In this heartfelt conversation, Scott Schwenk welcomes author, poet, and teacher Elena Brower for a luminous dialogue centered on her new book Hold Nothing. Together, they explore what it means to live—and love—with radical honesty, spiritual discipline, and open-hearted presence. Elena shares the intimate stories, somatic wisdom, and poetic insights that shaped this newest offering, weaving themes of motherhood, grief, recovery, and devotion. A timely conversation about courage, creativity, and choosing to hold nothing back. Elena Brower – Teacher, Author, Artist Mother, mentor, poet, artist, volunteer, bestselling author and host of the Practice You Podcast, Elena Brower graduated Cornell University in 1992, designed textiles and apparel for almost a decade before shifting her focus to yoga, meditation, writing and art. Teaching asana since 1999, studying and practicing Zen meditation since 2020, she received the Buddhist Precepts from Roshi Joan Halifax at Upaya Zen Center in 2023. Now a candidate for Buddhist Chaplaincy, Elena offers her time in hospice and penitentiary settings. Her bestselling journals and books explore stages of life and listening. Her next book, Hold Nothing, just published by Shambhala Publications is available now.. Elena's Perceptive Parenting audio course is a key resource for parents; her signature course Simplify serves hundreds in reimagining priorities in order to experience more meaning every day, and she's also the founder of free global podcast The Matter of Menopause. Her weekly live yoga practices and meditations are featured on Glo; she offers retreats and workshops a few times a year, and her spoken word poetry can be heard on Above & Beyond's Flow State albums, for which she's received an RIAA-certified Gold Record for her writing on "Don't Leave." Elena works to elevate bright futures for girls, women and children through her support for Girls on Fire Leaders, On The Inside and Free Food Kitchen. Scott Schwenk Scott's teachings, courses and master coaching guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore the embodiment of their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

In this heartfelt conversation, Scott Schwenk welcomes author, poet, and teacher Elena Brower for a luminous dialogue centered on her new book Hold Nothing. Together, they explore what it means to live—and love—with radical honesty, spiritual discipline, and open-hearted presence. Elena shares the intimate stories, somatic wisdom, and poetic insights that shaped this newest offering, weaving themes of motherhood, grief, recovery, and devotion. A timely conversation about courage, creativity, and choosing to hold nothing back. Elena Brower – Teacher, Author, Artist Mother, mentor, poet, artist, volunteer, bestselling author and host of the Practice You Podcast, Elena Brower graduated Cornell University in 1992, designed textiles and apparel for almost a decade before shifting her focus to yoga, meditation, writing and art. Teaching asana since 1999, studying and practicing Zen meditation since 2020, she received the Buddhist Precepts from Roshi Joan Halifax at Upaya Zen Center in 2023. Now a candidate for Buddhist Chaplaincy, Elena offers her time in hospice and penitentiary settings. Her bestselling journals and books explore stages of life and listening. Her next book, Hold Nothing, just published by Shambhala Publications is available now..  Elena's Perceptive Parenting audio course is a key resource for parents; her signature course Simplify serves hundreds in reimagining priorities in order to experience more meaning every day, and she's also the founder of free global podcast The Matter of Menopause. Her weekly live yoga practices and meditations are featured on Glo; she offers retreats and workshops a few times a year, and her spoken word poetry can be heard on Above & Beyond's Flow State albums, for which she's received an RIAA-certified Gold Record for her writing on "Don't Leave." Elena works to elevate bright futures for girls, women and children through her support for Girls on Fire Leaders, On The Inside and Free Food Kitchen. Scott Schwenk  Scott's teachings, courses and master coaching guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore the embodiment of their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

In this episode of The Choice to Grow, Scott Schwenk is joined by systems thinker, educator, and inner development guide Dr. Abigail Lynam. Together, they explore what it means to lead during planetary transformation—how our internal development shapes our external impact. From generational healing to the science of interconnectedness, Abigail shares her path through grief, shadow, and emergence. A profound dialogue on belonging, leadership, and the conscious evolution of systems and self. Abigail Lynam Abigail Lynam is a guide for transformation—of self, of systems, of the shared life we inhabit. As a coach, facilitator, and creator of transformative learning journeys, she invites individuals and groups into deeper presence, expanded perspectives, and more awake, whole ways of leading and living. She serves as senior faculty for Pacific Integral's Emergent Leadership and Generating Transformative Change programs, offered on three continents, and teaches in Fielding Graduate University's PhD program in Human and Organizational Development. A teacher candidate in Integral Polarity Practice, she is also a developmental coach and scorer with Stages International and a qualified administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory. Rooted in adult developmental psychology and informed by awareness-based, embodiment, and relational practices, Abigail's work bridges inner and outer transformation. She is particularly passionate about the interdependence of individual and collective development—bridging divides, cultivating capacities for emergence, and supporting the awakening and unfolding of humanity in service to all life. Scott Schwenk  Scott's teachings, courses and master coaching guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore the embodiment of their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

