Stay Grounded with Raj Jana

In this episode, we dive deep into redefining masculinity and mental health with John O'Connor. With over two decades of experience and 10,000 hours logged coaching high-achieving men, John is one of the most qualified individuals I could possibly find to speak on the subject. As a husband, father, and former entrepreneur who got sober 22 years ago, John shares vulnerably about his own journey with alcohol addiction, suicidal ideation, and generational trauma, modeling a new paradigm of masculine strength through emotional openness.Key topics discussed:John's process of getting sober over 22 years ago and the tools that helped him create lasting change. We talk about the importance of community support and therapy in working through underlying issues.How fully embodying our struggles and sitting with discomfort is critical for growth, versus numbing or distracting ourselves. John shares his brilliant "90 day rule" for uncovering what we're masking.John courageously opens up about past suicidal thoughts, even amidst living a life he loves. We discuss how generational and ancestral trauma can unconsciously manifest. The power of sharing vulnerably to release shame.Practical somatic tools John uses when difficult emotions arise, like the C.O.R.E. method for non-reactive processing. How allowing our feelings to just be can dissolve their charge over time.The trap of ego and the discernment around what to share relationally vs. internally process first. How vulnerability invites reciprocity in intimacy.John's current work hosting men's retreats and how healing journeys invite a new paradigm of masculine emotional expression.Daily practices, like grounding through tea ceremonies, that keep John feeling centered amidst life's chaos.This conversation models a new vision of masculine mental health - one of courageous emotional work, inner exploration and interdependence. John demonstrates a grounded strength that comes from sharing vulnerably. His story inspires all of us to bring more truth into the light.Resources mentioned in this episode:The Art of Contemplation trainingBook: Essential Skills for Extraordinary Living (coming soon) Core blueprint audiobook (coming soon) Jayson Gaddis - Getting to Zero bookConnect with John: Website Instagram Connect with Raj: Website Instagram iTunes Spotify YouTubeLegal Disclaimer: The information and opinions discussed in this podcast are for educational and entertainment purposes only. The host and guests are not medical or mental health professionals, and their advice should not be a substitute for seeking professional help. Any action taken based on the information presented is strictly at your own risk. The podcast host and their guests shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss, damage, or injury caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by information shared in this podcast. Consult your physician before making any changes to your mental health treatment or lifestyle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Stay Grounded, host Raj Jana shares the origin story behind his new emotional wellness company Liber8. He opens up about the personal life challenges, mentors, and loss of a dear friend that inspired him to create Liber8 as a comprehensive tool to guide people through the journey of inner transformation.Raj explains how Liber8 helps identify and heal emotional triggers rooted in past traumas so you can break free from negative thought loops, unhelpful behaviors, and emotional reactivity. Through self-inquiry prompts in the app, connective community support, and personalized recommendations, Liber8 provides a complete roadmap to become your most grounded, resilient self.Key topics covered:Raj's awakening journey and the psychedelic experience that forced him to confront his mental blocksHow a conversation with mentor Panache Desai shaped Raj's view of addressing issues from withinThe tragic loss of Raj's friend Tristan and realizing the link between self-love, emotional roots and physical healthFinding alignment with this co-founder and a purpose in serving others through emotional liberationHow Liber8 helps map your emotional triggers back to their originsThe science behind reprocessing “condensed emotional experiences” stored in the nervous systemDetails of Liber8's personalized emotional lab reports, daily practices and communityThe ONE thing you must do to experience lasting connection your divine infinite selfHow doing inner work sooner can profoundly improve the quality of your relationships, health and lifeEvery month, Raj shares his reflection episode with some of his biggest takeaways and insights from the month. Liber8 is his TOOL for transforming his negative emotional triggers into profound insights and learnings that allow him to shape a life he loves and prevent the same situations from happening again. His intention for recording this episode is to give you a