Gatherings

In this episode of Gatherings, we unpack the enduring power of the vampire archetype. We trace its evolution from the gothic shadows of Dracula to today’s romanticized immortal figures, revealing how the vampire reflects the repressed, unintegrated, and wounded parts of the psyche. Drawing on insights from Marion Woodman and Michael Singer, we explore the vampire as a symbol of psychic energy turned inward—what happens when life force becomes blocked or possessed by the shadow. We also situate the myth in its social context, connecting its late-Victorian rise to cultural fears around feminism, sexuality, and capitalism. The conversation closes by asking why our current moment is again obsessed with the vampire and what this collective fascination might tell us about trauma, desire, and the hunger for aliveness.

What do a Renaissance magician, a modern neuroscientist, and a forgotten philosopher of language have in common? In this episode, I dive into a wild, mythically-informed rabbit hole that took me from the Corpus Hermeticum to the divided brain model of Iain McGilchrist and the linguistic revelations of Owen Barfield. Together, these three worldviews—Hermeticism, brain lateralization, and the evolution of consciousness—seem to be providing us with the same message: that the world is not dead, but alive… if only we remember how to see it. This is a journey through magic, metaphysics, language, and psyche—a kind of Jungian time-travel into the heart of our disenchanted world. I explore how perception is not passive but participatory, how imagination might just be the bridge back to meaning, and why the way we attend to reality could be the most urgent moral act of our time. If you've ever felt like something sacred has gone missing, or that the modern world has forgotten how to listen—this episode is for you.   Books Mentioned: • Giordano Bruno and the Hermetic Tradition by Frances Yates • The Master and His Emissary by Iain McGilchrist • The Matter with Things by Iain McGilchrist • Cosmos and Psyche by Richard Tarnas • Poetic Diction by Owen Barfield • English Words by Owen Barfield • Saving the Appearances by Owen Barfield • The Re-Enchantment of Everyday Life by Thomas Moore • Inner Work by Robert A. Johnson

In this episode, Béa sits down with author Shylashri Shankar for a rich and layered conversation about her debut novel, Blood Caste. Set in 1895 Hyderabad and loosely inspired by the mystery of Jack the Ripper, the novel becomes a launching point for a deeper exploration of themes like prejudice, identity, and the tensions between cultures and values. Shankar shares how writing the book was more than a creative project—it was a personal journey of transformation. The discussion moves fluidly between the novel’s historical roots and the inner landscapes both authors navigate in their own creative processes. Along the way, they reflect on the role of fiction in uncovering truth, the power of inner work, and why audiobooks can offer a more embodied reading experience. Blood Caste is published in the UK and in all English-speaking countries by Canelo Crime, [DK/Random House]. It will be available on Audio on August 7th. Shylashri Shankar | Canelo Crime    

In this episode Béa interviews award-winning literary scholar, poet, and Jungian thinker Roula Maria Dib. Together, they explore Jung’s evolving place within feminist thought, the role of the feminine archetype in the psyche, and the power of poetry and art as healing practices. The conversation moves through themes of visionary art, dreams, creativity, and how artists serve as vessels for the collective unconscious. Roula offers insights into her own work, including her books The Jungian Metaphor: Modernist Literature and Simply Being--and speaks to the necessity of creating spaces for meaningful dialogue and community. The episode also features a powerful personal story about how a dream helped Roula recognize a life-threatening illness in her daughter—underscoring the importance of cultivating an ongoing relationship with the unconscious. For anyone drawn to Jungian depth psychology, feminist perspectives, and the transformative nature of art and dreams, this conversation offers rich ground for reflection. Books & Links Mentioned in This Episode: The Jungian Metaphor: Modernist Literature (2020) by Roula Maria Dib https://labrc.co.uk/roula-maria-dib/        

Carly Mountain, a writer and mythic guide, delves into the ancient Sumerian myth of Inanna, reflecting on its relevance to modern women facing burnout and identity shifts. She redefines surrender as a courageous meeting with reality, emphasizing its strength in feminine empowerment. Carly discusses the contrasts between traditional myth and artificial intelligence, urging a return to embodied wisdom. The conversation encourages embracing pain as a transformative journey and highlights the healing power of shared narratives and collective experiences.

