Gateways to Awakening

Dear Friends, In this powerful episode of Gateways to Awakening, I sit down with Clayton Smith, a leader in psychedelic-assisted healing and the founder of Beond Service, an initiative dedicated to supporting veterans, first responders, and their families through trauma-informed Ibogaine therapy.“One of my mantras going in was: don’t analyze, just feel.”  - Clayton Smith After struggling with PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and alcoholism for over a decade, Clayton experienced a life-changing transformation through Ibogaine, an African plant medicine known for its unique neuroplasticity benefits and profound emotional healing capacity. He shares his deeply personal journey, the science behind how Ibogaine works, and why it can be effective for both chemical dependency and emotional wounds.You can listen to the entire conversation here: We explore:The differences between Ibogaine and other plant medicines like ayahuasca and psilocybinClayton’s vivid first-hand account of revisiting pivotal life moments during treatmentHow Ibogaine blends clinical safety protocols with profound spiritual insightWhy integration is key to lasting transformation—and how to do it wellThe surprising archetypal energies of Ibogaine and its capacity to bring both feminine nurturance and masculine challengeThe current legal status of Ibogaine and efforts to expand access in the U.S.Whether you’re curious about psychedelic medicine, seeking recovery from trauma, or simply want to understand the deeper possibilities of healing, this conversation offers hope, clarity, and inspiration.Learn more about Beyond Service and Beyond Ibogaine: https://beyondibogaine.comIf this conversation speaks to you, please share it and tag us @Gateways_To_Awakening. Your reviews on Apple Podcasts help us reach more people and keep these conversations flowing.To stay connected, you can follow my writing on Substack at substack.com/@therealyasmeent, join me on IG @TheRealYasmeenT, or sign up for my newsletter at InnerKnowingSchool.com. We kick off our next 5 week group program in September!

In this episode of Gateways to Awakening, I speak with my friend Shelby Stanger — award-winning podcast host, journalist, author of Will to Wild, and creator of REI Co-op’s hit show Wild Ideas Worth Living. Shelby has built a life around one simple but powerful idea: that adventure, in all its forms, has the power to change us from the inside out.“Adventure doesn’t have to mean climbing Everest. It can be as simple as watching the sunset, taking a walk with a friend, or putting your toes in the ocean.” - Shelby Stanger We explore how courageous moments in nature can spark deep personal transformation, why taking the first step is often scarier than the adventure itself, and how to navigate the emotional highs and lows that come with going off-script in life. Shelby shares stories from surfing in Costa Rica to paddling the Amazon, as well as her unexpected adventures in a Buddhist monastery and teaching entrepreneurship in prisons.You’ll learn:How to shift from fear into courage, and why small adventures can create big life changePractical “starter wild ideas” you can try anywhere in the worldThe healing connection between nature, awe, and well-beingHow to integrate the spirit of adventure into your daily life and relationshipsIf this conversation speaks to you, please share it and tag us @Gateways_To_Awakening. Your reviews on Apple Podcasts help us reach more people and keep these conversations flowing.To stay connected, you can follow my writing on Substack at substack.com/@therealyasmeent, join me on IG @TheRealYasmeenT, or sign up for my newsletter at InnerKnowingSchool.com.

In this powerful and illuminating episode of Gateways to Awakening, I sit down with spiritualist, author, and clairvoyant medium Normandi Ellis to explore the profound wisdom of the ancient Egyptian mysteries.Her 14 published books include the spiritual classic, Awakening Osiris, translations from the hieroglyphs found in the Book of the Dead, as well as a book on the Ancient Tradition of Angels, Hieroglyphic Words of Power, and Imagining the World into Existence among others. She facilitates work with those wishing to explore the path of the priestess through her school devoted to Isis and Seshet. In addition to monthly classes, she offers clairvoyant circles, metaphysical classes and private consultations (phone or in person). Best known for her spiritual classic Awakening Osiris, Normandi unpacks the true meaning of the Egyptian Book of the Dead—known to the ancients as The Book of Coming Into Light—and reveals how its sacred texts offer a blueprint for turning death consciousness into life consciousness.We explore:- The origins and meaning of the Egyptian mysteries- The significance of alchemy and the roots of the word itself- The multidimensional Egyptian soul (Ba, Ka, Akh, Ren, Sahu, and more)- The spiritual power of hieroglyphs, prayer, and Heka (divine magic)- The living presence of the gods and goddesses within temples and statues- The initiatory role of sound and vibration in sacred spaces like the Great Pyramid- Isis as a symbol of the Divine Feminine and restorer of cosmic memory- The role of Thoth, natural law, and reality creation through intentionality and speechNormandi also shares deeply personal stories—from her 10-year journey translating the Book of the Dead, to spiritual pilgrimages in Egypt, to receiving recognition from Jean Houston and collaborating with Nikki Scully. Whether you're a seasoned seeker or newly curious about Egypt's esoteric legacy, this episode invites you to remember your place in the divine story—and to reconnect with the sacredness of all life.Learn more about Normandi Ellis and her offerings at www.normandiellis.comIf this conversation speaks to you, please share it and tag us @Gateways_To_Awakening. Your reviews on Apple Podcasts help us reach more people and keep these conversations flowing.To stay connected, you can follow my writing on Substack at substack.com/@therealyasmeent, join me on IG @TheRealYasmeenT, or sign up for my newsletter at InnerKnowingSchool.com.

