What Needs To Be Said
By Alex Reegan
What Needs To Be SaidJun 20, 2023
Love, Loss, and the Journey Within: Lessons from 'Where'd You Park Your Spaceship?' With Rob Bell
In this episode, I sit down for an engaging conversation with the multi-talented author and artist, Rob Bell, to unpack the layers of his latest book, 'Where’d You Park Your Spaceship? An Interplanetary Tale of Love, Loss, and Bread.'
We dive into the impact of the book, exploring its inspiration and delving into the themes of grief and the art of leaving things behind. Our chat extends to the journey of the protagonist and the intriguing concept of embracing a new way of being.
The conversation takes an insightful turn as we explore the profound idea of unity and oneness, challenging the common illusion of separation that often colors our perspectives.
We candidly discuss the messiness of life, the importance of accepting what is, and the responsibility we bear for our own suffering. The limitations of special love are dissected, paving the way for a deeper understanding of connection and relationships.
Lastly, we delve into the journey of self-discovery, a profound exploration that calls for embracing all facets of ourselves, even the earlier versions of who we were. Rob sheds light on this holistic odyssey, urging us to embrace every aspect of ourselves, including the versions we once were. Furthermore, he underscores the vital importance of living in the present moment and acknowledging our innate readiness for the unfolding "new world."
Join us in this enriching conversation, and be sure to check out 'Where’d You Park Your Spaceship' for a cosmic exploration. Connect with Rob on Instagram @realrobbell, and don't miss his podcast, The RobCast, for more thought-provoking discussions. Tune in and let's explore the universe together!
In the Spirit of Grace: A Conversation with Hannah Wallace
Today's episode is with the incredible Hannah Wallace. Join us as we explore life’s, challenges and beauty, with discussions on accessibility, surrender, belonging, authenticity and grace. It's a conversation that touched my heart in such a deep way and with Hannah's humor and wisdom, this episode is a journey you won’t want to miss as we navigate this beautiful and messy human experience.
You can connect with Hannah Here:
https://www.hannah-wallace.com/
Also be sure to listen to her podcast "Finding Grace." Here is the episode I was in:
https://www.hannah-wallace.com/podcast/episode-140-finding-grace-with-alex-reegan
Astrological Insights on Mid-Life and Beyond with Virginia Bell
In this episode, we delve into the profound insights of astrology with the wisdom of Virginia Bell. Join us as we explore the art of "Embracing Our Years" through the lens of astrology, uncovering the hidden gems of life's various cycles and learning how they can guide us toward a more conscious and fulfilling journey. Virginia Bell shares her expertise on the transformative power of astrology, emphasizing the importance of understanding and embracing the unique life cycles that shape our paths. This engaging conversation offers valuable perspectives on aging, growth, and empowerment, all illuminated by the stars.
Virginia Bell has been an astrologer since the 1990's. She has written astrology columns for TV Guide, US Weekly, Huffington Post, Refinery 29 and Die Welt (The German magazine). She wrote the horoscope column and celebrity profiles for the CBS magazine Watch for seventeen years. She is also the author of Midlife Is Not A Crisis: Using Astrology to Thrive in the Second Half Of life. www.virginiabellastrology.com
Kindling Hope and Healing with Rev. LeVaughn McPherson
Join me in this powerful episode with Rev. LeVaughn McPherson who is a dedicated Interfaith Minister & Counselor, Birth & Postpartum Doula, and Certified Life Coach based in Brooklyn, NY. With a multifaceted background in finance and property asset management, she transitioned from a mainstream career to a life of service and healing, founding KindledMinds LLC in 2019.
Rev. LeVaughn's personal journey is a testament to resilience and faith. Growing up under the strict control of her father, she found solace and guidance from a compassionate teacher during her high school years. She's a loving mother, and her children have played a profound role in her transformative journey.
Rev. LeVaughn's conversion to Islam brought her into a supportive and nurturing community, providing her with a sense of family she had never experienced before. Her faith and spiritual practice have become central to her everyday life.
