Send Rachel a text message.

In this episode, we explore the underdeveloped ego—the "small s self" that keeps us playing small, doubting our worth, and resisting change. You’ll learn what the underdeveloped ego is, how it shows up as negative self-talk and impostor syndrome, and why it fears your awakening.

We'll talk about how the ego’s resistance isn’t the enemy—it’s a sign that growth is happening. Through understanding, compassion, and conscious evolution, the underdeveloped ego can mature into a developed one: a balanced, integrated self that serves your Highest purpose rather than fighting against it.

Transformation isn’t about killing the ego—it’s about teaching it to grow with you.

Join us for Write Yourself Open every second and fourth Tuesday at 1pm Eastern to use meditation, writing, and community discussion to reconnect with your highest self. Learn more and register at writeyourselfopen.com or find it on foundationofself.com or rachelestartetherapy.com.

• • •

Timeline:
0:00:00 – Introduction

• Rachel Astarte opens the episode, introduces the season’s theme of building a foundation of self, and presents the topic: the underdeveloped ego.

0:01:00 – What is the Underdeveloped Ego?

• Explanation of the ego’s role, referencing Carol S. Pearson.
• Introduction of the “small s self” or primitive ego and its need for validation and safety.

0:03:00 – How the Underdeveloped Ego Manifests

• Discussion of negative self-talk, imposter syndrome, anxiety, and depression as signs of the underdeveloped ego.
• Examples of how the ego tries to protect us but keeps us small.

0:06:23 – The Ego’s Deepest Fear

• The primitive ego’s fear of “obliteration” or ego death.
• How this fear leads to resistance against personal growth and awakening.

0:08:00 – Differentiating the Small Self and Highest Self

• How to recognize the voice of the underdeveloped ego versus the higher self.
• Physical and emotional cues for each.

0:09:39 – Transforming the Ego

• The goal is not to destroy the ego but to help it evolve into a balanced, developed ego.
• The developed ego as a bridge between human identity and pure consciousness.

0:10:30 – Practical Steps for Ego Development

• Awareness: noticing when the small self is speaking.
• Dialog: compassionate conversation with the ego.
• Compassionate reframing: seeing fear as a sign of growth.
• Integration: bringing moments of higher self-awareness into daily

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

The highest self isn't an idealized version of ourselves to strive for, but rather our preconditioned consciousness that has always been present within us.

• Our highest self is like a blank sheet of paper upon which our life experiences are written
• Reconnecting with our highest self shifts inner work from fixing ourselves to remembering who we truly are
• When connected to our highest self, we respond rather than react in relationships
• Four practices to reconnect: stillness, writing as dialogue, self-compassion, and presence in daily life
• Notice moments when you feel merged with your highest self—during calm moments, while in nature, or engaged in activities you love
• Inner work isn't about becoming someone else but remembering who you already are

Join us for Write Yourself Open every second and fourth Tuesday at 1pm Eastern to use meditation, writing, and community discussion to reconnect with your highest self. Learn more and register at writeyourselfopen.com or find it on foundationofself.com or rachelestartetherapy.com.

• • •

Timeline:

0:00:00 Rachel introduces the concept that there is no "higher self" to search for; you are already your highest self, and the task is to let go of false ideas about yourself, a reference to Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj, a spiritual teacher.

0:00:28 Host Rachel Astarte welcomes listeners and explains the ongoing "Building Your Foundation of Self" series, focusing today on the "highest self."

[0:01:00–0:05:27] Rachel defines the "highest self" as the pure, original consciousness within everyone—not an ideal to strive for, but the essence that is always present. She explains why reconnecting with the highest self is important for authentic inner work and avoiding burnout from constant self-improvement.

0:05:27 Transition to practical advice.

[0:05:28–0:08:01] Rachel shares four practical ways to reconnect with the highest self: stillness/meditation, writing as dialogue, self-compassion, and presence in daily life. She provides tips for each method.

[0:08:01–0:08:05] Encouragement to listen quietly for the answer from your highest self.

[0:08:05–0:11:50] Rachel gives examples of how listeners may have already experienced their highest self and invites them to notice and journal these moments. She emphasizes that inner work is about remembering who you are, not becoming someone else, and previews the topic of the next episode, the underdeveloped ego.

0:11:50 Rachel invites listeners to join the "Write Yourself Open" program for further exploration and support, providing details on how to join and

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Be mindful of your self-talk, it’s a conversation with the Universe.
—David James Lees

This podcast episode focuses on negative self-talk, exploring how destructive internal dialogues are learned, not inherent. 