In this riveting conversation, Scott Schwenk welcomes journalist, award-winning author, and intention researcher Lynne McTaggart, known for her groundbreaking books The Field, The Intention Experiment, The Power of Eight and more. Together, they explore the potent science and consistently miraculous results of focused group intention, consciousness beyond the brain, and how shifting our perspective from "me" to "we" may just heal the planet. From the quantum field to collective healing experiments, this episode dives deep into how intention and interconnection can reshape our reality. Lynne McTaggart, one of the central authorities on the new science and consciousness, is the award-winning author of seven books, including the worldwide bestsellers The Field, The Intention Experiment and The Power of Eight. She is also cofounder of the international magazine What Doctors Don't Tell You (www.WDDTY.com), and the architect of the Intention Experiments, a web based "global laboratory" to test the power of intention to heal the world.A highly sought after public speaker, Lynne is consistently listed as one of the world's 100 most spiritually influential people. Scott Schwenk Scott's teachings, courses and master coaching guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore the embodiment of their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

In this rich and multidimensional conversation, Scott Schwenk is joined by Saniel and Linda Groves-Bonder—founders of the Waking Down in Mutuality work—for a dialogue on what it means to live a fully awakened and fully human life. Together, they explore the paradox of recognizing ourselves as being radiantly whole simultaneously with flaws and lots of room to grow, the power of mutuality in relationships, and why awakening doesn't mean erasing your ego.  This episode is a deep dive into radical embodiment, healthy shadow work, and the courage to be known and shows how relationships hold a mirror up for the ongoing inner work. Saniel Bonder and Linda Groves-Bonder have developed a relational, integrative, and readily accessible breakthrough approach to spiritual enlightenment and wholeness best known as Waking Down in Mutuality®. For over three decades, as pioneering coaches of this embodied process they've taken enlightenment from remote temples and 'Olympic athletes' of spiritual practice, evolved it into a humane, ethical process and realization, and conveyed it into the towns, households, and workplaces of everyday people globally.  Born in 1950, Saniel was a Harvard Honorary National Scholar, earning a B.A. in Social Relations. After completing his spiritual quest, he has spent 30+ years "democratizing" awakened living with Linda and others. He has authored many spiritual books, including Waking Down and Healing the Spirit/Matter Split, and two novels.  Linda graduated from Ball State University with a B.S. in Art Education. A singer-songwriter, photo stylist, and artist, she toured with an international band and has released two solo albums, I'm Here and Joy of Being. Since 1996 she has focused with Saniel on teaching intensive transformation through their total suite of offerings, now known as the Human Sun HEART Work™.  Learn more about Saniel & Linda and Waking Down® at www.sanielandlinda.com and check out their main introductory offering at maxjoyinfo.com.   Scott Schwenk  Scott's teachings, courses and private mentoring guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

In this spacious and soul-touching dialogue, Scott Schwenk is joined by Carl Lindeborg—founder of the Flow Festival, wellness entrepreneur, and integrative guide through the thresholds of the human spirit. Together, they explore what it means to return to wholeness in a fractured world—how to meet intensity with breath, how to turn fear into fuel, and how the practices of presence, nature connection, and conscious leadership can realign our deepest purpose. With stories from his journey through burnout, fatherhood, entrepreneurship, and stillness, Carl offers luminous reflections on living from the inside out. Deeply curious about human development, Carl Lindeborg has sought out learning in many places, from studying with the Dalai Lama at his home in Dharamsala to participating with global networks like Conscious Capitalism.  With a Masters from the Stockholm School of Economics and first career as a management consultant, Carl has worked for over twenty years with people and organizations in change as an advisor, consultant and teacher, both in Sweden and internationally.   Carl has extensive experience as programme director and faculty member at SSE Executive Education, Oxford Leadership and Companions for Leadership. He's been a guest speaker at Harvard Business School and published some 25 articles in the Swedish business magazine Affärsvärlden. Carl just recently released his newest book The Authentic Shift: Inner Development for a Changing World. Scott Schwenk  Scott's teachings, courses and private mentoring guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

In this soul-deep episode, Scott Schwenk sits down with Hawaiian mystic and intuitive guide Keoni Hanalei for a profound conversation on returning to wholeness. Keoni shares powerful teachings from the land and from his own awakening—what it means to listen to the "inner Earth," how trauma disrupts our sacred geometry, and why healing isn't about fixing, but about remembering. With humor, raw honesty, and visionary depth, this dialogue is a call to reclaim our divinity, live in coherence, and recognize that we already belong. A conversation that maps the mystical and the embodied with stunning clarity. Ke'Oni Hanalei is Mū-Hawaiian cultural practitioner who thrives on the island of Maui, Hawai'i. Raised by his traditional Hawaiian grandmother, Kau'ikeonalani, Ke'oni inherited a rich legacy that spans an incredible 1,017 generations and over 20,000 years of ancestral knowledge. This vast heritage deeply informs his Body of Work, which includes the sacred spinal technology known as 'ULU, the healing properties of botanical fern Medicine, and the profound spiritual teachings of ALOHA MĀ. His cultural practices also includes operating a Hawai'i-based apothecary called PŌHALA. Scott Schwenk - Master Coach, Spiritual Teacher, Culture Architect Scott's teachings, courses and private mentoring guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