The theme of forgiveness has been a crucial element in Rev. LeVaughn's life. She discovered the teachings of 'A Course In Miracles,' which helped her repair her relationship with her children's father, exemplifying the power of healing and reconciliation. Her story beautifully illustrates the transformative power of connection, healing, and reconciliation, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, one can find a path to healing and a renewed sense of purpose.
To connect with Rev. LeVaughn you can find her here: www.kindledminds.com
Unlocking Social Justice and Healing Through the Enneagram with Dr. Deborah Egerton
Join me with special guest Dr. Deborah Egerton, psychotherapist and Enneagram Expert on this insightful conversation about social justice, the language we use to reach each other in difficult conversations and how the Enneagram fits into all of that. We also talk about her “magic mystical formula” for rapidly shifting from our less healthy levels of our enneagram type, up into our more integrated level of growth.
So don't miss this episode with a trailblazer in the field of social justice and personal growth. Dr. Deborah Egerton's work and her best-selling book, "Know Justice Know Peace," offer an incredibly life changing perspective on social justice movements and personal growth and ways to unlock your true self while reshaping the world for a more compassionate and equitable future!
For more information about Dr. Deborah Egerton, visit her website at https://www.deborahegerton.com/
Why I Try to Control Feral Cats
In this captivating episode of "What Needs To Be Said," join Alex Reegan as he courageously delves into his personal journey of grappling with control. From the minor daily annoyances like peculiar driving habits to the charming yet challenging colony of community cats in his backyard, and his ongoing exploration of self-control, Alex shares his candid experiences and reflections.
Throughout the episode, Alex delves into his exploration of the Enneagram personality system, where he uncovers a surprising revelation: he identifies with the Type 8, a discovery that challenges his initial beliefs about himself. This newfound self-awareness sheds light on his lifelong struggle with control.
Listeners can also expect an enriching reading from Alex's book, "What Needs To Be Said," offering a unique perspective on the theme of control. As a special treat, Alex provides a practical exercise from the book, giving listeners a valuable tool for personal growth and reflection.
Tune in to this thought-provoking episode of "What Needs To Be Said" with Alex Reegan, and embark on a journey of self-discovery, control, and meaningful insights.
From Profits to Prophets: Rev. Arda Itez's Path of Self-Discovery
In this episode, we explore Rev. Arda Itez's remarkable journey from corporate success to spiritual awakening. Raised in a secular Turkish family, Arda's early fascination with religious texts set her on a lifelong quest for meaning. Her family's dynamics were marked by opposing values and silence on critical issues.
Arda's life took a turn when she realized her high-profile career and marriage were out of sync with her true purpose. A pivotal moment came when she sought guidance from her late mother's spirit and received a sign leading her to seminary studies.
Arda's spirituality now revolves around service and making a positive impact. She faced her past trauma and discovered radical self-awareness during her seminary studies, later deepening her understanding through shamanism.
Today, Arda Itez champions authenticity, urging others to live true to themselves and effect positive change in the world. Tune in to hear her inspiring journey from the corporate world to her inner sanctuary and her mission to help others do the same.
Connect with Arda on Instagram (@ArdaZNP) and LinkedIn
It's Never Too Late to Find Yourself with Melissa Giberson
In this episode, we embark on a captivating journey with Melissa Giberson, author of the book, "Late Bloomer: Finding My Authentic Self At Midlife." Born in Brooklyn, she enjoyed a typical childhood until her parents' divorce when she was just ten years old. Education was instilled in her, and the conventional path – the stereotypical cis-heteronormative future – seemed preordained: marriage, children, suburban life in New Jersey, echoing the TV shows that shaped her upbringing.
Growing up in an Orthodox Jewish neighborhood, Melissa's family, despite their surroundings, had a limited involvement in the community or faith. Thus, she forged her own path, delving into the traditions and practices of Judaism whenever life felt incomplete.
As her children thrived, and suburban life appeared idyllic, an unshakable void gnawed at Melissa's heart. Then, one day at the gym, an unexpected encounter changed everything. A woman she didn't know caught her eye, and in that moment, the question 'Am I Gay?' flashed through her mind, sparking a profound transformation.