Rachel provides a four-step process to transform negative self-talk:

1.        Awareness without judgment: Notice the critical inner voice without self-criticism

2.        Identify the source: Recognize that negative thoughts often come from external influences, not your true self

3.        Call in the Highest Self: Connect with your inner wisdom and eternal consciousness

4.        Rewrite the script: Replace negative thoughts with compassionate, validating statements

The episode emphasizes that the inner critic is not bad, but scared, and should be met with curiosity and compassion. 

Rachel uses the Cherokee tale of two wolves to illustrate how we choose which internal voice to "feed"—the one of fear or the one of love.

Key Message

You are not your negative thoughts. Your highest self is wise, loving, and connected to collective consciousness.

Link to Rachel's Substack, Foundation of Self

Link to 3-month free paid subscription.

"The Story of Two Wolves" courtesy of Lakota Circles of Hope 

Music: "Journey Circle Song" written and performed by Rachel Astarte

• • •

Timeline:

0:00:00 - Introduction begins, quote about self-talk
0:00:21 - Rachel Astarte welcomes listeners to the episode
0:01:21 - Explanation of how negative self-talk is learned
0:02:34 - Step one: Awareness without judgment
0:03:31 - Transition to step two
0:03:37 - Step two: Identify the source of negative self-talk
0:04:51 - Step three: Calling in the foundation of self
0:05:16 - Detailed explanation of the highest self
0:07:09 - Step four: Rewriting the script
0:08:38 - Cherokee tale of two wolves begins
0:10:29 - Conclusion of the two wolves story
0:11:05 - Wrapping up the main discussion
0:11:14 - Mention of August break
0:12:28 - Final closing remarks
0:12:30 - End of podcast

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Who looks outside dreams; who looks inside awakes.
—Carl Jung

In this episode, we explore the concept of awakening—a profound shift in consciousness where you recognize your interconnectedness with all existence. We'll delve into the spiritual and psychological dimensions of awakening, drawing from traditions like Zen Buddhism, Taoism, and Hinduism.

Most importantly, we'll look at how awakening transforms personal perception, challenging the ego's self-centered worldview. We'll also address the inevitable changes in relationships that happen once we set foot on the awakened path, the importance of inner work, and the need for nonjudgment and gentleness during personal growth.

Key Highlights

• Awakening is a perceptional shift in consciousness
• The ego resists understanding of interconnectedness
• Relationships naturally change during personal transformation
• Inner work requires patience and self-compassion
• Individual growth contributes to collective consciousness
• Awareness is the primary tool for personal development
• One cannot force awakening in others
• Personal healing impacts the broader community
• Spiritual growth is a continuous, lifelong journey
• Understanding interconnectedness leads to a more expansive worldview

Timeline:
0:00:00 - Opening quote by Carl Jung about looking inside to awaken
0:00:21 - Introduction to the concept of awakening

• Defined as a perceptional shift in consciousness
• Understanding interconnectedness with all things

0:01:42 - Exploration of awakening across different spiritual traditions

• Zen Buddhism (Satori)
• Taoism (Primal unified awareness)
• Hinduism (Sat Chit Ananda)

0:02:24 - Two key things that happen during awakening:

• Realizing interconnectedness
• Ego's resistance to this new awareness

0:05:50 - Relationships change during awakening

• Existing relationships may end or transform

0:06:07 - Systems theory explanation
Disruption of homeostasis in relationships

• Others may resist or react to one's personal transformation

0:08:37 - Key insights on personal growth:

• Cannot force awakening in others
• Need to be present and loving
• Respect others' individual journeys

0:10:00 - Being on the awakened path means:

• Shifting worldview
• Continuous inner work
• Clearing personal misalignments

0:11:51 - Practical approach to awakening:

• Non-judgment
• Awareness
• Gentleness
• Patience with personal growth

0:15:20 - Concluding message:

• Individual contribution is essential to the whole
• Personal inner work impacts community health

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

What you do for yourself, any gesture of kindness, any gesture of gentleness, any gesture of honesty and clear seeing toward yourself, will…transform how you experience the world. What you do for yourself, you’re doing for others, and what you do for others, you’re doing for yourself.
—Pema Chodron

This episode discusses the transformative concept of gentleness as a core principle of inner work. 

