• Romancing the Shadow - Interview with Connie Zweig, Ph.D.
    2025/05/05

    In this captivating episode, we get into the heart of what it means to engage with our shadow, a concept rooted deeply in Jungian psychology. Dr. Connie Zweig illuminates how our shadow comprises all that lies outside the light of awareness—our hidden emotions, desires, and traits suppressed during our upbringing. Whether it's the unfulfilled dream of becoming an artist, a lover of athletics, or the rebellious critic within, your shadow house treasures waiting to be unearthed.

    Key Highlights:

    • Discover the power of identifying and working with shadow figures such as the inner judge or procrastinator.
    • Learn practical methods and cues to recognize when your shadow is emerging in everyday life.
    • Understand the impact of shadow work on relationships and how embracing this personal journey can transform interactions and deepen connections.
    • Explore the phenomenon of spiritual bypassing and the critical need to balance spiritual aspirations with psychological development.

    This episode promises to enrich your understanding and offer practical tools so you can embrace all parts of yourself, creating a more authentic and fulfilling life.

    Connie Zweig, Ph.D. is a retired Jungian therapist and author of Meeting the Shadow (A New Edition is now available) and Romancing the Shadow (A New Edition is now available). Her award-winning book, The Inner Work of Age: Shifting from Role to Soul, extends Shadow-work into midlife and beyond and explores aging as a spiritual practice. Her book, Meeting the Shadow on the Spiritual Path: The Dance of Darkness and Light in Our Search for Awakening, extends shadow-work into religion and spirituality. Her new PODCAST, Dr. Neil’s Spiritual Awakening to Non-Duality, posts on all podcast platforms. See her new SUBSTACK for livestreams and new writing: https://www.shadowworkawareness.com/about.


    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction

    01:56 Defining the Shadow

    04:59 Translating Shadow Work for Everyday Life

    06:03 Methodology for Shadow Work

    12:51 Shadow Work in Relationships

    16:29 Understanding Projection in Relationships 20:12 Spiritual Bypassing and Projection

    24:32 Emotions, Shadow Work, and Spiritual Bypassing

    33:58 Approach to Shadow Work in Therapy

    44:48 Society, Institutions, and Shadow Work

    50:24 Personal Development and Collective Contribution


    •••

    Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure

    Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:
    Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

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    58 分
  • Spiritual Awakening: Plant Medicine and Jungian Psychology
    2025/04/28

    Are you curious about the role of plant medicine in personal growth and self-discovery? In this episode of Soul Sessions, we're delving into the intriguing intersection of plant medicine and Carl Jung's concept of individuation, revealing how these natural substances can open new pathways within the psyche.

    Join hosts Debra and Dr. Rob Maldonado as they explore the cultural context and psychological impacts of plant medicine on individuation:

    • The influence of psychedelics when taken out of cultural contexts
    • The effect of psychedelics on the brain, including the scrambling of brain function and its spiritual effects
    • The dissolution of the ego through plant medicine and its parallels with Jung's individuation
    • How to integrate profound experiences for lasting personal growth

    Subscribe now and embark on a journey of exploration into the consciousness-expanding potential of plant medicine.

    00:00 Introduction
    00:31 Plant Medicine and Its Popularity
    02:18 Cultural Context and Use of Psychedelics
    04:31 Advice for Research and Safe Practice
    04:55 Human Experience and Mind-Altering Substances
    08:10 Plant Medicine and the Brain
    09:30 Experiencing the Unconscious
    11:06 The Default Mode Network and Ego
    13:16 Connection and Spiritual Experience
    14:45 Individuation vs. Plant Medicine
    15:48 Lucid Dreaming and Natural Hallucinations
    25:06 Brain Restructuring and Adaptation
    26:50 The Role of Resistance in Lasting Change
    30:00 Yoga Systems and Psycho-Spiritual Awakening
    30:44 Conclusion and Breaking Free from Limitation



    •••

    Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure

    Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:
    Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

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    33 分
  • Understanding Shame and the Shadow
    2025/04/21

    Unlock the transformative power of understanding shame in our latest episode of Soul Sessions: A Jungian Coaching Podcast with CreativeMind. We're diving deep into how this often misunderstood emotion can be an ally in personal growth and empowerment.

    Join hosts Debra and Dr. Rob Maldonado as they discuss the dual nature of shame, viewing it through the lens of coaching and personal development. In this episode, we explore:

    • The empathetic origins of shame and its role in societal harmony
    • How shame manifests in our lives and its impact on self-confidence
    • Strategies for transforming shame from a limiting force into a catalyst for growth
    • Integrating the shadow to unleash your natural confidence and creative mind

    Don't miss this insightful conversation that encourages you to embrace every part of your human experience, turning shame into a stepping stone towards achieving your fullest potential. Subscribe now to stay updated on new episodes every week!