Join us on this episode as we accompany Melissa on her journey, witnessing her origin, her experience and struggles in coming out, navigating life's shifting tides, and her emergence as she embraces the empowering act of self-reinvention.
Find Melissa and her Book here: https://melissagiberson.com/
Discovering 'This Wild Love That Won't Leave Me,’ Life After Religious Trauma with Sara Bybee Fisk & Andrea Parks
In this poignant and heartfelt episode, I'm joined by my dear friends, Sara Bybee Fisk, a Coach, and Andrea Parks, a Psychotherapist, as we delve into the profound topic of Religious Trauma. Together, we embark on a journey where we explore the importance of sharing through our own stories.
We begin by recounting the serendipitous nature of our meeting, which felt almost like divine intervention. I open up about my own upbringing within evangelical Christianity, detailing the challenges of coming out, and we reflect on Sara and Andrea's unique journeys within Mormonism.
Through our conversations, we highlight the overlap and differences in our upbringings. Our discussion takes us on a profound exploration of their experiences as parents of LGBTQIA+ children and the impact it had on their perspectives on faith and life. We also delve into the complex process of losing our guidance systems, as our religions often demanded us to conform to specific molds and strive endlessly for a love that felt unattainable, and then how we began to reclaim them.
Together, we unravel the layers of religious trauma, examining the impact it had on our lives and the paths we ultimately chose to take. Join us in this heartfelt conversation as we shed light on the healing journey beyond religious trauma and the resilience of the human spirit.
Find Sara here:
https://www.instagram.com/sarafiskcoach/
https://www.facebook.com/SaraFiskCoaching/
https://www.tiktok.com/@sarafiskcoach?lang=en
https://theexgoodgirlpodcast.buzzsprout.com/share
Free Guide: How to Have a Difficult Conversation
https://tinyurl.com/stoppeoplepleasing
Connect with Andrea:
https://bloomhealingaz.com/
Instagram @theandreatales
No Step Is Wasted: From Science to The Sacred With Dr. Michelle Grua
In this captivating episode, we invite you to explore the remarkable life and transformation of Dr. Michelle Grua, a pediatric anesthesiologist, medical acupuncturist, and devoted mother of three. Dr. Grua's journey demonstrates that the boundaries between the realms of science and data and the spiritual and unexplained can indeed blur and coexist harmoniously.
Our conversation begins with a deep dive into her origin story, the influential figures in her upbringing, and the pivotal moments that led her to pursue a career in medicine. Yet, the heart of this episode unveils the profound struggle she endured after the loss of her husband—a period when she grappled with a profound sense of loss and disconnection from her own identity.
Yet during this time as though somehow guiding her from her darkest hours towards a state of personal emergence, her beloved husband sent her sign and message over and over. Challenging her long-held belief that death represents the final chapter of existence. As she navigated the complex landscape of grief, she embarked on a quest for meaning and explanations that defied the conventional wisdom found in traditional books on the subject.
Join us on this intellectual adventure as we venture into Dr. Grua’s world and see how she discovered plausible explanations for these extraordinary communications. Her profound experience reshaped her perspective on life, love, and death, culminating in a newfound wisdom that she generously shares in this episode.
Tune in to this enlightening and heartwarming conversation that has the potential to revolutionize your understanding of life, love, and the enigmatic realm of the afterlife.
Framed in Holiness: Transforming Pain into Purpose with Alaina G. Levine
In this episode, I had the privilege of talking with the incredible Alaina G. Levine, an award-winning professional speaker, career coach, science writer, TEDx speaker, author, and corporate comedian. Alaina's story is a tapestry woven from diverse threads, reflecting her rich background and experiences. She shares her path from a childhood steeped in Jewish traditions to navigating the complexities of life, including the profound struggles and transformative moments that ultimately led her to become the successful and influential figure in her field that she is today.
Alaina opens up about her early life and the role of faith in shaping her worldview, providing insights into her background. She takes us through the profound struggle she faced when dealing with the loss of her beloved mother, a pivotal moment that forever altered the course of her life.