In this profound episode, I sit down with Sat Dharam Kaur, a naturopathic doctor, author, and longtime collaborator of Dr. Gabor Maté and the co-creator of Gabor Maté's Compassionate Inquiry program, a therapeutic modality that addresses trauma and the subconscious mind. A master teacher of Kundalini Yoga and a pioneer in trauma-informed wellness, Sat Dharam shares how spiritual practice and somatic awareness can be gateways to authentic healing. "Healing doesn’t come from fixing ourselves, it comes from being willing to witness what’s underneath the defenses, with compassion."– Sat Dharam KaurTogether, we discuss:How Sat Dharam helped co-create the Compassionate Inquiry training with Dr. Gabor MatéThe hidden patterns of the subconscious mind and their role in illnessThe synergy between yogic technology and trauma-informed careHow breathwork and presence can unravel generations of repressed emotionHer personal journey in developing trauma-sensitive yoga curricula around addiction and women’s healthThis conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the intersection of mind-body medicine, spiritual healing, and the path of integration.To stay connected, you can follow my writing on Substack at substack.com/@therealyasmeent, join me on IG @TheRealYasmeenT, or sign up for my newsletter at InnerKnowingSchool.com.

What can the world’s first written civilization teach us about astrology, medicine, and our connection to the cosmos? In this fascinating episode, I sit down with Dr. Moudhy Al-Rashid, honorary fellow at the University of Oxford’s Wolfson College and leading expert on the languages and history of ancient Mesopotamia.“Ancient Mesopotamians didn’t separate the sky from the body, the ritual from the remedy. Everything was interconnected—cosmic events, human health, divine will, and the rhythms of life.” — Dr. Moudhy Al-RashidWe dive deep into the origins of astrology, astro-medical wisdom, and the human impulse to make meaning from the stars—long before telescopes or modern science existed. Dr. Al-Rashid brings to life a world where lunar eclipses determined royal fates, temples doubled as centers of knowledge and healing, and the earliest connections between the zodiac, the body, and medicine were recorded in clay.You’ll learn:✅ Why Mesopotamia is called the "cradle of civilization" and why its legacy matters today✅ The cosmic worldview of the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians✅ How astrology evolved from a divinatory tool into the modern zodiac system✅ The role of temples as energetic, communal, and administrative hubs✅ The powerful presence of goddesses like Ishtar—and why the world’s first named author was a woman✅ What astro-medical texts reveal about ancient healing practices (and what we can learn from them today)✅ How this wisdom offers us a holistic approach in an age dominated by technologyThis episode is a reflection on how ancient ways of knowing can help us find balance in a fragmented world. As Dr. Al-Rashid shares, “Life is collective. Our well-being is tied to the well-being of those around us.”Connect with Dr. Moudhy Al-Rashid:Book: Between Two Rivers: Ancient Mesopotamia and the Birth of HistoryInstagram & BlueSky: @moudhyIf this conversation speaks to you, please share it and tag us @Gateways_To_Awakening. Your reviews on Apple Podcasts help us reach more people and keep these conversations flowing.To stay connected, you can follow my writing on Substack at substack.com/@therealyasmeent, join me on IG @TheRealYasmeenT, or sign up for my newsletter at InnerKnowingSchool.com.

