I had the pleasure of sitting down with James Stevenson, the visionary behind Awaken as Love retreats, to delve into the transformative realms of Tantra, Biodanza, and spiritual retreats. James has spent over 20 years weaving ancient wisdom with integral theory, creating a unique approach that empowers individuals to embody their true power. As a leading organizer of Tantra festivals, with more than 30 under his belt, James shared his evolving mission to empower other teachers and help individuals unlock their potential. We explored the intersection of leadership, conscious living, and spiritual development, emphasizing the challenges of delegation and the necessity of systems that foster growth beyond individual involvement. Integral theory, described as a "theory of everything," offers a comprehensive framework that integrates with spiritual practices like Tantra, encouraging a balance between intellectual understanding and embodiment.

James and I also discussed the concept of awakening as love, focusing on the importance of simplicity and removing ego-driven obstacles to access one's inherent nature. We explored love beyond romantic notions, emphasizing awakening to one's true self and the simplicity of being. Our conversation touched on the application of integral theory in understanding global leadership dynamics, referencing figures like Zelinsky and Trump, and how developmental stages influence political landscapes. We expressed a desire for leaders who embody deeper wisdom and inclusivity. The episode wrapped up with excitement for upcoming Awaken as Love projects, including retreats in Bali, highlighting the importance of integrating practices and theories for both personal and collective development.