Sounds of SAND

Darcia Narvaez, Professor Emerita at the University of Notre Dame, dives into the importance of 'The Evolved Nest' for child development. She discusses how communal child-rearing methods and nature immersion positively impact emotional and neurological growth. Modern medical practices during childbirth are critiqued for disrupting essential bonding experiences. Narvaez also sheds light on the effects of trauma on both human and animal societies, particularly young male elephants, advocating for holistic approaches to nurturing based on ancestral wisdom.

Join poet and philosopher David Whyte, whose work beautifully intertwines poetry with profound human experiences, and cultural architect Gayle Karen Young, a leader in fostering thriving relationships. They delve into the complex realms of grief and intimacy, revealing how loss can deepen our connections. The conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability and collective rituals, alongside insightful reflections on balancing urgency with depth in our fast-paced lives. Together, they inspire listeners to embrace the beauty of existence and the power of presence.

Join Pat McCabe, a Diné activist and ceremonial leader, alongside Francis Weller, a psychotherapist and soul activist, as they explore the transformative power of winter’s darkness. They discuss the significance of grief and renewal, weaving Indigenous wisdom with psychological insights. Their reflections on ancestral ties and communal healing highlight the importance of embracing life's cyclical nature. From personal rituals to collective transitions, this conversation offers profound wisdom on navigating loss and finding hope in the fertile darkness.

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Avanti Kumar-Singh, an internationally recognized Ayurveda and integrative medicine practitioner and former ER doctor, explores the synergy between ancient Ayurvedic wisdom and modern health challenges. She dives into the essential distinction between lifespan and healthspan, emphasizing that longevity should be about quality of life as much as duration. Topics such as seasonal eating, the significance of synchronizing with nature, and the intricate role of inflammation in wellness reveal how simple Ayurvedic practices can empower our health.

Cynthia Bourgeault, an Episcopal priest and retreat leader, and A.H. Almaas, founder of the Diamond Approach, dive into the complexities of love as a transformative force. They explore the essence of conscious love and its interconnectedness with reality, emphasizing non-dual love's unique role in spiritual growth. The duo discusses healing through love and pain, urging listeners to embrace wounds for transformation. They also highlight gratitude's power as a catalyst for trust and joy, advocating for love's necessity in enriching relationships and the human experience.

Mariam Barghouti, a Palestinian-American journalist, Ashira Darwish, founder of a trauma therapy project, and Rawand Arqawi, a cultural manager from Jenin, discuss pressing topics surrounding conflict and resilience. They share harrowing experiences of journalists under attack and the trauma endured by families in Jenin. The conversation highlights the therapeutic role of the arts in healing and empowering communities amidst violence. They emphasize the significance of documenting truth and the urgent need for safe spaces to nurture childhood amid conflict.

Neil Theise, a professor of pathology at NYU Grossman, dives into the rich overlap of science and spirituality. He shares insights from his work on adult stem cell plasticity and complexity theory, emphasizing our interconnectedness with the world. Theise discusses the differences between complex and complicated systems, highlighting how chaos and order coexist in nature. He also explores the role of consciousness, challenging materialist views, and revealing the profound impact of quantum physics on our understanding of reality. Resilience in the face of global challenges is another key theme.

Michael Meade, a celebrated storyteller and scholar of mythology, shares insights on navigating today's cultural and environmental upheaval. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity amidst chaos and the transformative power of personal stories. The conversation highlights the role of mythology in understanding our deeper selves and the need for emotional expression. Meade also explores the significance of sound and rhythm in storytelling, advocating for the wisdom of elders to guide us through turbulent times.