The heart of this episode centers on Alaina's journey of emerging from this deep personal struggle. She shares how she found beauty amidst the pain and grew as an individual. Her unwavering faith played a crucial role in sustaining her during this challenging period.
We explore the powerful concept of reframing one's life experiences, finding purpose even in moments of adversity, and how faith can be a guiding light during the darkest of times.
Alaina has become a sought-after speaker and career development expert, emphasizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. With her speaking, coaching and two books, "Networking for Nerds" and "Create Your Unicorn Career!" (forthcoming), she continues to inspire and guide others on their own journeys to success.
Throughout the episode, Alaina's wisdom and experiences are sure to inspire and resonate with listeners. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of faith, resilience, and the art of reframing life's challenges into opportunities for growth and purpose.
Find Alaina here:
linkedin.com/in/alainaglevineinstagram.com/alainaglevine
twitter: @AlainaGLevine
From Self-Discovery to Advocacy: Ashley Isaiah's Journey
This week's episode features my conversation with Ashley Isaiah. As a beacon of inspiration, Ashley has embarked on an incredible journey, beginning with the profound process of self-discovery and culminating in the role of a powerful advocate. From a young age, Ashley recognized his true identity, setting the stage for a personal odyssey that would shape his future. Today, he stands as the LGBTQ+ Program Coordinator at RWJ University Hospital in New Jersey, a testament to his resilience and unwavering commitment to helping others.
As we delve into Ashley's narrative, we witness his transformative path, which led him to his current role. His dedication shines through as he manages the day-to-day operations and outreach for the RWJUH PROUD Gender Center. This center serves the vital needs of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender patients, offering care, support, and access to affirming providers. Ashley's tireless efforts extend to coordinating patient relations, sensitizing hospital staff through training, and engaging with the community.
His journey serves as a powerful reminder that self-discovery can lead to profound advocacy, impacting not just your life, but the community around you. Through his remarkable story, we gain insight into the challenges he's faced, the strength he's drawn upon, and the transformative change he's bringing to the world.
*** TRIGGER WARNING: SUICIDE DISCUSSION****
The Struggle: Self-Mercy In Progress
In this episode Alex Reegan delves deep into his personal journey of grappling with self-acceptance and healing. Drawing from his experiences growing up in a religious environment that challenged his authenticity, Alex candidly shares his quest to answer a powerful question: "If I gave myself mercy, who would I be?" Join him as he reflects on his ongoing pursuit of self-compassion and the profound transformation that emerges when we grant ourselves the grace we deserve.
Chasing Belonging: Nikki La Croce's Journey Home
Step into an engaging episode as we sit down with Nikki La Croce, the remarkable podcaster behind 'Who The F*ck?'. Join us for a candid conversation where Nikki opens up about her childhood marked by not fitting in—whether in her community, her religion, or even her own gender identity. Experience her journey of self-discovery, authenticity, and the quest for belonging. Tune in to hear how Nikki emerged triumphant, embracing her authentic self, and transcending her struggles to find a newfound sense of belonging, self-love, and the power of connection.