    00:00 Introduction
    00:22 The Importance of Understanding Shame
    01:06 The Coaching Perspective on Shame
    01:56 Shame as a Functional Social Emotion
    04:34 Misconceptions about Shame
    05:39 The Role of Shame in Childhood
    07:19 Internalizing Shame into Adulthood
    11:58 Overcoming the Fear of Shame
    32:17 Integration and Acceptance
    34:24 Activating the Creative Mind
    37:00 Conclusion: Upcoming Topics and Opportunities

    •••

    Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure

    Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:
    Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

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    40 分
  • Unlocking Potential: The Observer Effect and Creating Reality with Your Mind
    2025/04/14

    We're excited to bring you another enlightening episode of Soul Sessions with CreativeMind! In this episode, titled "Unlocking Potential: The Observer Effect and Creating Reality with Your Mind" hosts Robert Maldonado, PhD, and Debra Maldonado share the fascinating interplay between neuroscience, Jungian psychology, and Eastern philosophy.

    Episode Highlights:

    • The Observer Effect: Discover how our perceptions shape our reality. The universe as infinite potential is influenced by our expectations – a perspective validated by neuroscience and quantum mechanics.
    • Embodied Consciousness: Explore the concept of observing the world from the lens of the 'I' or ego, creating a sense of separation. Understanding this can empower us to rewrite our narratives.
    • Witness Mind: Learn about cultivating metacognition, allowing you to step aside from default patterns and engage with your thoughts consciously. It's like seeing your mind from a bird's eye view!
    • Active Imagination: We dive into Jung's method of engaging with the unconscious mind. By interacting with symbols, we can envision new possibilities, breaking free from repetitive patterns.
    • Self-Directed Neuroplasticity: Direct your brain's potential to reshape and reorganize itself through intentional imagination and visioning, guiding your personal development intentionally.

    This episode offers tools for intentional living, empowering you to engage actively with your thoughts and transform your life by harnessing the power of your mind.


    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction

    01:06 Exploring the Observer Effect

    04:02 Embodied Consciousness Explained

    10:38 The Witness Mind and Its Benefits

    16:17 Jungian Coaching and Active Imagination

    26:00 Self-Directed Neuroplasticity



    •••

    Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure

    Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:
    Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

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    32 分
  • From Fear to Freedom: Neuroscience of Emotion
    2025/04/07

    In this episode of Soul Sessions, Debra and Dr. Rob Maldonado explore the profound topic of fear and how to transform it into freedom for personal growth. Dive into the discussion of how the brain responds to fear, the concept of consciousness in Eastern philosophy, and the significance of facing fear to unlock infinite potential.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • Understanding Fear in the Brain:
      • Dr. Rob explains the role of the amygdala in fear responses and how it limits access to higher cognitive functions.
      • The impact of chronic fear on the brain, as described by research from Sapolsky, which can reinforce patterns of avoidance.
    • The Power of Coaching:
      • The duo discusses how Jungian coaching can help individuals recognize the source of fear within themselves, leading to empowerment and growth.
      • The importance of facing uncomfortable emotions as a pathway to transformation.
    • Consciousness and Mindfulness:
      • An exploration of the differences between Western and Eastern concepts of consciousness.
      • How our perceptions create our reality, and the process of purifying the mind to perceive opportunities.
    • Emotional Power Integration (EPI):
      • Debra and Rob introduce EPI as a technique to harness and transform fear-based energy into creative energy.
    • Practical Tips for Overcoming Fear:
      • Debra shares a quick tip on how taking a break and reflecting can rewire the brain towards creativity rather than frustration.

    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction

    00:49 The Role of Fear in Growth 01:57

    Fear's Impact on the Brain

    02:36 Eastern vs. Western Perspectives on Consciousness

    03:42 Applying Neuroscience to Coaching

    05:04 Function of the Amygdala in Fear Response

    07:35 Chronic Fear and Anxiety

    09:16 Self-Sabotage and Career Changes

    19:25 Facing Fear to Activate Creativity

    23:43 Purifying the Mind and Opening to Opportunities

    27:17 Mind as a Reflection of Reality

    30:29 Final Thoughts on Transmuting Fear and Creativity 33:04 Quick Tip for Handling Frustration

    •••

    Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure

    Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:
    Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

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    35 分
  • Exploring Neuroplasticity: Transform Your Mindset with Jungian Coaching
    2025/03/31

    In this episode, Debra and Dr. Rob discuss the fascinating world of neuroplasticity and its profound impact on our lives. If you’ve ever wondered about the capacity of your brain to adapt and change, this is a must-listen!

    Key Highlights:

    • What is Neuroplasticity? Dr. Rob introduces neuroplasticity as the brain's ability to adapt and form new neural pathways, allowing us to recover from trauma and learn new skills.
    • Sensitive Periods in Development: Discover how certain times in our lives, like childhood and adolescence, are prime for brain development and why being conscious of these periods can benefit personal growth.
    • The Power of Repetition and Emotion: Learn why repetition and strong emotional experiences play a crucial role in rewiring your brain and how you can use this to your advantage.
    • Beyond the Ego: Explore how manifesting from a place of individuation versus ego can create lasting fulfillment and align with your higher purpose.
    • Visualization and Active Imagination: Debra and Dr. Rob explain how to effectively use self-directed neuroplasticity to manifest your dreams by focusing on visualization, intention, and gratitude.