Standing for Collective Liberation “No one will be free if the others live under occupation. No one will be safe unless everyone is safe.” In this live SAND Community Gathering (November 2024) Zaya and Maurizio were in discussion with Palestinian and Israeli peace activists Osama lliwat & Rotem Levin who share their personal stories, describe the reality on the ground, and explain their vision for a path toward collective liberation. Osama lliwat was born in Jerusalem and grew up in Jericho, after his family was displaced in 1967. In the peace world for more than 15 years and the co-founder of Visit Palestine, he has dedicated his life to nonviolent resistance. He has worked with the Sulha Peace Project and Interfaith Encounter Association, appeared in several documentaries including Objector and The Other, and speaks regularly on peacebuilding at organizations and universities around the world. Rotem Levin was born and raised in Ein Vered. After his military service, he participated in a transformational intensive dialogue program in Germany, where he got to know Palestinians on a personal and intimate level. This instigated a change in perspective on the story he was born and raised with. After this experience, he started organizing similar programs in Aqaba, Jordan, where he offered the experience to other post-military Israelis and to Palestinian and Israeli medical workers. He is a committed activist and doctor by profession. Topics: 00:00 – Introduction and Welcome 00:45 – Context of the Gaza Conflict 03:33 – Osama Liwat's Background 04:05 – Rotem Levin's Background 09:41 – Rotem's Personal Journey 20:11 – Reflections on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict 27:35 – Living in the West Bank 33:35 – The Statelessness of Palestinians 34:30 – Personal Stories of Displacement 35:38 – Growing Up Amidst Conflict 43:19 – Acts of Resistance 54:03 – Encountering Peace Activists 01:02:29 – A Call for Unity and Humanity 01:06:47 – Final Reflections and Gratitude Links: Watch Where Olive Trees Weep Purchase the full 23-video series Conversations on Palestine Learn more about the SAND Community Gatherings Support the mission of SAND and the production of this podcast by becoming a SAND Member

Manda Scott is an award-winning novelist and host of the acclaimed Accidental Gods podcast. Best known for the Boudica: Dreaming series, her previous novels have been short-listed for the Orange Prize, the Edgar, Wilbur Smith and Saltire Awards and won the McIllvanney Prize. Her latest novel ANY HUMAN POWER is a Mytho-Political thriller which lays out a Thrutopian road map to a flourishing future we’d be proud to leave to the generations that come after us. With degrees in veterinary medicine and a Masters in Regenerative Economics, Manda’s life is oriented towards creating radical new narratives that will pave the way to the total systemic change our culture – and our world – needs. ANY HUMAN POWER is available for sale on Amazon. Connect with Manda Scott on Facebook, Bluesky, Goodreads, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Topics 00:00 – Introduction and Support Request 01:00 – Guest Introduction: Manda Scott 02:04 – Discussion on Thrutopian Novels 02:45 – Manda Scott’s Literary Influences 07:01 – Spiritual Practices and Shamanic Path 12:25 – The Concept of Thrutopian Fiction 17:29 – The Power of Fiction in Inspiring Change 21:22 – Genesis of ‘Any Human Power’ 27:45 – The Role of Dreaming in Spiritual Practice 27:52 – Shamanic Dreaming and Its Significance 29:08 – Connecting with Loved Ones Through Dreams 30:36 – Trauma Culture and Initiation Cultures 32:11 – The Four Stages of Evolution 36:40 – Dopamine vs. Serotonin Reward Systems 40:01 – The Importance of Community and Connection 45:11 – The Future of Spiritual Practice and Writing 46:29 – Integrating Dreaming into Daily Life 48:36 – Concluding Thoughts on Modernity and Community Resources The Weirdstone of Brisingamen by Alan Garner Eagle of the Ninth by Rosemary Sutcliff The Last of the Mohicans (1971 TV Series) Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer Riding the Horse Backwards by Arnold and Amy Mindell Regenesis by George Monbiot Sounds of SAND #85 In Our Bones: Osprey Orielle Lake Sounds of SAND #65 Emptiness & Grief: Francis Weller Sounds of SAND #98 Glissando of Consciousness: Andrew Holecek Sounds of SAND #11 Quantum Listening: IONE Support the mission of SAND and the production of this podcast by becoming a SAND Member.