Episode 132 - In this soulful and inspiring conversation, Maria Teresa Pratico-Swanson shares her remarkable journey from trauma to transformation — a story rooted in resilience, creativity, and love.
Through her work as a master shamanic healer, poet, and channel for Light Language, Maria reveals how creative expression can become a bridge between human healing and spiritual awakening.
We explore the power of groundedness, the alchemy of trauma into wisdom, and the importance of love and connection on the path to wholeness. Maria also discusses the spiritual origins of Light Language and how it serves as a vibrational key to healing and remembering our divine essence.
Maria Teresa Pratico-Swanson is a heart-centered healer and master shamanic practitioner who works globally under her brands Emotional Musings and The Musing Shaman.
She is the author of six books of poetry, a motivational speaker, and a spoken word artist whose motto, “Triumphing over Trauma,” reflects her own profound healing journey — overcoming addiction, abuse, and eating disorders to become a three-time triathlete and teacher of movement medicine.
Her message is one of empowerment, self-love, and remembrance — encouraging others to honor their unique path and reconnect to the wisdom of the heart.
✨ Topics we explore:
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"I was not grounded."
"I want to help them."
"I was like, why me?"
Connect with Maria Theresa:
Let’s Connect!
Episode #131 - In this episode of The Awakened Heart Podcast, I sit down with Rob Grover and Gary Logan, the visionary founders of The Journeymen Collective, to explore the transformative and healing potential of psychedelics, particularly psilocybin, when used with reverence and intention.
We talk about how these sacred medicines, when facilitated in a safe, professional, and energetically aligned environment, can open the heart, release emotional blocks, and expand consciousness. Rob and Gary share how their immersive retreats guide leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries into deeper connection with their purpose—helping them integrate insights from their journeys into everyday life and leadership.
This conversation explores the importance of integrity and preparation, the power of integration, and how psychedelic experiences can help us step into a more authentic and soul-aligned way of being. It’s a beautiful, grounded look at what happens when science, spirituality, and consciousness meet.
A Note on Psychedelics
Psychedelics such as psilocybin (found in “magic mushrooms”) are natural compounds that can profoundly expand awareness and foster healing when used in intentional, guided settings. Once misunderstood, they’re now being studied for their potential to support mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness- helping individuals process trauma, reduce anxiety, and reconnect with a greater sense of purpose and unity. When approached with respect, ceremony, and proper facilitation, these experiences can catalyze lasting personal growth and heart-centered transformation.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"You are nature."
"What if you fly?"
"In freedom we soar."
Connect with Rob and Gary
Let’s Connect!
Keywords
psilocybin, psychedelics, consciousness, leadership, transformation, safe spaces, personal growth, spiritual awakening, integration, plant medicine
Episode #130 - In this episode of The Awakened Heart Podcast, I explore life purpose coaching, personal transformation, and intuitive guidance with Jayne Sanders, a Purpose Coach and expert in Scientific Hand Analysis.
After a successful but unfulfilling corporate career — and the heartbreaking loss of both her parents just months apart — Jayne embarked on a deep search for authenticity and true life purpose. That journey led her to the powerful, soul-mapping modality of Scientific Hand Analysis.
Jayne shares how this system helped her uncover her innate gifts, life lessons, and purpose-aligned path, and how she now guides others to do the same. Our conversation touches on personal transformation, intuitive awakening, authentic living, and even the unexpected healing power of horses.
This grounded yet soulful discussion is perfect for anyone seeking to discover their true purpose, embrace transformation, and live authentically.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"It's a fire hose of information."
"Horses keep me clear and positive."
"I love making a difference every day."
Connect with Jayne:Website
Facebook
Book: GenderSmart – Solving the Communication Puzzle Between Men and Women
Social: Search “Jayne Sanders” or “Purpose Whisperer”
SPECIAL PRICE - Hand Analysis of $397, which is $100 off regular price https://bit.ly/3mrHjUv. mention the Awakened Heart Podcast
Let’s Connect!
