Begin Within: The Inner Work Journey
Welcome to "Begin Within: The Inner Work Journey," a podcast brought to you by the Innerwork Center, where we explore the transformative power of inner work. Our mission is to foster personal development through self-awareness, mindfulness, and growth. Each episode delves into practices that help cultivate a deep-seated security from within, building confidence and empowering you to live more joyously. Join us as we bring together experts in mindfulness, creative expression, psychology, and spirituality to share their insights and experiences. Whether you're seeking to enhance your personal well-being, foster a sense of connection, or build a more inclusive and compassionate community, this podcast is your guide to discovering the work that is yours to do. Tune in for inspiring stories, practical tips, and deep conversations that will help you begin within and transform your life from the inside out. Learn more about our programs and support our mission at innerworkcenter.org and join us on this journey towards a wiser, more compassionate world. For additional details, you can visit our official website where you can explore our mission, programs, and opportunities for support www.innerworkcenter.org
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Episode 11: Exploring Belonging, Bias, and Inner Work with Kristen Lennox
12/17/2024
Episode 11: Exploring Belonging, Bias, and Inner Work with Kristen Lennox
Episode Summary: In this profound and inspiring episode, host Yedda Stancil welcomes Kristen Lennox to discuss belonging, the impact of moral injury, unconscious bias, and the transformative power of inner work. Kristen shares her deeply personal journey as a social worker, her cultural background, and her commitment to fostering inclusive and brave spaces. This episode explores how personal healing leads to collective belonging and the critical role of curiosity, creativity, and compassion. Key Topics Discussed: The Concept of Belonging: What it truly means to belong, starting with belonging to oneself. Moral Injury: How systems can cause individuals to act against their moral values and the toll it takes on well-being. Unconscious Bias: Recognizing inherited, systemic, and personal biases while practicing accountability and self-compassion. The Power of Inner Work: Why self-awareness, emotional regulation, and curiosity are foundational for healing and inclusion. SoulCollage®: A creative practice Kristen teaches that helps people access their inner wisdom through visual imagery and intuition. Notable Quotes: "Belonging has to begin with belonging to yourself." — Kristen Lennox "If we're not curious, we're judgmental." — Yedda Stancil "Heal to lead, then lead to heal." — Kristen Lennox Takeaways for Listeners: Start with Inner Work: Recognize the need to look inward, address personal wounds, and cultivate self-compassion. Practice Curiosity: Replace judgment with curiosity when engaging with others. Explore Creative Modalities: Consider practices like SoulCollage® to discover hidden parts of yourself and deepen self-understanding. Commit to Lifelong Belonging: Understand that fostering true belonging requires ongoing reflection, healing, and change. Resources Mentioned: Harvard Implicit Bias Test: A tool for recognizing unconscious biases. . What Happened to You? by Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Bruce Perry (recommended resource). SoulCollage® Workshops: Learn more about Kristen Lennox’s upcoming workshops at the Inner Work Center. Inner Work Center Online Classroom: Launching in 2025 for deeper exploration of mindfulness and belonging practices. Connect with Us: Website: Learn More: Explore upcoming programs and events to start or deepen your inner work. Support the Innerwork Center: Help us continue to create a more compassionate, inclusive world. Thank you for tuning in to Begin Within! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. “Remember, begin within you.”
