The Gifts of Trauma

The Gifts of Trauma is a weekly podcast that features personal stories of trauma healing and the gifts revealed on the path to authenticity. Join us to hear what it was like for our guests to live with the tension of trauma, and what happened when they turned inward with compassionate curiosity. These highly relatable stories illustrate how they transformed their trauma generated fear, anger, pain or shame triggers into understanding, acceptance and love.

I’m All I Wanted to Be. Now What? With Sat Dharam Kaur 06/26/2025

I’m All I Wanted to Be. Now What? With Sat Dharam Kaur Hosted by Kevin Young. Produced by J’aime Rothbard. This conversation opens with Sat Dharam sharing her realization that her original life goals have been achieved, and asking herself, “What’s next?” She goes on to look forward and explore the possibilities. A therapist’s state is known to influence the client's experience and expand the potential for healing. That’s why Compassionate Inquiry® brings empathetic presence into therapeutic contexts. But if current psychological and spiritual understandings were expanded to include environmental consciousness and creative expression, how might that further enhance the client’s overall mental and physical health? Sat Dharam also suggests we consider: - Integrating bodily awareness into therapeutic practices to extend self-care beyond the mind - Loving and accepting our bodies and their urges rather than criticizing, punishing or denying them - Using compassion-fostering practices to help integrate the mind and body during emotional healing - How psychological states are linked to physical health when it comes to how trauma is processed - The interconnectedness of individual well-being, relationships, and environmental health This episode concludes with an invitation to reflect on the concept of, 'all is one’ and how the human experience of wholeness integrates spirituality, psychology, physical well-being, creativity and the natural world. About Sat Dharam Kaur Compassionate Inquiry® Co-Director, Training Facilitator, Circle Leader, Certified Practitioner Sat Dharam is a practicing naturopathic doctor (since 1989) with a focus on women’s health, cancer and mind-body approaches to healing. Since 2012, she has been studying, hosting, working and teaching with Dr. Gabor Maté. She structured his work in a teachable format; the Compassionate Inquiry® Professional Online Training. Since 2019, much of her naturopathic practice has included Compassionate Inquiry®. Sat Dharam’s educational background includes a BA majoring in Psychology & English Literature, and a BSc in Biology from the University of Guelph. She completed her postgraduate studies in naturopathic medicine at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto, where she also taught stress management and women’s health for 10 years. The author of multiple *books on women’s health, Sat Dharam has also presented at numerous conferences. An expert instructor in Kundalini Yoga, which she has practiced and taught for over 45 years, Sat Dharam has developed yoga-based curricula in addiction recovery, trauma, and breast health; specialties in which she offers training to teachers around the world. Sat Dharam and her husband live in an off-grid home on 105 acres of beautiful land where she nurtures fruit trees and a large garden. She enjoys hiking, cycling, and communing with plants. She has three adult children and two grandchildren. Promotional Link: If you've been listening to our podcast, you may have heard guests connect their birth experiences with enduring subconscious, behavioural and emotional patterns. To help break this cycle, Compassionate Inquiry offers The Portal a 28-week trauma informed training for perinatal health professionals such as midwives, obstetricians, nurses and doulas, who want to empower their patients to trust their innate ability to birth, bond with and nurture their child. To learn more and register, just . Resources Websites: Relevant Links: Books: * * * Quotes: “Even if I look at myself when I was a teenager, it was the same. There was a big piece of me that loved nature. There was a big piece of me that loved the arts and poetry and beauty, and there was a big piece of me that was curious about human nature and psychology and wanted to help.” - Sat Dharam Kaur “Empathetic Abiding Presence is the art of being fully present in the moment, offering safety, validation, and care while resisting the urge to fix, analyze, or judge.” - Compassionate Inquiry “Both Buddhist psychology and Western psychology have championed the need to include the body as part of wise psychology. Freud and his followers such as Young and Reich, engaged in a hard won battle to help us re inhabit our body as the conduit of life energy. Through their work we have learned the values of our instincts, the eloquence of our sexuality, the need to respect the root motivations and drives of physical life. This reclaiming of the bodily life is part of a long and continuous struggle.” - Jack Kornfield ( The Wise Heart) Social Media: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/37151100

What Happens in Women’s Circles with Tanya Lynn 06/19/2025

What Happens in Women’s Circles with Tanya Lynn Hosted and Produced by J’aime Rothbard In this lively conversation, Tanya reveals why women gather in Circles and the personal growth that can happen when they do. She shares her long Circling history and what recently motivated her to train in Somatic Experiencing and integrate it into her Circle Work. Tanya also demystifies: - Sisterhood - The Mother Wound, Sister Wound and Witch Wounds - The Role of Circles - The Roles of Perimenopause and Menopause - The Wild Woman - The Council of Queens - The Grandmother Clan Join us to learn what happens in Woman’s Circles. You might begin by unpacking triggers which can open healing for a lifetime of wounds inflicted by women. Move on to develop personal sovereignty, cultivate powerful personal leadership, and build a community you can trust with your heart. All of this and more is possible through "Circling." About Tanya Lynn, CEO and Author. Tanya is a pioneer in feminine embodiment, global circle facilitation, and trauma-informed leadership. An Integrative Nutrition Health Coach trained in Transformational Leadership, she is currently completing her Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner program. The founder of Sistership Circle®, a global movement of facilitators across 30+ countries, and the creator of the Feminine Freedom Method™ (a somatic certification rooted in nervous system awareness, shadow alchemy, and sacred space holdin) Tanya spent over 15 years developing transformational experiences that support women in healing, reclaiming their voices, and leading from their deepest truths. She authored, Open Your Heart: How to be a New Generation Feminine Leader, in 2017, and The Art of Leading Circle: How to Fill, Lead & Grow Your Women's Circle, in 2020. Tanya is known for her fierce devotion to truth, her ability to create safe spaces for deep emotional unraveling, and her commitment to birthing the next generation of embodied feminine leaders. She lives in Costa Rica with her husband and two daughters. Promotional Message: If you've been listening to our podcast and are curious about the Compassionate Inquiry approach developed by Doctor Gabor Maté and Sat Dharam Kaur, consider joining the Professional Training Program. It's open to all healing professionals, including naturopaths, physicians, body workers, coaches, and therapists. In addition to learning how to use compassion to support your clients in their most vulnerable moments with greater empathy and authenticity, you'll also deepen your own internal process. If you're interested, to learn more Resources: Websites: Related Links : Videos: Sistership Circle YouTube Channel Courses: Books: Quotes: “The opposite of patriarchy isn't matriarchy, it's circling.” - Jean Shinoda Bolen “It's really about trusting the medicine. Circle has medicine for us. Sometimes medicine doesn't taste good. It's bitter, right? But it's going to be good for you and it's going to open your heart. Because ultimately that's what it's all about: Where have you closed your heart and are you willing to be brave enough to open it again and let all the love in?” - Tanya Lynn Social Media: IG: @tanyapaluso @sistershipcircle FB: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/37067155

Longing to Belong with Cristina Bâra 06/12/2025

Longing to Belong with Cristina Bâra Hosted and Produced by J’aime Rothbard The gentle conversation flows from Cristina’s personal journey to her professional role within the Compassionate Inquiry® organization to the approach’s impact on individual and group development. She highlights how Compassionate Inquiry® groups foster a sense of community and mutual support by inviting individuals to explore their emotions and experiences in the safe facilitated spaces that are essential for meaningful personal exploration. Cristina also explains: - Why the self-discovery and healing path often require us to experience our old blocked pain - How our individual struggles can be mirrored by the group's collective experiences - The notion that compassion—for ourselves and others—is transformative - How transformative insights can be expanded in broader communities. - Reparenting: A process in which we nurture our inner selves with motherly love Cristina reflects her deep exploration of emotional well-being, the shared human experience and showcases the power of Compassionate Inquiry® as a tool for individual and collective healing. About Cristina Bâra Compassionate Inquiry Facilitator, Practitioner.and Romanian Program Director A Compassionate Inquiry Facilitator, Practitioner and the Director of Romanian Programs, Cristina is also a trained in Somatic Therapy, Family Constellations, Dance and Movement Psychotherapy and the Neuro- Affective Relational Model (NARM), an approach often highly effective in treating complex trauma. Cristina is Polyvagal-informed and offers Safe and Sound Protocol interventions, a therapy that uses music to promote optimal functioning of the nervous system. Cristina began her journey of self-discovery while working for one of the “Big Four” tax consultancy corporations. Long hours led her to the verge of burnout, disconnecting her from herself and her loved ones. After embarking upon a personal quest for meaning, she used meditation and spiritual practices to reconnect. After completing a transformational coaching program in 2018, the new possibility of accompanying others on their personal journeys emerged. Cristina has since undertaken multiple trainings that shape the way she supports and inspires people. Cristina lives in Romania and works with clients in Romanian and English, both virtually and in person. If you're a current Compassionate Inquiry Professional Training Program participant or graduate, you're invited to CI's Experiential Intensive Retreat, in the north of Ireland, from September 8 - 12. Deepen your personal and community connections in the beautiful natural setting of Corrymeela, with beautiful views over the Irish sea. Rest, reflect, and partake in workshops, CI-, body- and nature-based practice sessions, plus delightful evening community celebrations, with home-cooked meals, Irish music and dancing. to learn more. Resources: Website: Related Links: Quote: “You are loved” - Cristina Båra Social Media: LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/36954350

Bonus Song: U.K. Blessed with Jacob Kishere AKA Culture Pilgrim 06/09/2025

Evoking the Resonant Man with Jacob Kishere 06/05/2025

Evoking the Resonant Man with Jacob Kishere Hosted by Kevin Young. Produced by J’aime Rothbard. This deep, esoteric and practical conversation addresses the lack of positive role models and meaningful traditions for men, today. Jacob introduces the "Resonant Man," an archetype that aims to evolve masculinity into a sacred form that addresses current societal contexts and the importance of male identity. After recognizing the need for a communal space that fosters growth and understanding in relation to masculinity, Jacob encourages men to connect with supportive communities, engage in dialogues, explore their emotional landscapes and open to the potency of personal transformation Jacob and Kevin also delve into: - The potential of the emotional gap between isolation and intimacy - Opening paths to greater joy by confronting and embracing our vulnerabilities, fears and traumas - Relating our personal internal conflicts to the broader struggles of today’s metacrisis - The essence of existence, the groundlessness of life and the necessity of accepting uncertainty - The roles played by elders, ancestry and intergenerational wisdom in guiding modern initiations for men facing unique contemporary challenges. Overall, this dialogue explores how men can navigate their external environments and emotional landscapes, ultimately fostering deeper connections with themselves and their communities through shared experiences, rituals, and supportive communities. About Jacob Kishere A professional dialogue facilitator, writer, rapper and philosopher, Jacob lives in Ciudad de Oaxaca, México. He is also the creator of SenseSpace Studio (a live events and podcast production suite) and SenseSpace Podcast, a production which suggests that to understand what insight, wisdom and healing mean today, we must first understand complexity across multiple domains and many fields of experience. On CulturePilgrim Substack, Jacob publishes longform essays and reflections on his search for meaning, belonging and understanding, beyond cultural boundaries. As the rapper ‘CulturePilgrim,' Jacob explores rap through different genres, weaving together the mystical and mundane from chillhop to drill. After working with renowned UK and German producers, he has released over 12 singles. He is currently collaborating with Jordan Bates on a debut album, Christahuasca, which weaves heartfelt mystic medicine and rhyme. As a lover of freestyle, Jacob offered his first freestyle workshops in 2024 to support others wanting to tap into this incredible expression tool. In 2024, Jacob also co-founded The Resonant Man with author, journalist and collective healing facilitator, Matthew Green. In collaboration, they support the evolution and revivification of masculinity and co-host weekly international men’s initiative gatherings. In 2025, Jacob launched Soul Journey, a unique 1-1 support service to support individuals seeking a deeper relationship with the sacred and their unique path of flourishing through unearthing and birthing the soul through dialogue. Promotional Link: If you are, or have, participated in the Compassionate Inquiry® Professional Training program, please join us from June 17 to 19 at Renewal: a CI Summer Solstice Retreat, hosted by Sat Dharam Kaur and 18 CI Facilitators from around the globe. In this immersive journey into renewal and transformation, you’ll experience guided practices, nature immersions, creative activities, small group workshops, connection circles, meaningful conversations and much more, all designed to support your journey inward, as we celebrate the solstice in community. to learn more and secure your place. RESOURCES Website: Related Links: Videos: Poems: - John O'Donoghue, Quotes: We're living through a profound turning in the human soul, a metacrisis that demands an evolution within and between us. I'm here to midwife that shift, to listen and lead in a way that reveals the profound depths of who we are and what it means to come together.” - Jacob Kishere “If we limit the depth of suffering, then we also limit the height of ecstasy.” - Jacob Kishere “The partner you're with magnetizes the combination of your karma and your dharma.” - Unknown Social: @culturepilgrim IG @jacobkishere X /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/36855540