    00:00 Introduction
    00:41 Understanding Neuroplasticity
    06:54 Impact of Traumatic Events on Neuroplasticity
    08:23 Negative Bias and Neuroplasticity
    10:27 Self-Directed Neuroplasticity
    15:30 Visualization and Mental Rehearsal
    17:50 Manifesting from Ego vs. Higher Purpose
    29:28 Sensitizing Events and Reinforcement
    29:43 Conclusion


    •••

    Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure

    Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:
    Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

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    31 分
  • Mindset Explained: Neuroscience Behind Achieving Your Goals
    2025/03/24

    Ready to unlock the secrets to creating your reality? Join us as we discuss the fascinating connection between neuroscience and mindset. We're thrilled to guide you through how our perceptions shape our lives and reveal the science behind manifesting the life you desire.

    In this episode, we explore:

    • How our brains actively construct reality rather than passively receiving it
    • The concept of reality being a controlled hallucination
    • How manifesting is linked to embedding thoughts and images into our unconscious mind
    • The role of emotion and purpose in redefining our mindsets for personal growth

    00:00 Introduction
    00:16 Overview of Mindset and Neuroscience
    07:12 Controlled Hallucination and Stage Metaphor
    11:08 Perception of Reality and the Role of Sound
    14:38 Subjective Reality and Manifestation
    16:14 Challenges in Manifesting Reality
    18:31 The Ego's Role in Maintaining the Status Quo
    22:36 Overcoming Fear to Create Change
    25:57 Conscious Manifesting from the Higher Self
    27:35 Imagination and Self-Directed Neuroplasticity
    33:00 Value Tagging and Emotional Importance
    40:29 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Inspiration
    45:18 Key Principles for Conscious Manifestation

    Quotes:

    “Creating from the soul, not the ego, leads to a life of purpose and meaning." - Debra Maldonado

    We're all manifesting already; the key is to do it consciously, not on autopilot." - Dr. Rob Maldonado

    •••

    Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure

    Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:
    Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

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    55 分
  • Happiness, Meaning & Self-Discovery - An Interview with James Hollis, PhD.
    2025/03/18

    In this episode of "Soul Sessions with CreativeMind," hosts Debra and Robert Maldonado welcome esteemed Jungian analyst, Dr. James Hollis. Dr. Hollis, a seasoned author and retired senior training analyst, discusses his latest book, "Living on Borrowed Dust." This dynamic conversation explores the crucial themes of happiness, meaning, and self-discovery.

    Dr. Hollis shares profound insights from his new book, emphasizing the importance of living an examined life and understanding the deep questions that shape our existence. Through this engaging dialogue, explore the essence of meaning over fleeting happiness and the critical process of individuation. Whether you're well-versed in Jungian theory or new to personal growth, this episode offers valuable wisdom on navigating life's complexities with depth and purpose. Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion about personal growth, psychological resilience, and the journey towards a meaningful life. Listen now and gain a fresh perspective on embracing life's challenges with curiosity and grace.

    James Hollis, PhD, is a licensed Jungian analyst in private practice in Washington, DC. He taught humanities for 26 years in various colleges and universities before retraining as a Jungian analyst at the Jung Institute of Zürich, Switzerland. He served as executive director of the Jung Educational Center in Houston, Texas, for many years. He was executive director of the Jung Society of Washington until 2019, and now serves on its board of directors. He is a retired senior training analyst for the Inter-Regional Society of Jungian Analysts, was first director of training of the Philadelphia Jung Institute, and is vice-president emeritus of the Philemon Foundation.

    You can get his new book, Living From Borrowed Dust by using this link:

    https://www.soundstrue.com/products/living-with-borrowed-dust?srsltid=AfmBOorwgXDK7Dm5kcPa7BtfsdnEII909Ico_e2a-SDLTG3kpoM5Ziq6


    01:11 Introduction to Dr. Hollis's new book "Living on Borrowed Dust"
    06:00 The pursuit of happiness versus finding meaning
    10:28 Concept of meta stories and the unconscious
    12:20 Relationship between childhood experiences and adult life
    19:54 The role of the unconscious in our lives
    27:00 Facing fears and resistance
    42:00 Surviving and thriving through challenges
    49:30 Concluding thoughts on the search for answers and personal growth
    52:23 Discussion on psychedelics and AI in contemporary culture
    53:14 Thoughts on AI applications in dream interpretation

    QUOTES:
    "I think happiness occurs when we are in the right relationship with our own souls." James Hollis, PhD.

    “One of the things I've found in almost everybody is a meta story of lacking permission to be themselves." - James Hollis, PhD.

    •••

    Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure

    Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:
    Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

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    57 分