In this illuminating conversation, Scott Schwenk sits down with branding genius, entrepreneur, podcaster, and creative force Matt Gottesman for a powerful dialogue on what it means to grow from within. Together, they explore the distinction between alignment and hustle, why nervous system regulation is the new success metric, and how to live a life that reflects soul—not ego. With stories of personal unraveling and radical rebuilding, Matt shares his own journey of reclaiming purpose, creativity, and the freedom of showing up fully as yourself. Matt Gottesman is a 3x founder, podcaster and writer... and has successfully intertwined his life's work with his passions, purpose and interests. While The Niche is You podcast consistently ranks among the world's top downloads, featuring conversations that seamlessly weave together business strategy, creativity, spirituality, and personal growth, his writing on Substack continues to command some of the platform's highest subscription rates... currently ranked #7 in Philosophy worldwide out of 50M. Nah, Bigger Media, his publishing and production company, has emerged as a powerhouse platform (1B+ impressions, 500M+ video views & 300K+ social media followers) for emerging voices who share his vision of purpose-driven entrepreneurship.  "We're not just building brands and businesses; he says, we're building worlds... not fitting into old spaces but helping redefine new ones." With an extensive background, an MBA in International Business and over 20+ years in tech media, he's worked and partnered with some of the most iconic brands such as Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy. Links: Writing: mattgottesman.substack.com Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-niche-is-you/id1645205346 Website: mattgottesman.com Instagram: @mattgottesman Apparel: The Niche Is You Twitter: @matt_gottesman Linkedin: /in/mattgottesman Scott Schwenk - Master Coach, Spiritual Teacher, Culture Architect Scott's teachings, courses and private mentoring guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

In this wide-ranging, vulnerable conversation, dancer, actor, and father Adam Garcia joins host Scott Schwenk for a deep dive into self-worth, inner child healing, and the surprising power of making peace with our many identities. From the stage to the stillness, Adam reflects on choosing growth through curiosity, imperfection, and connection. A rich journey through the river of life—with a few good laughs along the way. Adam Garcia - Actor, Dancer, Leader After training at Kerry & Glenn Dumbrells' Capital Performance Studios in Sydney, David Atkins & Dein Perry kindly offered Adam a slight detour from the pursuit of biological sciences by taking him touring around Australia with the musical Hot Shoe Shuffle. The show carried him to London where he was lucky to have a varied and expansive career including 12 West-End musicals & plays. He has appeared in numerous films and TV shows such as Coyote Ugly, Flight of The Conchords, Afterlife Of The Party & The Serpent Queen. Most recently Adam has completed Johnathan Church's production of 42nd Street as Julian Marsh, a new film The Performance about vaudeville tap dancers' experience in 1937 Berlin and also achieved writing, co-choreographing & co-directing the Irish & Tap dance show Emerald Storm that completed its first tour of the UK. Scott Schwenk - Master Coach, Spiritual Teacher, Culture Architect Scott's teachings, courses and private mentoring guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. Host and creator of the podcast The Choice To Grow, Scott is known for his hugely popular courses and workshops with OneCommune.com, Younity.com, Wanderlust Festivals, and Unplug Meditation, Scott has been catalyzing the inner evolution of others for decades: helping them to grow, transform obstacles into opportunities, and find Love within. Scott spent several years living and studying in a meditation monastery which introduced him to the core body of Tantric meditation traditions which continue to flow through each of his teachings. Scott continues to study and teach from two key Tantric lineage streams. Apprenticeships in leadership development, meditation and philosophy training, shadow work/shadow resolution and spiritual awakening are all part of Scott's development into the thought-leader that he is today. He continues to refine his offerings studying and practicing with key innovators at the leading edges of human development. Scott's teachings support the entire person to not only progressively recognize, stabilize and embody our inextricable oneness with the source of creation (Waking Up), but also to resolve the wounds of the past (Cleaning Up), continually expand our capacities for wider and more inclusive perspectives on any moment (Growing Up) and creatively and joyfully participate and collaborate with all of life as a loving thriving human being (Showing Up). You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

Eugene Pustoshkin is an integral psychologist, translator into Russian of Ken Wilber's work, and co-founder of the Integral Awareness Meditation process. He brings forward a richly textured transmission on waking up, growing up, and showing up in life. Drawing from integral theory, mystical traditions, and his own path of translating wisdom into lived practice, Eugene weaves a map of radical wholeness, creativity, and presence. If you've ever wondered how deep philosophy meets direct experience, this is your portal. With two decades of experience studying and working with and teaching from the Integral Framework and various transpersonal approaches, Eugene has developed an intimate knowledge of this field through his translation of a dozen books by Ken Wilber into Russian. He serves as Chief Editor at Eros & Kosmos (ErosKosmos.org), the Russian Integral online journal, and as Bureau Chief for Russia at Transdisciplinary Leadership Review (formerly Integral Leadership Review).  "Eugene Pustoshkin is a major representative and promoter of Integral Meta-Theory in Russia. He has a superb understanding of this radically new approach, and he has worked endlessly to get it accepted and spread in Russia (and elsewhere). He has particularly helped by translating many of my works into Russian, and has done a brilliant job with this task. I'm deeply grateful to the work he has done to help promote and spread Integral Meta-Theory, and I can certainly recommend highly any projects that he is associated with." — Ken Wilber, philosopher, founder of Integral Metatheory and Practice, author of A Brief History of Everything and The Religion of Tomorrow (and other books) Eugene's website in English: http://integralmeditation.ru/en Integral Space YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqYHMVZO6Z6gL12bORk6LLw Blog Transcendelia: https://www.pustoshkin.com/ Integral online journal Eros & Kosmos [abbreviated English version]: http://eroskosmos.org/english Scott Schwenk - Master Coach, Spiritual Teacher, Culture Architect Scott's teachings, courses and private mentoring guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. Host and creator of the podcast The Choice To Grow, Scott is known for his hugely popular courses and workshops with OneCommune.com, Younity.com, Wanderlust Festivals, and Unplug Meditation, Scott has been catalyzing the inner evolution of others for decades: helping them to grow, transform obstacles into opportunities, and find Love within. Scott spent several years living and studying in a meditation monastery which introduced him to the core body of Tantric meditation traditions which continue to flow through each of his teachings. Scott continues to study and teach from two key Tantric lineage streams. Apprenticeships in leadership development, meditation and philosophy training, shadow work/shadow resolution and spiritual awakening are all part of Scott's development into the thought-leader that he is today. He continues to refine his offerings studying and practicing with key innovators at the leading edges of human development. Scott's teachings support the entire person to not only progressively recognize, stabilize and embody our inextricable oneness with the source of creation (Waking Up), but also to resolve the wounds of the past (Cleaning Up),  continually expand our capacities for wider and more inclusive perspectives on any moment (Growing Up) and creatively and joyfully participate and collaborate with all of life as a loving thriving human being (Showing Up). You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