Connect with Nikki here:
Who The F*ck? Website: https://whothefck.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@whothefck_pod
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4AoCyjomidBPoTTTxaJvLy
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/who-the-f-ck/id1481019182?uo=4
Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kY2IzOGY4L3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi51bjBlsb_AhX1lo4IHWXYDeMQ9sEGegQIARAC
Mormon No More: From Exclusion to Inclusion with Elena Joy Thurston
In this heartwarming episode of "What Needs To Be Said," we dive into the extraordinary life of Elena Joy Thurston, a woman who has faced tremendous struggles with religious trauma in the Mormon Church and the ordeal of conversion therapy. As a devoted mother of four, Elena Joy's life took an unexpected turn when she bravely embraced her true identity and came out as a lesbian. This decision cost her dearly, causing her to lose her marriage, church, and community. But she emerged stronger, wiser, more resilient and now lives as her authentic self. Discover how she overcame adversity, founded a nonprofit to aid LGBTQ+ youth, and established herself as a sought-after Diversity & Allyship speaker. Together, we explore her transformation from exclusion to inclusion and the impactful work she's doing to foster understanding and acceptance. Her journey will move and inspire you. Tune in now! Find Elena Joy here:
Pride & Joy Foundation HTTP://www.PrideandJoyFoundation.com
The Elena Joy Experience http://www.elenajoyexperience.com
Pride & Joy Parents event www.prideandjoyparents.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenajoythurston/
https://www.instagram.com/pridejoyfoundation/
https://www.facebook.com/PrideJoyFound
Her podcast: http://www.outofqueeriosity.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenajoyspeaks/
TedX Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rIhPZMC4UEg
Surrender: Why Is It Our Last Resort
Step into the world of my friendship with my best friend, Nate, and my amazing wife, Dorris, in this raw and unfiltered conversation where we explore the freedom surrender offers and our observable resistance to it. This episode goes beyond the normal format of this podcast, and presents an intimate and candid discussion among friends.
Together, we delve into the depths of what surrender truly means and how it feels in the midst of life's challenges. We share our personal journeys, discussing the contrasting emotions of loss and liberation that surrender can invoke, and contemplate the intriguing question of whether surrendering is a powerful form of being present.
Get ready for a rollercoaster of topics as we touch on a pirate parlay, stern nuns, and even dive into the intriguing idea of the possibility of there being no free will. This episode is a true adventure as we share our perspectives on surrender, the mysteries of life, and what it means to embrace the power of letting go. Get ready to be inspired as we put our heads together and try to put words to an often elusive spiritual concept.
Unveiling the Cycle of Transformation: From Hell Back to Heaven Again
In this episode, which is part 2 of my origin, I delve into the lifelong sense of impending doom that has haunted me, stemming from my religious upbringing and the belief that I was inherently flawed and irreparable. With vulnerability, I recount the heartache I faced while discovering and accepting my queer identity, which added an extra layer of feeling irredeemable. Throughout this episode, I explore the transformative power of healing, acknowledging that it often occurs in waves, unveiling new aspects of pain from our origins as we navigate through different phases of life. My intention in sharing these personal stories is to normalize the cycles of origin, struggle, and emergence, with the hope that you, the listener, can find empowerment in acknowledging and embracing your own journeys with grace and mercy.
Join me on this glimpse into my transformative journey of self-discovery. Together, let's explore and discover new ways to emerge stronger, more self-aware, and liberated. We all possess the power to unlock new possibilities for growth and find our own paths to a more expansive existence.
Find more from me on my website: www.alexreegan.com
And buy my book "What Needs To Be Said" everywhere books are sold.
Unmasking Perfection: Jillian Abby's “Perfectly Queer” Journey to Authenticity
Step into the intriguing world of authenticity and self-discovery as I sit down with the extraordinary Jillian Abby on this thought-provoking episode of the "What Needs to be Said" podcast. Brace yourself for an intimate conversation that unravels the complexities of perfectionism and the relentless pursuit of external validation. Witness the defining moment when Jillian, in her late 30s, fearlessly embraced her true identity as a lesbian, paving the way for a profound metamorphosis that would forever change her life. With raw vulnerability and unwavering resilience, she sheds light on the transformative power of self-acceptance, leading her to not only find her authentic self but also a deep spiritual connection and an unexpected love. Be prepared to be inspired, moved, and empowered as we journey through the extraordinary narrative of Jillian Abby.
You can find Jillian here: https://linktr.ee/jillianabby
Echoes of Belonging: Discovering Harmony Within and Without with Dorris Muramatsu
Embark on an inspiring journey with Dorris Muramatsu, a former musician, visionary artist, and spiritual explorer. Join us as we explore her incredible story, from her years touring with Girlyman, a folk pop band known for their introspective songs, to her profound insights into creativity, belonging, and happiness.
Growing up with immigrant parents, Dorris searched for a sense of belonging, navigating the challenges of being in an in-between place. In our conversation, she shares how our past is shaped by who we are now and how self-reflection can transform our perspectives.