detailed account of HOW you can use Liber8 to experience more peace, clarity, and joy in your life while building the necessary skill sets to BECOME more grounded and emotionally resilient.We hope you find this episode helpful.Timestamps:0:00 - Intro 2:00 - Liber8’s story - feeling triggers5:40 - What if you changed what’s within?8:00 - The trigger is the entry point to the self.12:15 - Tristan’s Story16:00 - Working with cancer patients20:30 - What is a trigger?26:00 - The Liber8 Process28:00 - Unprocessed emotion lives in the body.35:00 - The Liber8 Community40:00 - The truth is the work that matters most.Connect with Raj:Website Instagram iTunes Legal Disclaimer: The information and opinions discussed in this podcast are for educational and entertainment purposes only. The host and guests are not medical or mental health professionals, and their advice should not be a substitute for seeking professional help. Any action taken based on the information presented is strictly at your own risk. The podcast host and their guests shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss, damage, or injury caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by information shared in this podcast. Consult your physician before making any changes to your mental health treatment or lifestyle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last week on October 7th, there was a grueling terrorist attack on innocent Jewish people. Since then, there have been heartbreaking levels of carnage happening to innocent Palestinian people.My heart breaks for humanity. This podcast is not about choosing a side. So much innocent bloodshed. There are no winners in this fight. What we need, now more than ever, is the capacity within us to relate with one another on a HUMAN level. To feel and recognize another’s pain while holding space for our own. To emotionally connect with people who look and act differently than us. With people who have differing opinions and differing life experiences from us. With people who see the world differently than we do. And I brought on my dear friend, Mr. Jay P. Newman, to help inspire the courage and give you the tools to do so effectively.Jay P. Newman is a dear brother of mine, a successful entrepreneur and investor, and a mentor inside of his local Jewish communities. We had this podcast scheduled to record days after the initial Israel attacks and decided to trust the timing of it all and record something incredibly relevant for the times we are in. Key Topics Discussed:* Why it's difficult yet essential to remain open-hearted in times of conflict* How bearing witness to each other's pain can dissolve barriers* The courage required to hold space for grief and disagreements with empathy* Choosing happiness over "being right" in relationships and world affairs* The power of listening with genuine curiosity about different perspectives* The ultimate goal of recognizing our common bonds despite surface differences* Faith in life's bigger picture as an antidote to getting lost in fear-based narratives & stories* Centering our energy on what unites us rather than divides us as human beings* The inner work and mindfulness needed to tap into empathy amidst outer turmoil* Small acts of humanity that start ripples of peace: how we each play a part* Finding inspiration in leaders who embody compassionate, heart-centered leadershipIf you’ve been affected by these tragic events, I want you to feel my heart with you. I’m sorry that this type of darkness exists in the world. I hope this podcast offers you solace and grounding as you navigate a very complex emotional landscape. Sending you all of my love.Resources mentioned in this episode: Podcast- Investing On Purpose with JP Newman and Ryan Daniel MoranConnect with Jay P. Newman: WebsiteConnect with Raj: Website Instagram iTunes SpotifyLegal Disclaimer: The information and opinions discussed in this podcast are for educational and entertainment purposes only. The host and guests are not medical or mental health professionals, and their advice should not be a substitute for seeking professional help. Any action taken based on the information presented is strictly at your own risk. The podcast host and their guests shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss, damage, or injury caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by information shared in this podcast. Consult your physician before making any changes to your mental health treatment or lifestyle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