Keywords
purpose coaching, scientific hand analysis, life purpose, personal growth, fulfillment, hand analysis, transformation, healing, equine therapy, self-discovery
Episode #129 - In this episode of the Awakened Heart Podcast, Nancy Walters sits down with Paige Williams - award-winning filmmaker, entrepreneur, and author of The Creative Keys. Paige is also the founder of AudPop, a global storytelling platform of over 80,000 creators that has awarded more than $10 million in support of impact-driven media.
Paige’s journey began in Mississippi, where she grew up in a conservative Southern Baptist home. After coming out, her parents launched an ex-gay ministry in response, leading Paige into a period marked by loss, addiction, and the search for identity. Storytelling became her way forward, helping her reclaim her truth, build a successful media company, and create The Creative Keys, a framework that empowers leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers to move from fear to creativity, from self-doubt to action, and from control to flow.
Her work has been featured in Forbes, The New York Times, and screened at Slamdance, Hot Docs, and VidCon. She’s also led impact campaigns that raised millions of dollars and shaped national policy. In this heartfelt conversation, Nancy and Paige explore resilience, the spiritual path of creativity, reclaiming sovereignty, and the courage it takes to live authentically.
🎙️ Note: This episode was recorded a few months ago and part of the video had to be recovered from the cloud, so you’ll notice it looks a bit different than usual (video version and intro). The audio quality is solid, and the wisdom Paige shares is powerful - so I knew I had to bring this one to you anyway.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"The more I do it, the more I trust myself."
"It takes courage to ask the hard questions."
"Creative block means exhaustion."
Connect with Paige:
Website: The Creative Keys Book & Coaching
Substack (Newsletter)
TikTok @thecreativekeys
Let’s Connect!
Keywords:
resilience, awakening, storytelling, child welfare, creative keys, intuition, sovereignty, creativity, transformation, personal growth
Episode #128 - Born in Nazi-occupied Hungary, Katherine MK Mitchell’s life began in the shadow of war and loss. After fleeing Budapest with little more than courage and determination, she arrived in New York and eventually made her way to Hollywood, where she built a career in film and television.
Inspired by her late husband, Katherine first became an agent—famously discovering Nick Nolte before he became a household name- before stepping into her own creative path as a screenwriter and story analyst.
Her career includes work on productions such as General Hospital, The Bionic Woman, The Six Million Dollar Man, Fantasy Island, and the ABC movie Hitchhike.
She later became a proud member of the Writers Guild of America West. Beyond Hollywood, Katherine authored three romantic adventure novels—Yours Forever…Maybe, Wasted…Maybe, and Shelby’s Way…Maybe—as well as her powerful memoir From Budapest to Hollywood: Searching for the Promised Land (2023), chronicling her harrowing escape, resilience, and reinvention.
In this soulful conversation, Katherine shares her extraordinary journey—from childhood survival in war-torn Europe to creative triumph in America. We explore themes of trauma, resilience, creative passion, and the power of storytelling to transform lives.
Today, Katherine continues to inspire as both an author and speaker, encouraging audiences to persevere, embrace their true selves, and live with authenticity.
Takeaways
Connect with Katherine
Let’s Connect!
Keywords
Budapest, refugee, Red Cross, memoir, trauma, coming of age, responsibility, family, survival, history
In this episode #127 - of the Awakened Heart Podcast, Phyllis Okun shares her extraordinary journey of reinvention, resilience, and spiritual awakening. From her beginnings as a teacher to co-founding BLS Limo with her late husband and growing it into an international business, Phyllis has continually embraced new chapters of life.
Following the profound loss of her husband, she discovered her natural gifts as a medium-work that has been endorsed by Thomas John, the “Seatbelt Psychic.”
Beyond her spiritual work, Phyllis is also an award-winning, bestselling author with over 83 books published under the names Carole P. Roman and Brit Lunden, including The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids and the young adult novel Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex, which has been optioned for a screenplay.
Known today as Lady Phyllis, she works as a professional medium with a steady clientele and has created courses to demystify mediumship for new generations.
Together we explore her path of transformation, the role of intuition and family in her journey, the misconceptions around mediumship, and the beauty of embracing reinvention at any age with an awakened heart.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"It's not a gift, it's an ability."