In a compelling dialogue, Connie Zweig, a retired Jungian therapist and author, shares her profound insights on shadow work and its significance in midlife. She discusses how confronting the unconscious can unlock creativity and spiritual growth. Highlighting the importance of vulnerability, Zweig explores how integrating our shadow nurtures deeper connections in relationships. She also addresses societal divisiveness, advocating for personal accountability as a means to foster understanding. This conversation weaves together memory, myth, and the courage to embrace our inner selves.

In this episode, we explore the creative process. Is it limited to the material work we produce, or is the true creative path the inner work we do as part of the individuation journey? What kinds of conversations should we be having? How does dream work factor into the process? And does an artist need to reveal something meaningful to the collective for their work to be considered art? Books mentioned in this episode:   The Creative Act: A Way of Being (Rick Rubin)  The Archetypal Artist: Reimagining Creativity and the Call to Create (Mary Antonia Wood)  Carl Jung and Arnold Toynbee: The Social Meaning of Inner Work (J. Gary Sparks)    Quote from Long Life: Essays and Other Writings, by Mary Oliver:  "And that is just the point: how the world, moist and bountiful, calls to each of us to make a new and serious response. That's the big question, the one the world throws at you every morning. 'Here you are, alive. Would you like to make a comment?'"   

Discover the intriguing ideas of Iain McGilchrist as he examines the imbalance between the brain's hemispheres, revealing how an overemphasis on analytical thinking can be detrimental. Dive into the impact of creativity, dreams, and subconscious expressions on personal and artistic growth. Explore the connection between nature and unity, stressing the importance of community rituals in fostering introspection. Finally, learn why embracing discomfort can lead to deeper self-exploration and a more holistic understanding of our experiences.

Dive into the profound insights of Jungian analyst James Hollis as the hosts discuss transformative themes from his most significant works. They explore the balance of self-love and healthy relationships while addressing the complexities of emotion in men. The conversation emphasizes midlife awakening and accountability, urging listeners to confront their anxieties as pathways to growth. Through personal stories and reflections, the podcast illustrates the wisdom of embracing life's darker moments and integrating diverse archetypes for collective healing.

Join Béa and Carly as they discuss their top reads from 2024. With a focus on both fiction and nonfiction, they explore Carly Mountain's 'Descent & Rising,' Roberta B. Corson's Stepping Out of the Shadows,' J. Gary Sparks’ The Call of Destiny and Andrea Wulf's 'Magnificent Rebels,' among others. The conversation delves deep into book recommendations, literary themes, and personal reflections on the significance of these works. The song used in this podcast is Jay Redelsperger’s  “On my Way”. You can find Jay’s music on Spotify, Apple Music and all other music platforms. He is also on YouTube Jay Mark Redelsperger - YouTube   For information on the SophiaCycles project: www.sophiacycles.com   Bea will be teaching a month-long course at the Jung Archademy on “The Archetypal Venus”. You can find information here: The Archetypal Venus LIVE-VIDEO SEMINAR SERIES with Béa Gonzalez, M.A. — JUNG Archademy 00:00 Introduction to Gatherings Podcast 00:39 Hosts' Personal Book Habits 03:03 First Book Highlight: Stepping Out of the Shadows 05:33 Exploring the Medial Woman Archetype 10:51 Second Book Highlight: Searching for Venus 14:14 Fantasy Romance Genre Insights 16:35 Third Book Highlight: The Shepard Duology 17:52 Impact of Fiction on Personal Growth 23:09 Personal Reflections and Career Doubts 24:03 The Power of Stories and Rituals 25:49 The Heroine's Journey and Self-Discovery 27:34 Exploring Jungian Concepts and Guides 31:54 Book Recommendations and Synchronicity 34:11 Alchemy and Symbolism 39:11 Historical Insights and Intellectual Movements 42:27 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Projects