Dorris also opens up about her personal struggles, including a battle with cancer that led her to question if happiness was still within reach. Discover how she emerged from this dark period by reigniting her creativity and curiosity, leading to a deeper connection with her spiritual self.
Join us as we delve into the transformative power of Dorris Muramatsu's
story and follow her unique, magical perspective of life, where creativity,
joyfulness, and spiritual enlightenment converge. Get ready to be inspired in this mesmerizing episode!
Beyond the Stage: Navigating Spirituality and Creativity with Emily Scott Robinson
Join us in this captivating episode as we dive into the life and journey of Emily Scott Robinson, an internationally touring singer-songwriter hailing from the picturesque mountains of Colorado. Born and raised in North Carolina, Emily's musical talent has earned her accolades and a dedicated following. But her artistry is more than just music; it's a spiritual path.
In this enlightening conversation, Emily shares her personal evolution and the transformative moments that shaped her worldview. From her upbringing in the Presbyterian Church to her exploration of shamanism and somatic therapy, we delve into her quest for deeper meaning and connection.
Together, we explore topics that resonate with Emily's experiences, such as purity culture, alternative motherhood, reproductive rights, and the profound relationship between creativity and serving a higher power. Emily's insights and reflections shed light on her journey of breaking free from societal constraints, transcending patriarchal patterns, and finding her authentic path.
Prepare to be inspired as we uncover the intersection of artistry, spirituality, and personal growth in this thought-provoking episode featuring the soulful Emily Scott Robinson.
Connect with Emily at www.emilyscottrobinson.com
Or on Instagram @emilyscottrobinson
Embracing “Midlife Emergence:” A Journey to Authentic Living with Jen Berlingo
In this captivating episode of "What Needs To Be Said," host Alex Reegan engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Jen Berlingo, an author, coach, and Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in midlife transitions. Together, they explore Jen's personal journey of origin, struggle, and emergence, offering invaluable insights and inspiration for listeners embarking on their own paths of authenticity. Jen's book, "Midlife Emergence," serves as a compassionate guide for women seeking to reclaim the powerful parts of themselves that may have been concealed by societal conditioning. Join this enlightening discussion as Jen fearlessly shares her transformative experiences, challenging societal norms and embracing her authentic self with unwavering courage.
Connect with Jen at www.jenberlingo.com
Or on Instagram @jenberlingo
From Repression to Liberation: Embracing Authenticity Beyond Religious Constraints featuring Ari Wisner
On this episode, join us for a powerful conversation with Ari Wisner, a talented queer artist, tarot author, and reader based in London. Together, we embark on a profound exploration of Ari's origin story, shaped by a conservative religious upbringing. We delve into the struggles they faced, including the weight of shame and inauthenticity, and witness their inspiring emergence into a life of embracing their authentic self. Ari's experiences become a guiding light, illuminating the path to personal growth and empowerment amidst the complexities of identity. As we navigate the depths of self-discovery and resilience, we discover the liberating power that comes from living in alignment with our true selves. Join us on this captivating episode as we embark on a transformative journey, drawing inspiration from Ari's extraordinary emergence into a life of authenticity and fulfillment.
Connect with Ari here: https://www.ariwisner.com/
or on Instagram and other socials at @ari_wisner
Faith, Resilience, and Living Authentically: Rev. Dr. José M. Román's Inspiring Journey
Join us on the What Needs to be Said podcast as we embark on an inspiring exploration of the personal journey of Rev. Dr. José M. Román. Raised in New York City by Puerto Rican parents, his remarkable path as a lifelong public servant, minister, and proud Gay Latino Man stands as a profound testament to resilience, self-discovery, and the power of embracing authenticity.
In this heartfelt episode, we engage in a captivating conversation, delving into the challenges he has faced, the triumphs he has achieved, and the pivotal role of faith in his journey towards embracing his true self. Rev. Dr. Román's career has spanned a wide range of impactful endeavors, from youth development to LGBT civil rights, HIV/AIDS, vaccine research, and international emergency relief and development. Currently serving as Rutgers University's Vice President of Research Administration, he holds one of the highest-ranking positions in the university's research administration.
