Pulling The Thread with Elise Loehnen

Dan Savage, a longtime sex-advice columnist and LGBT activist, dives deep into the complexities of monogamy, desire, and relationships. He argues that monogamy is about choosing not to act on desires, presenting data on relationship stability among different sexual orientations. Savage introduces the concept of toliamory, discussing the real challenges of tolerating a partner’s behavior. He emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and repair in relationships and critiques societal attitudes towards sexuality, inviting thoughtful dialogue on identity and parenting.

Elinor Dickinson, a seasoned Jungian therapist and coauthor of *Dancing in the Flames*, dives into the depth of feminine and masculine dynamics. She discusses the necessity of releasing internalized patriarchy and explores a new cultural mythos, emphasizing the hope found in egalitarian roots. Dickinson connects historical shifts, like the Great Plague, to modern societal structures and shares a poignant story of synchronicity from her life. Ultimately, she advocates for an interdependent future grounded in feminine wisdom and shared narratives.

Explore the power of triangulation as a tool for self-discovery and understanding your role in the collective. Uncover how personal work and collective support intertwine in shaping culture. Delve into the origins of patriarchy and classism, and reflect on their impact on society. Learn how individual shifts can spark cultural change, and consider unique methods like astrology and journaling for deeper insights. Find your zone of genius and discover meaningful purpose through connections and personal narratives.

In this engaging discussion, Jen Hatmaker, a New York Times bestselling author and podcast host, reflects on her life transformation after the collapse of her 26-year marriage and her relationship with the church. She candidly shares her journey from evangelical leader to embracing LGBTQ affirmation, confronting institutional trauma, and finding personal empowerment. Jen emphasizes the healing power of therapy and discusses the importance of shared responsibility in relationships. Her memoir, Awake, resonates through relatable themes of personal struggle and growth.

Katie Hendricks, PhD, co-director of the Hendricks Institute, dives into using body-based intelligence to cultivate presence and personal agency. She shares practical fear-melters designed to help us navigate emotional responses like fight or freeze. Katie introduces the 'loop of awareness' to enhance connection and energy, and discusses sorting daily challenges into manageable categories. She highlights how to incrementally spend time in your zone of genius and explores persona work to integrate our shadow parts. Tune in for transformative insights!

In this engaging discussion, Elizabeth Gilbert, the bestselling author behind classics like Eat, Pray, Love, dives into her new memoir, All the Way to the River. She shares her transformative journey through love, loss, and the search for self. Topics include the complexities of grief and recovery, the challenges of navigating relationships affected by addiction, and the power of vulnerability in storytelling. Gilbert's heartfelt reflections offer listeners profound insights into personal growth, emotional honesty, and the healing journey.

Satya Doyle Byock, a psychotherapist and Jungian psychology educator, discusses the often misunderstood role of the ego in personal growth. She emphasizes why we shouldn’t demonize the ego but rather, nurture it for better relationships and self-identity. The conversation navigates the tension between external approval and authentic self-discovery, and the impact of societal expectations on personal journeys. Byock weaves in profound insights about facing life’s challenges while maintaining a resilient sense of self.

Courtney Smith, a coach and Enneagram expert, joins the discussion to explore personal transformation from a place of self-respect and compassion. She shares seven tools for choosing wholeness over the societal pressure to be 'good.' The conversation dives into the complexities of gender roles, the significance of community in personal growth, and how embracing one's shadow can lead to profound understanding. Personal stories and insights encourage listeners to reflect on their narratives and reclaim authenticity in their lives.

Discover the journey of personal growth through the lens of grief and anger. Explore how emotional patterns shape our bodies and interactions. Learn about the power of saying no and setting healthy boundaries. Hear transformative experiences with healers and gain insights on navigating conflict and emotional upheaval. This reflective discussion offers valuable lessons on the nature of rejection and the importance of embracing change for personal development.

Francis Weller, a psychotherapist and author celebrated for his insights on grief, discusses the profound wisdom that can emerge from embracing sorrow. He emphasizes the importance of processing grief in community rather than isolation, drawing contrasts between Indigenous and Western practices. Weller invites listeners to navigate uncertainty through imagination and connection, viewing grief as a transformative force. He highlights the idea of 'medicine' in community and nature, encouraging a deeper understanding of emotional resilience to combat numbness.