Enhancing Bodywork & EFT (Tapping) with Compassionate Inquiry with Pam Sommer 05/29/2025

Enhancing Bodywork & EFT (Tapping) with Compassionate Inquiry with Pam Sommer Hosted by Rosemary Davies-Janes. Produced by J’aime Rothbard. In this intimate, flowing conversation, Pam unravels the interconnections of emotions and physical sensations, particularly pain, in therapeutic settings including Massage Therapy, RMT, Emotional Freedom Technique, EFT (tapping), and Compassionate Inquiry® CI. She shares the therapeutic effects on her anxiety and physical pain she experienced while training in EFT and CI, highlighting that while both issues are still present, she now has the tools to manage them. Pam also touches on: - Generational trauma and how earlier generations shaped her emotional responses and behaviors - Her experience as a CI Facilitator with Indigenous participants, the alignment of CI with their traditional healing practices, and how both emphasize understanding and respect - The emotional aspects of registered massage therapy - The importance of personal and communal healing, emotional well-being and support systems - Why she undertook training to be a Death Doula, and how that supported her emotional healing A significant theme for Pam is trusting her own intuition and body knowledge. She closes the interview by encouraging listeners to recognize that they already have the answers within themselves. About Pam Sommer Pam’s journey into wellness began with experiences that sparked a deep commitment to healing and self-discovery. Today, as a dedicated wellness practitioner, a Compassionate Inquiry® Practitioner and Facilitator, an EFT Practitioner, a Registered Massage Therapist and a Death Doula, Pam’s approach is rooted in empathy, understanding and a genuine desire to support others on their path to well-being. Together with her clients she creates safe, nurturing spaces for healing and is passionate about helping them live peaceful, fulfilling lives. Personally, Pam finds joy in simple things— exploring nature through camping and hiking, staying grounded through yoga and exercise. She lives on an off-grid farm with her partner, Jeremiah, and their two kids, Ethan and Paige, surrounded by a lively crew of freeloading animals who bring joy (and a bit of chaos) to their lives. Whether working with clients or spending time with her family, Pam strives to live authentically and help others do the same. Promotional Link: If you are, or have, participated in the Compassionate Inquiry® Professional Training program, please join us from June 17 to 19 at Renewal: a CI Summer Solstice Retreat, hosted by Sat Dharam Kaur and 18 CI Facilitators from around the globe. In this immersive journey into renewal and transformation, you’ll experience guided practices, nature immersions, creative activities, small group workshops, connection circles, meaningful conversations and much more, all designed to support your journey inward, as we celebrate the solstice in community. to learn more and secure your place. Resources: Websites: Related Links: Article: Books: Teachers: Quotes: “Wipe those tears away. That's not going to help anybody. They can help the person who's shedding the tears. It’s so healing to just allow, otherwise that grief, that sadness gets bottled up inside.” - Pam Sommer ‘I'm a bird launcher, not an empty nester. - Unknown “Throw the Goddamn book away, You know what you're doing.” - Pam Sommer’s Mom Social Media: IG: FB: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/36761185

Awakening from Shutdown, Numbness & Not-Enoughness with Irina Sadakova 05/22/2025

Awakening from Shutdown, Numbness & Not-Enoughness with Irina Sadakova Hosted by Rosemary Davies-Janes. Produced by J’aime Rothbard In this revealing conversation, Irina shares her experience as a child growing up in Soviet Russia, the impact of generational trauma and her journey of personal transformation. She weaves in repeating ancestral themes, highlights the abandonment trauma that impacted three consecutive generations in her maternal line, and explains how grief can fuel growth and healing. In this interview Irina also emphasizes the significance of: - Compassionate Inquiry in the expansion of her understanding of trauma - Personal experiences in therapeutic practice. - Educational advocacy for refugees and individuals who have experienced significant trauma. - Trusting life, developing self-compassion and resilience during the personal healing process. This conversation is a deep exploration of the intersection of personal trauma, professional therapeutic practices and education, as well as the importance of compassion in all realms. About Irina Sadakova, MSc. Education Originally from Russia, Irina’s personal path to overcoming abandonment trauma shaped her approach as a Compassionate Inquiry® Practitioner, energy therapist and educator. Irina also has a deep passion for supporting personal transformation. She is dedicated to raising awareness on the effects of trauma and advocating for trauma- informed education, offering international training for educators on sustainable teaching practices, self-care and emotional regulation. As a Qigong Practitioner, Irina integrates move- ment into her work to support her clients’ nervous system regulation, emotional balance, and physical vitality in their everyday well-being. Irina’s warmth, curiosity, presence, intuition and compassion help her clients explore their trauma wounds, reconnect with their inner resilience, and gently release what no longer serves them. She adaptapts her therapeutic methods to individual needs, whether clients are seeking support to explore their stress, burnout, relationship issues, or the impact/gifts of difficult past experiences. : If you are, or have, participated in the Compassionate Inquiry® Professional Training program, please join us from June 17 to 19 at Renewal: a CI Summer Solstice Retreat, hosted by Sat Dharam Kaur and 18 CI Facilitators from around the globe. In this immersive journey into renewal and transformation, you’ll experience guided practices, nature immersions, creative activities, small group workshops, connection circles, meaningful conversations and much more, all designed to support your journey inward, as we celebrate the solstice in community. to learn more and secure your place. Resources: Websites: Related Links: Articles: Videos: Quotes: “Trust life.” - Gabor Maté Social Media: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/36650135

Multicultural & Ancestral Healing Perspectives with Soraya Romao-Inglis 05/15/2025

Multicultural & Ancestral Healing Perspectives with Soraya Romao-Inglis Hosted by Rosemary Davies-Janes. Produced by J’aime Rothbard. This gentle conversation explores Soraya’s multifaceted approach to therapy which acknowledges personal, cultural, and systemic factors. She shares her personal trauma experiences as a BIPOC female immigrant in Canada, her ancestors' influence in her life and work, and the multicultural compassionate lens she uses to support her clients’ healing. Soraya also explains: Trauma’s roots and manifestations in human behavior - Emotional eating as a coping mechanism for unaddressed trauma. - How nervous system dysregulation is connected to broader societal issues, like systemic inequities - How our perceptions of identity and belonging are tied to our ancestors and cultural history, - The roles of community and ancestor support in personal healing - The vision behind the Portuguese expansion of Compassionate Inquiry® training, which is also offered in English, French, Spanish, Hungarian, Romanian and American Sign Language. Soraya concludes by stressing the importance of hope within the therapeutic community, noting the potential for positive transformation through Compassionate Inquiry® and shared experiences. About Soraya Romao-Inglis Soraya is a psychotherapist with a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology. In her private practice, she employs a variety of approaches, including Compassionate Inquiry®, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing (SE), EMDR, Polyvagal Theory, Kundalini Yoga and mindfulness practices. She is also trained in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, which enables her to support clients during integration. Her clients may be experiencing anxiety, addiction, depression, eating disorders, grief, trauma, or seeking support with psychedelic integration. In addition to her private practice, Soraya works as a Compassionate Inquiry® Facilitator, Mentor, Circles Leader, Circles Steward and Portuguese Program Director. Promotional Link: If you are, or have, participated in the Compassionate Inquiry® Professional Training program, please join us from June 17 to 19 at Renewal: a CI Summer Solstice Retreat, hosted by Sat Dharam Kaur and 18 CI Facilitators from around the globe. In this immersive journey into renewal and transformation, you’ll experience guided practices, nature immersions, creative activities, small group workshops, connection circles, meaningful conversations and much more, all designed to support your journey inward, as we celebrate the solstice in community. to learn more and secure your place. Resources: Websites: Related Links: Teachers Referenced: Trainings Referenced: (English) (Portuguese) Other training language options are, French, Spanish, Romanian, Hungarian and American Sign Language. Quotes: “Not every story has a happy ending,...but the discoveries of science, the teachings of the heart, and the revelations of the soul all assure us that no human being is ever beyond redemption. The possibility of renewal exists so long as life exists. How to support that possibility in others and in ourselves is the ultimate question" - Gabor Maté “I see curiosity as a superpower. It’s taken me to incredible places, both out in the world and within myself: experiencing the beauty of this planet grew my ability to see beauty everywhere.” - Soraya Romao-Inglis “As a BIPOC woman raised in Brazil, and a settler in Canada for over 20 years, and a trained psychotherapist, I bring to my practice and life a multicultural, compassionate lens, exploring with curiosity the influence of intersectionality in my clients' lives. I am an avid student, always educating myself and advocating for marginalized communities” - Soraya Romao-Inglis Social Media: IG: sorayathetherapist /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/36569805

The Art of Integrating CI in Relational Trauma Therapy with Rita Bozi 05/08/2025

The Art of Integrating CI in Relational Trauma Therapy with Rita Bozi Hosted by Kevin Young. Produced by J’aime Rothbard This nuanced conversation begins with a deep dive into healing relational trauma. Rita explains developmental trauma, relational trauma and how both are rooted in ancestral and intergenerational trauma. After deftly highlighting how trauma experienced during critical developmental periods can lead to gaps in our self-awareness, emotional and relational functioning, she goes on to explore: - Forgiveness as a natural outcome of personal healing rather than a prerequisite for it. - Embodiment’s role in fully experiencing and processing trauma. - Manifestations of Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) - How humour, absurdity and laughter can coexist with tears during healing. - The Importance of meaningful connections with others in healing. - Relational approaches to therapy that emphasize embodied interactions. Rita shares several stories during this interview . One focuses on her love of dance, her experience in ballet school, how it served her as a necessary escape, and its many challenges, including an out of control eating disorder. She shares how one day a caring friend’s well chosen truthful observation positively shifted her trajectory: an approach she now uses in her work with clients. Rita concludes by sharing the deeply personal story of her 2-person play, The Damage Is Done, in which she played several of her family members, opposite Gabor Mate, who appeared as himself. About Rita Bozi Somatic Relational Psychedelic Therapist, Somatic Transformation Educator, Author Raised by Hungarian refugees, Rita is a multidisciplinary Somatic Relational trauma- informed Facilitator, a Psychedelic Therapist, a Somatic Transformation Educator, author, podcast co-host, a multidisciplinary creator, playwright, retired professional actor and dancer. With 30 years’ experience in the healing arts, Rita is the director of Brilliant Healing Inc. She works with individuals and groups, leads unique, experiential, creative healing retreats, trains, mentors and supervises international students in her 3 Module program: Somatic Relational Trauma-informed Practices for Medicine-Assisted Facilitation. Rita is teaching Cohorts in Canada, Europe, the US and Australia and is guest faculty at The Synthesis Institute. She has been invited to lecture at the Psychedelic Association of Canada, the Psychedelic-assisted Therapy Graduate Certificate Program at Vancouver Island University and ATMA Journey Centres in the Psychedelic- Assisted Therapy Program. Mentored by the late visionary Carol-Anne Bickerstaff, Rita spent four years in a practicum with Sharon Stanley PhD, studying her Somatic Transformation Model. She is a Consultant Facilitator of the One Brain System, has a Diploma in Shiatsu Therapy and is a former instructor at Mount Royal College in Calgary and Langara College in Vancouver. Her podcast PUNK THERAPY: Psychedelic Underground Neural Kindness, which she co-hosts with Dr. T., has over 20,000 downloads. In 2013, Rita wrote, produced and co-starred with Gabor Maté in the multi-disciplinary stage show, The Damage in Done which performed to sold out houses. Her first novel, When I Was Better [2022] is a Firebird Book Award winner and a finalist for the 2022 Goethe International literary award for Late-Historical Fiction. If you are, or have, participated in the Compassionate Inquiry® Professional Training program, please join us from June 17 to 19 at Renewal: a CI Summer Solstice Retreat, hosted by Sat Dharam Kaur and 18 CI Facilitators from around the globe. In this immersive journey into renewal and transformation, you’ll experience guided practices, nature immersions, creative activities, small group workshops, connection circles, meaningful conversations and much more, all designed to support your journey inward, as we celebrate the solstice in community. to learn more and secure your place. Resources Websites: Related Links: Videos: Plays: Publications: Books: Podcasts: Song: Quotes: “Let's talk about developmental trauma and how well my accommodations and adaptations have prevented my heart from completely imploding on this planet. lol :)” - Rita Bozi “We're making a home in our consciousness for the consciousness of the other.” - Sharon Stanley “There are no villains and there are no victims. There's just a lot of hurting people.” - Gabor Maté /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/36471200

