Josh Shrei (The Emerald): Only Myth Can Save Us Now
Mar 27, 2025
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In this conversation with Josh Schrei, a mythteller and founder of The Emerald, they delve into the revival of myth in our modern lives. Josh shares insights on the ancient power of festivals and their role in community spirit. They discuss the complexities of modern masculinity and the challenges young men face in seeking meaning. The importance of daily rituals for spiritual connection and the need for genuine storytelling to combat disillusionment are also explored. Josh's rich background in myth and practice adds depth to this enlightening discussion.
Myth offers a vital framework for understanding contemporary life's complexities, providing grounding and a sense of belonging through timeless narratives.
Festivals serve as sacred communal enactments that restore deeper connections among individuals and promote shared experiences reflective of traditional practices.
Gender and masculinity discussions benefit from acknowledging fluidity and complexity, guiding young men through myths and rituals that foster meaningful exploration of their identity.
Deep dives
The Contextual Nature of Healing
Healing is not merely about identifying and addressing issues; it requires a strong contextual framework that involves time and space. The effectiveness of plant medicine and healing practices is amplified within traditional systems that provide a structured environment for growth and transformation. Without a solid container for these experiences, insights gained through healing modalities can feel isolated and ungrounded. This understanding emphasizes that healing occurs through long-term integration and practice, rather than quick fixes or superficial approaches.
The Role of Myth in Modern Times
Myth serves as a vital tool for navigating the complexities of contemporary life by tapping into timeless narratives that resonate with our shared humanity. The exploration of myth brings an understanding of the cycles and forces that govern existence, reminding us of the interconnected nature of all beings. In a world that often feels chaotic and fragmented, myths provide grounding, context, and a sense of belonging within a greater narrative. Moreover, mythopoeic storytelling helps confront modern challenges by encouraging deeper reflection and communal responsibility.
Restoring Sacred Festivals
Festivals historically serve as communal enactments of the sacred, enabling individuals to reconnect with themselves, each other, and the cosmos. Modern festivals like Burning Man are seen as attempts to reclaim this sacred experience, although they often lack the focused intention found in traditional celebrations. Revitalizing the essence of sacred festivals requires narrowing the focus to create a unifying theme, allowing for deeper collective experiences. By emulating ancient practices that prioritize communal harmony and shared rituals, modern gatherings can evoke genuine ecstasy and connection.
Addressing Gender and Masculinity
The discussion surrounding gender and masculinity in contemporary society often falls prey to binary thinking, overlooking the complexities and fluidity inherent in these concepts. Traditional myths and initiation rites can serve as guiding frameworks for young men, helping them navigate their identities in a meaningful way. There is an urgent need to create spaces where young men can explore their roles and responsibilities within the context of healthy community dynamics. Encouraging dialogues that honor both the structural and fluid aspects of gender promotes healing and fosters a deeper understanding of connection.
The Importance of Daily Practices
Establishing daily practices plays a crucial role in creating a stable container for personal growth and healing. Engaging in rituals—whether through gratitude, connection to nature, or community involvement—helps individuals cultivate a relational awareness that fosters resilience amid life's challenges. The act of integrating simple yet profound practices into daily life reconnects individuals with the fundamental rhythms of existence. By grounding ourselves in these rituals, we can enhance our capacity to navigate the complexities of the modern world and foster more meaningful connections.
There’s no greater mythic mind in modern podcasting than Josh Schrei, the voice and vision behind The Emerald. If you, like me, are already a fan of his deeply poetic and perspective-shifting show, then you’ll understand why I’ve wanted to have him on Life is a Festival since the moment I heard his episode on festivals.
In this conversation, Josh and I explore the revival of myth in our modern moment. We talk about the ancient power of festivals, structure and fluidity of gender, the soul’s longing for meaning, and the complex challenges facing young men. We also touch on the pitfalls of self-importance and how myth can humble and reorient us. Finally, we explore the necessity of daily ritual, and how embodiment through practice keeps the sacred alive.
Josh Schrei is a mythteller, teacher, podcaster, and founder of The Emerald, a beloved show that brings together sweeping narratives, cinematic sound design, and interviews with renowned thinkers to reawaken the mythic imagination. A lifelong student of mythologies—particularly from the Indian subcontinent — Josh brings decades of study in yoga, meditation, wilderness rites, music, and the arts into his teaching. He also leads The Mythic Body, an immersive course designed to re-enliven the soul through story and practice.
Timestamps
(05:03 The Power of Myth in Modern Times
(23:44) The Role of Festivals in Human Culture
(39:18) The Mythic Relationship to Gender
(42:34) The Need for Young Men's Rituals
(57:33) The Healing Journey and Plant Medicine
(01:05:36) Daily Practices for Healing and Connection