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Episode 10 : Calming the Chaos - Yoga Nidra and Healing the Nervous System with Leslie Greene
12/08/2024
Episode 10 : Calming the Chaos - Yoga Nidra and Healing the Nervous System with Leslie Greene
Episode Description: In this episode of Begin Within, we sit down with Leslie Greene, a certified yoga therapist and expert in Yoga Nidra, to explore the profound benefits of this practice for the nervous system. Together, we unravel what Yoga Nidra is and how it serves as a bridge between relaxation and deep healing, especially for those grappling with trauma and stress. Leslie shares her wealth of knowledge on how Yoga Nidra helps "calm the chaos" of the mind, allowing the nervous system to reset and the body to heal. From veterans to overwhelmed parents, this practice offers a powerful tool for addressing the impacts of stress, trauma, and "the drama" that life often throws our way. Using the analogy of a snow globe, Leslie describes how our nervous system can feel shaken and scattered during challenging times. Yoga Nidra works like gently setting the snow globe down, allowing the "snow" of our thoughts, emotions, and stress to settle, creating clarity and calm within. We dive deep into the connection between the nervous system and the brain, exploring how calming the nervous system is foundational for anyone beginning the journey of inner work. Whether you're seeking healing for yourself or simply looking to learn about a transformative practice, this episode offers insights, tools, and inspiration for your path. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What Yoga Nidra is and why it's more than just relaxation. How Yoga Nidra heals the nervous system and benefits those who've experienced trauma. The role of the nervous system in stress and how calming it helps us prepare for inner work. Practical ways Yoga Nidra can benefit everyone, from veterans to caregivers. Why settling the body and mind is essential for emotional healing and resilience. Connect with Leslie Greene: Learn more about Leslie and her Yoga Nidra offerings at the Inner Work Center by visiting . Hashtags for Promotion: #BeginWithinPodcast #YogaNidra #InnerWork #TraumaHealing #NervousSystemHealth #MindBodyConnection #YogaTherapy #CalmTheChaos #HealingJourney #SelfCareTools #StressRelief #MindfulnessForAll #VeteransHealing #MomLifeBalance Call to Action: If this episode resonates with you, don’t forget to share it with someone who might benefit from hearing Leslie’s wisdom. Subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to help us reach more listeners on their inner work journey. Thank you for supporting Begin Within!
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Episode 9: Begin Within Podcast – Exploring Energy, Ego, and Empowerment with Tiffany Lester
12/01/2024
Episode 9: Begin Within Podcast – Exploring Energy, Ego, and Empowerment with Tiffany Lester
In this transformative episode of the Begin Within podcast, host Yedda Stancil welcomes the insightful Tiffany Lester, a Reiki Master Teacher and energy worker, to delve into the profound interplay between ego, energy, and empowerment. Tiffany shares her journey from social work to energy healing, providing deep insights into how inner work can unlock the expansive potential within us all. Key Highlights: Tiffany’s Story: Discover how her experiences in hospice care and personal awakenings shaped her path to energy work and spiritual healing. Understanding Ego and Empowerment: Tiffany explains how identifying and working with the ego can lead to personal empowerment and greater connection. Energy Healing: Dive into Tiffany’s unique approach to Reiki and how it amplifies the healing process by clearing energetic blocks. The Power of Gratitude: Learn how intentional gratitude practices can elevate your vibration and transform your perspective on life’s challenges. Breaking Generational Cycles: Tiffany discusses her personal journey of breaking ancestral patterns and the role of energy work in healing trauma. Connect with Tiffany Lester Website: Explore Tiffany’s offerings, including her Empowered Mind workshops, Reiki classes, and online programs. Learn More About the Innerwork Center Visit to explore mindfulness-based programs, upcoming events, and free online learning communities supporting diverse groups across the nation. #InnerWorkJourney #BeginWithinPodcast #MindfulnessMatters #EnergyHealing #ReikiMaster #GratitudePractice #EgoWork #EmpowermentTools #MindfulLiving #InnerWorkCenter Join us on this journey towards deeper self-discovery and transformation. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help others find inspiration through the power of inner work.
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Episode 8 There Is a Monk on My Couch: A Conversation with a Tibetan Monk on Peace, Wisdom, and Loving-Kindness
11/24/2024
Episode 8 There Is a Monk on My Couch: A Conversation with a Tibetan Monk on Peace, Wisdom, and Loving-Kindness
