Ready to make a massive shift in how you’re relating and living your life? I offer 1:1 Shadow Work Journeys for those ready to embody the life they keep imagining. You can read more here (https://www.shadowmike.com/journeys) and schedule a Free 30-min Discovery Call (https://scheduler.zoom.us/dr-michael-simmons) . Summary In this conversation, Michael Simmons explores the concept of projection and idealization, particularly in relation to spirituality and the divine. He discusses how individuals often project their own qualities onto others, especially figures like Jesus, and the implications of this for personal growth and self-empowerment. The conversation emphasizes the importance of reclaiming one's own 'gold'—the qualities and strengths that have been idealized in others—and integrating them into one's own life. Simmons critiques the church's role in this dynamic, likening it to a multi-level marketing organization that often leads to a psychological split between the idealized self and the shadow self. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to recognize their own divinity and the light within themselves, advocating for a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Projection and Idealization 03:50 The Nature of Projection in Personal Growth 07:10 The Role of Idealization in Spirituality 10:07 Jesus as a Gold Carrier: The Psychological Implications 13:08 The Cross as a Metaphor for Personal Burden 16:02 The Dangers of Outsourcing Spirituality 19:04 The Impact of Idealization on Self-Perception 21:51 The Multi-Level Marketing Analogy in Church Dynamics 25:14 Reclaiming Your Gold: The Process of Integration 28:00 The Exchange of Gold: A Path to Empowerment 30:55 The Invitation of Jesus: Embodying Your Own Divinity 33:50 The Power of Faith and Personal Agency 37:13 Conclusion: Embracing Your Inner Light

Ready to make a massive shift in how you’re relating and living your life? I offer 1:1 Shadow Work Journeys for those ready to embody the life they keep imagining. You read more and schedule a Free 30-min Discovery Call: https://www.shadowmike.com/journeys Summary In this conversation, Michael Simmons explores the concept of projection and idealization, particularly in relation to spirituality and the divine. He discusses how individuals often project their own qualities onto others, especially figures like Jesus, and the implications of this for personal growth and self-empowerment. The conversation emphasizes the importance of reclaiming one's own 'gold'—the qualities and strengths that have been idealized in others—and integrating them into one's own life. Simmons critiques the church's role in this dynamic, likening it to a multi-level marketing organization that often leads to a psychological split between the idealized self and the shadow self. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to recognize their own divinity and the light within themselves, advocating for a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Projection and Idealization 03:50 The Nature of Projection in Personal Growth 07:10 The Role of Idealization in Spirituality 10:07 Jesus as a Gold Carrier: The Psychological Implications 13:08 The Cross as a Metaphor for Personal Burden 16:02 The Dangers of Outsourcing Spirituality 19:04 The Impact of Idealization on Self-Perception 21:51 The Multi-Level Marketing Analogy in Church Dynamics 25:14 Reclaiming Your Gold: The Process of Integration 28:00 The Exchange of Gold: A Path to Empowerment 30:55 The Invitation of Jesus: Embodying Your Own Divinity 33:50 The Power of Faith and Personal Agency 37:13 Conclusion: Embracing Your Inner Light

Summary Below: Interested in Shadow Work? I offer Shadow Work Journey for those ready to make massive change, and shift the trajectory of their life. You can read more at https://www.shadowmike.com/journeys In this episode, Dr. Mike Simmons delves into the journey of authentic spirituality, exploring the limiting beliefs that often stem from traditional Christian teachings. He shares personal experiences of spiritual awakening and the dichotomy of feeling connected to the divine while also feeling depleted. Through the lens of Huna wisdom, he emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's inner power and the shift from viewing oneself as a rechargeable battery to understanding oneself as solar-powered, drawing energy from the universe. The conversation culminates in practical principles for embracing personal empowerment and living authentically. Upcoming Huna Workshop October 11th-12th (Portland): https://www.lissetking.com/huna You can read a little more about the 7 principles of Huna here: https://www.sacredlomi.com/articles-lomi/principles-of-huna/ Chapters 00:00 Exploring Authentic Spirituality 04:16 The Impact of Limiting Beliefs 07:01 Personal Spiritual Awakening 09:49 The Dichotomy of Divine Connection 13:12 Shifting Perspectives on God 16:08 The Journey of Self-Discovery 19:00 From Rechargeable Battery to Solar Power 21:59 Principles of Huna and Inner Power Takeaways The journey to authentic spirituality reveals inherited beliefs. Limiting beliefs can prevent exploration of new possibilities. Spiritual awakenings can occur in unexpected moments. Connection to the divine should not be transactional. The common Christian myth can create anxiety and fear. Self-empowerment comes from within, not from external sources. Energy dynamics play a crucial role in spiritual practice. We are not rechargeable batteries; we are solar-powered beings. The world reflects our beliefs and perceptions. Now is the moment of power to change our narratives.