Transforming Corporate Organizations into Soulful Workplaces with Amy Elizabeth Fox 05/01/2025

Transforming Corporate Organizations into Soulful Workplaces with Amy Elizabeth Fox Hosted by Rosemary Davies-Janes. Produced by J’aime Rothbard. This episode explores the role of trauma awareness in leadership and organizational development. By integrating psycho-spiritual insights, Amy’s work supports leaders in fostering healthier, more sustainable, workplaces which can lead to individual and company-wide healing and transformation. Her initiatives invite leaders to explore their early traumas and free themselves from the old survival strategies and untreated traumas that affect their daily decision-making and organizational dynamics. In this deep, rich conversation, Amy shares her vision for future organizations, plus explains how: - Addressing a leader's collective trauma can evoke more compassionate, soul-ful leadership - To reconcile the sacred and the secular in business practices - Implanting uniquely functioning microcosms within organizations inspires holistic cultural change - To expand the prevalent short-term profit lens to encompass social and environmental impact - Certain organizations are addressing the harm they've caused to people and our planet Amy concludes with reflections on our current transition into a world rife with complex, chaotic problems, and how we can best fulfill the increasing demand for healing that will be vital in addressing the collective trauma our global society faces. About Amy Elizabeth Fox Co-Founder & CEO, Mobius Executive Leadership An expert in healing individual, family, and collective trauma, Amy has pioneered the introduction of trauma-informed development and psycho-spiritual principles into leadership programs. Since 2005, she has served as a co-founder and CEO of Mobius Executive Leadership, a global transformational leadership firm. Since then, Amy has served as a leadership and culture change advisor to eminent profes- sional services firms and Fortune 500 companies, facilitated immersive executive development programs for senior leaders, guided long standing client programs and overseen Mobius’ evolution and expansion. On the faculty of the African Leadership Institute’s Desmond Tutu Fellows Program at Oxford, Amy is also a senior student of mystical teacher, Thomas Hübl, serving as part of his online faculty team and his lead faculty for his two-year Timeless Wisdom Training. Together, they are guiding a first-of-its-kind year-long certification in Trauma-Informed Consulting and Coaching. Before starting Mobius, Amy worked as a trainer for Vantage Partners, as a senior executive in Wellspace and as the Director of Public Affairs for the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, where she supported Paul Gorman, Carl Sagan, and vice president Gore in a decade long effort to engage the American faith communities in responding to climate change and environmental degradation. Amy has a Masters in counselling from Lesley College and a BA in psychology from Wesleyan University. : If you are, or have, participated in the Compassionate Inquiry® Professional Training program, please join us from June 17 to 19 at Renewal: a CI Summer Solstice Retreat, hosted by Sat Dharam Kaur and 18 CI Facilitators from around the globe. In this immersive journey into renewal and transformation, you’ll experience guided practices, nature immersions, creative activities, small group workshops, connection circles, meaningful conversations and much more, all designed to support your journey inward, as we celebrate the solstice in community. to learn more and secure your place. Websites: Related Links: \ Videos: Teachers: Lynda Ceasara Podcasts: Training: Books: Quotes: “If someone's in a group that you're guiding for healing, they're there for a sole purpose. You have a contract with them and you belong to them forever.” - Linda Cesar “... organizations are becoming more honoring organizations that are more honoring of human rhythm, human relationship, human diversity, and the proper place of humanity in the family of Things.” - Amy Elizabeth Fox “We are refining ourselves to be even purer instruments of the qualities of kindness, of patience, of compassion – those are the diamonds we are here polishing in ourselves so that we can be agents of those qualities out in society.” - Amy Elizabeth Fox “We need to expand our ability to tolerate, witness and hold each other’s pain and only when we do that do we have the possibility of a natural arising of a new intelligence and the organic unveiling of what are skillful means.” - Amy Elizabeth Fox "Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I'll meet you there," - Rumi Social Media Links: MEL LinkedIn: AEF LinkedIn: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/36373345

War Refugees & The Sacrifice of Belonging with Irma Rubil-Jonatan 04/24/2025

War Refugees & The Sacrifice of Belonging with Irma Rubil-Jonatan Hosted by Kevin Young. Produced by J’aime Rothbard. Irma openly shares her childhood experiences during the Bosnian war in the early 1990’s. She addresses how the conflict impacted her family, which does not distinguish between Bosniaks, Serbs and Croatians and includes many mixed marriages. Irma also describes the grief she felt over losing her friends, her family, her home, her roots… being a refugee, moving through different countries and not being welcome anywhere. Wherever she went, to be accepted required her to embody new cultural norms, to assimilate, which caused her to lose parts of herself. Irma also explains: - How her own complex trauma shaped her understanding of trauma and the importance of therapy - The necessity of adapting therapeutic approaches to the diverse needs of clients with trauma histories, to ensure they feel safe and supported. - The non-linear nature of healing, and why some individuals require more therapy than others - How Compassionate Inquiry’s client-led approach fosters a sense of freedom and safety in which clients can explore their experiences without pressure, and set the pace for their own healing - How Compassionate Inquiry® moves clients from surviving to thriving by reconnecting them with their true selves, so they can find joy in life again This conversation, between two CI practitioners who grew up in different countries, during war and violent conflict, provides deep insight into the complexities of trauma, the healing process, and the transformative power of Compassionate Inquiry®. About Irma Rubil-Jonatan Psychotherapist, Traumatologist, Compassionate Inquiry® Practitioner, Private Mentor & Facilitator Irma is a psychotherapist, specialising in trauma therapy, with a background in forensic setting and extensive experience working with sex offenders, individuals with criminal histories and those exhibiting psychopathic traits. Trained in various therapeutic modalities, including IFS, CPT, Schema Therapy, IRRT, PET, PICT, and NET, Irma is equipped with a diverse toolkit to address complex psychological issues. As a certified trauma specialist, she focuses on supporting survivors of childhood sexual abuse and rape, and individuals affected by personality disorders. Her practice is centred on trauma-related conditions such as PTSD and CPTSD, along with common co-occurring issues like anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addictions, and nightmares. Originally from war-torn Bosnia and later Croatia, she completed her psychology degree in the UK, before specialising in trauma therapy. Her diverse background and extensive training uniquely position her to provide holistic and effective client care. Promotional Link: If you're not a therapist or healer, but you've heard our guests describe the personal transformations they experienced during their Compassionate Inquiry® journeys, and wonder what that would be like for you... Circles is a 10-week small group experience offered to anyone who wants to experience the power of Gabor Maté’s approach to trauma healing. to find out if this program is for you. Resources: Websites: Blog Posts: Books: Quote: “Let us learn to show our friendship for a man when he's alive and not after he's dead.” - F Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby Poem: by Yehuda Amichai From the place where we are right Flowers will never grow In the spring. The place where we are right Is hard and trampled Like a yard. But doubts and loves Dig up the world Like a mole, like a plow. And a whisper will be heard in the place Where the ruined House once stood. Social Media: LI: IG: FB: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/36275275

Releasing Attachment & Reclaiming Authenticity with Dr. DaeEss 1Dréa Pennington Wasio 04/17/2025

Releasing Attachment & Reclaiming Authenticity with Dr. DaeEss 1Dréa Pennington Wasio Hosted by Rosemary Davies-Janes. Produced by J’aime Rothbard. In this inspiring conversation, 1Dréa (formerly known as Dr Andrea Pennington) shares her journey to loving and accepting herself unconditionally. She also highlights the role of community support during transformation, and encourages us to connect with others and both offer and accept their support. She suggests that the systemic failures we’re witnessing, as part of the prevalent societal turmoil, are precursors to a collective awakening to our interconnectedness and shared spiritual consciousness. In turn, this is initiating collective healing through our individual opening to our own authenticity. 1Dréa shares her Cornerstone ProcessTM for personal transformation, originally created to support outpatients in a binge eating disorder program, and subsequently used in psychedelic assisted therapy. Its five-steps include: 1. Awareness of your true self. 2. Accepting your past experiences without blame. 3.Taking responsibility for your own life and choices moving forward. 4. Creating your life based on inspiration rather than obligation. 5. Cultivating gratitude and awareness of the positive aspects of life. The interview concludes with a quick overview of 1Dréa’s upcoming initiatives; her newly released book, From Dark Night to Dawn: A Guide for Transformation with The Cornerstone ProcessTM, a related program that supports participants in transitioning from their own dark night of the ego to the dawn of the soul, a music project that fosters hope and resilience, and Soul Sense Alchemy, which invites people to change their frequency through the power of scent and sound. About Dr. DaeEss 1Dréa Pennington Wasio Integrative Physician, Trauma Expert, Visionary Guide, Bestselling Author and TEDx Speaker. 1Dréa is a master of reinvention, a conduit of healing and creativity, a transformational catalyst and the creator and host of the Conscious Evolution Podcast. Her work is a fusion of ancient wisdom, modern neuroscience, creative storytelling, and spiritual depth. She’s also a holistic health company founder and a business owner with a vast career in global conscious media and documentary filmmaking. As an Integrative Physician, specialties in her two+ decade medical practice include; addiction medicine, trauma recovery, Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture and psychedelic assisted therapy. 1Dréa’s programs have helped thousands build resilience, reclaim their vitality after burnout, recover from adverse childhood experiences, nurture real self love and thrive in all areas of life. Above all, 1Dréa is: A spiritual being, a droplet of God consciousness that incarnated on this planet at this time to play this game of being the divine incarnate, forgetting and then remembering. And her role in this grand game of life, as an oracle, a frequency holder, is to remind people of what she had to learn. We’re more than our body. We're not our past mistakes, we're more than our muddled mind. And there are things that we can do in this life to improve ourselves and this experience for other people.” Whether she is accompanying someone through a psychedelic journey, mentoring a leader to align with their purpose, or crafting a product that inspires joy and connection, her work flows from a single mission: to empower others to reclaim their sovereignty and live their truth. If you're not a therapist or healer, but you've heard our guests describe the personal transformations they experienced during their Compassionate Inquiry® journeys, and wonder what that would be like for you... Circles is a 10-week small group experience offered to anyone who wants to experience the power of Gabor Maté’s approach to trauma healing. to find out if this program is for you. Resources: Websites: Related Links: Poem: Books: Videos: Podcasts: Quotes: “We’re going through a collective dark night, a reckoning and we need to come together to get through it. Spiritual traditions predicted this period of darkness as we move into a golden age of lightness.” - DaéEss 1Dréa Pennington Wasio “I made a decision to release my own music, and more meditations. I'm going live on social media to share my energy, my light, my love, my compassion. Because that's what I've got. That's what I can do.” - DaéEss 1Dréa Pennington Wasio Social Media: FB: LI: IG: YT: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/36198790

Addiction’s Collateral Damage to Families & Children with Andrea Porcelli 04/10/2025

