A No-Nonsense Approach to Spirituality
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Twenty years ago, Dr. Eric Oliver started teaching a course on how to know your self at the University of Chicago. In the class, Eric would ask his students nine questions that were essential for crafting “a well-examined life.” For this podcast, he poses these same nine questions to some of our wisest and most interesting fellow humans. We hope these conversations will shed some light on your own lived experience and tell you something you didn’t know about this mysterious process we call a ...
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Join Rashida and Lauren, wellness professionals and spiritual besties, as they discuss anything and everything from the mundane to the mystical. Your Spiritual Besties includes personal updates and intuitive guidance from the hosts, interviews with guest experts, and live spiritual life coaching. Let's laugh, cry, connect, and get real as we discuss, "What is this spirituality thing anyway?"
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What Healthy Relationships Do Differently !
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1:56:21Why do some relationships thrive after conflict while others crumble? What if conflict wasn’t the problem in your relationships—but the key to deeper connection? In this powerful episode of the Almost Awakened Podcast, Bill Reel and Terresa Hobbs dive into the vital but often misunderstood cycle of rupture and repair. From parenting to romantic rel…
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The Mind & Body’s Connection to Religious Trauma
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1:48:34In this powerful episode, we explore the fascinating—and at times unsettling—truth that your body can carry pain, anxiety, and illness long after the danger is gone. Through bizarre medical stories and neuroscience-backed insights, we expose how the brain can misfire protective signals, trapping us in cycles of suffering with no clear physical caus…
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Your Body Isn’t Broken: Teresa Hobbs Shares Her Personal Healing Journey [Almost Awakened 188]
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1:55:28In this powerful and vulnerable episode, Teresa Hobbs opens up about her personal journey through years of chronic illness, unexplained symptoms, and deep emotional and physical collapse — and what it took to slowly find her way back to life. From early signs of nervous system dysregulation to being dismissed by doctors, chasing countless integrati…
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Why We’re So Divided: Trauma, Bias, and the Human Brain [Almost Awakened 187]
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1:42:14Why does the world feel so divided—and why is it so hard to stay curious when we disagree? In this episode of Almost Awakened, we unpack the hidden forces driving today’s polarization. From ancient survival wiring to cognitive biases to trauma-shaped perception, we explore how our brains are glitching in a modern world built to trigger fear and cer…
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Healing from Religious & Spiritual Trauma [Almost Awakened 186]
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1:55:38What happens when the very thing that was supposed to save you ends up breaking you? In this deeply personal episode of Almost Awakened, Bill and Teresa dive into the hidden wounds left by high-demand religions and spiritual systems. From shame-laced teachings to fear-based obedience, they unpack the symptoms of religious trauma and explore what he…
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Unmasking Trauma: What It Really Is and How We Heal [Almost Awakened 185]
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1:16:11You’ve heard the word ‘trauma’—but do you really know what it means? In this powerful and eye-opening episode, we break down the truth about trauma: not just the dramatic events, but the subtle, often invisible wounds that live in our bodies, shape our behavior, and distort how we see the world. We explore: *What trauma actually is (hint: it’s not …
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Healing Starts Here: Understanding the Nervous System & Trauma [Almost Awakened 184]
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1:21:28Ep. 184 | Almost Awakened In this episode we explore how nervous system dysregulation affects your health, relationships, emotions, and identity—and how understanding this system can radically change the way you live and heal. Welcome to the reboot of the Almost Awakened Podcast—where big awakenings meet real-life healing. Bill Reel is joined by hi…
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Catching Up With Britt Hartley [Almost Awakened 183]
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1:31:27Britt Hartley returns to engage Bill on several questions that will create a fantastic awakened conversation and to reconnect on where being almost awakened has led them.By Brittney Hartley & Bill Reel
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The Problem with Parties - Sam Rosenfeld and Daniel Schlozman
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39:30Daniel Schlozman is the Joseph and Bertha Bernstein Associate Professor of Political Science at Johns Hopkins University. He is the author of the book When Movements Anchor Parties. Sam Rosenfeld is an associate professor of political science at Colgate University and the author of The Polarizers, Post War Architects of Our Partisan Era. Both are c…
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James N. Druckman is the Payson S. Wild Professor of Political Science and Faculty Fellow at the Institute for Policy Research at Northwestern University. He is also an Honorary Professor of Political Science at Aarhus University in Denmark. Druckman has published more than 180 articles and book chapters in political science, communication, economi…
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085: Reclaiming African Roots: Kemetic Yoga, Safe Spaces, and Spiritual Parenting
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1:14:25In this episode, Lauren and Rashida dive into the impact of hot weather on moods and introduce their guest, Dr. Auburn E. Ellis. Dr. Auburn is an experienced registered yoga teacher and founder of Studio 5400. She shares her spiritual journey from a Baptist upbringing to discovering yoga, with a special focus on Kemetic yoga, an ancient Egyptian st…