Discover how being gentle with yourself can heal wounds, reduce self-judgment, and create profound personal growth. Learn about the origins of gentleness, how to practice self-compassion, and why being a "gentle warrior" is a sign of true strength.

Timeline:
0:00-1:22 - Introduction to gentleness as the third core principle of inner work
1:23-3:53 - Etymology and historical meanings of "gentleness"
4:04-5:31 - Exploring self-reflection and softening personal judgments
5:45-9:34 - Addressing fears about being gentle and transforming negative self-talk
9:55-11:29 - The importance of gentleness in personal growth and collective consciousness
11:40-13:36 - Gentleness as strength, not weakness, with examples from the Gentle Warrior Program
13:55-14:22 - Closing thoughts and invitation to be gentle with oneself

•• Correction: The Bible quote on gentleness is from Galatians 5:22-23 ••

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

You are awareness. Awareness is another name for you. Since you are awareness there is no need to attain or cultivate it. All that you have to do is to give up being aware of other things; that is, of the not-Self. If one gives up being aware of them then pure awareness alone remains, and that is the Self.
—Ramana Maharshi

We continue our series on the Foundation of Self with the primary tool: Awareness. Awareness offers a pathway to understand both our conscious mind, behaviors, emotions, and our deeper universal connection to everything around us.

• Awareness is the conscious act of placing our attention on something with metaconsciousness

• Differentiating between the two selves: the small 's' ego self versus the capital 'S' true Self

• Body awareness (interoception) helps us feel sensations and emotions rather than just thinking about them

• All beings share the same universal consciousness, supported by concepts like quantum entanglement

• Awareness helps detect when we're out of alignment so we can course-correct without judgment

• The small 's' self speaks from fear while the capital 'S' Self offers compassionate perspective

• Integrating both selves creates "Zorba the Buddha" – being fully human while maintaining spiritual awareness

• We are generators of energy who create our world through how we choose to live in it

Here's the link to the free download of Ramana Maharshi's book, Who Am I?

Have a question? Comment? Email me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com.

Don't forget to subscribe, share your thoughts, and leave a review to spread the word.

xo RA

________________

Episode Breakdown

0:00:00 - 0:00:42 - Introduction

• Quote from Ramana Maharshi about awareness
• Podcast host Rachel Astarte introduces the topic

0:00:42 - 0:02:15 - Defining Awareness

• Explanation of awareness as consciously placing attention
• Meta-consciousness exercise with focusing on an object

0:02:15 - 0:07:47 - Types of Awareness

• Awareness of self (mind and body)
• Body awareness/interoception exercise
• Guided 30-second body awareness meditation

0:07:47 - 0:11:30 - Awareness of Interconnectedness

• Advaita Vedanta philosophy
• Quantum entanglement discussion
• Concept of unity and energy communication

0:11:30 - 0:15:30 - Awareness in Practice

• Non-judgment approach
• Distinguishing between small s self and capital S self
• Examples of ego-based vs. true self thinking

0:15:30 - 0:17:35 - Concluding Thoughts

• Balancing Zorba and Buddha concepts
• Being an ambassador of source
• Encouragement for inner work and self-awareness

0:17:35 - End Podcast Outro

• Invitation for listener emails and questions
• Teaser for next episode on gentleness

(Courtesy of Otter.ai)

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

For the wakeful, one whose mind is quiet, whose thoughts are undisturbed, who has relinquished judgment and blame, there is no fear.
—Buddha

Today's talk continues the deep dive into Foundation of Self work with an in-depth review of nonjudgment, the lifeblood of this inner work. We explore why humans judge (the need for safety), the different types of judgment (appearance, sociability, morality), and how judgment often stems from survival instincts and projection of our own hidden aspects. 

You'll even have a chance to practice nonjudgment with yourself. 

Have a question? Comment? Email me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com.