Summary Below: Interested in Shadow Work? I offer Shadow Work Journey for those ready to make massive change, and shift the trajectory of their life. You can read more at https://www.shadowmike.com/journeys In this episode, Dr. Mike Simmons delves into the journey of authentic spirituality, exploring the limiting beliefs that often stem from traditional Christian teachings. He shares personal experiences of spiritual awakening and the dichotomy of feeling connected to the divine while also feeling depleted. Through the lens of Huna wisdom, he emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's inner power and the shift from viewing oneself as a rechargeable battery to understanding oneself as solar-powered, drawing energy from the universe. The conversation culminates in practical principles for embracing personal empowerment and living authentically. Upcoming Huna Workshop October 11th-12th (Portland): https://www.lissetking.com/huna You can read a little more about the 7 principles of Huna here: https://www.sacredlomi.com/articles-lomi/principles-of-huna/ Chapters 00:00 Exploring Authentic Spirituality 04:16 The Impact of Limiting Beliefs 07:01 Personal Spiritual Awakening 09:49 The Dichotomy of Divine Connection 13:12 Shifting Perspectives on God 16:08 The Journey of Self-Discovery 19:00 From Rechargeable Battery to Solar Power 21:59 Principles of Huna and Inner Power Takeaways The journey to authentic spirituality reveals inherited beliefs. Limiting beliefs can prevent exploration of new possibilities. Spiritual awakenings can occur in unexpected moments. Connection to the divine should not be transactional. The common Christian myth can create anxiety and fear. Self-empowerment comes from within, not from external sources. Energy dynamics play a crucial role in spiritual practice. We are not rechargeable batteries; we are solar-powered beings. The world reflects our beliefs and perceptions. Now is the moment of power to change our narratives.

In this episode, Shadow Mike engages Kayla Felten on the intersections of psychedelics, spiritual abuse, and religious trauma. Kayla shares her personal journey from a fundamentalist upbringing to exploring psychedelics as a means of healing and self-discovery. She also discusses the societal stigma surrounding psychedelics, the impact of the war on drugs, and the importance of consent and agency in healing practices. The conversation emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding in navigating these complex topics, as well as the potential for psychedelics to facilitate profound personal growth and connection to the divine. Kayla Felten, MSW, LICSW (she/her) is a psychedelic therapist and co-founder of the Reclamation Collective, where she supports survivors of religious trauma and spiritual abuse. Her work bridges clinical care and advocacy, helping people reclaim inner peace, autonomy, and authentic spirituality. With over five years of experience leading support groups, integration circles, and retreats, Kayla brings a trauma-informed lens to power dynamics in both religious and psychedelic spaces, championing healing that centers personal agency and radical self-trust. Reclamation Collective // Religious Trauma & Spiritual Advocacy organization offering support groups, workshops, and retreats for survivors around the globe https://www.reclamationcollective.com Intero Psychedelic Therapy // A collaborative clinic of therapists and medical providers offering Psychedelic Therapy located in St. Paul, MN. Currently offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy and Integration support for Minnesota residents. https://www.intero-psychedelic.com Psychedelic Harm Reporting & Resource Initiative is a collaborative of individuals and community organizations focused on anonymous voluntary reporting and community resources for survivors, moving at the speed of trust. https://www.mushwomb.love/maat Takeaways Healing and wholeness involve living in multiple streams. Deconstruction is a continuous process of understanding one's beliefs. Psychedelics can help connect to a greater force within oneself. Experiences with psychedelics can lead to insights about love and guilt. The war on drugs has created a binary view of substances. Psychedelics can be used as tools for both healing and manipulation. Spiritual abuse can occur in psychedelic and ceremonial spaces. Integration of experiences is crucial for personal growth. Access to psychedelic support is limited in many areas. Trusting one's intuition is essential in the healing journey. Chapters 00:00 Exploring Psychedelics and Religious Trauma 01:15 Introduction to Psychedelics and Spiritual Trauma 04:00 Kayla's Journey: From Fundamentalism to Psychedelic Therapy 07:04 The Impact of Religious Trauma on Personal Identity 09:57 The Role of Psychedelics in Spiritual Exploration 12:58 Navigating the Pendulum of Belief 15:20 Understanding the War on Drugs and Psychedelics 18:16 Consent and Agency in Healing Practices 25:22 Breaking the Binary of Psychedelic Experiences 28:12 Religious Trauma and Spiritual Abuse in Psychedelic Journeys 31:51 The Role of Integration in Healing 37:40 Psychedelic Narcissism and the Dangers of Evangelism 42:57 Accessing Psychedelic Support and Resources 44:44 The Reclamation Collective and Community Accountability