Addiction’s Collateral Damage to Families & Children with Andrea Porcelli Hosted by Rosemary Davies-Janes. Produced by J’aime Rothbard. In this inspiring, honest conversation, Andrea shares her personal story of healing the pain of addiction within her family. She shares the struggles her parents, step-parents, brother, son, and son’s father had with addiction, and explores the wide-ranging collateral damage addiction can cause in families. The long list of emotional burdens carried by family members can include feelings of anxiety, sadness, stress, loneliness, shame and fear. Childhood coping strategies, while initially helpful, can cause long term harm, such as Andrea’s hypervigilance, anorexia, disconnection, and physical burnout. In addition, Andrea reflects on: - How her multicultural background, growing up in, and living in different countries shaped her identity, and created a deep sense of not belonging anywhere - Creatives’ ability to express their pain through art, and how that can be a therapeutic outlet when dealing with trauma and addiction - The coaching program she developed for photographers and creatives, and the support program she is currently co-creating for families experiencing addiction - How the healing that she and her loved ones experienced was facilitating by understanding and expressing long hidden and repressed feelings of sadness, loneliness and shame Andrea ends this interview by urging listeners, who are personally impacted by addiction, to seek out their own support communities and opportunities to speak up. About Andrea Porcelli Trauma-informed Therapist & Coach for Photographers & Artists Born in Barcelona to South American parents, Andrea grew up moving between Spain, Chile, Argentina, and the Netherlands, surrounded by refugees, musicians, philosophers and poets. She spent years searching for her place in the world. Addiction also shaped her upbringing. Many of her caretakers and community members struggled with substance use, so she inhabited an environment of disconnection, suppressed pain and inherited beliefs about her own survival, love, and worth. For 25 years, as a producer for international photographers and commercial advertising, Andrea supported creatives in bringing their visions to life. Realizing that her calling extended beyond artistic expression—she launched a coaching program for creatives & photographers that reconnected them to their artistic essence. In 2011, after facing burnout and other issues, Andrea addressed her own disconnection by studying childhood trauma, stress patterns, and the bodily signals sent in response to unresolved experiences. Inspired by the work of Dr. Gabor Maté, she found profound wisdom through training in Compassionate Inquiry® (CI) and discovered that healing begins with curiosity, presence, and self-compassion. Certifications in Systemic Coaching and Family Constellations, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Yin Yoga, Stress Management Coaching, Psychosocial Counseling, and studies of approaches that integrate the mind, body, and emotional healing, including the Feldenkrais Method, deepened her expertise. Today, Andrea’s practice is rooted in the understanding that our stories live in our bodies, and true transformation happens when we listen deeply. Through Compassionate Inquiry, Creative Systemic Coaching and Somatic-based techniques, she creates a safe space for individuals to reconnect with their inner truths, release their limiting beliefs, and embrace their full authenticity. Promotional Link: If you're not a therapist or healer, but you've heard our guests describe the personal transformations they experienced during their Compassionate Inquiry® journeys, and wonder what that would be like for you... Circles is a 10-week small group experience offered to anyone who wants to experience the power of Gabor Maté’s approach to trauma healing. to find out if this program is for you. Resources: Website: Videos: Stephen Porges & Gabor Maté Tara Branch, Jack Kornfield & Gabor Maté Gabor Maté Alan Watts Alan Watts Alan Watts Gabor Maté Bessel van der Kolk Bessel van der Kolk Terry Real Terry Real & Esther Perel Tomas Hübl & Terry Real : Dan Siegel Dan Siegel Books: Rick Hanson & Richard Mendius Gordon Neufeld & Gabor Maté Gabor Maté Gabor Maté Gabor Maté Bessel van der Kolk Eckhart Tolle Dan Siegel Dan Siegel Latin American authors’ books that helped Andrea understand her roots include: Isabel Allende, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Eduardo Galeano, Borges, Cortazar, Mario Benedetti and Pablo Neruda Music: As her father was a musician, music was a big influence in Andrea’s life. It helped her be with her emotions without shame or fear, and understand her roots. The following artists all contributed to the soundtrack of Andrea’s life: Mercedes Sosa, Violeta Parra, Carlos Gardel, Liliana Herrero, Atahualpa Yupanqui, Pablo Milanes, Carlos Aguirre, Pablo Aznar, Nina Simone, Pat Metheny, Miles Davis, Billie Holiday, The Beatles, Soundgarden, Eddie Vedder, and her father, singing folklore and tangos. Quotes: “Healing is a journey home—to ourselves, our roots, and our wholeness.” - Andrea Porcelli Social Media: Instagram: @andreaporcelli Facebook: Facebook Business /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/36073290

Addicted to Speed & Busyness with Dr. Wendy Harris 04/03/2025

Addicted to Speed & Busyness with Dr. Wendy Harris Hosted and Produced by J’aime Rothbard. This conversation explores the pain and trauma at the root of the pervasive modern addiction to hustle, speed and busyness. Our guest unpacks the psychological implications of our "hustle culture” and how adhering to a fast lane lifestyle invites a perception of inadequacy and self-abandoning behaviors. Against the framework that any addiction always serves a need, Wendy and J’aime reflect on their individual struggles with social pressure to be constantly busy and productive. They also discuss: - The challenges of recognizing the addiction, breaking the pattern, and ultimately, slowing down - Why many of us believe we must earn our place/define our worth through constant productivity - How setting boundaries and practicing self-care can combat the pressures of busyness - The role cultural norms play in perpetuating our perceptions of inadequacy, and the need to hustle to meet or exceed productivity expectations - Why connections with ourselves and others, ideally in supportive communities, are key markers on this healing journey to self-acceptance and authenticity. Wendy concludes by candidly stating that ending this addiction is, “...not easy because it's a pattern, it's a habit, we're wired this way. It can be challenging to create new habits, to stop self-abandoning, to turn toward the pain and whatever is at the root of the speed and the busyness, the fear, all of it. We stop and we slow down. It's so worth it.” About Dr Wendy Harris Compassionate Inquiry® Facilitator, International Yoga Trainer, Addiction and Trauma Specialist Wendy is an innovative, cutting-edge Addiction and Trauma Specialist who specializes in relational trauma, and a Founding Facilitator for Compassionate Inquiry® who leads groups through the year-long on-line professional training created by Gabor Maté and Sat Dharam Kaur. A Level II certified Kundalini Yoga and Meditation teacher, she’s an International Trainer for Beyond Addiction: The Yogic Path to Recovery. (9-day in-person immersions are offered in Canada: 5/25 and London: 9/25) Wendy is also a Core Faculty member at Antioch University, Los Angeles, and the Director of the Addiction and Recovery Specialization which she created based on a biopsychosocial, trauma- informed, compassion- based approach to understanding and treating addictive behaviors. You can experience the power of Gabor Maté’s trauma healing approach, whether you are or are not a therapist or healer. This link takes you to a web page that offers information about . Registrations for the next Circles close on May 4, 2025. Resources: Related Links: Articles: Books: Social Media Handles: IG: FB: BlueSky: @doctordoubleu.bky.social LinkedIn: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/35985685

Healing Traumatized Masculinity with Fredrik Wretman 03/27/2025

Healing Traumatized Masculinity with Fredrik Wretman Hosted by Kevin Young, produced by J’aime Rothbard. Join us to witness this rare conversation between Kevin Young and Fredrik Wretman, two men who emerged from very different traumatic backgrounds with inner strength and deep commitments to healing the world through compassion. Fredrik shares his personal trauma story, his perceptions of himself as worthless and isolated, and his driving mission, ‘...to be somebody.’ This raw and gentle conversation shines a light on issues rarely shared publicly with such candor, including the ‘tough guy’ image that Fredrik cultivated, for very good reasons, which nearly cost him his life. Together, they explore the challenges faced by men who have experienced trauma, such as: Holding space for compassion towards self and others Acknowledging and embracing the deep-seated pain where darkness and harmful behaviors take root Feelings of isolation, and the healing power of the message, "You are not alone” Being open and vulnerable in a therapeutic setting During the conversation, Kevin and Fredrik both agree that ‘traumatized masculinity,’ is a more fitting description than the commonly used ‘toxic masculinity,’ as labeling masculinity as toxic shuts down conversations, whereas recognizing its traumatic aspects opens space for understanding and healing. They also explain why it’s essential for therapists to create safe spaces where clients can express their emotions without fearing judgment, and takereplace their ‘protective masks’ before departing. About Fredrik Wretman: Trauma Therapist & Supervisor After 17 years spent working with addiction and trauma, today Fredrik combines Compassionate Inquiry® with Trauma-Informed Yoga. He also conducts Trauma-Informed Yoga sessions, through the Prison Yoga Project, Scandinavia, for men who have served a prison sentence or returned after treatment. Fredrik holds degree in pedagogy, and has invested the equivalent of 10+ years of full-time studies in his training in psychology, psychiatry, law and multiple therapeutic modalities, including Transactional Analysis, Moral Reconation Therapy and Breaking the Chains of Trauma. He has his own history of childhood trauma and abuse. As a young adult, Fredrik supported criminal motorcycle clubs. Upon leaving that world, he focused on study and work, spending 80 hours a week at work, ‘fixing’ and being the absolute best in his field. When he first found Gabor Maté, The Wisdom of Trauma and Compassionate Inquiry®, his training served his goal of becoming the very best trauma-therapist. But as he progressed, he simultaneously received the unexpected gifts of deep insight into himself and his lived experiences. At first glance you can still see it; the anger, the hurt and the pain. The muscles and the tattoos were all born in sorrows that have now been eased and comforted. Fredrik acknowledges and honors the wisdom of A.H. Almaas with his personalized variation of this quote: ”Only when compassion is present, can I allow myself to see the truth”. Fredrik’s motto for his work is: ”If it appears far away, then it is far away and we have to go there.” Promotional Link: If you are curious about Compassionate Inquiry® and want to learn more about training in this approach, for your own self development or for your work with your coaching or therapy clients, please explore the Compassionate Inquiry® . Registrations close March 30, 2025. Resources: Websites: Related Links: Articles: Video: Podcast: Books: Social Media: @konciensia_sweden (Instagram) @Konciensia Sweden (facebook) @Konciensia AB (LinkedIn) /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/35881230

Scars Are Goldmines with Kendra Toothill 03/20/2025

Scars Are Goldmines with Kendra Toothill Hosted and produced by J'aime Rothbard. Join us on this path to 100% mind-body integrity and wholeness, not by adding more restrictions, ‘health-promoting’ foods or practices, but through the unusual but highly effective gateway of scars. Our guest, scar expert Kendra Toothill, assures us that we all have answers within ourselves. The challenge is that we often lack the skill to ask the questions that unlock those answers. Her stories illustrate how clarity and insight emerge when we listen to our bodies, nervous systems and scars Kendra also explains how: - Touch can offer bidirectional healing. When we touch our scars, both our scar and hand receive healing benefits, which can help rebuild neural connections and release trauma - Sharing our experiences in community can lighten the burden of our individual struggles, and foster a more accessible and joyful healing process - Natural environments can facilitate down-regulation of the nervous system and enhance our healing Thanks to successful pioneering during the Covid lockdown, Kendra walks us through simple self- dialogue, hands-on practices that promote healing and enable us to build deeper self-relationships. Overall, this conversation promotes a holistic approach to healing that integrates physical, emotional, and energetic aspects of well-being and encourages us to explore our inner landscapes as well as the wisdom contained within our scars. About Kendra Toothill, Scar Expert For over 12 years, Kendra has been exploring scars' profound influence on our nervous systems and their connections to common ailments such as digestive distress, hormonal imbalances, chronic pain, and nervous system dysregulation. After graduating from Montreal’s Concordia University in 2013, with a degree in Exercise Science and a passion for holistic healing, Kendra quickly became disillusioned with mainstream health practices. Instead, she chose to forge her own unique path, placing scars at the forefront. Her innovative Neuro-Scar Method integrates lymphatics, somatics, biomechanics, nervous system rewiring, and hands-on fascia therapies. Kendra’s approach celebrates scars and has empowered thousands to reclaim their bodies through healing long-standing chronic conditions. Her mission is to guide others through transformative healing processes, illuminating the truth that scars are goldmines which offer deep access points to profound healing and self-discovery. Outside her practice, Kendra is continually inspired by nature, believing that a deeper relationship with the natural world deepens our relationship with ourselves. Whether adventure hiking, exploring rivers, or soaking up the sun, she embraces the wisdom of Mother Nature as a vital part of her life philosophy. If you are curious about Compassionate Inquiry® and want to learn more about training in this approach, for your own self development or for your work with your coaching or therapy clients, please explore the Compassionate Inquiry® . Registrations close March 30, 2025. Resources: Website: Social Media: Classes & Retreats: Podcasts: Videos: Article: Webinar: Quotes: “The way home to ourselves is to stop externalizing the process. Stop trying to tack more complexity into our “healing journey.” To notice that the scar is actually the road map back into yourself, into your body, to reclaiming neglected parts of ourselves that have been damaged, that have been shamed, that have been forgotten. This is the goldmine, the road map to getting the integrity back in your system: Feeling true function, support and stability when your body is working as a unit.” - Kendra Toothill /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/35790425