September 2023 felt like a final exam to help me really anchor in the principles that I’ve been working to integrate and embody over the last year. I do not say this lightly when I say that this month was one of the most powerful months of transformation I have experienced. It was a month that included putting myself in situations that had a lot of emotional volatility, which served as an entry point for me to access a spiritual depth that I didn’t know I had access to. Ultimately, this month played a crucial role in helping me shape my definition of what “God” is and what it FEELS like in my body to live in the frequency of divine love as I understand it.A few topics we discuss:Discovering the many frequencies of loveLetting go of needing a particular outcomeRedefining masculinity based on inner truthTrusting uncertainty as a teacher on the pathFinding freedom through feeling everything fullyExpanding capacity for love through vulnerable experiencesIntegrating breakthroughs through spiritual practiceAnd so much more…This episode is filled with practical tools to help you navigate the complex world of interpersonal relationships and spiritual growth with as much ease and grace as you can. Sending all of my love.-RajTimestamps:0:00 - Intro5:00 - Redefining masculinity9:45 - What is real love?13:52 - The evolution of real masculinity17:30 - We are so disconnected from our life force energy.22:00 - You are not broken.25:00 - The pathway to spirituality31:00 - Owning the problems34:30 - Integration is the real magic37:00 - The truth is what’s here and now.40:00 - The community of Liber845:00 - Becoming your most liberated self.53:00 - We don’t need to build the storyConnect with Raj:WebsiteInstagramiTunesSpotifyYouTubeIf you are on the path of emotional healing and self-discovery and would like to know how Liber8 can support your journey, join the Liber8 Program at www.rajjana.com/liber8.Legal Disclaimer: The information and opinions discussed in this podcast are for educational and entertainment purposes only. The host and guests are not medical or mental health professionals, and their advice should not be a substitute for seeking professional help. Any action based on the information presented is strictly at your own risk. The podcast host and their guests shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity for any loss, damage, or injury caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by information shared in this podcast. Consult your physician before making any changes to your mental health treatment or lifestyle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode of Stay Grounded, host Raj Jana explores the journey of surrender and flow with serial entrepreneur, executive coach, and consciousness explorer Devon Kerns.With over 25 years in business and over 11,000 hours of experience logged coaching and consulting for political leaders and fortune 500 executives while diving deep into his own spiritual practices, Devon shares his wisdom on releasing attachment, trusting intuitive guidance, and embodying our divine nature. Key topics include:Devon's mystical experience at age 15 that set him on the spiritual pathUsing the heart's intelligence versus the thinking mindRecognizing we are receivers, not doers in the flow of lifeReleasing control and the need to "try"Honoring all of life's experiences as part of the divine danceIntegration versus evangelism - respecting each soul's journeyDevon's daily spiritual practice keeps him anchored in presenceDevon offers illuminating perspectives from his own unfolding journey of self-realization. Tune in for profound insights on moving through life with grace and ease instead of struggle.This expansive dialogue provides tools to release attachments, judgments and the need for control. Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction4:00 - Devon’s story 9:00 - The experience of the now 19:00 - The sense of impermanence 22:00 - The power of “No Thought” 34:00 - The knowing that you can. 38:00 - How aware can you be in all moments? 46:00 - Surrendering to the gratitude of life. 54:00 - We are already whole. 1:11:00 - What does it mean to stay grounded?Connect with Devon:WebsiteInstagramInsight TimerConnect with Raj:WebsiteInstagramiTunesSpotifyYouTubeLegal Disclaimer: The information and opinions discussed in this podcast are for educational and entertainment purposes only. The host and guests are not medical or mental health professionals, and their advice should not be a substitute for seeking professional help. Any action taken based on the information presented is strictly at your own risk. The podcast host and their guests shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss, damage, or injury caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by information shared in this podcast. Consult your physician before making any changes to your mental health treatment or lifestyle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode of Stay Grounded, host Raj Jana is joined again by Dr. Alec Verkuilen-Brogan, professor of Anatomy at Naropa University. The last episode Raj recorded with Alec was such a hit that he couldn’t wait to bring him back for a follow up. Dr. Alec takes a multidimensional approach to understanding human potential, integrating chiropractic, Vedic sciences, Jyotish astrology, and Human