In this episode of Gateways to Awakening, I speak with the radiant Kathi Joy, a master of self-expression, emotional freedom, and the art of playful presence."We’re not here to hustle for our worth. We’re here to remember it” - Kathi Joy. As a poet, intuitive channel, and co-creator of transformational experiences, Kathi guides people into their truest selves through language, laughter, and soul-level reflection. Her work blends creativity with consciousness, helping others reconnect with joy, truth, and the poetry of their own being.Together, we explore:How to break free from performance and reclaim authentic expressionThe role of reverence and play in spiritual evolutionWhat it means to “speak from soul” in both poetry and presenceThe impact of emotional honesty on healing and creativityHow sacred art and words can become medicineThis conversation is a journey into what it means to live uncensored, unfiltered, and fully expressed. Kathi reminds us that our true voice isn’t something to find—it’s something to remember.If you’ve been feeling silenced, creatively blocked, or ready to shed the armor and speak your truth, this episode is for you.If this conversation speaks to you, we’d love to hear from you — tag us @Gateways_To_Awakening on Instagram and Facebook to share your reflections. Your reviews on Apple Podcasts mean the world and help others find the show.To stay connected, you can follow my writing on Substack at substack.com/@therealyasmeent, join me on IG @TheRealYasmeenT, or sign up for my newsletter at InnerKnowingSchool.com.

In today’s episode, I interview Steven Ray, a legendary figure in the music and entertainment industry. His expansive career began as a roadie for Sammy Davis Jr. and George Rhodes, and as a production assistant to Quincy Jones. Steven’s early work includes contributing to groundbreaking projects such as Michael Jackson’s Thriller, We Are the World, The Color Purple, and productions by Frank Sinatra and James Ingram.“Music is frequency. And frequency is healing. When you're in the presence of someone channeling that, it’s almost like being in a temple.” - Steven Ray He later became a Senior Executive at Capitol Records and played a pivotal role at Windswept Pacific, where he signed and collaborated with major artists like Mariah Carey, Usher, TLC, Destiny’s Child, and Beyoncé, contributing to over 150 million units sold. Steven’s creative vision and industry expertise extend beyond music, as the founder of Red River Pictures, producing projects like Broadway’s Ghost and the upcoming films Little Rootie Tootie and Son of the South (now streaming).In 2023, Steven co-hosted the Stories in the Room podcast on Thriller and appeared in the documentaries Thriller 40 and The Greatest Night in Pop. Known for his deep relationships and industry savvy, Steven is a sought-after advisor and a visionary in entertainment.We dive into the transformative power of music, spiritual transmission through sound, and the lessons Steven has learned from working with some of the greatest artists of all time, including Michael Jackson.In this episode, we discuss:- The spiritual power of music and how it can transcend the performer- Memorable moments with Michael Jackson and behind-the-scenes magic- The healing role of sound and vibration- The intersection of fame and spiritual awakening- What makes a piece of music timeless and sacred- Insights into intuition in the creative process- How music contributes to cultural transformation in today’s worldSteven also shares his advice for the next generation of artists, the importance of studying music, and his thoughts on the evolution of the music industry in this era of social media and mass influence.Don’t miss this enlightening conversation with a true industry legend. Tune in to Gateways to Awakening, where we host transformative discussions on wellness, creativity, and spirituality.Learn more about Steven Ray and his work at Stories in the Room, Instagram: @Mr.StevenRay *If you are an aligned wellness brand and would like to advertise your product on this show, please reach out at @therealyasmeentIf this conversation speaks to you, we’d love to hear from you — tag us @Gateways_To_Awakening on Instagram and Facebook to share your reflections. Your reviews on Apple Podcasts mean the world and help others find the show.To stay connected, you can follow my writing on Substack at substack.com/@therealyasmeent, join me on IG @TheRealYasmeenT, or sign up for my newsletter at InnerKnowingSchool.com.