Don't forget to subscribe, share your thoughts, and leave a review to spread the word.

xo RA

________________

Episode Breakdown 

0:00:25 - Episode Introduction

• Rachel introduces the topic of non-judgment

0:03:39 - Understanding Judgment

• Why humans judge and its survival purposes
• Three fundamental ways of judging: appearance, sociability, morality

0:05:00 - Carl Jung's Projection and Shadow Concept

• Explanation of how we project disowned parts of ourselves onto others

0:07:49 - Non-Judgment of Ourselves

Benefits of practicing non-judgment

• Avoiding comparison traps
• Creating connection with others
• Gaining clarity and peace of mind

0:11:16 - Imposter Syndrome and Self-Judgment

• Examples of negative self-talk
• Reframing techniques for self-judgment

0:14:14 - Why Non-Judgment is Vital in Self-Work

• How judgment stops personal progress
• Importance of gentle self-encouragement

0:16:41 - Non-Judgment Exercise

• Practical exercise for reframing self-judgmental thoughts
• Example of Rachel's personal reframing

0:17:50 - Closing Remarks

• Encouragement to be gentle with oneself
• Preview of next episode on awareness

(Courtesy of Otter.ai)

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Asking yourself deeper questions opens up new ways of being in the world. It brings in a breath of fresh air. It makes life more joyful. The real trick to life is not to be in the know, but to be in the mystery.
—Fred Alan Wolf

You asked for more solo episodes, so here we go!

For the next few episodes, I'll share a deep inner work process called the Foundation of Self. In short:

When you have a strong foundation of self, you can manage life’s challenges with grace. You have the stability to know who you are, what you want, and your calling in this life. You stop doubting yourself and seeking external validation. You begin to see that your life is an essential part of the whole of existence and that all life around you is family. 

Today's talk is a brief introduction to inner work—and how your individual life plays a vital role in the well-being of all around you.

Have a question? Comment? Email me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com.

xo RA

________________________

Episode Breakdown

1. 0:00:35 Introduction to Foundation of Self
2. 0:01:02 Defining Inner Work
3. 0:01:38 Example Scenario: Dinner Party and Self-Doubt
4. 0:02:36 Benefits of a Strong Foundation of Self
5. 0:03:48 The Significance of Individual Energy
6. 0:04:59 Quantum Physics and Personal Impact on Reality
7. 0:05:30 Conclusion and Preview of Next Episode

(Courtesy of Otter.ai)

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Shelly Starks is the President & CEO of Inline Consulting Services. Her mission is to help businesses overcome internal and external communication barriers with clear and concise tools that align with the organization’s vision to position them for scalable growth.

In this episode, Shelly and I share insights from our respective careers on how to best communicate with one another. As a therapist, my interest is in learning how my clients' minds process information. In the corporate world, it's not that dissimilar. Shelly stresses that sales is not just about making the sale; it's about learning how to connect with the person you're speaking with.

That's a tool that benefits all of us.


More from Shelly:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelly-starks/

Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/ShellyStarksICS/

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Dr. Natalie Marr is a Clinical Psychologist who offers nationwide coaching and educational services through LearnToLoveYourStory.com. She has sat across the couch from clients for thousands of hours over the past two decades, helping her clients learn to love their stories.

Her vast expertise in a variety of evidence-based approaches is eclipsed only by her intuitive ability to cultivate one’s own curiosity, growth, and wisdom. Dr. Natalie provides significant insights that foster an understanding of oneself. When we understand ourselves and what brought us here, it leads to more kindness, more peace, and more compassion for our own stories.

In this episode, Dr. Natalie and I consider the meaning of empowerment and how it lies at the root of our ability to choose the emotional or behavioral paths we take—no matter what is happening in our lives. And if you've ever wondered about the difference between life coaching and therapy, you'll want to tune in!


More from Dr. Natalie:
Website: https://LearnToLoveYourStory.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LearnToLoveYourStory or @LearnToLoveYourStory

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-m-marr/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/learntoloveyourstory

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/learn_to_love_your_story_

Podcast: Midlife Crisis to a Centered Life Thriving

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dr-nataliemidlifecoach

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Isabelle Fortin is a dynamic sales management strategist who seamlessly blends military discipline with a rebellious spirit. As the founder of Rebel Sales, a consulting firm specializing in supporting sales team managers through MINDSET, Isabelle challenges conventions and encourages leaders to rethink their management methods.

In this special episode, we cross the bridge from the inner world to the outer world. Isabelle shares her reflections on how we can use an outwardly rebellious spirit to unleash our inner magic at work and our personal lives.

More from Isabelle:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabellemfortin/

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Jason Medlock is the best-selling author of the groundbreaking book Empowered by Consciousness. He is also a Level 2 Quantum Healing Hypnotist and highly sought-after mindset coach who brings a transformative experience to audiences nationwide. Having worked extensively with a diverse clientele, including business owners and athletes, Jason has perfected an integrative approach to personal development and self-discovery. 