Design. His fascination with spiritual anatomy and the subtle energies of the body led him to develop ways of supporting grounded awakening and embodiment.In addition to teaching, Dr. Alec’s journey has been shaped through transformative experiences with plant medicine and guidance from teachers like Sadhguru. He now shares these maps and tools with others to reveal the beauty and uniqueness within each soul.Key insights include using astrological systems to understand life’s timing, embodying your Human Design for authenticity, allowing initiations to come naturally, and integrating spiritual wisdom into modern life.In addition to these key insights, Raj and Dr. Alec explore:Alec’s mystical experience as a teenager that illuminated new dimensions of awarenessHow our astrological charts reveal soul purpose and life’s hidden logicUsing Human Design to unlock alignment with our true natureLeaning into initiations while avoiding forcing or graspingEmbodying spirituality to embrace life more fullyTeaching integrative wisdom traditions as maps to self-realizationDaily spiritual practice as an anchor through all of life’s changesDr. Alec offers illuminating perspectives for living with purpose while honoring the soul’s destiny. Tune in for a fascinating glimpse into ancient sciences and grounded spirituality.Timestamps:0:48 - Intro / How Alec found himself13:37 - The awareness of purpose17:29 - How to have a mentor and still walk your own path29:41 -  The foundations of learning the soul36:25 - Listen to yourself  (it will tell you who you are)45:14 - How Alec Stays GroundedThese are the links mentioned in the episode:Website: https://www.geometryofgrace.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geometryofgraceEmail: geometryofgrace@gmail.comNaropa University: https://www.naropa.edu/Human Design: https://www.humandesignamerica.com/Liber8: https://www.rajjana.com/liber8YouTube: How to Walk As Your Truest Self | Dr. Alec Verkuilen Brogan Part 2 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s amazing guest is Carissa Johnsen.With a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology and over 7 years experience as an Intuitive, Channel, and Energy Healer, Carissa merges ancient wisdom with modern leadership principles to support high-impact leaders in reaching new levels of wholeness and prosperity by helping them access their deepest spiritual gifts.In this wide-ranging discussion, Carissa shares:What spiritual gifts are and how they connect us to unseen realmsHer journey through an intense dark night of the soul to discover her true giftsWhy community support is crucial when abilities first come onlineHow to listen to the wisdom of your heart and soulPractices like prayer and presence to stay groundedHow to trust the mysterious unfolding of your pathCarissa offers potent insights into the challenging but rewarding process of a spiritual awakening. We talk in depth about how trauma healing and taking the time to process repressed emotion creates space for your gifts to flourish.I hope this conversation offers a glimpse into the future of human potential as spiritual abilities awaken on a mass scale. Links mentioned in the episode:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carissajohnsen/Website: https://www.carissajohnsen.com/Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction2:45 - What is a spiritual gift?5:15 - How Spiritual Gifts change the way you live38:33 - The identity of your true self44:47 - What is Manifestation50:04 - How does Carissa Stay Grounded? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

August 2023 marks a powerful milestone for me completing my 100 Days of Raj challenge - where I practiced choosing myself and prioritizing my wellbeing, fully and relentlessly, before prioritizing the needs of anything or anyone else outside of me for 100 days (Here's the episode where I talk about starting the challenge).What’s resulted is a new way of BEING that is anchored into the sacred geometry of who I am at my core. It’s led to incredible new opportunities, relationships, and experiences that were deeply nourishing to my mind, body, and soul. I have gotten so much better at letting go of my attachments and am accessing infinite levels of flow, ease, and inspiration as a result. I can’t wait to share my biggest takeaways with you.A few topics we discuss:How to anchor into the TRUE frequency of youUsing faith and prayer to BECOME groundedAligning your sacred geometry to the universal geometryAccess higher states of consciousness through contrastThe power of saying no to what you don’t wantLiberating yourself from limiting beliefs and storiesAccessing infinite levels of flow by playing the infinite gameBuilding the skill set of “repair” in relationshipsPowerful lessons from 100 days of choosing myselfThis month’s reflection highlights the incredible experience of LIFE that is possible when you commit to consistently doing your inner work. I