In this expansive and soul-deep conversation, Scott Schwenk welcomes Alexander Love—acupuncturist, developmental coach, and mystic—for a journey into the alchemy of healing. Together, they explore how trauma distorts perception, how widening perspective gives birth to new possibilities, and how the sacred reveals itself when we slow down enough to notice. Alexander shares potent insights into grief, love, and Awakening inside the very lives we often try to escape. This episode is a poetic call back to wholeness, a meditation on being human, and a guidepost for anyone learning to love what's hard to love. Alexander Love, MCC, NCC, M.Ac. is an acupuncturist, developmental coach, and facilitator. He serves as Director of Curriculum Development and Senior Facilitator at the Newfield Network, an international coach training and personal development organization. Alexander is the creator of the Lumina Process, a shadow work modality that integrates shadow work with Eastern wisdom and integral theory. He is currently writing a trilogy, Evolutionary Gestures, which weaves developmental theory and Eastern philosophy with magic realism and memoir—including the story of his father's murder and the restorative justice dialogue he later held with the man who took his father's life. At the heart of Alexander's work is a conviction that the quality of our shared future depends on our capacity to live from post-tragic wholeness. When we find the courage to embrace our painful experiences, each one becomes a catalyst for transformation. As we evolve individually, the world transforms with us, inviting us to co-create a more beautiful future. You can learn more about Alexander at www.eoslearningcollective.com [http://www.eoslearningcollective.com/] Scott Schwenk - Master Coach, Spiritual Teacher, Culture Architect Host and creator of the podcast The Choice To Grow, Scott is known for his hugely popular courses and workshops with OneCommune.com, Younity.com, Wanderlust Festivals, and Unplug Meditation, Scott has been catalyzing the inner evolution of others for decades: helping them to grow, transform obstacles into opportunities, and find Love within. Apprenticeships in leadership development, meditation and philosophy training, shadow work/shadow resolution and spiritual awakening are all part of Scott's development into the thought-leader that he is today. He continues to refine his offerings studying and practicing with key innovators at the leading edges of human development. Scott's teachings support the entire person to not only progressively recognize, stabilize and embody our inextricable oneness with the source of creation (Waking Up), but also to resolve the wounds of the past (Cleaning Up),  continually expand our capacities for wider and more inclusive perspectives on any moment (Growing Up) and creatively and joyfully participate and collaborate with all of life as a loving thriving human being (Showing Up). You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com [https://scottschwenk.com/] and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

Fitness icon turned spiritual teacher, Mike Chang joins Scott Schwenk for an unfiltered, wide-ranging conversation on the pursuit of true freedom. From being the star of the largest fitness channel in YouTube history to a psychedelic journey that radically altered his sense of self and launched a pivot away from the golden handcuffs (and hamster wheel) of a highly profitable business, Mike reveals what happens when you stop chasing profits and start listening to the soul. A story of breakdowns and  breakthroughs. And the power of learning to take a profound experience and ground it into new integrated ways of moving through life that benefit the many. This episode dives into the behind-the-scenes work of transformation—from shame and identity to stillness and play – and what happens when care and compassion compel new ways of moving through life. Mike Chang – Catalyst, Conscious Living Champion, Entrepreneur Mike Chang is a globally recognized fitness and life transformation expert, known for creating deep healing and providing guidance and support for those seeking to make big life alternating decisions. After building Sixpackshortcuts, one of the most successful fitness platforms in YouTube history, Mike shifted his focus inward, exploring how to alter his state of consciousness to obtain happiness, fulfillment, inner peace. Mike created a training system called Flow60 that combined ancient techniques for enhancing energy and altering the mind with a fitness approach resulting in one of the most simple and practical training systems that exist today for a state of complete health and inner fulfillment. Today with over 6 millions people around the world following Mike Chang's exercises and teachings, his training system is proven to be an highly effective approach for guiding people into emotional resilience, deep release and expanded states of presence and inner peace. Scott's teachings, courses and private mentoring guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. Host and creator of the podcast The Choice To Grow, Scott is known for his hugely popular courses and workshops with OneCommune.com, Younity.com, Wanderlust Festivals, and Unplug Meditation, Scott has been catalyzing the inner evolution of others for decades: helping them to grow, transform obstacles into opportunities, and find Love within. Apprenticeships in leadership development, meditation and philosophy training, shadow work/shadow resolution and spiritual awakening are all part of Scott's development into the thought-leader that he is today. He continues to refine his offerings studying and practicing with key innovators at the leading edges of human development. Scott's teachings support the entire person to not only progressively recognize, stabilize and embody our inextricable oneness with the source of creation (Waking Up), but also to resolve the wounds of the past (Cleaning Up),  continually expand our capacities for wider and more inclusive perspectives on any moment (Growing Up) and creatively and joyfully participate and collaborate with all of life as a loving thriving human being (Showing Up). You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com [https://scottschwenk.com/] and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