From childhood aspirations to become a public speaker to a current thought leader in consciousness, personal development, quantum healing hypnosis, and mindset performance, Jason's journey is a testament to the transformative power of a strong mindset. He empowers individuals to unlock their infinite potential and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

Join us for this exceptional talk as Jason and I take a deep dive into the power of your Self.

More from Jason:
Mindset Coach: Mindset Performance Coach

Author: “Empowered by Consciousness”

Founder: Expansion of Consciousness

Podcast: Expansion of Consciousness The Podcast 

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Troy Hadeed is a yoga teacher, author, and social entrepreneur who is continuously excavating the human experience while aiming to make God more accessible, discover what it truly means to embody love, and aid humanity in realizing that we are far more connected than we have been led to believe.
 

He has walked coast-to-coast across Central America, navigated the world on a ship, spent prolonged periods in silence and darkness, and continuously sought to make sense of the human experience.

Troy is the author of My Name is Love: We’re Not All That Different, a book about universal love and how we can get out of our own way so that it can come through us.

In this episode, we do some heavy God-talk, so get your notebook and favorite warm beverage. This is an intense conversation you won't want to miss.

Note: Troy recorded from Trinidad and had some connectivity issues, so there are a few drop-outs.

More from Troy

Troy Hadeed Website
https://troyhadeed.com/ 

Amazon Book Link: My Name Is Love by Troy Hadeed

https://a.co/d/d9QxgZI

 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/troyhadeed/?hl=en

 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/troyhadeedofficial/ 

Linkedin
www.linkedin.com/in/troy-hadeed-love 

YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@troyhadeed5915

Online Yoga Studio / BeyondYogaTv.com (30-day free trial)
https://beyondyogatv.com/

Free Online Classes & Content w/newsletter sign-up
https://page.co/2d8ntB 

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Cathy Gabrielsen is a Healer, Spiritual Teacher, Ayurvedic Health Coach, Vedic Meditation Teacher, Graduate Teacher of Energy Medicine, and #1 best-selling author of Dying to Live: Surviving Near-Death. Cathy has a private healing practice providing transformational online healing sessions.

In this intimate episode, Cathy shares the story of her near-death experience and the challenges she faced returning to this realm. Those challenges, however, drew her to her calling as a healer. Cathy offers insight into how you can connect to your inner healer and your highest self.

More from Cathy:
Website

Book: Dying to Live: Surviving Near-Death

Free Gift

Social Media:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
YouTube

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Gabrielle Pimstone is an Energy Coach who is dedicated to assisting those on the cusp of change but in need of that crucial nudge forward. Her story, “Finding Your Inner Hero: A journey beyond burnout”, narrates her journey of resilience and reinvention, highlighting six defining moments. She offers inspiration and practical tips to individuals to break free from stagnation and fear. Her central message is that it's never too late to make meaningful life change.

In today's conversation, we discuss why working with energy is a game-changer if you want epic transformation in your life. Gabrielle also shows us how to work with sacred geometry—specifically, the Vortex—as a pathway to healing.

More from Gabrielle
Website: https://www.generativegrowth.com.au/
28 Days to Healing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielle.pimstone/

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Leslie Draffin is a Certified Psychedelic Integration Guide, Somatic Embodiment Coach, and podcast host who is passionate about helping people embrace their bodies, cycles, sex, and psychedelics. She supports conscious souls who want to heal themselves through intentional microdosing, pleasure, womb reconnection & somatic trauma recovery.

She believes sacred Earth medicine has the power to bring us home to ourselves, awaken our authenticity, and heal the trauma locked within our subconscious. You can find Leslie's podcast, The Light Within, on your favorite podcast app.

In this episode, Leslie and I discuss overcoming internal obstacles in order to return to  the Self. For women in particular, this journey can be daunting. Leslie shares her experiences working with microdosing psilocybin mushrooms as a pathway to self-healing.

More from Leslie:

• IG:  @LeslieDraffin
• Podcast:  The Light Within
• Website: https://www.lesliedraffin.com/

 CURRENT OFFERINGS

• 1:1 coaching: Book your free call here
•  Community: The sanctuary: a sacred community for mystical women who want to awaken their pleasure, power & purpose. Use code freemonth to try the sanctuary free.
• Free guide: Free intentional microdosing guide

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Kent Weishaus had a 25-year career in television production, working on talk shows, game shows, tabloids, sitcoms, and other programming, before making a switch in 2006, going back to graduate school and becoming a licensed clinical social worker. Since then he has worked in mental hospitals, community clinics, schools, and is now semi-retired, continuing a part-time private practice. He is the author of Stop Breaking Down: How to avoid Overwhelm and Crack-Up.