"Life's a smorgasbord."
"I feel privileged to be of service."
Connect with Phyllis
Let’s Connect!
Keywords
mediumship, entrepreneurship, personal growth, family dynamics, teaching, spirituality, reinvention, evidential mediumship, Phyllis Okon, Awaken Heart Podcast
Episode #126 - In this episode of the Awakened Heart Podcast, Nancy Walters sits down with Victoria Pippo, a former child actor turned spiritual disruptor whose personal healing journey ignited her psychic gifts and a mission to help others reclaim their power.
She’s a living embodiment of energy mastery. From child actor to addiction survivor, queer woman to soul strategist, Victoria has walked through it all. Now, as a psychic gatekeeper and disruptor of the spiritual norm, she teaches high-level entrepreneurs, healers, and public figures how to protect their energy and reclaim their divine power.
As the founder of the world’s leading psychic development school, her teachings go beyond surface-level spirituality. Victoria helps her clients develop true discernment, dismantle New Age illusions, and connect with their soul in a real, raw way. No fluff. No fakery.
This conversation is a deep dive into what it really means to live with spiritual sovereignty in a world full of noise and distortion. Victoria shares how her awakening sharpened her vision, what it takes to lead with integrity, and how to cut through spiritual performance to stay rooted in truth.
Together, we explore the importance of discernment, energy protection, and the role of self-love and intuition in a grounded spiritual practice.
We also touch on “The Great Merge,” a collective healing initiative Victoria is part of, and reflect on the importance of maintaining childlike wonder as we navigate adulthood.
Victoria’s work isn’t just about spiritual mastery—it’s about survival, embodiment, and truth. She’s not here to entertain you. She’s here to wake you up.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"Trust your intuition."
"You can grow up and grow in."
"I'm dying to live."
Connect with Victoria
Let’s Connect!
Keywords
spirituality, psychic gifts, meditation, energy healing, discernment, sovereignty, awakened heart, soul-led leadership, intuition, collective healing
From Menstruation to Moonpause: The Spiritual Rite of Passage No One Talks About
Episode #125 - In this soul-stirring episode, I sit down with Tanishka, also known as The Moon Woman - a global leader in the women’s spirituality movement. For nearly three decades, Tanishka has empowered women to reclaim their birthright of ancient mystic traditions.
She’s the author of 6 transformative books, including Goddess Wisdom (Hay House), which explores the power of archetypes, emotional healing, and relationship dynamics. Her lunar guidance blog was followed by over 500,000 people for 11 years, and she has trained women in 44 countries to lead Red Tent circles that offer support during the darkest lunar phase - menstruation and emotional descent.
In this conversation, we explore the rising voice of midlife women, the spiritual opportunity of perimenopause, and how honoring the moon’s wisdom reconnects us with our feminine essence. Tanishka also shares a glimpse into her upcoming book Metaphysical Moonpause and retreats in Bali and Morocco designed to initiate women into this sacred new chapter.
This episode is a call to remember, reclaim, and rise.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"Life is a mystery and woman is a mystery."
"We do that through observing the cycles of the sun."
Connect with Tanishka:
Let’s Connect!
In this episode of the Awakened Heart Podcast, I sit down with author and mindfulness coach April Dávila to explore the profound connection between creativity and conscious living.
April shares how her writing journey transformed when she began meditating regularly in 2016 - leading to the publication of her award-winning novel, the growth of her blog, and a newfound sense of purpose.
We discuss how mindfulness can ease the emotional rollercoaster of the writing process, why fiction still matters in a noisy world, and how writers can face rejection and inner criticism with greater self-compassion.
April also opens up about her two-year training with Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach, the upcoming release of her nonfiction book Scribbling Buddha, and how meditation can help anyone—not just writers—live more intuitively and authentically.
April’s journey is an inspiring reminder that turning inward and getting honest with ourselves can unlock creative flow and a more fulfilling life.
Whether you're a writer or someone navigating your own personal transformation, this conversation offers practical insight and soulful encouragement to support your path.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"It's about where your focus is."
"Isolation just breeds self-doubt."
"Rejection is not personal."