Mystic, leadership development sherpa and tantric Buddhist lama in the lineage of the Dalai Lama, Kimberley Lafferty joins Scott Schwenk for a conversation that spans the hunger to grow, awakening, death, devotion, embodiment and feminine leadership, and what it means to surrender to the soul's timing. From her experiences as a householder teacher and practioner (rather than a monk) to her reflections on divine love and karma, Kimberley shares stories that are as raw as they are revelatory. 🎧 Tune in for a poetic journey through following a deep calling, faith, and the mystery of being Kimberley Lafferty - Buddhist Lama, Developmentalist, Yogini Kimberley Theresa Lafferty is a seasoned teacher-practitioner specializing in"developmental spirituality," an integration of ego development psychology and Indo-Tibetan Vajrayana. She leads multi-year, private spiritual education cohorts with the Confluence Experience. Kimberley has completed more than three years of non consecutive solitary retreat in the lineage of the Dalai Lama, and was one of the first female bodied westerners to receive the title of "Lama" from her teacher. Kimberley holds advanced degrees in Human Development and co-leads, with Terri O'Fallon, the penultimate Minds I year-long developmental course of Stages International. She is an active Board member for the Association for Spiritual Integrity, and is a wife and mother to a teen son, which deeply impacts her worldview and practice. https://confluenceexperience.com/contact-us/ Scott Schwenk - Master Coach, Spiritual Teacher, Culture Architect Scott's teachings, courses and private mentoring guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. Host and creator of the podcast The Choice To Grow, Scott is known for his hugely popular courses and workshops with OneCommune.com, Younity.com, Wanderlust Festivals, and Unplug Meditation, Scott has been catalyzing the inner evolution of others for decades: helping them to grow, transform obstacles into opportunities, and find Love within. Scott spent several years living and studying in a meditation monastery which introduced him to the core body of Tantric meditation traditions which continue to flow through each of his teachings. Scott continues to study and teach from two key Tantric lineage streams. Apprenticeships in leadership development, meditation and philosophy training, shadow work/shadow resolution and spiritual awakening are all part of Scott's development into the thought-leader that he is today. He continues to refine his offerings studying and practicing with key innovators at the leading edges of human development. Scott's teachings support the entire person to not only progressively recognize, stabilize and embody our inextricable oneness with the source of creation (Waking Up), but also to resolve the wounds of the past (Cleaning Up),  continually expand our capacities for wider and more inclusive perspectives on any moment (Growing Up) and creatively and joyfully participate and collaborate with all of life as a loving thriving human being (Showing Up). You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com [https://scottschwenk.com/] and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

What if everything we believe about money is a spell? In this electrifying and soul-rooted conversation, Kristen Ragusin—author, economist, and truth-seeker—joins Scott Schwenk to explore how our financial systems obscure the truth of our value. From early awakenings to working with the World Bank, Kristen shares the journey that led her to redefine wealth as an inner state—and reclaim the sovereignty of the human soul. This episode will change the way you think about money, power, and what you're really worth. Kristen Ragusin - Finance Maven, Author, Visionary Kristen Ragusin is the best selling author of The End of Scarcity, professional wealth management advisor with over thirty years of experience. She is a certified digital currency expert and earned her master's degree from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. She holds certificates in FinTech from MIT and in money mechanics from the University of Cumbria, London. Kristen loves the adventure of life. Her journeys throughout the world include climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, hiking through the Sahara Desert, and studying at a spiritual school in the foothills of Southern India. aster Coach, Spiritual Teacher, Culture Architect Scott's teachings, courses and private mentoring guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. Host and creator of the podcast The Choice To Grow, Scott is known for his hugely popular courses and workshops with OneCommune.com, Younity.com, Wanderlust Festivals, and Unplug Meditation, Scott has been catalyzing the inner evolution of others for decades: helping them to grow, transform obstacles into opportunities, and find Love within. Scott spent several years living and studying in a meditation monastery which introduced him to the core body of Tantric meditation traditions which continue to flow through each of his teachings. Scott continues to study and teach from two key Tantric lineage streams. Apprenticeships in leadership development, meditation and philosophy training, shadow work/shadow resolution and spiritual awakening are all part of Scott's development into the thought-leader that he is today. He continues to refine his offerings studying and practicing with key innovators at the leading edges of human development. Scott's teachings support the entire person to not only progressively recognize, stabilize and embody our inextricable oneness with the source of creation (Waking Up), but also to resolve the wounds of the past (Cleaning Up),  continually expand our capacities for wider and more inclusive perspectives on any moment (Growing Up) and creatively and joyfully participate and collaborate with all of life as a loving thriving human being (Showing Up). You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com [https://scottschwenk.com/] and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