In this episode, Shadow Mike engages Kayla Felten on the intersections of psychedelics, spiritual abuse, and religious trauma. Kayla shares her personal journey from a fundamentalist upbringing to exploring psychedelics as a means of healing and self-discovery. She also discusses the societal stigma surrounding psychedelics, the impact of the war on drugs, and the importance of consent and agency in healing practices. The conversation emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding in navigating these complex topics, as well as the potential for psychedelics to facilitate profound personal growth and connection to the divine. Kayla Felten, MSW, LICSW (she/her) is a psychedelic therapist and co-founder of the Reclamation Collective, where she supports survivors of religious trauma and spiritual abuse. Her work bridges clinical care and advocacy, helping people reclaim inner peace, autonomy, and authentic spirituality. With over five years of experience leading support groups, integration circles, and retreats, Kayla brings a trauma-informed lens to power dynamics in both religious and psychedelic spaces, championing healing that centers personal agency and radical self-trust. Reclamation Collective // Religious Trauma & Spiritual Advocacy organization offering support groups, workshops, and retreats for survivors around the globe https://www.reclamationcollective.com Intero Psychedelic Therapy // A collaborative clinic of therapists and medical providers offering Psychedelic Therapy located in St. Paul, MN. Currently offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy and Integration support for Minnesota residents. https://www.intero-psychedelic.com Psychedelic Harm Reporting & Resource Initiative is a collaborative of individuals and community organizations focused on anonymous voluntary reporting and community resources for survivors, moving at the speed of trust. https://www.mushwomb.love/maat Takeaways Healing and wholeness involve living in multiple streams. Deconstruction is a continuous process of understanding one's beliefs. Psychedelics can help connect to a greater force within oneself. Experiences with psychedelics can lead to insights about love and guilt. The war on drugs has created a binary view of substances. Psychedelics can be used as tools for both healing and manipulation. Spiritual abuse can occur in psychedelic and ceremonial spaces. Integration of experiences is crucial for personal growth. Access to psychedelic support is limited in many areas. Trusting one's intuition is essential in the healing journey. Chapters 00:00 Exploring Psychedelics and Religious Trauma 01:15 Introduction to Psychedelics and Spiritual Trauma 04:00 Kayla's Journey: From Fundamentalism to Psychedelic Therapy 07:04 The Impact of Religious Trauma on Personal Identity 09:57 The Role of Psychedelics in Spiritual Exploration 12:58 Navigating the Pendulum of Belief 15:20 Understanding the War on Drugs and Psychedelics 18:16 Consent and Agency in Healing Practices 25:22 Breaking the Binary of Psychedelic Experiences 28:12 Religious Trauma and Spiritual Abuse in Psychedelic Journeys 31:51 The Role of Integration in Healing 37:40 Psychedelic Narcissism and the Dangers of Evangelism 42:57 Accessing Psychedelic Support and Resources 44:44 The Reclamation Collective and Community Accountability