Connect with April:Website
Scribbing Buddha (coming soon)
Let’s Connect!
Keywords
mindfulness, writing, meditation, creativity, community, publishing, inner critic, fiction, personal growth, self-discovery
Episode #123 -In this episode of the Awakened Heart Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Maurice Turmel—a retired therapist, former rock musician, author, and spiritual teacher—to explore his profound journey of healing religious trauma and reclaiming his authentic self.
We talk about the impact of rigid religious conditioning on self-worth, the emotional toll of suppressing feelings, and how the journey toward spiritual awakening often requires facing grief and nurturing our inner child.
Dr. Turmel has authored numerous books including Breaking the Spell of Religion & Healing the Trauma, The Voice: A Spiritual Sci-Fi Adventure, Conscious Evolution: Mythology in Action, and When Angels Call: Coping with Grief and Loss. His most recent work offers readers a front-row seat on his own Hero’s Journey—a deeply personal exploration of trauma recovery, spiritual liberation, and emotional resilience.
Maurice offers practical tools like journaling for trauma recovery and shares how the hero’s journey mirrors our own paths of transformation. This conversation is raw, real, and deeply inspiring—a reminder that living with an awakened heart means embracing your full humanity, including the messy, tender parts.
Takeaways
Connect with Maurice:
BOOK LINKS at AMAZON: "Breaking the Spell of Religion & Healing the Trauma"
When Angels Call - Coping wth Grief & Loss
Let’s Connect!
Keywords
trauma, religion, self-discovery, spirituality, healing, childhood experiences, journaling, hero's journey, emotional growth, self-acceptance religious trauma, narcissistic wounds, emotional healing
Episode #122 - Why Men Pull Away: Unpacking Fear, Intimacy & Masculine Conditioning
In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Avrum Weiss, psychotherapist and award-winning author of Hidden in Plain Sight: How Men’s Fears of Women Shape Their Intimate Relationships. This conversation dives into the emotional landscape that many men carry but rarely talk about—fears that can profoundly affect the way they connect with women and show up in intimate relationships. We explore fears of being controlled, overwhelmed by emotion, not being enough, or being left. While these fears are often hidden, they quietly influence so many relational dynamics.
Avrum and I discuss how traditional socialization teaches boys to shut down emotionally, how that creates barriers to true intimacy, and what’s needed for men to feel emotionally safe and seen. We also touch on how these patterns shift across generations, and why creating space for emotional literacy and community support is essential—not just for men, but for all of us.
Whether you're in a relationship, raising boys, or simply seeking to understand the masculine emotional experience more deeply, this episode offers a compassionate and eye-opening perspective on what’s really going on beneath the surface—and how we can all relate with more awareness and heart.
Sound Bites
"Men fear being controlled by women."
"Men are often emotionally unavailable."
"We all suffer under the same system."
Takeaways
Connect with Avrum:
Let’s Connect!
Episode #121 – The Fifth Shock: AI, Spiritual Awakening & Human Sovereignty with Ron Bienvenu
In this episode of The Awakened Heart Podcast, I sit down with my longtime friend Ron Bienvenu—a tech visionary, mystic thinker, and someone who’s never been afraid to challenge the status quo. From our first meeting at The Whaler in Venice Beach to deep conversations in New Orleans, Ron’s perspective has always inspired me.
We dive into his new book, The Fifth Shock, which explores the convergence of artificial intelligence, spirituality, and human sovereignty. Ron shares how AI is reshaping human identity, the need for a Digital Bill of Rights, and the concept of Universal Behavioral Income—an economic innovation designed for our rapidly evolving world.
With over 40 years of experience in technology and finance, Ron’s insights on data assetization and the future of consciousness are both eye-opening and urgent. But this conversation isn’t just about systems—it’s about soul. Ron also shares a deeply personal story about his daughter, a storm in Tulum, and the poem that emerged from that moment—one of courage, resilience, and love.
If you're feeling the pressure of our fast-changing world and are seeking truth, perspective, and grounded wisdom, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
Takeaways
Sound Bite
"How do we navigate this?"
"My voice is my whip."