In this dynamic episode, Scott Schwenk welcomes Dr. Darshan Shah, founder of Next Health, for a far-reaching conversation on the future of wellness, from bio-optimization and longevity science to spiritual alignment. Dr. Shah shares what it means to reclaim authorship over your own health using biomarkers, tech, and self-awareness—revealing how data can catalyze not just healing, but awakening. From hormone recalibration to AI-driven diagnostics, from ancient wisdom to futuristic medicine—this episode offers both actionable insight and expansive inspiration. Dr. Darshan Shah, MD - Longevity Medicine Specialist, Surgeon, Visionary Darshan Shah, MD, is a health and wellness specialist, board-certified surgeon, published author, and founder of Next Health, the world's first and largest Health Optimization and Longevity clinic. Dr. Shah is a board certified surgeon who has performed over 20,000 surgical procedures, including trauma and complex reconstructive procedures. As a Longevity Medicine specialist, he has advised thousands of patients on how to optimize their well-being and extend their healthspan and lifespan. Dr. Shah began his career at an accelerated MD program and earned his medical degree at the age of 21, becoming one of the youngest doctors in the United States. He continued his training at the Mayo Clinic, one of the most prestigious medical institutes in the country. After earning his board certification, he opened medical/surgical centers throughout California, started four other companies in the Health and Wellness space, and has published a book, authored numerous papers and patented medical devices. Dr. Shah's belief in continual education and self-improvement has earned him alumni status at Harvard Business School, Singularity University, and other prestigious institutions. His passion is educating people on the topics of adding healthspan to your lifespan, having done over 100+ speaking engagements and hosting the critically acclaimed podcast Extend. Master Coach, Spiritual Teacher, Culture Architect Scott's teachings, courses and private mentoring guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. Host and creator of the podcast The Choice To Grow, Scott is known for his hugely popular courses and workshops with OneCommune.com, Younity.com, Wanderlust Festivals, and Unplug Meditation, Scott has been catalyzing the inner evolution of others for decades: helping them to grow, transform obstacles into opportunities, and find Love within. Apprenticeships in leadership development, meditation and philosophy training, shadow work/shadow resolution and spiritual awakening are all part of Scott's development into the thought-leader that he is today. He continues to refine his offerings studying and practicing with key innovators at the leading edges of human development. Scott's teachings support the entire person to not only progressively recognize, stabilize and embody our inextricable oneness with the source of creation (Waking Up), but also to resolve the wounds of the past (Cleaning Up),  continually expand our capacities for wider and more inclusive perspectives on any moment (Growing Up) and creatively and joyfully participate and collaborate with all of life as a loving thriving human being (Showing Up). You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com [https://scottschwenk.com/] and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

What if your burnout was never a personal failure—but a signal from a deeper intelligence calling you back into connection? In this provocative and wide-ranging conversation, Scott Schwenk welcomes Alex Olshonsky—founder of Deep Fix and former tech executive—for a raw exploration of nervous system healing, societal collapse, and the courage to grow through disintegration. They explore the soul costs of extractive work, the slow medicine of reconnection, and the power of embodied presence in a culture built on speed. A vital conversation for anyone feeling overwhelmed, disillusioned, or on the edge of a personal or collective breakthrough. Alex Olshonsky - Tech Refugee, Hakomi Practitioner, Writer Alex Olshonsky is a somatic therapist, coach, and writer working at the intersection of deep healing, integrated leadership, and spiritual freedom. He's the co-founder of Natura Care, a non-profit addiction program harnessing psychedelics, and the founder of Sons of Now, a men's group for the metamodern man. He also writes Deep Fix, a popular Substack newsletter, and his essays have appeared in a wide range of publications. A dozen years ago, while working in Silicon Valley, Alex was gripped by a polysubstance addiction that nearly killed him. That crisis became a turning point, plunging him into psychology, the healing arts, and the dharma. Today, he helps others navigate their own transformation with precision, compassion, and deep respect for their innate intelligence. For over a decade, Alex has trained in contemplative, therapeutic, entheogenic, and awakening-based traditions. He's a Certified Hakomi Practitioner whose coaching helps people recognize how unconscious patterns shape their experience—and open to the freedom and vitality that have always been waiting within. His work also draws on Internal Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, Integral Theory, and yogic embodiment. Through his writing, teaching, and entrepreneurial work, he has helped many people reclaim their lives from numbing, distraction, and self-avoidance. Scott Schwenk - Master Coach, Spiritual Teacher, Culture Architect Scott's teachings, courses and private mentoring guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. Host and creator of the podcast The Choice To Grow, Scott is known for his hugely popular courses and workshops with OneCommune.com, Younity.com, Wanderlust Festivals, and Unplug Meditation, Scott has been catalyzing the inner evolution of others for decades: helping them to grow, transform obstacles into opportunities, and find Love within. Apprenticeships in leadership development, meditation and philosophy training, shadow work/shadow resolution and spiritual awakening are all part of Scott's development into the thought-leader that he is today. He continues to refine his offerings studying and practicing with key innovators at the leading edges of human development. Scott's teachings support the entire person to not only progressively recognize, stabilize and embody our inextricable oneness with the source of creation (Waking Up), but also to resolve the wounds of the past (Cleaning Up), continually expand our capacities for wider and more inclusive perspectives on any moment (Growing Up) and creatively and joyfully participate and collaborate with all of life as a loving thriving human being (Showing Up). You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

