who shares her passion for the transformative power of these ancient sacred spaces. Labyrinths have a rich history spanning millennia, serving as tools for meditation, self-reflection, and spiritual growth across diverse cultures. Join us as Karen guides us through the winding path of the labyrinth, exploring how this unique practice can unlock profound insights and foster a deeper connection to our authentic selves. Whether you're new to these practices or a seasoned seeker, this conversation promises to inspire and empower you on your path to inner growth.
Key Takeaways:
- Karen Montgomery is an art therapist and certified labyrinth facilitator who shares her passion for the transformative power of labyrinths.
- Labyrinths have a rich history dating back thousands of years, with connections to various spiritual and cultural traditions.
- Walking a labyrinth can be a profound meditative experience, allowing one to release, receive, and reflect on their inner journey.
- The labyrinth's sacred geometry and winding path can mirror the ebbs and flows of life, providing insights and self-discovery.
- Art therapy and creativity are powerful tools for accessing the unconscious mind and expressing one's authentic self.
- The inner work center offers regular labyrinth walks and creative workshops to support personal growth and transformation.
Topics:
- History and significance of labyrinths
- Labyrinth walking as a meditative practice
- Connecting the mind, body, and spirit through the labyrinth
- Art therapy and creativity as pathways to self-expression
- Upcoming labyrinth events and workshops at the inner work center
Action Items:
- Attend the upcoming labyrinth walks at the inner work center www.innerworkcenter.org
- Explore the center's virtual resources and classes on the Mighty Networks platform
www.innerworkcenter.org