How Thinking Impacts Health with Dr Christina Bjorndal, ND 03/13/2025

How Thinking Impacts Health with Dr Christina Bjorndal, ND Interview by Rosemary Davies-Janes. Produced by J'aime Rothbard. This lively information- and insight-packed conversation explores our mind-body-spirit connection from a holistic health perspective, and delves into the science of psychoneuroimmunology. Dr Chris shares her personal journey, from the top of the corporate ladder to the rock bottom of severe mental health challenges and attempted suicide, to her extensive explorations of both Western medical and holistic approaches to mental and physical wholeness. This led her to decide, at the age of 33, to become a naturopathic doctor, able to heal herself and others. Our guest also shares many practical resources, approaches and exercises we can use to help us reduce our stress levels, improve our nervous system regulation, digestion and overall health. Dr Chris explains biological and emotional complexities in easy-to-understand ways, such as: - How what we think releases neuropeptide cascades that (positively or negatively) influence our hormone production and overall well-being - Why the state of our nervous system is crucial to our body's ability to digest food - Her approach to healing that integrates mind, body, and spirit - Why we need to shift from pure thinking to noticing how our thoughts impact our body Overall, this conversation emphasizes the interconnectedness of thoughts, emotions, and physical health, and advocates for a compassionate and holistic approach to physical and mental well-being. About Dr Christina Bjorndal, ND Having overcome many mental health challenges, herself, when striving to address patients’ mental health concerns, Dr. Chris draws on her lived experience with anxiety, bulimia, bipolar disorder type 1, (6x psychosis survivor) cancer, depression (3x suicide survivor), and her clinical training in naturopathic and mind-body medicine. A gifted in-demand inspirational speaker, teacher and podcast guest, Dr Chris is recognized as a top ND to follow by two independent organizations. Her book, Beyond the Label: 10 Steps to Improve Your Mental Health with Naturopathic Medicine is a comprehensive guide to mental health. She also offers courses for individuals and clinicians. Her books, courses and Mind, Body, Soul Retreat guide people to wholeness through a physical, mental, emotional and spiritual approach to health. Dr Chris lives in Edmonton, Alberta and enjoys exploring nature with her husband, son and dog. A former athlete & Ironman competitor, she loves hiking, biking, skiing, walking, running and swimming. When she isn’t outside, you’ll find her reading —she typically has three books on the go! If you are curious about Compassionate Inquiry® and want to learn more about training in this approach, for your own self development or for your work with your coaching or therapy clients, please explore the Compassionate Inquiry® . Registrations close March 30, 2025. Resources: Website: Related Links: Books: Courses: Retreat: Quotes: “Compassionate Inquiry® taught me to pay attention to what was going on with my patient and also what was going on within me while I was with my patient. That attention shift was pivotal to my internal spiritual growth and healing. - Dr Christina Bjorndal, ND As we heal ourselves, the opportunity to expand our empathic presence is available to us. It is in this expansion, the capacity to hold the space between two hearts, that healing happens. It has been a gift to me to learn this process and to deepen and extend my ability to be loving in the moment with others. Fundamentally, I believe love is medicine. - Dr Christina Bjorndal, ND “Something amazing happens when we surrender and just love. We melt into another world, a realm of power already within us. The world changes when we change. The world softens when we soften. The world loves us when we choose to love the world. Surrender means the decision to stop fighting the world, and to start loving it instead. It is a gentle liberation from pain. But liberation isn’t about breaking out of anything; ‘it’s a gentle melting into who we really are.’ We let down our armour…” - Marianne Williamson “Stop trying to heal yourself, fix yourself, even awaken yourself. Let go of letting go. Stop trying to fast-forward the movie of your life, chasing futures that never seem to arrive. Instead, bow deeply to yourself as you actually are. Your pain, your sorrow, your doubts, your deepest longing, your fearful thoughts...are not mistakes, and they aren't asking to be healed. They are asking to be held. Here, now, lightly, in the loving arms of present awareness.” - Jeff Foster Social Media: Facebook: Dr. Christina Bjorndal YouTube: Christina Bjorndal Instagram: drchrisbjorndal /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/35666810

Lifting Depression Through Compassion with Rhoda Schuling 03/06/2025

Lifting Depression Through Compassion with Rhoda Schuling Interview by Kevin Young. Produced by J'aime Rothbard. In this deep dive into Compassion Training and Mindfulness, Rhoda openly shares how these approaches illuminated her own journey with depression. She highlights their transformative potential when applied to personal suffering in depression, and advises that they are not a cure-all. It's possible for people who take one or both forms of training to still experience depressive episodes afterwards. However, their newly developed tolerance for negative experiences often enables them to manage their episodes more effectively. Throughout this conversation, Rhoda gently and thoughtfully explains how: - Mindfulness practices can help individuals identify and understand their emotions - True compassion arises from recognizing and experiencing our own and/or others’ suffering - Tonality and word choice affects peoples’ perceptions of their experiences and emotions - Group inquiries in Compassion Training enable people to learn from each other's experiences - Compassion training teaches people to accept all of their emotions, including anger and sadness Rhoda concludes this conversation by inviting us to look within ourselves and ask, “For whom do I reserve my best self?” Imagine what life would be like if we could reserve at least a portion of our best selves, for ourselves. About Rhoda Schuling Mindfulness & Compassion Teacher (MBCL) In her first Mindfulness training, Rhoda was immediately taken by the simplicity of being aware in the present moment, but struggled immensely with non-judgment. Despite this, she realized there was much to gain though delving into the truth of her heart and mind, and finding an authentic way to live. Most of all, she loved discussing what it is to be human. She began attending Buddhist retreats regularly, totaling over 150 silent days. Most were Vipassana-oriented, but some were Insight Dialogue retreats. At this time, she also started training as a teacher for Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Rhoda began working as a PhD researcher under the supervision of professor Anne Speckens (Radboudumc) and professor Willem Kuyken (Oxford University), studying the effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Compassionate Living (MBCL) as a follow-up to Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy in adults suffering from recurrent depression. Having experienced depression herself, and finding recurrently depressed adults one of the most inspiring target populations for compassion, she remained captivated by this research for a decade. As a researcher, she presented at conferences on mindfulness, compassion, meditation and healthy lifestyle, including the Mind, Body Unity Conference, the International Conference on Mindfulness, the Omega Institute and Mind and Life Europe, all the while deepening her understanding of mindfulness, compassion and psychotherapy. Rhoda teaches full MBCL courses and the MBCL Teacher-Training Program. Very occasionally, she coaches individual clients. Her passions are yoga and running, and she is currently co-authoring a book on the courage of forgiveness. Promotional Link: If you are curious about Compassionate Inquiry® and want to learn more about training in this approach, for your own self development or for your work with your coaching or therapy clients, please explore the Compassionate Inquiry® . Registrations close March 30, 2025. Resources: Website: Related Links: Note: In 2026, Rhoda will be leading an English MBCL teacher-trainer programme. If you would like to be updated on that, please message her through . Regular MBCL courses in English are also hosted through the MBCL-international website. Books: Poets: | | Quotes: "All addiction stems from this moment, when we meet our edge and we just can't stand it." - Pema Chödrön “It's a fragile thing This life we lead If I think it too I can get over- whelmed by the grace by which we live our lives with death over our shoulders - from Sirens (Pearl Jam) Social Media: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/35543770

Compassionate Inquiry Meets Compassionate Love with Dr Josiane Bonté 02/27/2025

Compassionate Inquiry Meets Compassionate Love with Dr Josiane Bonté Hosted and Produced by J'aime Rothbard. The rich, warm conversation demonstrates once again that love, presence, and understanding have the power to transform both individual and collective experiences. Our guest delves deep into human interconnectedness and the role intimate relationships play in personal healing and resilience. Identifying as a “lightworker” (in addition to being a couples and family therapist) Josiane ventures into her clients’ darkness and brings them into the light. She also asks her clients to create clear vision and mission statements to help them succeed in, “the business of love.” Listen to hear Josiane illuminate: - Compassionate Love as a powerful force that emphasizes the importance of being true to ourselves (without self-compromise) while engaging with others - How interconnectedness helps us navigate challenges and foster a sense of unity - Intimate relationships’ role in collective healing, the reclamation of our essence and our divine nature - Appreciative Inquiry as a curiosity- and positivity-oriented approach to discerning what works well in relationships and communities - How Healing Through Presence can nourish our soul and spirit - The impact of inherited trauma and cultural narratives in the context of couples of color. Overall, Josiane emphasizes the need to understand and address multigenerational trauma, cultural integration, and intimate relationships’ sacred links , so individuals can contribute to collective healing. About Dr. Josiane Bonté Family Therapist / Lightworker A Family Systems researcher-practitioner, published academic author, international speaker, MFP Fellow of the American Association for Marriage & Family Therapy and the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration, Josiane was formally trained in family therapy. She holds a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling, a PhD in Marriage & Family Therapy, certifications in Imago Therapy, EFT Couples therapy, clinical hypnosis, play therapy, EMDR therapy, and Strategic Interventions Coaching. Dr. Bonté’s family therapy practice acknowledges the multigenerational impact of both trauma and resilience, helping high conflict individuals and families reconnect with their ancestral bonds in meaningful ways. Her therapeutic philosophy centers on interconnectedness and wholeness principles from the family systemic and strategic approaches, addressing the needs of individuals, couples, and families while considering their connections with self and others. Josiane’s recent research explores relational resilience in Black couples, adaptation strategies for overcoming multigenerational sexual trauma and systemic racism. With over 22 years of professional experience, Dr. Bonté has extended her multidimensional healing role as a lightworker, helping vulnerable populations and mental health professionals around the world balance and harmonize their mind, body, and spirit with the art and science of Compassionate Love. Josiane believes Compassionate Love changes everything, and is highly relevant In our extraordinary times when humans are asked to remember and activate our extraordinary gift of Compassionate Love and become a force of good for the wellbeing of us all. If you’ve been listening to our podcast, you may have heard guests connect their birth experiences with enduring subconscious behavioural and emotional patterns. To help break this cycle, Compassionate Inquiry® offers The Portal, a 28-week trauma-informed training for perinatal health professionals; such as midwives, obstetricians, nurses and doulas, who want to empower their patients to trust their innate ability to birth, bond & nurture their child. Use this to learn more and register by March 3. Resources: Website: Related Links: The 5 Compassionate Love Strategies 1: Breaking the Chains 2: Loving Yourself First "Innana Rakma" (Compassionate Love in Araimic) 3: Being Equally Yoked 4: Finding Common Ground 5: Videos: Book: Social Media: Instagram: #Josianebonte FB: Josiane Bonte Apollon Tiktok: Josiane Bonte Quotes: “Without cultural integration and the understanding of the multigenerational transmission processes, sexual mass violence and mass trauma effects from the slavery system and current institutionalized racism hold American couples as hostages of the dark times in American. History. Couple research can end the culture wars and the excess of humiliation, shame and guilt that couples of colour in this population carry, consciously or not, for the fragility of the perpetrators' descendants disseminated through literature and media.” - Dr Josiane Bonté “Without context, there is no culture. Without culture, there are no people or connections.” - Dr Josiane Bonté /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/35436395