"Mediocrity is a disease."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection
01:48 Awakening to Spirituality and AI
05:30 The Human Experience vs. AI
08:46 Data Sovereignty and Behavioral Income
12:20 The Future of AI and Human Agency
15:47 Geopolitical Implications of Digital Rights
19:32 The Evolution of Wealth and Value
22:45 The Broken Accounting System and Change
26:11 Spirituality and the Path Forward
30:34 The Devil's Bargain: A Reflection on Spirituality
31:26 The Metaverse and Voluntary Extinction
32:16 Preserving Human Consciousness in a Digital Age
35:58 The Intersection of Technology, Philosophy, and Spirituality
37:33 Consciousness as the Fifth Element
38:47 Spiritual Recursion and Algorithmic Logic
42:34 Moral Constructs in a Digital World
46:29 The Homogenization of Beauty and Authenticity
49:24 Innovation and the Value of Networks
53:07 Disappointment in Governance and Media
56:34 Global Political Landscape and the Call for Change
01:01:12 A Stormy Journey: Father-Daughter Bonding and Life Lessons
01:10:27 Empowerment Through Authenticity and Courage
01:14:35 Navigating the Future: Technology, Sovereignty, and Human Connection
Connect with Ron:
The Fifth Shock
Let’s Connect!
Episode #120 - In this powerful episode, I am joined by Shab Azma—an accomplished brand strategist, talent manager, and founder of Arc Collective. With over 25 years in the entertainment industry, Shab has helped shape the careers of celebrity experts while championing a new way of doing business—one rooted in passion, purpose, and the divine feminine.
Shab shares her journey from managing blockbuster brands at Universal Studios and A-list talent at The Firm to launching her own company after a life-changing plant medicine experience. We discuss what it means to bring heart and authenticity into male-dominated industries, how women can step fully into their leadership, and why balancing masculine and feminine energy in work is more important than ever.
This conversation is equal parts career insight, spiritual awakening, and soulful truth-telling—tune in if you're ready to align your outer success with your inner calling.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"What is your North Star?"
"Money is just energy."
"It's an inside job."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Connection
02:14 Journey into Branding and Entertainment
05:05 The Shift from Performer to Manager
08:06 Building Brands and Intellectual Property
10:52 The Realization of Purpose
13:43 Merging Spirituality with Business
18:33 Creating a Collective and Authentic Space
22:26 Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energies
28:00 The Path to Conscious Leadership
40:18 The Journey of Transcendental Meditation
42:44 Embracing Spirituality Over Religion
46:01 The Role of Plant Medicine in Spiritual Awakening
48:43 Experiences with Ayahuasca and Other Plant Medicines
53:27 The Importance of Intentional Use of Plant Medicine
58:35 Integrating Spirituality into Professional Life
01:03:19 The Shift Towards the Divine Feminine
01:07:19 Navigating the Impact of AI on Human Connection
01:08:51 Living with an Awakened Heart
Connect with Shab Azma:
Streaming: The Sabrina Soto Show & Cultural Eats now available on Hulu, Disney+, and Samsung TV+Channels
Let’s Connect!
Keywords
spirituality, leadership, authenticity, feminine energy, plant medicine, business strategy, collective energy, mentorship, personal growth, women's empowerment
Episode #119 - In this week’s conversation on the Awakened Heart Podcast, Heather Fischer-Page opens up about embracing her intuitive gifts and the transformative journey of navigating spiritual awakening’s challenges.
As a Spiritual Guide and Mentor, Heather helps individuals who feel a calling for deeper purpose and spiritual practice to clear their blocks and step fully into their gifts. She integrates a wide array of tools in her work, including Human Design, psychic mediumship, spiritual energy healing, mindfulness, and techniques such as E-motion and Thought Form Release.
Heather highlights the importance of integration and grounding in the spiral process of personal growth. She also discusses the role of Archangel Metatron and other multidimensional light beings in her teachings and the influence of animals in spiritual work.
Throughout the conversation, Heather offers practical insights on how to trust your inner guidance, connect with your spiritual team, and find clarity on your life’s path.