In one of the most meaningful and profound episodes of the Begin Within podcast, I had the incredible honor of interviewing a Tibetan monk at my home office while the monks were creating a world peace mandala at the Inner Work Center. The title of this episode, "There Is a Monk on My Couch," reflects the awe I felt when realizing the unique and sacred opportunity before me—what would you ask a monk sitting on your couch? This conversation takes listeners far beyond a typical introduction to Buddhism. Instead, we dive deep into the personal journey of the head monk and his story of escaping Tibet as a young boy, along with the other monks. He shares the harrowing experience of trekking across the Himalayas in the dead of night, sleeping by day, without food or water for six weeks, in search of freedom. Many perished on the way, making the survival and spiritual journey of these monks all the more profound. Key Discussion Points: The Escape from Tibet: The head monk’s heart-wrenching yet inspiring story of fleeing Tibet as a child, enduring a dangerous six-week trek across the Himalayas to find freedom. What is Wisdom?: A deep exploration of the monk’s perspective on wisdom and how it can be practiced in any life, regardless of one's religion. Day in the Life of a Monk: Ever wondered what monks do on a daily basis? I ask him about the simple yet disciplined life in the monastery, from their meditative practices to their studies of loving-kindness. Monk’s View of Western Culture: His thoughts on Western culture in the United States—his response may surprise you. Spiritual Teachings for All: We discuss whether you can practice the elements of Buddhism and maintain the religion you were raised with. The wisdom shared applies universally, no matter where you are on your spiritual path. Loving-Kindness and Compassion: The monk’s teaching on the 51 layers of the mind, and how the essence of Buddhism is to align the mind with the heart, cultivating feelings of joy, equanimity, and compassion. The episode closes with a special moment—chanting prayers for world peace, recorded live during the closing ceremony of the World Peace Sand Mandala at the Inner Work Center. As you listen, you’ll be immersed in the monks' sacred chants, allowing you to feel the energy and blessings of peace they offer to the world. A Humbling Experience: Throughout the interview, conducted in the monk’s native language with the help of a translator, I found it a meditative practice to sit with the energy of his wisdom. Even when I didn’t immediately understand the words, being in his presence was profoundly moving. Key Takeaways: The power of loving-kindness, joy, and compassion as guiding principles. Understanding that the heart and mind can work together to help us live from a place of feeling, not just thinking. The importance of inner peace in creating outer peace. Support the Monks: If you were moved by this episode, you can directly support the monks and their monastery by donating via the link below. Your contribution helps them continue their work and spread peace in the world. Links: Support the Monastery and the Monks: Learn More About the Inner Work Center:
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Episode 7 Spiritual Growth and the Essence of Who We Are with Richard Lassiter
11/13/2024
Episode 7 Spiritual Growth and the Essence of Who We Are with Richard Lassiter
In this inspiring episode of the Begin Within podcast, we sit down with Richard Lassiter, former president of Wayshowers College, to explore the deep and profound truths of spiritual growth. Richard shares his personal journey of transformation, beginning with a pivotal moment during the Vietnam War when he realized that who he was as a person and what he did were two entirely separate things. This realization set him on a lifelong quest to uncover the deeper truths of life, moving beyond the confines of hard work, suffering, and intellect. Richard talks about how his meeting with Francisco Cole, founder of the Inner Peace Movement (now Wayshowers College), helped him understand the essence of spirituality. Through his experiences, Richard learned that spirituality transcends physical existence, ego, and societal constructs. He emphasizes the importance of discovering who we truly are at our core, regardless of religious backgrounds or worldviews that often divide us. Key Discussion Points: Richard’s transformational moment during the Vietnam War, which sparked his spiritual awakening. The life-changing realization that "who you are" is separate from "what you do." Richard’s introduction to spiritual truths through Francisco Cole and the Inner Peace Movement. The core mission of Wayshowers College: democratizing spirituality and making it accessible to all. Simple, yet profound spiritual teachings that resonate universally, regardless of one's religion. The value of cultivating a connection with your spiritual self and tapping into the guidance that is always available to each of us. How Wayshowers College teaches spiritual foundations that apply to everyone, helping individuals move beyond ego and societal constructs. Richard’s current workshops and his upcoming online drop-in group at the Inner Work Center, where he continues to promote spiritual growth and understanding. Richard’s story is a powerful reminder that spirituality is not about any specific belief system but about connecting with our true essence and the guidance available to us all. Whether you’re new to spiritual growth or deep into your journey, this conversation offers valuable insights that can inspire you to explore your own spiritual path. Upcoming Events and Workshops: Spiritual Growth Workshops: Richard will be leading several workshops focused on these spiritual teachings and truths. For more information and to sign up, visit . Drop-In Group at the Inner Work Center: Join Richard’s online drop-in group, open to anyone seeking spiritual growth and connection. Visit for details. Tune in to hear more about Richard’s incredible journey and the universal truths that can help each of us connect to our inner selves and live a life of deeper meaning and purpose.