Relationships, Uncoupling and Divorce with Dr Desirée van den Broek 02/20/2025

Relationships, Uncoupling and Divorce with Dr Desirée van den Broek Interview by Rosemary Davies-Janes. Produced by J'aime Rothbard Join us for a gentle exploration of emotional connection, intimate relationship dynamics, divorce and uncoupling. Our guest, Dr Desirée van den Broek, advocates for creating new narratives in relationships that focus on understanding and compassion, rather than blame. Her words reflect her deep understanding of the emotional intricacies involved in relationships and the importance of communication, empathy, and external support during emotional transitions, like uncoupling. Desirée also highlights: - The importance of being emotionally available (accessible, responsive, and engaged) in relationships, especially when emotions run high - What’s required to end negative interaction cycles in relationships, when one partner's behavior triggers the other's which triggers the other’s… causing ongoing conflict - How trauma can affect communication and emotional responses in relationships - The complexities of co-parenting after a break-up, and the difficulties of integrating new relationships into family dynamics - The importance of seeking out a supportive therapist or coach who can soften the sense of isolation and help you understand the interpersonal dynamics of a relationship breakdown While the conversation explores the emotional turmoil and necessity of prioritizing personal health and well-being during such transitions, our guest also explains why not all uncoupling is problematic. About Dr Desirée van den Broek Trained as a medical doctor, Desirée’s passion for the development of healthy cooperation in people- centered organizations inspired her to transition from medicine to medical communication teaching, individual and relationship coaching, and mediation. She also serves as an independent (team) coach for the Academy for Medical Specialists and TalentCare. Her multidimensional perspective on healthcare is viewed through the lens of a doctor, healthcare manager and teacher/trainer. In addition to directing the EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) Netherlands foundation, she developed several EFT courses, including Emotionally Focused Mediation and Relationship Coaching. The EFT perspective on conflict management and cooperation is vital to Desirée’s approach. Her dream is for the EFT attachment and emotion-oriented approach to be embraced by healthcare institutions and organizations alike, to benefit their patients, care providers, the professionals they employ, and the people that they serve. If you’ve been listening to our podcast, you may have heard guests connect their birth experiences with enduring subconscious behavioural and emotional patterns. To help break this cycle, Compassionate Inquiry® offers The Portal, a 28-week trauma-informed training for perinatal health professionals; such as midwives, obstetricians, nurses and doulas, who want to empower their patients to trust their innate ability to birth, bond & nurture their child. Please use this to learn more and register by February 23. Resources: Websites: Desirée’s (Dutch Language) Desirée’s (Dutch Language) Related Links: (Dutch Language) depicts the interaction cycle in which reactive defensive behaviour results In withdrawal, which results in more pursuit, which results in more withdrawal… Articles: (DABDA) Videos: Books: Quotes: “Really seeing someone' as a human being and being able to understand 'difficult behaviour' as fighting for connection with others or yourself because social isolation causes 'primal panic', offers so much space for our (fellow) humanity and (self) compassion.” - Desirée van den Broek, Communication is not only about communication with yourself and others, but also about yourself as an instrument in communication. Insight into the functioning of your own neurology and its impact on your own (automatic) behavior and the emergence of common patterns is essential. - Desirée van den Broek, “ - Terry Real “Am I getting enough in this relationship to make grieving (the pain of) what I’m not getting worth my while?” - Terry Real /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/35352295

Parenting: A Spontaneous Mutual Unfolding of Potential with Dr Gordon Neufeld 02/13/2025

Parenting: A Spontaneous Mutual Unfolding of Potential with Dr Gordon Neufeld Hosted by Rosemary Davies-Janes Produced by J’aime Rothbard Join us for this rich, frank conversation that roves from Gordon’s own boundless curiosity and shame -free upbringing, to the eternal wisdom of his bestselling book, Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More than Peers. In addition to speaking about parenting, grandparenting, and the source of emotional well-being, he touches on his initial encounter with fellow UBC student, Gabor Maté, who, after being one of Gordon’s, “best students, ever,” collaborated with him on his book. Dr Neufeld’s approach to parenting prioritizes emotional connection, understanding, and the therapeutic power of play. He also highlights the: - Importance of love and togetherness, both of which are essential for human development, ongoing relationships and emotional health. - Two critical keys to parenting, right relationships and soft hearts, which flourish in caring environments in which children are naturally dependent on their caregivers. - Concept of cascading care, where we can depend on one another in a network of support, is contrasted with the current emphasis on independence, which often undermines relational needs. - Impact of technology on parenting and children's emotional health is noted, and parents are urged to engage with their children meaningfully amidst the distractions of screens and digital media. Throughout this conversation, Gordon stresses the need for parental emotional awareness to help our children navigate their feelings, particularly in today’s plugged in culture which is rife with emotionally challenging media and convincingly presented misinformation. About Dr Gordon Neufeld Dr. Neufeld’s life’s work has been to help adults provide the conditions for children to flourish. He has worked as a clinical psychologist with youth, children, and those responsible for them, for over five decades. A foremost authority on child development, stress, trauma and resilience, Gordon is also the best-selling author of the timeless book, Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More Than Peers Having stepped back from his University teaching and clinical practice, Dr. Neufeld not only enjoys being an involved father of five and grandfather of seven, but continues to lead the interpretation of the developmental paradigm. His widespread reputation for making sense of complex problems, opening doors for change, and his obvious passion for his work, keep him very active on the international speaking stage. Gordon also directs the Neufeld Institute, the global virtual educational organization and charitable foundation he established in 2006 to support parents, educators and helping professionals in applying developmental science to the task of raising children. Over the past two decades, he has devoted much of his time to creating over 40 courses for educators, parents and professionals, which are now offered in 10 languages, primarily through the Neufeld Institute. Promotional Link: The CI Experience Event If you've been listening to our podcast and are curious about the transformative power of Compassionate Inquiry®, on Feb 22, join us for a 6-hour online experiential introduction to the Compassionate Inquiry® approach and community. Use this link takes you to access a web page where you can get more information and register for . Resources: Websites: Relevant Links: (Article) Podcasts: , , Videos: Books: Quotes: "I move in a psychological and therapeutic world and I can tell you without bias, that Gordon‘s understanding of child development is just deeper than anybody else’s on the planet and I highly recommend his work. I’ll just finish by saying that my own work has been so deeply informed by Gordon’s that I can’t even imagine it without it so this has been, at least for me, an essential partnership." - Dr. Gabor Maté “Our body’s wisdom can take care of us by disconnecting from that which is too painful to bear. However, we are not meant to stay in this disconnected state. Gabor says, “We have to work our way back to feeling, when we are ready.” I’m going to suggest we can play our way back to full feeling as well.” - Dr Gordon Neufeld “Our mission is to use developmental science to make sense of children to the adults responsible for them. Our instrument is the attachment-based developmental approach as synthesized and articulated by . Our hope is that the insights provided by this evidence-based theory will rejoin parents, teachers and helping professionals to their natural intuition. Our evidence-based belief is that children are meant to be raised in the context of relationship to those who are responsible for them. - Neufeld Institute Social Media Handles: Facebook: @neufeldinstitute Instagram: @neufeldinstitute YouTube: @neufeldmedia /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/35264980

Trauma, Neurodivergence & Compassion with Dr Louise Taylor 02/06/2025

Trauma, Neurodivergence & Compassion with Dr Louise Taylor Hosted by Kevin Young & Rosemary Davies-Janes, Produced by J’aime Rothbard. This lively conversation explores many facets of neurodiversity and how individuals with different neurological wiring engage with the world. Our guest shares her personal (neurodivergent) challenges and triumphs navigating relationships, motherhood, academia, employment, misogynistic and patriarchal cultures, bullying, systemic violence and ecological activism. Listen in as our hosts and guest discuss: - How trauma, and the traumatic life experiences generated by societal and systemic issues, can affect neurodivergent individuals, and may, in fact, contribute to neurodivergence - The pros and cons of formal versus self-diagnosis. Dr Taylor cautions that a formal diagnosis can lead to societal stigma and distancing, rather than the expected social support and understanding - The different meanings of the terms: Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence - How connecting with one’s authenticity and embracing creativity as a form of self-expression has the potential to lead neurodivergent people to greater fulfillment in life - The importance of finding supportive communities and individuals who understand neurodiversity - The need for more compassionate and trauma-informed approaches in services and institutions supporting neurodivergent people Overall, our guest advocates for greater awareness, acceptance, empathy, support and understanding of neurodivergence, while also recognizing its social and economic complexities and challenges. About Dr Louise Taylor A Neurodivergent Therapist and Researcher, Louise believes we must embody our work and live in such a way that we make our lives art. She received an ASD diagnosis in 2020, and a Dyslexia diagnosis in the final months of her PhD. Passionate about connecting people with the natural world for health and wellbeing purposes, her doctorate, from Queen's University Belfast, is in Nature and Mental Health. Louise combines her research work with her therapy practice, which blends counselling, consulting and coaching and serves mainly neurodivergent clients. She also works with academics to highlight the importance of mental health, wellness, and equity, and is committed to supporting activists on the frontlines of climate justice and environmental struggles, whether in the Sperrin Mountains, or Uganda. Louise lives in rural Tyrone in the North of Ireland with her children, dogs and ever-increasing plant collection. Happiest when eating good food, dancing to wonderful music, writing, lounging and laughing with loved ones, she also enjoys slow days spent wandering on beaches and in forests. Promotional Link: To minimize the trauma experiences of infants entering this world, Compassionate Inquiry® offers The Portal, a 28-week trauma-informed online training for perinatal health professionals such as; midwives, obstetricians, nurses and doulas, who want to empower those they serve to trust their innate ability to birth, bond with and nurture their child. . Registration closes on February 23. Resources: Websites: Relevant Links: Videos: Books: Education: PhD from Queen's University Belfast in Nature and Mental Health Foundation Degree in Counselling from the University of Ulster in C.B.T., Psychoanalysis, and Person Centred Therapy Certificate in Life Coaching City and Guilds 7407 Teacher Training Qualification MA in Women's Studies and Feminist Research BA in Sociology, 2i Honours Training: Reclaiming Pleasure: Embodied Joy in Trauma Recovery and Social Change. Creative Expression/Emancipatory Thinking/Artist's Way Facilitator Cruse Bereavement Training Spirituality in Counselling Training Extensive Domestic Abuse Training Extensive Youth Work training Mental Health First Aid training Quotes: “The child’s brain development depends on the presence of non-stressed, emotionally available parents. In this country, that’s less and less available. Hence, you’ve got burgeoning rates of autism. It’s gone up 20- or 30-fold in the last 30 or 40 years.” “…autism is a whole spectrum of disorders, but the essential quality of it is an emotional disconnect. These children are living in a mind of their own. They don’t respond appropriately to emotional cues. They withdraw. They act out in an aggressive and sometimes just unpredictable fashion. They don’t know how to — there’s no sense — there’s no clear sense of an emotional connection and peace inside them.” Social Media Handles: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/35171350

Childhood Trauma and ADHD with Nancy Evans 01/31/2025

Childhood Trauma and ADHD with Nancy Evans Hosted by Rosemary Davie-Janes. Produced by J’aime Rothbard. This informative and deeply personal conversation offers a nuanced understanding of ADHD(1). By integrating personal narratives with broader societal observations, the multifaceted nature of ADHD is demonstrated. Its complexities are also explored, from the disputes around its origins and treatment, to its tendency to overlap with other conditions, such as high sensitivity, anxiety, depression, and more. Common misconceptions about ADHD are challenged, and Gabor Maté's view of ADHD as a developmental issue, influenced by childhood stress and trauma, is contrasted with other theories. Nancy reflects on her parenting journey, acknowledging the challenges she faced in being present for her children due to her own ADHD. She emphasizes the importance of love and acceptance in fostering healthy relationships with children. Nancy also highlights the: - Role that social media platforms, like TikTok, play in increasing public awareness - Reasons for the rapid growth of ADHD diagnosis rates, particularly among adults - Importance of attunement in early emotional development - Impact of early childhood experiences on emotional regulation - Value of support communities, where individuals can freely share, without being judged or shamed - Need for a compassionate approach to those experiencing neurodiversity. - Societal pressures that can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, particularly in modern parenting contexts - Coping mechanisms, or ‘hacks’ that are developed to ‘work around’ ADHD symptoms The conversation ends on an inspiring note that shows how understanding ADHD as a developmental issue opens pathways for healing and growth, both for individuals with ADHD and their families. (1)ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is part of the neurodiversity spectrum. About Nancy Evans A certified Compassionate Inquiry® (CI) practitioner, life coach and meditation teacher, Nancy is also a seasoned intern for the CI Professional Training and co-facilitates two CI focus groups, one for ADHD and another for Peer Supervision. Nancy is passionate about the Compassionate Inquiry® approach which she uses alongside her coaching and meditation skills, holding people with a calm gentleness. She often works with ‘people pleasers’, ADHD’ers, mid-lifers and sober folk who are ready to heal their core wounds. Nancy balances her work with raising a family of three joyful neurodiverse sons, alongside her husband of 23 years. They live in West Sussex, with two scruffy rescue dogs, and enjoy nature, music and travelling together. Through her recovery and deep personal healing with Compassionate Inquiry®, Nancy has become the mother to herself that she always needed in order to thrive. Promotional Link: If you've been listening to our podcast and are curious about the transformative power of Compassionate Inquiry®, join us on Feb 22 for a 6-hour online experiential introduction to the Compassionate Inquiry approach and community . This link takes you to a web page where you can get information and, if you choose, register for . Resources: Websites: Relevant Links: Videos: Books: Statistics: Quotes: “If we recognize that most of the problems that people are troubled with are actually problems of development, and it’s those developmental conditions that we need to look at… we’ll be asking ourselves. What are the conditions in this society that lead so many people to have a failure or or slowing down of the impulse regulation circuitry, and capacity? That's the first point. So it’s a developmental problem rather than a medical problem per se. Number two, if you look at the tuning out of ADHD, why do we have this capacity to tune out? Protection from overwhelming stress. If I were to stress you right now by becoming abusive or threatening what options would you have? The options are standing up and telling me to shut up. You also have the option of leaving. So you have the options of fight or flight. And if you couldn’t do either, you would also have the option, given that there’s many dozens of people here in the room with you, you have the option of asking for help. But what if I were to stress one of you and you didn’t have the option to ask for help or escape or to fight back - then what would you do? You wouldn’t do anything and so freezing is one option. Tuning out is another, just going absent minded, dissociating so you wouldn’t have to feel the pain of the stress. Can you see I might have lots of reasons to tune out as a one-year-old, as a two month old, as a three month old? So maybe ADHD begins as a coping mechanism.” - Gabor Maté “If your plants are not developing the way you expect them to, the first thing you would look at are the conditions. Too much or too little sunlight. Too much or not enough irrigation. How about the quality of the soil? You look at the conditions of development and if you want those plants to develop properly, you would fix those conditions. You wouldn’t try to treat the plants for some kind of disease. Most of the time you’d be looking at the conditions for development.” - Gabor Maté Social Media Handles: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/35077910