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John Sides is the Chair of the Department of Political Science at Vanderbilt University. He is the author of many books on campaigns and cofounder of the Good Authority blog which brings political science research to a wider audience. Support the showBy Eric Oliver
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The Extinction of Experience - Christine Rosen
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48:34Christine Rosen is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where she focuses on American history, society and culture, technology and culture, and feminism. Concurrently she is a columnist for Commentary magazine and one of the cohosts of The Commentary Magazine Podcast. She is also a fellow at the University of Virginia’s Institute f…
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084: Navigating Eco-Anxiety with Rachael Cohen
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48:16Hey Besties, In this insightful episode, Lauren and Rashida discuss their experiences explaining menstruation to their young daughters and touch on the topic of eco-anxiety and its impact on mental health. They are joined by Rachael Cohen, author of 'Self-Care for Eco-Anxiety,' who shares her personal journey with eco-anxiety and offers practical s…
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083: Taking a Sacred Pause: An Update from Lauren & Rashida
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4:13Episode Summary: In this heartfelt solo episode, Lauren shares an important update about the podcast's future. Due to recurring technical issues and the need for personal time, Lauren and Rashida have decided to take a short break from their weekly recording schedule. This pause will allow them to focus on their lives as busy moms, business owners,…
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Tom Levinson is one of the most multifaceted people we know. A former lawyer and divinity student, he is the author of ALL THAT’S HOLY: A Young Guy, an Old Car, and the search for God in America. Tom is co-founder of LK Advisors, LLC, which provides families with help navigating the complexities of life with money. He is also cohost of Money, Meet …
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082: From Law to Life Force: Kirsten Stockton's Journey into Reiki and Intuition
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1:02:18In this enlightening episode, Lauren and Rashida chat with Kirsten Stockton, a certified intuitive and Reiki master. Kirsten shares her transformative journey from being a trial attorney to embracing energy work and intuitive coaching. She highlights the significance of self-reflection and reconnecting with oneself to understand personal purpose an…
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Creating A Fulfilling Romantic Relationship [Almost Awakened 182]
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40:02In this episode of Almost Awakened, Bill shares his two month dive into relationship research. From John & Julie Gottman to Jordan Peterson RESOURCES: https://youtu.be/mS3bfCt0K88?si=qi-wdEVuZVHDJ0_p https://youtu.be/E5swtIjpxxA?si=jpBWf28DfDMZbjtb https://youtu.be/PQo8hFqfe9A?si=46f4K_7rRlvVfgXi https://youtu.be/Qv70RMUFlu0?si=lqBYi7z256AW7ME9 htt…
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Brittney Hartley is an author, secular spiritual counselor, and self described Nihilism survivor. She was raised in a strong Mormon community in Idaho and was a history teacher and mother when she began questioning her faith. This led her to graduate study in theology and eventually a life today as a meditation teacher and spiritual counselor for p…
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081: July Oracle: Patriotism, Balance, and Positive Change
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26:47Hey Besties! In this episode we share our plans for the 4th of July and dive into a thoughtful reflection on patriotism. We explore the importance of balance in the collaborative process, emphasizing the need for a harmonious exchange of giving and receiving. Our conversation also touches on broader themes of liberation, societal ethics, and the po…
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080: Cultivating Loving-Kindness: Kuan Yin's Teachings on Mercy and Self-Compassion
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28:22Hey Besties! In this heartfelt conversation, Lauren and Rashida delve into the inspiring qualities of the goddess Quan Yin, known for her boundless compassion and mercy. They explore the importance of self-love and the transformative power of choosing compassion over suffering. Discussing how to balance positivity with the acknowledgment and proces…
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079: Summer Solstice & Freya: Symbolism, Rituals, and Embracing Change
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23:03In this vibrant episode of Your Spiritual Besties Podcast, Lauren and Rashida celebrate the summer solstice and delve into its rich symbolism and significance. They share their love for the summer season, discussing how the summer solstice, as the longest day of the year, marks the beginning of summer and symbolizes the peak of light and energy. Th…
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Dale Borglum is the founder and Executive Director of A Living/Dying Project. He is a pioneer in the conscious dying movement and has worked directly with thousands of people with life-threatening illness and their families for over 30 years. In 1981, Dale founded the first residential facility for people who wished to die consciously in the United…
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078: Balancing Your Heart Chakra: Practices for Love and Compassion
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31:50In this heartwarming episode of Your Spiritual Besties Podcast, we dive into the ways one can bring balance and energy to the heart chakra, especially when we're feeling off or in a funk. We explore a variety of nurturing practices such as giving and receiving hugs, using essential oils and flowers, spending time with animals, reaching out to loved…
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Sam Patten is a political consultant who spent the first half of his career promoting democracy and advising political campaigns in Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe. He gained notoriety in 2018 when he became the target of the Muller Investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 campaign, due largely to his connection with Konstantine Kilimin…