In this expansive and humble dialogue, Scott Schwenk welcomes transformation facilitator Geoff Fitch for a luminous inquiry into awakening, embodiment, and the paradox of modern spiritual life. With humor and precision, Geoff explores how emptiness and form, compassion and clarity, self and culture all co-arise—and how awakening isn't an escape from life but a deeper embrace of it. From dreamlike perception and financial stress to the grit of manifesting and the wisdom of community, this conversation is a treasure map for those choosing to grow with their whole being. Geoff Fitch - Leadership Development, Late-Stage Guide, Master Coach Geoff is a coach, trainer, and facilitator of growth in individuals and organizations, and a creator of transformative leadership education programs worldwide. He is a founder of Pacific Integral [http://www.pacificintegral.com/], where is was instrumental in the development of the internationally-acclaimed Generating Transformative Chang [http://www.pacificintegral.com/new/homepages/generating-transformative-change-gtc/]e program, now offered three continents and in it's 24th cohort. Through these programs, he has researched and evolved novel approaches to individual and collective growth. He has been exploring diverse approaches to cultivating higher human potentials for over 25 years, including somatic and transpersonal psychology, mystical traditions, innovation and creativity, leadership, integral theory, and collective intelligence. Scott Schwenk - Master Coach, Spiritual Teacher, Culture Architect Scott's teachings, courses and private mentoring guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. Host and creator of the podcast The Choice To Grow, Scott is known for his hugely popular courses and workshops with OneCommune.com, Younity.com, Wanderlust Festivals, and Unplug Meditation, Scott has been catalyzing the inner evolution of others for decades: helping them to grow, transform obstacles into opportunities, and find Love within. Scott spent several years living and studying in a meditation monastery which introduced him to the core body of Tantric meditation traditions which continue to flow through each of his teachings. Scott continues to study and teach from two key Tantric lineage streams. Apprenticeships in leadership development, meditation and philosophy training, shadow work/shadow resolution and spiritual awakening are all part of Scott's development into the thought-leader that he is today. He continues to refine his offerings studying and practicing with key innovators at the leading edges of human development.

Writer, speaker, and "beauty hunter" Jennifer Pastiloff joins The Choice to Grow for a conversation about grief, letting go of perfectionism, the healing power of humor, and why telling the truth—especially the messy, human kind—can change your life. Jen opens up about her hearing loss, her journey as a mother, and how she's learned to stop pretending and start truly living. This episode is a love letter to those who feel like they don't belong and a call to anyone ready to show up as they are. Jennifer Pastiloff - Writer, Speaker, Beauty Hunter Jennifer Pastiloff trots the globe as a public speaker and to host her retreats in Italy, as well as her one-of-a-kind workshops, which she has taught to thousands of people all over the world.  The author of the popular Substack, also called Proof of Life, she teaches writing and creativity classes called Allow, and workshops called Shame Loss, when she isn't painting and selling her art. She has been featured on Good Morning America, and Katie Couric, and in New York magazine, People, Shape, Health magazine, and other media outlets for her authenticity and unique voice. She is deaf, reads lips, and mishears almost everything, but what she hears is usually funnier (at least she thinks so). The author of the national bestseller On Being Human, Pastiloff lives in Southern California with her son, Charlie Mel Scott Schwenk - Master Coach, Spiritual Teacher, Culture Architect Host and creator of the podcast The Choice To Grow, Scott is known for his hugely popular courses and workshops with OneCommune.com, Younity.com, Wanderlust Festivals, and Unplug Meditation, Scott has been catalyzing the inner evolution of others for decades: helping them to grow, transform obstacles into opportunities, and find Love within. Scott spent several years living and studying in a meditation monastery which introduced him to the core body of Tantric meditation traditions which continue to flow through each of his teachings. Scott continues to study and teach from two key Tantric lineage streams. Apprenticeships in leadership development, meditation and philosophy training, shadow work/shadow resolution and spiritual awakening are all part of Scott's development into the thought-leader that he is today. He continues to refine his offerings studying and practicing with key innovators at the leading edges of human development. Scott's teachings support the entire person to not only progressively recognize, stabilize and embody our inextricable oneness with the source of creation (Waking Up), but also to resolve the wounds of the past (Cleaning Up),  continually expand our capacities for wider and more inclusive perspectives on any moment (Growing Up) and creatively and joyfully participate and collaborate with all of life as a loving thriving human being (Showing Up). You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com [https://scottschwenk.com/] and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