Hi Friends, Today’s episode features Shakti Durga, spiritual teacher, author, energy healer, musician, and sacred channel of Divine Feminine presence. She is the master of sound and is known for her radiant presence and transformative spiritual initiations. She guides people through deep inner alchemy, unlocking love, power, and purpose in profound ways. Whether working with mantra, energy healing, or Divine archetypes, her teachings open hearts, elevate consciousness, and connect students to the wellspring of Source energy.You can listen to the entire conversation here: In this conversation, we explore:The transformative power of sound, mantra, and spiritual transmissionHow to cultivate a grounded relationship with the Divine FeminineWorking with archetypes and Goddesses for healing and empowermentThe role of spiritual initiations and how to know when you’re readyHow devotion differs from discipline—and why both matter on the pathUnderstanding karmic patterns, soul wounds, and energy clearingThe importance of spiritual hierarchy—ascended masters, angels, and devasHow to live an embodied, integrated spirituality in modern lifeShakti Durga’s personal awakening journey—and the meaning behind her name​We also discuss how to discern the soul’s voice from the ego, why so many people feel disconnected from their purpose, and how to realign with Source energy even during global or personal upheaval.Whether you're just beginning your spiritual journey or are deep on the path, this episode offers heart-opening wisdom and energetic insight from one of the most luminous teachers of our time.If this conversation speaks to you, we’d love to hear from you — tag us @Gateways_To_Awakening on Instagram and Facebook to share your reflections. Your reviews on Apple Podcasts mean the world and help others find the show.To stay connected, you can follow my writing on Substack at substack.com/@therealyasmeent, join me on IG @TheRealYasmeenT, or sign up for my newsletter at InnerKnowingSchool.com.​​

In this episode of Gateways to Awakening, I sit down with Christine Marie Mason, author, yogini, entrepreneur, and founder of Rosebud Woman. Christine’s work spans across wellness, intimacy, and embodiment, and in this conversation, we dive into her groundbreaking book, The Nine Lives of Woman, which offers a new paradigm for the life cycles of women.We explore the power of tantra, the role of spiritual practice in personal evolution, and the ways in which women can reclaim pleasure, vitality, and agency at every stage of life. Christine shares her insights on matrescence, menopause, gerotranscendence, and how the body can become a gateway to awakening.This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of feminine wisdom, embodied spirituality, and what it truly means to live a liberated life.We discuss the following and so much more: The truth about tantra and why it's so often misunderstoodHow Kundalini yoga rewired Christine’s nervous systemThe new nine-stage model of womanhood—and why it mattersThe connection between environmental toxins and women’s healthHow to cultivate intimacy, inner power, and joyChristine is a living bridge between the mystical and the practical—an inspiring voice for conscious transformation in our time.Learn more about Christine’s work at rosewoman.comTune in, share, and subscribe to Gateways to AwakeningIf this conversation speaks to you, we’d love to hear from you — tag us @Gateways_To_Awakening on Instagram and Facebook to share your reflections. Your reviews on Apple Podcasts mean the world and help others find the show.To stay connected, you can follow my writing on Substack at substack.com/@therealyasmeent, join me on IG @TheRealYasmeenT, or sign up for my newsletter at InnerKnowingSchool.com.

In this episode of Gateways to Awakening, visual artist and filmmaker Louie Schwartzberg. Louie is an award-winning director, cinematographer, and pioneer of time-lapse photography whose career spans over five decades. His films — Fantastic Fungi, Gratitude Revealed, Wings of Life, and Mysteries of the Unseen World — are cinematic meditations that reveal the sacred intelligence of nature and the transformative power of beauty.You can listen to the entire conversation here: In this conversation, we explore:How time-lapse photography became a meditative and spiritual practice for LouieThe surprising revelations behind the making of Fantastic FungiWhy awe is essential to healing and how visual storytelling can awaken global consciousnessHis newest project on beauty and consciousness, and what it reveals about human flourishingHow he balances artistic intuition with scientific precisionWhat he’s learned from millions of viewers whose lives have been touched by his workLouie’s TED Talks have garnered over 60 million views, and his Moving Art series has been hailed as a healing modality — used everywhere from classrooms to hospice care. Whether he’s building immersive experiences for The Sphere in Las Vegas or the Vatican in Rome, Louie’s work invites us to slow down, look closer, and remember our place in the great tapestry of life If you’ve ever felt awe in nature or longed to feel more connected to the Earth, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.If this conversation speaks to you, we’d love to hear from you — tag us @Gateways_To_Awakening on Instagram and Facebook to share your reflections. Your reviews on Apple Podcasts mean the world and help others find the show.To stay connected, you can follow my writing on Substack at substack.com/@therealyasmeent, join me on IG @TheRealYasmeenT, or sign up for my newsletter at InnerKnowingSchool.com-Yasmeen