Listeners will gain valuable wisdom on overcoming common spiritual blocks and the power of combining intuitive gifts with grounded, heart-centered mentorship to live an empowered and authentic life.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"Healing is not linear."
"Animals are so sensitive to energy."
"The void can be very scary."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Intuition and Mediumship
02:33 Reawakening Intuitive Gifts
05:19 The Role of Archangel Metatron
08:01 Navigating Duality and Personal Power
10:33 Health Challenges and Holistic Healing
13:02 Integrating Nutrition and Spirituality
15:42 The Impact of Human Design
18:24 Thought Leaders and Spiritual Mentorship
20:58 Healing as a Spiral Process
23:42 Addressing Root Causes of Anxiety and Chronic Conditions
31:16 Integrating Spiritual Practices into Daily Life
33:05 Energy Work and Spirit Guides
37:45 Understanding and Clearing Energies
45:21 Overcoming Resistance in Spiritual Growth
48:23 Grounding Techniques for Spiritual Practice
Connect with Heather:
Let’s Connect!
Keywords
intuition, mediumship, spiritual awakening, human design, energy healing, Archangel Metatron, holistic wellness, personal growth, integration, grounding techniques
Episode #118 - In this insightful episode of the Awakened Heart Podcast, I sit down with Allison Goldberg, a seasoned corporate and personal life coach with over 27 years of experience.
Allison’s story begins under profound trauma—six months before she was born, her father went missing, and just two weeks before her birth, he was found brutally murdered by Charles Harrelson, the father of Woody Harrelson.
Growing up in the shadow of this tragedy, Allison learned early how to survive and became her own life coach, developing the resilience and strength that now defines her work.
Together, we explore strategies for breaking through mental barriers, shifting mindset, and simplifying life for greater fulfillment. Allison offers practical advice on creating meaningful change, embracing self-care, and cultivating resilience in both personal and professional realms.
Whether you’re navigating career transitions, seeking emotional clarity, or simply wanting to live more intentionally, Allison’s wisdom will inspire and empower you to move forward with confidence and grace.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"What is next?"
"I always liked order."
"You are not stuck."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Life Coaching and Empty Nesters
01:21 The Impact of Trauma on Personal Growth
05:42 Finding Order in Chaos: The Journey to Life Coaching
10:41 Common Barriers in Life Coaching
12:58 Mindset Shifts for Transformation
17:29 Simplifying Life: Actionable Steps for Change
19:35 Decluttering and Intentional Living
25:14 Setting Daily Intentions
29:23 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs
34:53 Navigating the Empty Nest Transition
38:15 Finding Purpose and Community
40:13 end screen podcast 17.4 sec.mp4
Let’s Connect!
Connect with Allison
Keywords
life coaching, empty nesters, trauma, personal growth, purpose, intentions, life balance, community support, overcoming barriers, simplifying life
Episode #117 - In this episode of the Awakened Heart Podcast, Julia Marie shares her powerful and transformative spiritual awakening journey—from military service to a life dedicated to serving Spirit. We explore how she came to trust her intuitive gifts, the challenges and revelations that shaped her path, and what it truly means to live from the inside out.
Julia opens up about her experiences with mediumship, energy healing, and past life exploration, offering insights into her unique restorative energy technique and the profound guidance that’s available when we learn to listen. She reminds us that intuition is not just a gift—it’s a tool for navigating life’s deepest challenges and discovering our true purpose.
Julia Marie is a multi-award-winning author of Signals from My Soul: A Spiritual Memoir of Awakening which chronicles her 30+ year spiritual journey and offers principles, insights, and practices to help others awaken their own inner wisdom.
Whether you're newly awakening or well along your path, this episode is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and tools for deeper connection and healing.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"Awakening comes in many forms."
"I had a Kundalini activation."
"You are always in control."
Chapters
00:00 Awakening to Intuition
06:03 Transitioning from Military to Spiritual Service
12:01 Trusting Intuition and Overcoming Fear
17:44 Living from the Inside Out
23:47 Exploring Mediumship and Energy Healing
34:15 The Importance of In-Person Connections
35:25 Profound Mediumship Experiences
42:23 Trusting Spirit in Mediumship
43:26 Connecting with Loved Ones
44:54 Understanding Past Life Regression
52:08 Lessons from the Universe
54:12 Living with an Open Heart
Connect with Julia:
Bonus - If you purchase Signals From My Soul within 2 weeks of the podcast release you will be put in drawing for free reading - send email of screenshot of receipt.