As a scholar of religion, Rev. Dr. Román has also dedicated himself to fostering dialogue and fellowship among diverse faith communities. Don't miss this inspiring episode of the What Needs to be Said podcast as we delve into Rev. Dr. José M. Román's personal journey of embracing authenticity and faith. Join us as we uncover the profound and transformative power of speaking our truth, releasing shame, and living authentically.
Love, Authenticity, and Empowerment with Ruth Schwartz Ph.D.
In this episode of the What Needs to be Said podcast, host Alex Reegan sits down with Ruth Schwartz, Ph.D., the brilliant mind behind the Conscious Girlfriend Academy. Ruth shares her personal journey of origin, struggle, and emergence, and offers profound insights into her groundbreaking work in the realm of dating, love, and sexuality.
Ruth's own story is a testament to the transformative power of embracing one's authentic self. She opens up about her own struggles and how she overcame them, ultimately emerging as a beacon of empowerment and wisdom. Her experiences have shaped her into a leading global resource, helping lesbians and women who love women navigate the complexities of dating and relationships.
At the Conscious Girlfriend Academy, Ruth has created a safe and inclusive space for individuals seeking meaningful connections. Drawing from her extensive educational background, including Creative Writing, Transpersonal Psychology, Applied Shamanism, and Somatica Sex & Intimacy Coaching, Ruth brings a holistic approach to her transformative work.
Throughout the interview, Ruth offers practical guidance and shares her expertise, gained through years of teaching at prestigious institutions. Her acclaimed book, Conscious Lesbian Dating and Love, serves as a valuable roadmap for those looking to create fulfilling partnerships.
Join Alex Reegan as he engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Ruth Schwartz, exploring her personal journey and the profound insights she has gained along the way. This episode of the What Needs to be Said podcast invites listeners to embrace their authentic selves, navigate the complexities of dating and relationships, and find empowerment through love and sexuality.
Connect with Ruth Schwartz at:
http://www.consciousgirlfriendacademy.com/
https://www.consciousgirlfriendacademy.com/book
The Origin Part 1
Welcome to the What Needs to be Said podcast! I'm Alex Reegan, your host and the author of the book What Needs to be Said. This podcast is all about exploring the power of speaking our truth and living authentically.
Let me share a bit about myself. I was born into an evangelical Christian family, and for a long time, I couldn't fully express my true identity as a trans man. This led me down a path of depression, anxiety, and addiction as I struggled to break free from the oppressive beliefs that held me back. But through my journey, I eventually found sobriety, embraced shamanism, and even pursued seminary. These experiences helped me reclaim my faith and trust in the Divine.
In addition to being an author, I am also an interfaith minister, speaker, and transformative spiritual coach. I use my intuitive wisdom to guide people towards their own inner knowing. My ultimate goal is to remind people of who they truly are and help them find their authentic selves.
Now, why did I decide to start this podcast? Well, I've always believed in the power of spirituality to bridge the gaps between us. In my book, I accomplish this by sharing my own story. And in this podcast, I hope to achieve the same through our shared stories. I will be opening up about my own journey, the lessons I've learned, and how I overcame my struggles. Just like my book, the podcast is structured around three parts: origin, struggle, and emergence.
But here's the exciting part: this podcast isn't just about me. I will be inviting guests from diverse backgrounds to share their own personal stories of origin, struggle, and emergence. It's important to me to provide a platform for a range of voices and experiences. Together, we will delve deep into the power of speaking our truth, overcoming adversity, and discovering our authentic selves.
In a world that often feels divided, it's crucial to recognize that we are not as separate as we may think. Through this podcast, I hope that we can dive into this truth and uncover it collectively.
Whether you're seeking inspiration, guidance, or simply a good conversation, I invite you to join me on the What Needs to be Said podcast. It's time to speak our truth, release shame, and find oneness so that we can live authentically.