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077: Pitfalls of New Age Spirituality with Brittney Hartley
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1:02:31In this episode of Your Spiritual Besties Podcast, we are joined by the incredible Brittney Hartley, a Spiritual Director specializing in nihilism recovery, faith deconstruction, and secular spirituality. Brittney shares her journey of deconstructing from Mormonism and Christianity to find her own path in spirituality. She emphasizes the profound i…
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076: June Oracle Reading: Embracing Stillness and Gratitude
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26:37Welcome back to Your Spiritual Besties Podcast! In today's episode, we are thrilled to share our excitement for the upcoming summer season and discuss the importance of self-care during this vibrant time. Through our oracle card readings we explore the powerful concepts of stillness and gratitude as essential practices for optimal health and well-b…
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The Neuroscience of Well Being - Camilla Nord
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54:38Camilla Nord is fellow and director of Studies in Psychological and Behavioral Sciences at Cambridge University. Her research tries to bridge the gap between neuroscience and treatments for mental health disorders, She is also the author of a new book called The Balanced Brain: The Science of Mental Health. Support the show…
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075: Embodying Lakshmi: Cultivating Abundance Beyond Wealth
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34:27Welcome back to Your Spiritual Besties Podcast! In today's episode, we dive into the divine energy of the goddess Lakshmi and her multifaceted aspects of abundance. We explore how abundance goes beyond money, touching on love, purpose, and self-knowledge. Our conversation highlights the importance of hard work and perseverance in creating a life of…
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074: Ignite Your Inner Fire: Empowering Confidence with Your Spiritual Besties
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48:20Hey Lovely Souls, Welcome back to Your Spiritual Besties Podcast! Today, we are diving deep into a topic that hits close to home for many of us: feeling stuck in a funk and we look at it from the lens of the solar plexus chakra. We explore the various factors that can contribute to this state of being, from external circumstances to internal existe…
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073: Exploring Microdosing and Spirituality with Leslie Draffin
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1:07:30Welcome back to Your Spiritual Besties Podcast! In today's episode, we share our personal experiences with learning Spanish and introduce our special guest, Leslie Draffin, a somatic psychedelic guide. Leslie takes us on a journey from her previous career as a news anchor to her current role as a guide and coach in the field of psychedelics. Togeth…
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The Gender Dysphoria & Transgender Debate: A Foundation Conversation [Almost Awakened: 181]
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3:10:41Join Bill Reel and Jon Streeter in a thought-provoking conversation that delves deep into the complexities of the Gender Dysphoria & Transgender Debate. In this YouTube video, these two articulate voices engage in a nuanced exploration that transcends the surface-level discourse often seen in mainstream media. At the heart of their discussion lies …
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072: Nurturing Self-Love and Renewal with Your Spiritual Besties
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36:33Hey Besties! We are chatting Beltane and May Day! We explore the significance of these festivals, highlighting the importance of reassessing goals and embracing self-care. And as with every first of the month we tap into the energies of May and get guidance on how we should move through it with ease. Tune in for insights on finding balance, nurturi…
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Britt Hartley: No Nonsense Spirituality [Almost Awakened: 180]
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1:38:25In “No Nonsense Spirituality,” author, philosopher, and friend Britt Hartley offers a groundbreaking exploration that marries the rigor of rational inquiry with the depths of […]By Brittney Hartley & Bill Reel
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Emotions, Negotiation, and Comedy - Dr. Hillary Elfenbein
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48:46Hillary Anger Elfenbein has been a business school professor at the Olin School of Washington University in St. Louis since 2008. She holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior, a Master’s degree in Statistics, and undergraduate degrees in Physics and Sanskrit, all from Harvard University. Dr. Elfenbein served for five years on faculty at the Haas Sc…
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071: Nurturing Spaces and Souls: Unpacking Motherhood, Spirituality, and Self-Care
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1:52:20Hey beautiful souls, Lauren & Rashida here, welcoming you to "Your Spiritual Besties" podcast. This episode is a bestie catch up! Today, we've shared our heartfelt journeys, from creating peaceful sanctuaries at home to enhancing our health and skincare practices. We discussed finding balance between our passions and sustainability efforts, the imp…
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070: Navigating Spirituality & Intuition with Alexandra Shelly
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1:06:13Hey Besties! Join us on a profound exploration of spirituality and intuition with our guest Alexandra Shelly. In this episode, we voyage through Alexandra's captivating spiritual journey, discuss the essence of intuition, the guiding hand of spirit guides, and find balance between technological aid and our inner compass. We also demystify the ethic…
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069: Breathe in Freshness: Spring Cleaning Your Life for Divine Inspiration