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Michael Simmons and Jessica Alfaqih explore the transformative power of shadow work, archetypes, and sensuality. Jessica shares her personal journey of self-discovery and empowerment, emphasizing the importance of pleasure and sensuality in shaping one's identity. They discuss practical approaches to engaging with beliefs and archetypes, the significance of elemental magick, and the upcoming six-week course designed to help individuals reclaim their personal power and align with their true selves. The conversation highlights the importance of authentic spirituality and the continuous journey of self-exploration and growth. Jess is of mixed Lebanese-European heritage, living and working on Indigenous ancestral and unceded land in the Northwest Coast. She helps women who’ve tried everything break free from frustrating thought and behavior patterns—especially those rooted in anxiety, insecurity, or relationship struggles. Register for Deep Magick 6-week class here: https://www.jessicaalfaqih.com/deep-magick Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Shadow Work and Sensuality 03:42 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Transformation 06:35 Connecting Pleasure and Shadow Work 09:44 Engaging with Beliefs and Archetypes 12:32 The Role of Elemental Magick in Personal Growth 15:43 Understanding Energy Movement and Agency 18:53 Overview of the Six-Week Course 21:55 Practical Applications of Elemental Magick 24:41 The Importance of Authentic Spirituality 27:40 Creating New Patterns and Rerouting Energy 30:50 Final Thoughts and Course Invitation You can connect with Jessica Alfaqih and register for her upcoming 6 week Deep Magik class below: \Instagram: @jessica_alfaqih & @elemental.archetype.retreats Deep Magick: jessicaalfaqih.com/deep-magick Chemistry call: https://jessicaalfaqihcoaching.as.me/schedule/c9daed24/appointment/42765580/calendar/7492770?appointmentTypeIds[]=42765580

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Michael Simmons and Jessica Alfaqih explore the transformative power of shadow work, archetypes, and sensuality. Jessica shares her personal journey of self-discovery and empowerment, emphasizing the importance of pleasure and sensuality in shaping one's identity. They discuss practical approaches to engaging with beliefs and archetypes, the significance of elemental magick, and the upcoming six-week course designed to help individuals reclaim their personal power and align with their true selves. The conversation highlights the importance of authentic spirituality and the continuous journey of self-exploration and growth. More about Jessica ALfaqih Jess is of mixed Lebanese-European heritage, living and working on Indigenous ancestral and unceded land in the Northwest Coast. She helps women who’ve tried everything break free from frustrating thought and behavior patterns—especially those rooted in anxiety, insecurity, or relationship struggles. Register for Deep Magik 6-week class here: https://www.jessicaalfaqih.com/deep-magick Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Shadow Work and Sensuality 03:42 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Transformation 06:35 Connecting Pleasure and Shadow Work 09:44 Engaging with Beliefs and Archetypes 12:32 The Role of Elemental Magick in Personal Growth 15:43 Understanding Energy Movement and Agency 18:53 Overview of the Six-Week Course 21:55 Practical Applications of Elemental Magick 24:41 The Importance of Authentic Spirituality 27:40 Creating New Patterns and Rerouting Energy 30:50 Final Thoughts and Course Invitation You can connect with Jessica Alfaqih and register for her upcoming 6 week Deep Magik class below: \Instagram: @jessica_alfaqih & @elemental.archetype.retreats Deep Magik: jessicaalfaqih.com/deep-magick Chemistry call: https://jessicaalfaqihcoaching.as.me/schedule/c9daed24/appointment/42765580/calendar/7492770?appointmentTypeIds[]=42765580

In this episode, Dr. Michael Simmons explores the concept of shadow from both individual and collective perspectives. He emphasizes the importance of understanding how our shadows are cultivated relationally and how the 'Common Christian Myth' can impact our psychological health and range of motion. The discussion delves into the dangers of suppressing our darker experiences, the significance of projections in relationships, and the journey towards authentic spirituality. Shadow Mike encourages listeners to embrace their shadows and explore new ways of understanding the divine, ultimately guiding them towards integration and healing. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:03 The Common Christian Myth and Its Impact 09:13 The Consequences of Suppressing the Shadow 16:04 Navigating Projections and Authentic Spirituality 25:01 Embracing the Divine: A Path to Authenticity 27:23 Invitation to 1:1 Shadow Work 28:13 Conclusion Takeaways Shadow work begins with the individual before moving to the collective. The common Christian myth shapes our understanding of spirituality and self. Denying darkness can lead to spiritual disconnection and psychological issues. Projections in relationships can reveal our hidden shadows. Authentic spirituality requires a reimagining of the divine. The closer we get to light, the larger our shadow becomes. Our shadow can guide us towards what we need to integrate. Understanding assumptions in our lives can lead to personal growth. Embracing the divine can take many forms, not just traditional ones. Healing involves addressing collective experiences that shape our beliefs.