Let’s Connect!
Keywords
intuition, spiritual awakening, energy healing, mediumship, past lives, personal growth, trust, spiritual guidance, restorative energy technique, heart-centered living
The Power of Connection & Communication
Episode #116 -In this heart-centered episode of The Awakened Heart Podcast, I’m joined by Relationship and Communications Expert Tamika Carlton for a powerful conversation about the role relationships play in our overall happiness and well-being.
We explore the often-overlooked art of listening, the importance of emotional intelligence, and how vulnerability becomes a gateway to deeper human connection.
Tamika shares her personal journey—from navigating profound loss and bullying to founding Couples Experience and the Tamika Carlton Collective, where she helps others build emotional wealth and meaningful partnerships.
We also dive into why so many people feel disconnected in today’s hyper-connected world—and what we can do to foster real intimacy and belonging.
Whether you're seeking to deepen your romantic relationship, build stronger community ties, or reconnect with yourself, this episode offers soulful reminders and practical wisdom to help you lead with love.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"Listening and being present are crucial."
"Traveling together can strengthen bonds."
"Emotional intelligence is monumental."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and First Impressions
02:55 The Importance of Quality Relationships
05:59 Listening and Communication in Relationships
08:52 Navigating Conversations and Boundaries
11:55 Personal Journey and Its Impact on Relationships
14:46 The Role of Loss and Grief in Connection
17:43 The Dynamics of Romantic Relationships
20:46 Creating Meaningful Couples Experiences
23:46 Future Retreats and Travel Plans
26:14 The Importance of Quality Relationships
28:51 Fostering Authentic Connections
30:44 Emotional Intelligence in Relationships
32:19 Understanding Happiness and Loneliness
34:27 The Power of Acceptance
36:44 Transformative Experiences in Relationships
43:33 Practical Relationship Building Exercises
Connect with Tamika:
Podcast Host | Connection Activist | Speaker
Bridging humanity through authentic relationships.
The Real Connect Podcast
tamikacarlton.com
Let’s Connect!
Keywords
happiness, relationships, emotional intelligence, connection, couples retreats, communication, personal growth, vulnerability, listening, acceptance
Episode #115 -In this heartfelt episode of The Awakened Heart Podcast, I sit down with Aimee Goodwin—certified life coach, emotional resilience trainer, and founder of New Hope Healing & Resource Center in Minnesota. Aimee shares her powerful story of healing from chronic illness, rebuilding her life, and helping others do the same.
We dive into her 7-year journey with Lyme disease, the emotional toll it took, and how she finally found answers after years of being dismissed by doctors. Aimee’s first book, Victory: A Lyme Story, offers a raw and honest look at her experience, while her latest, The Mountains We Climb, expands into the emotional terrain we all face when navigating adversity.
Together, we explore:
How mindset and emotional awareness play a vital role in healing
Tools for cultivating inner strength and spiritual connection
What it means to turn your pain into purpose and live with hope
This conversation is for anyone who’s faced a long road to healing—or is currently climbing their own mountain. Aimee’s story will remind you that it’s possible to rise, rebuild, and reclaim your life.
In this episode, we talk about:
We also explore the holistic tools she integrates into her practice—blending neuroscience, life coaching, and personal experience to help others rewrite their story.
Whether you’ve faced chronic illness, emotional hardship, or just feel stuck on your path, this episode is a reminder that healing is possible—and that the climb is worth it.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"There is hope for tomorrow."
"Lyme is a heavy disease."