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25:39Welcome to Your Spiritual Besties Podcast, where we delve deep into the realms of spirituality and friendship! In today's episode, join Lauren and Rashida as they embark on a journey of spring cleaning and clearing out both physical and mental clutter. They share their insights on the importance of creating space for newness and growth, and how let…
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068: 8 Steps to Bliss with Your Spritual Besties
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1:11:43Welcome back to Your Spiritual Besties Podcast! We're beyond excited to have you join us for another heart-to-heart exploration into the depths of spirituality and self-discovery. Today, we're delving into the transformative world of yoga philosophy and practice, and we can't wait to share our insights with you. As we reflect on our own journeys, w…
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067: Navigating Self-Worth & Empowerment with Your Spiritual Besties
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1:01:50Welcome back, Besties! Join us in this special episode as we celebrate Rashida's 38th and Lauren's 40th birthdays! Age is just a number, and we're diving deep into the realms of self-worth, empowerment, and embracing life's journey at every age. Tune in as we reflect on societal expectations, share advice to our younger selves, and explore the tran…
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066: Unveiling Spiritual Gems Through Intuition and Connection
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1:27:06Welcome back for another episode of Your Spiritual Besties, where we delve into the realms of spirituality, personal growth, and self-discovery. In this soul-stirring journey, join us as we explore nomadic reflections, and intuitive insights with Vanessa Price. In this chakra reading we unveil the facets of Vanessa's spiritual gemstone. Vanessa sha…
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The Mysteries of Consciousness - Anil Seth
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43:47Anil Seth is Professor of Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience at the University of Sussex, where he is also Director of the Sussex Centre for Consciousness Science. He is also Co-Director of the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) Program on Brain, Mind, and Consciousness, and of the Leverhulme Doctoral Scholarship Programme: From…
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065: Embracing Serenity: The Four Locks & Keys of Yogic Philosophy with Your Spiritual Besties
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51:28Welcome back to Your Spiritual Besties, where Lauren and Rashida bring you the perfect blend of wisdom and camaraderie with this week making yogic philosophy feel like a cozy chat among close friends. In today's episode, Lauren sets the tone with a profound verse, reminding us of the paramount importance of maintaining inner peace amidst life's cha…
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064: March Magic: Empowering Conversations & Birthday Blessings
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33:31Welcome back, beautiful souls! Today on the Your Spiritual Besties Podcast, Rashida and Lauren embarked on a journey through the energies of March with an illuminating oracle card reading. But before delving into the mystical realm, we both emphasized the significance of open dialogues within sisterhood circles about finances. Candidly discussing w…
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Mindful Politics - Steve Israel & Tim Ryan
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1:08:29Former Congressman Steve Israel left Capitol Hill – unindicted and undefeated – to pursue a career as a writer. He heads the non-partisan Cornell University Institute of Politics and Global Affairs in New York City. Israel was a Member of Congress for sixteen years. He left in 2017, having served as House Democrats chief political strategist betwee…
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063: Embracing Authenticity and Sisterhood at Origins Gathering
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1:32:33Hey there, lovely souls! Welcome back to Your Spiritual Besties Podcast! We are thrilled to share our recent escapades in Costa Rica with you. We met up at Origins Gathering, a space nestled along the Pacific coast, where we immersed ourselves in the rich tapestry of local culture and spiritual wisdom. Despite a few bumps along the road, like commu…
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062: Embracing Divine Femininity: Journey with Aphrodite, Hathor, and Oshun
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1:17:54Welcome back besties! In today's magical episode, we delve into the enchanting world of holiday traditions and goddesses of love. We explored the historical roots of Valentine's Day and discussed the divine feminine essence of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. Our journey also led us to the nurturing energy of Hathor, the Egyptian goddess, and …
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061: Exploring the Intersection of Knowledge and Energy in Mental Health
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1:01:05Hey Besties! We're thrilled to introduce you to Anna Marie Green, a wonderful licensed therapist and devoted single mother, on a mission to guide individuals through their well-being journey. Anna Marie brings a beautiful blend of energy work and psychology, creating a safe haven for personal growth. As we dive into this heart-to-heart conversation…
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060: Embracing Imbolc Magic: New Beginnings, Ayurveda, and Unexpected Blessings
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38:55Hey besties join us in another episode of Your Spiritual Besties Podcast as we dive into the magic of Imbolc, a fire festival symbolizing new beginnings between the winter solstice and spring equinox. We explore nature-based rituals and the significance of rest, nourishment, and cultural practices, seamlessly transitioning into embracing Ayurvedic …
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Eric Oliver is Professor of Political Science at the University of Chicago. He studies American politics, public opinion, political psychology, local politics, racial attitudes, the politics of science, and the self. Recent research papers examine why Americans believe in conspiracy theories, how credulous Americans are about misinformation, why 20…
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