What happens when you stop trying to outsmart life and start letting it teach you? In this wide-ranging and mind-expanding conversation, Scott Schwenk sits down with philosopher and spiritual provocateur Layman Pascal. Together, they explore how to navigate complexity without losing clarity, the difference between real growth and spiritual bypass, and why paradox may be the ultimate teacher. Expect to challenge your assumptions—and laugh a little along the way. Layman Pascal - Metamodernist, Author, Alchemist Layman Pascal used to be a Canadian meditation teacher, yoga instructor & philosopher of Integral Metatheory -- but he's feeling much better now.  In his rapidly dwindling spare time, he leads the Metamodern Spirituality Labs, hosts The Integral Stage and Soulmakers+ podcasts, and provides unique online courses for the Parallax Academy.  He is a founding member of the Archdisciplinary Research Center, the Endemic Wisdom Council, the SPECTRA think tank for Metashamanics, Sky Meadow Institute, and the RSPND network.  He is senior editor of Emerge online and he operates as co-chair of the Foundation for Integral Spirituality and Religion.  His written articles can be found in various obscure journals and certain esoteric anthologies including Perspectiva's Dispatches from a Time Between Worlds and Cadell Last's Abyssal Arrows: Spiritual Leadership Inspired by Thus Spoke Zarathustra, and Logic for the Global Brain.  He is the sole author of Gurdjieff for a Time Between Worlds, Sex, Death & the Occult, as well as an upcoming book about Nietzsche.  Layman is known for his philosophical work on the metaphysics of adjacency, analytic nonduality, coaxial developmental stage theories, neurological correlates of meditation, sacred naturalism, archaic futurism, many-one theology, embodied spirituality & emerging formulations of the human religious instinct suited to a post-postmodern civilization facing numerous accelerating and converging crises.  And he has started referring to all his work as the Serious Playground.  Scott Schwenk - Master Coach, Spiritual Teacher, Culture Architect Host and creator of the podcast The Choice To Grow, Scott is known for his hugely popular courses and workshops with OneCommune.com, Younity.com, Wanderlust Festivals, and Unplug Meditation, Scott has been catalyzing the inner evolution of others for decades: helping them to grow, transform obstacles into opportunities, and find Love within. Scott spent several years living and studying in a meditation monastery which introduced him to the core body of Tantric meditation traditions which continue to flow through each of his teachings. Scott continues to study and teach from two key Tantric lineage streams. Apprenticeships in leadership development, meditation and philosophy training, shadow work/shadow resolution and spiritual awakening are all part of Scott's development into the thought-leader that he is today. He continues to refine his offerings studying and practicing with key innovators at the leading edges of human development. Scott's teachings support the entire person to not only progressively recognize, stabilize and embody our inextricable oneness with the source of creation (Waking Up), but also to resolve the wounds of the past (Cleaning Up),  continually expand our capacities for wider and more inclusive perspectives on any moment (Growing Up) and creatively and joyfully participate and collaborate with all of life as a loving thriving human being (Showing Up). You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.

Jeff Krasno joins Scott for a soul-centered conversation on what it means to live with integrity, openness, and heart in a collapsing world. They explore the sacred in the everyday, the power of grief to reveal truth, and how community and belonging start with radical honesty. This is a conversation for anyone longing to show up fully—in the mess, in the mystery, and in the magic of being human. Jeff Krasno - Maverick Entrepreneur, Community Builder, Contemplative Writer Jeff is the co-founder and CEO of Commune, a masterclass platform for personal and societal well-being. He hosts the Commune podcast, interviewing a wide variety of health experts and luminaries from Andrew Huberman and Marianne Williamson to Matthew McConaughey and Gabor Maté. Jeff pens a personal weekly essay titled "Commusings" that explores spirituality, wellness and culture and is distributed to over one million subscribers every Sunday. Jeff is the author of Good Stress, a collection of wellness protocols that he developed to reverse his diabetes, lose 60 pounds and reclaim his health at age 50. Jeff and his better three-quarters, Schuyler Grant, own and operate Commune Topanga, a 10-acre wellness center and production lab where they host regular retreats together featuring yoga, cold plunging, sauna bathing, lectures and story-telling. Jeff & Schuyler have three beautiful daughters, Phoebe, Lolli and Micah. They currently live in Los Angeles, California. Scott Schwenk - Master Coach, Spiritual Teacher, Leadership Consultant Scott Schwenk's teachings, courses and private mentoring guide leaders, seekers and creatives to explore their deepest selves in service of thriving on all levels of being, both individually and relationally. Host and creator of the podcast The Choice To Grow, Scott is known for his hugely popular courses and workshops with OneCommune.com, Younity.com, Wanderlust Festivals, and Unplug Meditation, Scott has been catalyzing the inner evolution of others for decades: helping them to grow, transform obstacles into opportunities, and find Love within. Scott spent several years living and studying in a meditation monastery which introduced him to the core body of Tantric meditation traditions which continue to flow through each of his teachings. Scott continues to study and teach from two key Tantric lineage streams. Apprenticeships in leadership development, meditation and philosophy training, shadow work/shadow resolution and spiritual awakening are all part of Scott's development into the thought-leader that he is today. He continues to refine his offerings studying and practicing with key innovators at the leading edges of human development. Scott's teachings support the entire person to not only progressively recognize, stabilize and embody our inextricable oneness with the source of creation (Waking Up), but also to resolve the wounds of the past (Cleaning Up),  continually expand our capacities for wider and more inclusive perspectives on any moment (Growing Up) and creatively and joyfully participate and collaborate with all of life as a loving thriving human being (Showing Up). You can receive a free guided meditation and explore Scott's courses, workshops, retreats, training and master coaching at https://scottschwenk.com and can find him on Instagram @thescottschwenk.