Mike is joined by Ann Amberg, M.C.S., M.A., depth psychology & ecopsychological scholar, and visionary guide, to explore how reconnecting with the Earth and its archetypal forces can transform our relationship with ourselves and the world around us. They dive into the erotic nature of the Earth, the power of longing, and the archetypal patterns that shape both personal and collective experiences.

Ann invites us to embrace the archetypal forces of Eros and Allurement, revealing how our culture's disconnection from nature has left us emotionally unfulfilled and spiritually disconnected. The conversation touches on everything from mythical understandings of Eros to practical ways of reconnecting with nature and the cosmos.

In This Episode, We Explore:

• The erotic nature of the Earth and the concept of Eros as gravity and attraction
• Archetypal patterns and their influence on both personal and collective experiences
• How to connect with nature through praise, deep imagery, and somatic practices
• Ann’s upcoming year-long immersion program, Powers of the Universe, exploring archetypal forces in a ritualistic and interactive format
• Reflections on longing, belonging, and the cultural disconnection from nature

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Powers of the Universe by Dr. Brian Swimme
• The role of ritual in eco-psychology and how archetypal awareness can heal our disconnection from the Earth
• Jungian concepts of the self, longing, and the collective unconscious as they relate to our connection with nature

Connect with Ann Amberg: Ann’s work centers on providing transformative depth learning experiences and eco-psychological guidance. To learn more about her upcoming program or work with her one-on-one, visit:

AnnAmberg.com

Instagram: @annlevallyamberg

This episode is also available on YouTube

Mike is joined by Stephanie Brinkerhoff and Kelli Christine for a heartfelt and insightful discussion about their personal journeys out of Mormonism, the healing power of psychedelics, and navigating the complex emotions that come with deconstructing religious belief systems.

They explore topics like spiritual bypassing, the importance of embracing grief and anger, and how these raw emotions can lead to deeper self-understanding and growth. The conversation sheds light on the tension between wanting to leave the past behind and the continual process of healing from religious trauma.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Stephanie's and Kelli’s individual journeys of leaving Mormonism and how psychedelics helped them through their transitions.
• The concept of spiritual bypassing and why avoiding difficult emotions can block true healing.
• The role of anger and grief in personal growth, and how to honor these emotions rather than suppress them.
• How Mormonism’s focus on "happiness" as a measure of success can perpetuate emotional suppression.
• The importance of internal family systems (IFS) and parts work in healing from religious trauma.
• Breaking free from external validation and finding an authentic sense of self.

Notable Quotes:

• "I realized I've been giving myself love this whole time—I just thought it was Mormon God." – Stephanie
• "We have to be in that gestation period, in the cocoon, and trust that process before we can emerge on the other side." – Mike
• "Our souls want full participation in the human experience, and that includes both pleasure and pain." – Kelli

Recommended Resources:

• The Soul’s Code by James Hillman
• Perfect Love, Imperfect Relationships by John Wellwood (coined the term "spiritual bypassing")
• Francis Weller’s teachings on grief and the full spectrum of human experience.

Connect with Us: Follow Mormons on Mushrooms for more insights and episodes on spirituality, psychedelics, and life after leaving Mormonism:

• Instagram: @MormonsOnMushrooms
• Website: MormonsOnMushrooms.com
• YouTube: @MormonsOnMushrooms

Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share it with others who may benefit from these conversations!

Mike and Doug dive deep into the daily struggle of self-perception—are you a badass Samurai Warrior or... a Horny Santa Claus? Mike shares how his recent beach trip involved a self-baptism (because, why not?) and Doug introduces the golden rule: “You can’t force the night.” It's all about embracing your vibe, whether you're rocking the Samurai or channeling your inner Santa.

Key Topics:

• Samurai Warrior vs. Horny Santa Claus
• Mike’s coconut oil hair secrets
• Why you can’t force the night—let it unfold naturally
• Boundary-setting and just rolling with the vibe
• A spontaneous ocean baptism