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Episode 6 Embodied Leadership: Cultivating Safety, Dignity, and Belonging with Erin Lingo
11/10/2024
Episode 6 Embodied Leadership: Cultivating Safety, Dignity, and Belonging with Erin Lingo
In this insightful episode, we sit down with Erin Lingo, an embodiment leadership coach specializing in somatic work. We explore the essence of embodiment, what leadership truly means, and whether everyone has the capacity to lead. Our conversation dives deep into how embodiment practices can transform not only how we understand our emotions but also how we interact with the world around us. Key Takeaways: What is Embodiment? Erin defines embodiment as the practice of connecting with and understanding how our body holds emotions and experiences. We discuss how the body communicates with the mind through the nervous system and how somatic awareness can help us release resistance and become more mindful of our physical and emotional state. Somatic Leadership: Leadership isn't just about roles or titles; it’s about how we show up in our lives and in the lives of others. Erin shares insights on how embodiment work can help leaders (and anyone) become more aware of their body’s cues, helping them lead with greater intention and clarity. The Three Pillars of Embodiment Work: Erin shares the three foundational reasons why we do embodiment work: Safety: To teach our bodies how to seek and find safety within ourselves. Dignity: To stand in our truth and power, living with a sense of self-worth. Belonging: To cultivate a deeper connection with ourselves and others, fostering a sense of belonging. Impacting the Outer World: We discuss how embodiment work is not only a personal journey but also one that can have a profound impact on the world. As we become more aware and aligned with our own bodies, we contribute to a more mindful, compassionate world—something that’s deeply needed today. Mindfulness and Somatics: Erin emphasizes how somatic practices align with mindfulness, helping us tune into the body’s signals and show up in the world with greater presence. We also touch on how embodiment helps filter out noise and allows us to be intentional about how we respond to life's challenges. Why You Should Listen: This episode is perfect for anyone interested in leadership, mindfulness, or personal growth. Whether you’re looking to deepen your understanding of how emotions live in the body, improve your leadership abilities, or simply connect more deeply with yourself, this conversation offers valuable insights. Erin’s wisdom on safety, dignity, and belonging will leave you inspired to explore your own embodiment journey and its potential to positively affect the world around you. Learn more: www.innerworkcenter.org
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Episode 5 Clearing Inner Clutter: Movement, Play, and Freedom with Sarah Blunkosky
11/03/2024
Episode 5 Clearing Inner Clutter: Movement, Play, and Freedom with Sarah Blunkosky
Podcast Episode with Sarah Blunkosky: Join Yedda Stancil in a lively conversation with Sarah Blunkosky, a trained yoga therapy facilitator, as they explore the concept of "inner clutter" and how mindful movement can help clear both the body and the mind. Sarah shares her personal journey of finding freedom through movement, play, and creativity. Together, they dive into how physical movement can lead to mental clarity, emotional well-being, and a greater sense of joy and freedom. Listeners will gain insight into: The connection between movement and the release of mental and emotional clutter. Practical ways to integrate movement and play into daily life. Sarah’s personal story of how creativity and play helped her unlock a sense of inner freedom. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to understand the deeper impact of movement on the mind and body and how play can lead to profound personal transformation.
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Episode 4 Grief and the Brain: Navigating Loss with Martha Rouleau
10/19/2024
Episode 4 Grief and the Brain: Navigating Loss with Martha Rouleau
In this deeply moving episode, Yedda and Martha Rouleau explore the neuroscience of grief and how it impacts the brain at both biological and emotional levels. Martha Rouleau is an educator, mindfulness coach, and expert in neuroscience, particularly how mindfulness impacts the brain. She holds certifications in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC), and is trained in contemplative neuroscience. Martha has worked extensively with educators, healthcare providers, and corporate professionals, helping them integrate mindfulness practices to improve well-being and resilience. Her background in education and neuroscience informs her understanding of how grief affects the brain and the body's nervous system, providing a compassionate and science-based approach to navigating loss. Martha, an expert in grief and neuroplasticity with a strong academic background, discusses why acknowledging grief is crucial for healing and how it manifests in various forms of loss, from losing a loved one to losing a job. The episode offers practical advice on how to move through the grieving process with mindfulness and compassion. Key takeaways include: The neuroscience behind grief and its effect on the brain’s biology. How grief changes the brain through neuroplasticity and why this matters. Ways to honor and navigate the grieving process in a healthy, mindful way. How grief shows up in all forms of loss, not just the loss of life. Martha’s work in this field has been instrumental in helping people understand and embrace grief. Her contributions to the Innerwork Center’s programs offer participants powerful tools to process loss and heal from within. She offers a 6 week course on navigating loss with compassion. Visit to learn more.