You'll appreciate this interview if you've been on the fence about seeing a therapist or counselor. Kent and I talk about trauma and its potential expressions and origins—both personally and culturally.  We also address how we can be socially conscious in a troubled world while preserving our sacred Self.

More from Kent:
Website: http://kentw.net
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kent-weishaus-2894ba79

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

•• IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT ••

As of this month, Self Talk has entered its sixth year of production! 🎉🥂

A heartfelt thank-you to all the listeners. You have made Self Talk an absolute pleasure for me to create. 

As you may be aware, I began this podcast as a way for my therapy and coaching clients to have support between our sessions. To my surprise, its audience has grown way beyond that scope. I'm chuffed. And grateful. Honestly.

I've heard your feedback and as a result, a few changes are coming your way:

• Interviews will be interspersed with solo recorded teachings from me. 
• Self Talk will move from a biweekly to a monthly schedule to allow for ample production time.
• Your voice is essential. Send your questions and show topic ideas to rachel@selftalkpodcast.com

Thank you again for your devotion and, most especially, your feedback. 
Onward!

And now for the latest episode...

With love,
Rachel

________________________________________________________

JJ DiGeronimo is a three-time award-winning author and former leading woman in the tech industry. Her work helps empower women seeking more influence and impact with proven strategies, mindfulness, and energetic practices. 

JJ  wrote Seeking: 74 Key Findings to Raise Your Energy, Sidestep Your Self-Doubts, and Align with Your Life's Work because she wanted to share the strategies that helped her infuse more purpose and meaning into her work and life. The book contains short chapters, relevant stories, and specific questions that help readers evaluate their choices, dig through their stories, embrace their gifts, and elevate their energy.

Join us in this incredible interview as we dismantle the power of negative self-talk and learn to release the stories that hold us back.

More from JJ:

• Books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/jjdigeronimo
• TogetherWeSeek.Online: https://www.togetherweseek.online
• Websites: www.jjdigeronimo.com
• LinkedIn (main platform): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jjdigeronimo/
• IG (newest platform):  https://www.instagram.com/jjdigeronim

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Andra Dediu supports individuals to integrate the highs and lows experienced as a result of big moments of psychospiritual change like spiritual awakenings, mystical experiences, and insights from altered states of consciousness.

Some aspects of this work are—
➾ Reconstructing a sense of self
Our sense of self & world are reconstructed on the foundation of a new awareness.

➾ Embody insights
Assimilate the insights so that they become a part of the Self.

➾ Transform daily living
Insights are tethered to physical reality so that daily life & relationships become more fulfilling.

➾ Have an impact
Ultimately, to have an impact in your community in ways that feel good & authentic to you.

Join us as we dive into the fully human aspects of integrating mystical experiences.

More from Andra:
Website: https://andradediu.com

FB: https://www.facebook.com/unitedtransformations/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/integration.work/ 

Women's Journey: Women Who Run With The Wolves: https://andradediu.com/women-wolves/ 

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Kimberly Braun, impelled from earliest childhood mystical experiences, has spent over a decade as a monastic nun exploring the path of Presence. With a master's in theology with special focus on the adult spiritual journey, she lives to inspire others to connect to, and live from, Divine Love at their center.

She is an ordained Minister, Reiki master, TEDx speaker and former meditation faculty at the renowned Omega Institute. She has served tens of thousands through her writing, speaking, retreats, online courses, and community. Her book, Miracles in the Naked Light, was published in 2023.

Kimberly and I discuss God as the Beloved and how that intimate connection allows us access to the power within us all.

More from Kimberly
Website: https://www.kimberlybraun.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlybraunma/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimberlybraun09/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kimberlybraun.ma

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Navigating a ferociously challenging upbringing while bravely moving forward as an adult to face ingrained, outdated, and patriarchal programming head-on, Susan now shares a unique perspective in viewing life challenges as occasions for transformation.

Through her book, Toxic Family: Transforming Childhood Trauma into Adult Freedom, Susan turns the standard paradigm on its head courageously leading others through her own journey of abuse, addiction, and surviving narcissism all while creating a distinctly empowering personal and professional life.