Collective Responsibility Ends Domestic Violence with Liz Odongo 01/23/2025

Collective Responsibility Ends Domestic Violence with Liz Odongo Hosted and Produced by J’aime Rothbard. Join us for this deep dive into the maze of trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault and the often futile search for vital support services. Liz unravels this complex weave by sharing her personal trauma and healing experiences, as well as the need for systemic change and collaboration that invokes the proven healing powers of community. Former colleagues and co facilitators in the domestic violence and collective trauma arenas, Liz and J’aime explore various forms of abuse, including emotional and psychological manipulation, not just physical violence. They also highlight the role of "compounding trauma," where individuals experience multiple subsequent traumatic events, without adequate time to heal. Liz shares her personal journey, and how being a trauma survivor empowers her to create, advocate for and train others in sensitive, trauma-informed support services. She highlights the need to break down silos between agencies and services and improve the overall response to domestic violence. Liz also advocates for: - Cross-disciplinary professional collaboration (academics, attorneys, domestic violence advocates, housing experts…) in order to create more useful support systems for trauma / abuse survivors. - The development of trauma-informed practices that prioritize the well-being of survivors. - Reducing the risk of overwhelming or re-traumatizing survivors by raising support service providers awareness - Collective processes that welcome communities pivotal roles in supporting, healing and recovery, ensuring individuals are not alone in their experiences. The interview also touches on how societal language and cultural norms can normalize violence and contribute to the perpetuation of abuse, and ongoing efforts to reframe domestic violence to promote awareness and positive change. About Liz Odongo Director of Grants and Programs, DC Coalition Against Domestic Violence (DCCADV) A registered descendant of Koniag, Inc. and the Native Village of Afognak (a recognized Alutiiq Alaska Native tribal entity) Liz obtained her MA in International Training & Education from American University, her BA in Global Studies from the University of Washington, served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Guyana, and a high school exchange student in Venezuela. During 2+ decades spent working to end gender-based violence, Liz serves as the Director of Grants and Programs for the DC Coalition Against Domestic Violence, was a Domestic Violence Systems Advocate, an Educator at The Women’s Center, and a Program Officer in the Global Health, Population and Nutrition Department at the Academy for Educational Development. She also testified for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Sexual Assault in the Peace Corps. Liz developed and facilitated national and international training to address violence against women, which was delivered to many agencies, including the U.S. Military, State Department, Government agencies, law enforcement and local community-based organizations. Today she provides technical assistance, training, and support around compliance, budgeting, reporting, and program development to grantees implementing health contracts from the Department of Health and Human Services. Raised in Seattle, WA, Liz is the mother of two children and wife of an African Immigrant. While she enjoys coaching her kids’ basketball teams, playing guitar, and keeping her ASL and Spanish fluency strong, she never fails to stop and smell the flowers. Promotional Link: If you’ve been listening to our podcast, you may have heard guests share stories of suicidal distress. If you're a therapist, education, medical or personal development professional seeking tools to support people on this path, the Compassionate Inquiry® 25-hour, trauma-informed, live online professional Suicide Attention Training is designed to increase both your skills and confidence. Please to learn more. Registration closes on Feb 16. Resources Websites: Relevant Links: by Public Spectacle Sugpiat People from the , members of , Inc, Dr Nkiru Nnawulezi of of Peace DC Karma Cottman of Books: Films: Statistics: Social Media Handles: Liz Odongo | DCCADV | | | /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/34958985

Healing Addiction & Codependence in Community with Sat Dharam Kaur 01/16/2025

Healing Addiction & Codependence in Community with Sat Dharam Kaur Hosted by Kevin Young. Produced by J’aime Rothbard. In this gentle conversation, Sat Dharam Kaur shares her own personal experiences with addiction and codependency with humility and grace. She also answers questions about how early trauma, coping strategies and core beliefs can lead us into addiction. After broadly defining addiction as encompassing various substances and behaviors, Sat Dharam moves on to highlight the importance of recognizing the underlying emotional needs that addictions attempt to fulfill. During this in-depth interview, she also illuminates: - How early childhood attachment can increase or reduce the likelihood of addictive behaviors - How unmet needs in childhood may predispose us to addictions, later in life - The roles safe spaces and community play in healing addictions - Why individuals struggling with addiction need to feel accepted, without judgment. - The importance of compassionately shifting from blame and shame to understanding the trauma and experiences that contribute to an individual's situation. - The ways in which ancestral trauma can influence addictive behaviors. - How self-care can prevent codependency and burnout in those caring for people with addictions.. Join us for this loving, warm and informative interview that shines the light of compassionate understanding on behaviours that initially seem helpful, but ultimately become harmful, for those in the thrall of the addiction(s), their families and communities. About Sat Dharam Kaur, ND Compassionate Inquiry® Co-Director, Training Facilitator, Circle Leader, Certified Practitioner Sat Dharam is a practicing naturopathic doctor (since 1989) with a focus on women’s health, cancer and mind-body approaches to healing. Since 2012, she has been studying, hosting, working and teaching with Dr. Gabor Maté. She structured his work in a teachable format; the Compassionate Inquiry® Professional Online Training. Since 2019, much of her naturopathic practice has included Compassionate Inquiry®. Sat Dharam’s educational background includes a BA majoring in Psychology & English Literature, and a BSc in Biology from the University of Guelph. She completed her postgraduate studies in naturopathic medicine at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto, where she also taught stress management and women’s health for 10 years. The author of three *books on women’s health, Sat Dharam has also presented at numerous conferences. An expert instructor in Kundalini Yoga, which she has practiced and taught for over 45 years, Sat Dharam has developed yoga-based curricula in addiction recovery, trauma, and breast health; specialties in which she offers training to teachers around the world.. Sat Dharam and her husband live in an off-grid home on 105 acres of beautiful land where she nurtures fruit trees and a large garden. She enjoys hiking, cycling, and communing with plants. She has three adult children and two grandchildren. Promotional Link: If you've been listening to our podcast and are curious about the transformative power of Compassionate Inquiry®, on Feb 22, join us for a 6-hour online experiential introduction to the Compassionate Inquiry approach and community . This link takes you to a web page where you can get information and register for . Resources Websites: Relevant Links: Books: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/34878000

From Lonely Demon to Authentic Self Love with Kevin Young 01/09/2025

From Lonely Demon to Authentic Self Love with Kevin Young Hosted and produced by J’aime Rothbard. Featured Music: Join us for a deep, nuanced conversation that roams from Vipassana Meditation, to mindfulness to sensitivity and shame, to embodying spirituality in very personal ways. Kevin describes how his mindfulness practice enables him to observe his ‘monkey mind’ without judgment, while recognizing its chaotic (and rather hilarious) nature. He also explains what happens when we accept the wholeness of who we are, perceived flaws, messiness and all, rather than attempting to fix or change ourselves. He credits these practices for his ability to create safe healing environments for himself and others. The relationship between shame and sensitivity is explored, and Kevin reflects on his own unacknowledged sensitivity, as a middle child, and the only boy, growing up in a dangerous part of Belfast, during dangerous times. [He expands on this experience in his with fellow North of Ireland colleague, Stephen Brown.] He also shares his journey, from hiding himself and disconnecting from his own needs, deep compassion and inborn connection with Source. He also describes how, after 30 years spent numbing his pain, he was able to remove the shame, fear, addiction, and grief which were blocking his innate connection to Source and his higher self, his authenticity. This interview also delves into: - The importance of being present for others' struggles, and affirming that it's okay for them to feel whatever they are feeling - The ‘gifts’ of trauma; the many ways that trauma can lead to transformation and growth - How being highly sensitivity enables us to connect with others in ways they respond to somatically The conversation concludes with a playful acknowledgment of the often serious nature of spiritual discussions and the blessings of humour and lightness in both public and personal spiritual practices. About Kevin Young Life Coach, Compassionate Inquiry Practitioner, Circles Facilitator, Podcast Host Kevin is a truth seeker from Co. Down in Ireland. He is passionate about people, healing, happiness and encouraging compassionate connection. Fascinated by the human condition; what are we, who are we, and where are we, he is navigating a path back to wholeness and believes the best way to do this is to “Know thyself”. Currently, he is working towards his Bodhisattva vows with his local Buddhist center in Belfast. A Compassionate inquiry® facilitator, educator, and steward, Kevin works privately with individuals and organizations located all over the world. He also teaches meditation and delivers immersive sound bathing experiences. A lover of music, poetry, conscious conversation and spiritual growth, Kevin’s favorite word is ‘awe’. Promotional Link: You can experience the power of Gabor Maté’s trauma healing approach, whether you are or are not a therapist or healer. This link takes you to a web page that offers information about . Episode Related Resources: Websites: Relevant Links: Featured Music: Books: Social Media: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/34782145

Healing the Traumas of Indigenous Colonization with Allen Sutherland - White Spotted Horse 01/02/2025

Healing the Traumas of Indigenous Colonization with Allen Sutherland - White Spotted Horse Hosted by Rosemary Davies-Janes. Produced by J’aime Rothbard. Featured Music: Join us for an inspiring and informative interview with Allen Sutherland, an esteemed Anishinaabe Elder, Traditional Knowledge Keeper, Healer, Speaker, Teacher and Historian whose work has already made a generational difference in Canada. For 25+ years, Allen focused on raising awareness of the impact of colonization on Indigenous peoples in Canada and around the world, from the European crusades of the 13th century, to the golden age of the fur trade in Canada. This was a 250 year period during which the generosity of the Anishinaabe—people of the kind heart—helped new colonists learn to survive in their new homeland. He speaks of the original agreements to live and trade together, and how implementing the Indian Act in 1876 (currently the only racial legislation enforced by any county in the world) replaced the golden age, and agreed upon treaties, with an age of deception, oppression and heartbreak. With deep compassion, Allen illuminates the traumatic history of Canada’s indigenous populations, and the intergenerational trauma adaptations that have resulted from these wounding experiences. He also shares: - Why the Compassionate Inquiry® approach is particularly helpful in Indigenous healing circles - What it takes to heal trauma rooted in colonial oppression, the resilience of Indigenous peoples and the need for ongoing healing efforts - The process of reclaiming identity lost through colonial laws and the importance of reflecting on this journey, ancestral knowledge and community involvement, in intergenerational healing - Links between alarming health statistics among Indigenous populations today and the historical somatic legacy of colonization trauma - How lateral kindness can counteract lateral violence within communities Allen also speaks about his current work as a healer, and how traditional healing is often a last resort for indigenous people overwhelmed by allopathic medical diagnoses and prognoses. He describes how he determines the healing approach required for each individual by integrating wisdom from his heart, his essence and intuition, with that of his own and his clients’ spirit guides. The interview concludes with a demonstration of Anishinaabe generosity. Allen invites non indigenous people seeking answers and healing to attend traditional indigenous ceremonies, for as he says, the common denominator in all Anishinaabe teachings is spirit, love and wanting a better place for all. About Allen Sutherland Allen, also known by his spirit name Waabshkii Masinazoot Michtaatim (White Spotted Horse), is of the Anishinaabe Bizhiw Doodem (Lynx Clan), and a member of Skownan First Nation, Treaty 2 Territory. An esteemed Anishinaabe Elder, Traditional Knowledge Keeper, Healer, and Historian, his work in the public has made a generational difference in Canada. Allen’s deep Anishinaabek roots enable him to be a conduit between Traditional and Contem- porary Worlds. For 30+ years, he has worked in First Nations, Federal/Provincial Governments, and is involved in grassroots community work. A sought-after facilitator, trainer and resource on the history and culture of the Anishinaabe of Turtle Island, he is well known for his creation of Canadian Indigenous Timeline Posters and Red River de Metis posters. Today Allen lives his life purpose as an Anishinaabek Historian, Traditional Knowledge Keeper and Healer with ever expanding healing bundles. He is the Knowledge Keeper East of 2 Child & Family Service Agencies with Treaty 2 Territory, the Lodge Keeper of Ginew Healing Lodge, and lives in Treaty 1 Territory, Cooks Creek, Manitoba. Promotional Link: You can experience the power of Gabor Maté’s trauma healing approach, whether you are or are not a therapist or healer. This link takes you to a web page that offers information about . Episode Related Resources: Websites: Relevant Links: Featured Music: The Red Shadow Singers ask that their songs, received through ceremony, be used in spiritual ways for healing or prayer. Books: Statistic Source: Allen’s Social Media: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/34680410