hope the episode inspires you to continue looking within, especially when it’s difficult to do so, and commit to your own path of liberation. These are the links mentioned in the episode:Liber8 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's very special guest is my brother Dr. Alec Verkuilen-Brogan.Dr. Alec is a professor of spiritual anatomy at Naropa University in Boulder, CO, focused on studying the beauty of the subtle body. He is a traditionally trained network chiropractor who brings this knowledge into the Vedic tradition to support deep transformation of consciousness.Dr. Alec is also the founder of Geometry of Grace, a modern metaphysical framework that uses sacred systems like astrology, Tarot, and Human Design as maps and mirrors for awakening. The geometry of grace paradigm guides people to tune into their unique nature and align with grace.Through his study of Jyotish, Human Design, and 15+ years spent apprenticing under his root teacher Sadhguru, Dr. Alec’s work offers a map of the territory that must be traversed on the journey to remembering one's infinite nature. His fascination with the spine inspires people to dive deep into their own spiritual anatomy.In this wide-ranging discussion, we discuss:Moving beyond separateness to recognize the oneness of all lifeHonoring your unique human design and inner authorityFacing down limitations and illusions to relinquish what is not realThe role of devotion, prayer, and mysticism in staying groundedWhy life gets more mysterious as we awaken to truthWith decades of experience guiding others to self-realization, Dr. Alec offers rare insights into the spiritual process of burning away all that is untrue to uncover one's infinite essence. I hope you enjoy listening to this beautiful conversation.Timestamps: 0:32 - Meet Alec Brogan3:57 - Illusions of Loneliness10:37 - The Rhythm of Our Nature17:12 - How to Accrue Karma23:17 - The Geometry of Grace28:52 - Why you should stay connected to Grace35:22 - Initiation in truth44:35 - The Awakening in your initiation51:06 - The Revelation of your true self (edited) These are the links mentioned in the episode:Website: https://www.geometryofgrace.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geometryofgraceEmail: geometryofgrace@gmail.comhttps://www.naropa.edu/Alec Verkuilen Brogan: Remembering Your Infinite Nature Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode of Stay Grounded, host Raj Jana is joined by Dr. Dan Stickler, Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of The Apeiron Center for Human Potential.Dr. Dan is a pioneer in the field of precision lifestyle medicine, taking a holistic systems-based approach to optimizing human health and performance. As a physician focused on high-achieving executives and entrepreneurs, he combines functional, alternative, and age-management medicine to help patients actualize their fullest potential physically, mentally, and spiritually.Dr. Dan discovered that lifestyle - not just treating symptoms - holds the key to transformation. His fascination with leveraging genetics, epigenetics, and human systems design led him to develop a personalized approach that empowers people to become architects of their own evolution.In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Dan is an author, speaker, and thought leader on topics related to human optimization and longevity. He serves as Chief Science Officer for Apeiron Academy, Medical Director at Neurohacker Collective, and guest lecturer at Stanford University.In this wide-ranging discussion, Dr. Dan and Raj explore:Navigating the stages of consciousness and integrating new awarenessCultivating curiosity as an antidote to self-consciousnessFacing down shame stories and integrating shadow aspects of selfThe role of spiritual awakening in relationships and communityMoving from a deficiency mindset to one of abundanceSurrendering the ego to feel emotions fully and authenticallyHow he stays grounded through emotional intelligence and presenceDr. Dan offers profound wisdom and practical insights culled from his own ongoing journey of growth and self-discovery. Tune in for a fascinating exploration of living a life of excellence.Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro: 4:00 - Optimizing Your Life 6:20 - Conscious Relationships 8:00 - The Stages of Consciousness 15:44 - Complexity Thinking 17:17- What is Integration?21:00 - What does it mean to live a life of excellence? 23:30 - The Value of Suffering 24:15 - How useful is meaning-making? 27:00 - Conscious relationships 29:00 - What is the soul? 33:00 - What is the value of the ego? 38:00 - What is “Shadow Work”? 44:00 - Evolution of the ego. 51:00 - Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs 54:00 - Being seen failing 58:00 - Devotional RelationshipsContact info:https://apeironzoh.com/dt_team/daniel-stickler/ Video:https://youtu.be/cmaRGjdV6is Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.