Susan's devotion to helping clients come to an authentic relationship with Self made for an enriching conversation in this episode. If you're feeling stuck in your trauma or you simply want a better sense of how to connect with your true nature, I'm sure you'll love our talk as much as I did.

More from Susan:
Website: https://www.susangold.us/

Instagram: @susangoldismagical

Facebook: @susan.gold.988

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

When does impostor syndrome really show up? When we’re trying to make a change.
—Denise Miceli

Denise Miceli is an inspiring, empathic guide and mentor in creating space for change and growth. She is known for her talent in energy healing, intuitive hot-seat coaching, and teaching new ways of accessing authenticity.

After enduring a difficult, dark-night journey, Denise cleared traumatic memories and emotional patterns that blocked her authentic self using subconscious healing. In her work with others, she has been inspired to share this simple and accessible healing modality.

In this episode, Denise and I hold impostor syndrome up to the light and regard it from a few essential angles: Where does it come from? What is it trying to tell us? What can we do when we feel its grip?

Denise holds a supportive container for those ready to heal and allow their soul the freedom to awaken their infinite potential. She shares some of that healing magic with you in today's talk.

More from Denise:
Website: Rock Your Blocks Website
YouTube: Inspiring Guidance YouTube Channel
TikTok: Rock Your Blocks Tiktok
Medium (Blog): Medium Blog Article Imposter Syndrome is the Subconscious Mind Running Wild

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

No matter what the question, Love is the answer. Love with a capital L.
—Abdi Assadi

Abdi Assadi is a spiritual counselor and healer with four decades of clinical experience in acupuncture, body-centered psychotherapy, indigenous shamanic practices, and diverse meditative techniques. He is the author of Shadows on the Path: Revelations and Pitfalls on the Spiritual Journey and A Healer’s Handbook: A Guide for the Beginner Practitioner.

I asked Abdi to join me to discuss the behemoth topic of how we humans can maintain balance in turbulent times. The conversation covers so much more—as it usually does when we get going. Here are a few highlights:

• The importance of relationship with Self in a hyper-individuated culture 
• How a death practice helps us live more fully
• Why Love really is the answer to every question

Abdi also leads us in a brief awareness exercise that rounds out all the "yapping" we've done for the hour. Well worth the trip.

xo RA

More from Abdi: http://abdiassadi.com

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Lauren Leduc is a visionary, yoga teacher, intuitive, mentor, and mama. With the special gift of cultivating community and creating accessible experiences, Lauren has taught thousands of students with her approachable and intelligent methodology. 

Lauren’s greatest current spiritual passion is harnessing the Sacred Feminine and guiding women and femmes to love themselves and embrace wholeness toward creating a more peaceful and loving world. Her first book, Embody Your Inner Goddess: A Guided Path to Radical Wholeness released in November 2023.

One of the hardest pieces of work on our path of self-development is shedding conditioning. Lauren and I talk about the depth of that process and how re-viewing our lives through the lens of the Sacred Feminine helps us do that—regardless of gender.

More from Lauren:
Website: laurenleduc.com
Instagram: instagram.com/iamlaurenleduc

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Send Rachel a text message.

Ann Bell has been a love and sex coach since 2012, fostering deep connections, and empowering individuals to embrace their authentic selves. She creates a safe, judgment-free space, along with guiding transformative journeys for her clients, exploring uncharted territories, and unlocking infinite possibilities within.

As we age—20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, and onward—our sexuality goes through an evolution of its own. Ann shares with us ways that we can flow with the intimate changes aging brings while keeping loving connection in our lives.

Note: This episode contains explicit discussion about sex and sexuality. Just a heads-up.

Watch the video

More from Ann:
Website: https://www.aconfidentialconversation.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aconfidentialconversation/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aconfidentialconversation/

Free links:
Love Your Libido Book: https://www.aconfidentialconversation.com/love-your-libido
Self-love Assessment Quiz: https://www.aconfidentialconversation.com/love-assessment

Write Your Self Open is a revolution in self-development that blends guided meditation, journaling, and supportive group discussion led by holistic psychotherapist Rachel Astarte.

It's all the benefits of personal transformation + community-building without the constraints of talk therapy.
Join anytime. No previous meditation or writing experience necessary.

http://writeyourselfopen.com

Got a question about your self?
Send it to me at rachel@selftalkpodcast.com and it may be featured on a future episode. 

Support the show

• Subscribe here, at youtube.com/@selftalkpodcast, or wherever you get podcasts. •

Music:
"Ave Marimba"
Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0