Trauma-Informed Journalism with Matthew Green 12/26/2024

Trauma-Informed Journalism with Matthew Green Hosted by Kevin Young. Produced by J’aime Rothbard. Join us for a fast-paced, and deeply moving interview with Matthew Green, a journalist seeking to illuminate the role of individual, ancestral and collective trauma in driving global crises. Drawing on his experiences covering wars in Iraq and Afghanistan for Reuters and the Financial Times, Green discusses the responsibilities media outlets carry to care for the primary and secondary trauma wounds affecting journalists and editors. Kevin and Matthew also discuss how new trauma-informed journalistic approaches could transform the media into an agent for ethical restoration and societal healing. In this insight-rich conversation, Matthew shares his perspectives on: - Individual pain versus collective trauma, and how when we realize we’re not alone in our suffering, our experience of interconnectedness facilitates healing. - Transformation through suffering, and the healing process as a death-rebirth journey that leads to the emergence of our true self. - Men's groups’ unique role in fostering healing and connection among men, and how participating can improve men’s lives and relationships. - How cultivating a spiritual connection can support and guide the healing process. - Ancestral trauma imprints, such as the multi-generational military service in his own male lineage, and how these collective experiences will continue to shape individual worldviews and choices until they are recognized and resolved. Matthew also speaks about his latest ventures: the Resonant World newsletter and the Resonant Man Initiative. He launched Resonant World to serve the growing global community of people working to heal individual, inter-generational and collective trauma. Through interviews with practitioners, accounts of his own experiences of trauma work, and insights from his training as a collective trauma integration facilitator, Matthew sees Resonant World as a catalyst for transforming the media into a trauma-restoring force. The Resonant Man Initiative is the men's group he co-facilitates that supports men to explore creativity, vision, relationship and brotherhood, with a view to equipping participants to respond more effectively to personal and collective challenges. About Matthew Green Matthew is a journalist, author and the creator of Resonant World. As a journalist covering conflicts across Africa, in Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan for Reuters and the Financial Times, bouts of depression led him to explore a wide range of healing practices, culminating in his 2015 book, Aftershock (stories of British military veterans and their families confronting the psychological scars of war.) In April, 2022, Matthew’s frustration over Reuters’ response to the climate crisis led him to quit and join DeSmog, which exposes corporations blocking climate action. After studying the psychological and mystical principles of healing individual, ancestral and collective trauma via Thomas Hübl’s Timeless Wisdom Training, Matthew is currently training as a collective trauma integration facilitator. Alongside regular panel appearances on the BBC, Matthew has co-hosted the Collective Trauma Summit and the Climate Consciousness Summit, Matthew is also co-founder of the Resonant Man, an initiative to support men to explore vision, creativity, relationship and brotherhood, with Jacob Kishere. Matthew lives in London with his wife Genevieve, a clinical psychologist, and their seven-year-old daughter. When he’s not reading, writing or discussing trauma healing, he loves helping people resolve their dilemmas via the . Invitation to join Compassionate Inquiry Circles: You can experience the power of Gabor Maté’s trauma healing approach, whether you are or are not a therapist or healer. This link takes you to a web page that offers information about . Episode Related Resources: Websites: Relevant Links: Courses: Social Media: Books: Podcasts: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/34615710

Interrupting Incarceration Through Compassion with Brooke Harper 12/19/2024

Interrupting Incarceration Through Compassion with Brooke Harper Hosted and Produced by J’aime Rothbard. Join us for a passionate and enlightening conversation that explores trauma and systemic issues within the complex of incarceration. Our guest, Brooke Harper works with individuals in the juvenile-legal and -carceral systems, as well as the formerly incarcerated. She advocates for a more compassionate and trauma-informed approach, as those who commit crimes are often victims of their own circumstances. In fact, the real issue is the criminalization of trauma and poverty, as the legal and carceral systems rarely recognize that, to meet their basic human needs, many perpetrators' only option is to turn to crime. In this thoughtful interview, Brooke outlines the: - Impact of Systemic Racism on children in the juvenile carceral system, particularly those who disproportionately represent marginalized communities - Importance of Compassionate inquiry®, a transformative approach that can help individuals understand their trauma and the underlying reasons for their behaviors. - Need for Systemic Change, advocating for a shift from punitive measures to more compassionate and rehabilitative approaches that address the root causes of criminal behavior. - Prevalence of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) among incarcerated individuals, which underscores the link between childhood trauma and criminal behavior. The poignant stories and experiences Brooke shares illustrate the profound impact of trauma on young people and the challenges they face in navigating their environments. Rather than simply labeling individuals based on their actions, this conversation encourages a deeper exploration of perpetrators’ situations and personal experiences. Listen to gain insight into the need for public education and awareness on the complexities of trauma. And when the conversation concludes, be inspired by the possibilities compassionate understanding offers to children and youth enmeshed within the juvenile-legal and -carceral systems. About Brooke Harper: A certified Compassionate Inquiry® Practitioner and mental health clinician, she completed her Advanced Clinical Practice graduate training at Columbia University, specialising in Health, Mental Health and Disabilities. Brooke has experience in both direct clinical practice and programming. She works with those experiencing mental health and substance use challenges, as well as individuals within the juvenile-legal system, carceral system, and formerly incarcerated. Passionate about advocacy and diminishing stigma, Brooke seeks to bridge gaps in health care service delivery. She is a certified teacher of trauma-informed yoga, and yoga for substance abuse recovery. Also involved in advocacy for addiction treatment and relapse prevention, Brooke is a mentor at Father’s Uplift Promotional Link: You can experience the power of Gabor Maté’s trauma healing approach, whether you are or are not a therapist or healer. This link takes you to a web page that offers information about . Episode Related Resources: Websites: Relevant Links: Books: Videos & Movies: Podcast: Journals: Statistic Sources: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/34526495

The Lifelong Pain of Birth Trauma 12/12/2024

The Lifelong Pain of Birth Trauma Hosted by Rosemary Davies-Janes. Produced by J’aime Rothbard. if you are curious about Compassionate Inquiry® and want to learn more about training in this approach, for your own self development or for your work with coaching or therapy clients. To learn about the application process, please check out the . Join us for this candid episode that illuminates little known aspects of the human procreation experience, from conception through birth and postpartum. Our guests, seasoned midwives Laura Latina and Hannah Betty Idarius, explore divergent perspectives of the perinatal journey. Rather than merely a medical event, their approach celebrates each birth as sacred—every moment is honored as a profound rite of passage for babies, parents and families alike. Today, increasing rates of obstetric trauma engender fear and trepidation in new mothers approaching birth. Many moms also experience the pain of isolation during the crucial postpartum period—a sharp contrast to birthing in traditional ‘village’ communities where extended family members share parenting responsibilities, creating support systems that enrich child development and parental well being. In this interview, Laura and Hannah explain how: - Implicit (not consciously recalled) memories from birth and early experiences can affect individuals throughout their lives, manifesting in physical and emotional patterns - Compassionate Inquiry® supports birth professionals, therapists and parents alike by unlocking perinatal trauma (includes in utero, birth and postnatal traumas) and providing paths to healing for individuals and families. - Trauma from perinatal experiences can impact parents, children and families and increase a mother’s risk of postpartum depression. - Rebirthing can offer deeply transformative pathways to healing. - Parents can foster a deep sense of security and connection with their unborn children. This conversation will deepen your emotional and psychological understanding of the human birthing experience, from conception to birth and beyond. About Laura Latina: A Certified Compassionate Inquiry® Practitioner and international speaker, Laura is also an independent midwife, a community midwife, and a midwifery team leader who consulted for the NHS in the UK. She has worked with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) as Women’s Health Advisor for its Medical Unit, managing maternity hospitals in Malawi, South Sudan, Kenya, Afghanistan and many other countries, supporting over 2,000 women across four continents. In addition to leading international projects that promote cultures of gentle, respectful births and parenting, Laura invites women to recognize and trust their innate ability to be loving, attuned mothers. She is also passionate about the role of home births' in creating supportive family environments. About Hannah Betty Idarius: A Somatic Coach and Certified Compassionate Inquiry® Practitioner, Hannah works with individuals and couples wanting to embody optimal emotional, physical and mental health and wholeness. A homebirth midwife for 30 years in British Columbia, Arizona and California, Hannah empowered women to trust in their innate ability to birth and parent wisely, Her specializations in classical homeopathy, rebirthing breathwork, pre- and perinatal trauma healing, and somatic coaching fostered birth experiences that were gentle, supportive, and sacred. One of the pioneers of waterbirth in the US, she was featured in the documentary, Water Babies, and is the author of, . Laura Latina & Hannah Betty Idarius’ Show Summary - Release Date December 5 Promotional Link: If you are curious about Compassionate Inquiry® and want to learn more about training in this approach, for your own self development or for your work with coaching or therapy clients, please check out the . Episode Related Resources: Websites: Study: Relevant Links: Postpartum Experience Quote Sources: Alanis Morissette, , August 2012 Marie Osmond, , April 2016 Training: : Conception, Pregnancy, Birth and the Postpartum Period; a Compassionate Inquiry Training Posts: Books: Quotes: “You talk to people about their childhood and they say I don’t remember, I don’t remember, I don’t remember. Well the fact is that everybody remembers, they just don’t recall. It’s usually because nothing happened or too much happened. Usually too much happened. One way they dealt with it was to split their attention from what's going on so they're not going to recall. We have the distinction of two important kinds of memories and so often our lives show up as those imprinted memories and that imprint starts in utero. What we are actually looking at is the impact of the multi-generational family history. Stress that affected one generation will be played out very exactly in the next generation to the degree that that next generation has understood or not understood it, has dealt with it or not dealt with it so fundamentally so long as we're not conscious we're gonna pass on our stress and our drama to our kids.” - Gabor Maté “The effects of emotional trauma during pregnancy, often referred to as prenatal toxic stress, [which] have profound implications for both the mother and the developing fetus.“ - “Trauma programs the nervous system, so that it's constantly in defensive mode, even when there's no danger, we react as if there was, or we don't recognize danger when it's really there. And the problem with being in a defensive mode is that you can survive, but you can't grow and thrive emotionally.” - Gabor Maté ”During pregnancy, stress can increase the chances of having a (born before 37 weeks of pregnancy) or a (weighing less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces). Babies born too soon or too small are at increased risk for .” - “What is usually not understood or even talked about very much [at all] is that the impacts of trauma are not only psychological but physiological. The kind of experiences you have shape the very circuitry of your brain” - Gabort Maté “Unconditional parental love is the indispensable nutrient for the child's healthy emotional growth. The first task is to create space in the child's heart for the certainty that she is precisely the person the parents want and love. She does not have to do anything or be any different to earn that love - in fact, she cannot do anything, since that love cannot be won or lost...The child can be ornery, unpleasant, whiny, uncooperative, and plain rude, and the parent still lets her feel loved. Ways have to be found to convey the unacceptability of certain behaviors without making the child herself feel unaccepted. She has to be able to bring her unrest, her least likable characteristics to the parent and still receive the parent's absolutely satisfying, security-inducing unconditional love.” - Gordon Neufeld Instagram:@lauralatinamidwife Facebook: /episode/index/show/4445e113-f122-4786-a677-758bf721ea6c/id/34393895

The Gifts of Trauma

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