"I just want to be here now."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Lyme Disease and Personal Journey
02:52 The Struggle for Diagnosis and Understanding Lyme Disease
05:57 Finding the Right Doctor and Community Support
08:54 Establishing New Hope Wellness Center
12:07 Understanding Lyme Disease: Symptoms and Treatments
14:59 The Importance of Awareness and Prevention
17:54 Advocacy and Empowerment in Lyme Disease Treatment
21:09 Finding Hope in Lyme Disease
22:52 The Power of Vulnerability
26:17 Overcoming Life's Mountains
29:13 Navigating Grief and Resilience
33:01 Living with an Awakened Heart
34:28 Silent Struggles and Seeking Help
Connect with Aimee:
New Hope Healing & Resource Center
Let’s Connect!
Keywords
Lyme disease, emotional resilience, chronic illness, personal journey, advocacy, healing, support groups, awareness, treatment, mental health
Episode #114 - In this deeply personal and powerful episode of The Awakened Heart Podcast, I sit down with Thomas Kirst—author of I Didn’t Know I Was Black Until You Told Me—to explore what it truly means to belong.
Given up for adoption at birth, Thomas’ biological family was told he had died. But at just 13 months old, he was adopted by an extraordinary couple who survived World War II and went on to raise 24 children—three biological and 21 adopted from diverse backgrounds, including Korean and Black children—all in one loving home.
Thomas’ story went viral online for good reason. It challenges the narratives society tries to place on us about race, identity, and what it means to "fit in." Together, we discuss:
The complexities of adoption and identity
Growing up in a multiracial family of 24 siblings
The power of unconditional love
Breaking free from the labels society tries to impose
As an adoptee myself, with three siblings (including one from Vietnam), this conversation hit close to home. I was raised knowing that love, not blood, makes a family. Thomas’ story is a powerful reminder that we don’t have to conform to anyone’s box—we get to define who we are.
Tune in for a conversation that will expand your perspective and open your heart.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"I think our spirits are eternal."
"I want to make the most of my life."
"I can be whoever I want to be."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Adoption Stories
02:36 Growing Up in a Diverse Family
05:25 Navigating Identity and Race
08:23 The Journey to Find Birth Parents
11:04 The Impact of Family Dynamics
13:46 Lessons from a Multicultural Upbringing
16:48 The Power of Love and Acceptance
19:16 Overcoming Stereotypes and Labels
22:08 Living with an Open Heart
25:03 Finding Purpose and Positivity
27:37 Conclusion and Future Endeavors
33:27 end screen podcast 17.4 sec.mp4
Connect with Thomas:
Let’s Connect!
Keywords
adoption, multicultural family, identity, race, overcoming stereotypes, personal growth, resilience, family connections, open heart, positivity
Episode #113 - In this episode of the Awakened Heart Podcast, I sit down with Monica Mangelson, a life-purpose coach, digital nomad, and adventure seeker who turned societal expectations on their head to create a life of freedom and fulfillment.
Raised in an orthodox home where marriage and motherhood were the expected path, Monica knew deep down there had to be more. After a canceled Peace Corps opportunity left her feeling stuck, she and her husband took control of their destiny—building an online business that allows them to travel the world.
Now, as a certified life-purpose coach with a deep understanding of neuroscience, Monica helps others step into their power and design lives they truly love. Join us as we explore the neuroscience behind personal transformation, overcoming fear, and breaking free from limiting beliefs.
Takeaways
Sound Bites
"We can live and work anywhere."
"Our brains are wired for efficiency."
"You can design your life."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background Mishap
02:39 The Journey to Becoming Digital Nomads
05:43 Breaking Free from Traditional Expectations
08:22 The Impact of the Pandemic on Their Plans
11:10 Finding New Paths and Opportunities
14:06 Building a Business as a Couple
16:53 Mindset Shifts and Lifestyle Changes
19:38 Neuroscience of Change and Overcoming Blocks
28:29 Fear of Success: The Hidden Barrier
30:44 The Transformative Power of Belief
34:11 Redefining Freedom and Life Purpose
36:24 Creating a Freedom-Based Lifestyle
42:08 Unexpected Lessons from Travel
45:55 Embracing Uncertainty and Future Possibilities
Connect with Monica:
Let’s Connect!
digital nomad, neuroscience, life coaching, personal growth, mindset, freedom lifestyle, couple goals, entrepreneurship, overcoming fear, community support