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Episode 2 Leading with Heart: A Conversation with Cheryl Gross-Wright
10/09/2024
Episode 2 Leading with Heart: A Conversation with Cheryl Gross-Wright
In this insightful episode, Yedda sits down with Cheryl Gross-Wright, the President of the Board for the Innerwork Center, to discuss her journey of leadership and inner work. Cheryl shares her experiences as a leader and how mindfulness and creating spaces for inner reflection have shaped her approach to guiding the organization. This conversation touches on the importance of safe spaces for personal growth and the power of mindfulness in leadership. Key topics include: How Cheryl’s leadership style has evolved through mindfulness and self-awareness. The role of the Innerwork Center in fostering a community of seekers and a sense of belonging. The power of invitation in opening doors for others to explore their own inner journey. This episode is an inspiring look at the intersection of leadership, mindfulness, and creating inclusive spaces for personal growth. Learn more
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Episode 1 Innerwork: Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future with Vicki Saunders
10/09/2024
Episode 1 Innerwork: Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future with Vicki Saunders
In this inaugural episode of Begin Within, Yedda Stancil sits down with Vicki Saunders, a long-time supporter and facilitator at the Innerwork Center, to explore the rich history and bright future of the organization. Vicki shares the inspiring story of the center’s founder, Nancy Milner, and her vision that led to the creation of the Innerwork Center 30 years ago. Together, they reflect on the journey the center has been on—from its humble beginnings to its evolving role in serving diverse communities with transformational programs. Vicki and Yedda delve into the importance of Innerwork—what it is, why it’s so vital in today’s world, and how the Innerwork Center continues to offer impactful programming and support for those seeking personal growth. Vicki also shares her expertise in Jungian psychology and how it plays a critical role in her teachings at the center. In this episode, listeners will discover: The fascinating history of the Innerwork Center and how it was born from Nancy Milner’s vision. The evolution of the center’s offerings and the communities it serves. The powerful role Innerwork plays in creating personal and collective transformation. The importance of beginning within and how this podcast aims to expand the center’s global impact. A sneak peek at upcoming episodes, featuring incredible facilitators and their unique areas of expertise. This conversation sets the stage for what’s to come as Begin Within seeks to reach more people worldwide, offering valuable insights into how to embark on their own Innerwork journey. Learn more about the center and explore its offerings at
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Episode 3 Exploring the World of Dreams with Dr. Richard Bargdill
10/08/2024
Episode 3 Exploring the World of Dreams with Dr. Richard Bargdill
Welcome to another episode of Begin Within, where we dive deep into the inner workings of the mind and spirit. In today’s episode, we have a fascinating conversation with Dr. Richard Bargdill, a psychologist and dream researcher, as we explore the powerful and mysterious world of dreams. Dr. Bargdill shares his insights on how dreams can be a gateway to understanding our subconscious, unlocking creativity, and even guiding us through personal growth and transformation. Key Topics Covered: The Nature of Dreams: Dr. Bargdill explains what dreams are, how they are connected to our waking life, and why they matter. Dreams as Tools for Inner Work: We discuss how interpreting dreams can help reveal underlying emotions, unresolved conflicts, and personal desires. Lucid Dreaming: Learn about lucid dreaming, where you become aware you are dreaming, and how it can be used for self-awareness and creativity. Common Dream Themes: Dr. Bargdill breaks down recurring dream themes like flying, falling, and being chased, and what they might symbolize. Dream Journals: How keeping a dream journal can enhance your ability to recall and understand your dreams, and how it can aid in personal growth. Dreams and Healing: We explore the idea that dreams can serve as a form of emotional healing, guiding us through difficult life experiences or transitions. Quotes from the Episode: "Dreams are the mind’s way of processing and integrating emotions, memories, and life experiences." "When we engage with our dreams, we open a door to parts of ourselves that we might not always be aware of." About Our Guest: Dr. Richard Bargdill is a psychologist and professor specializing in existential psychology and dream research. With decades of experience, Dr. Bargdill has helped countless individuals explore the deeper meaning of their dreams and connect to their subconscious minds. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Richard Bargdill’s Dream Research Website: Books and articles on dream interpretation recommended by Dr. Bargdill: https://universityprofessorspress.com/product/a-dreamers-thought-book/ Tools for keeping a dream journal and improving dream recall: Light pen is a pen with light at the tip uses a single AAA battery. Allows user to jot down notes and not fully wake up. Scratch pad for notes about the dream written down at night Dream Journal for writing the full dream out in the morning (don't wait until the evening to record a dream as much of the details will decay) Join the Conversation: Have a dream you want to share or interpret? Connect with us on social media or leave a comment to join the discussion on how dreams have impacted your inner work journey. Join Richard's Dream Interpretation Workshop: Click Begin Within and then Workshops-
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