
Soul Sessions | Jungian Coaching Podcast by CreativeMind
Explore Jungian Depth Coaching with Soul Sessions by CreativeMind. This is your guide to uncover your authentic self and live in true purpose, success and fulfillment. Join life coaching experts and Founders of CreativeMind, Debra Berndt Maldonado and Robert Maldonado, PhD, as they explore personal growth through Jungian Theory, Eastern Spirituality and Social Neuroscience in a deep, but practical way.
Latest episodes

Jun 16, 2025 • 31min
Hero's Journey and Jung's Individuation
Unlock the deeper meaning of your personal growth journey by understanding the timeless connection between myth and psychology. In this kickoff episode of our new series, we're exploring how Joseph Campbell's Hero's Journey aligns with Carl Jung’s process of individuation—and why this matters in our fast-paced modern world.From ancient myths to modern movies, discover how these universal patterns can empower you to reclaim your true self and create a life of purpose. In this episode, we discuss:The key similarities and differences between the hero’s journey and Jungian individuationWhy shadow work is the crucial first step to authenticity and meaningful changeThe role of archetypes like the hero, shadow, anima, and animus in transformationHow embarking on your own inner journey leads to wholeness—not just for you, but for the collectiveReady to answer the call to adventure within? Subscribe and join us for a series that unpacks these stages each week!•••Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

Jun 9, 2025 • 38min
How Non-Attachment is the Key to Happiness
Ready to see through the illusions and discover the true nature of reality? In this transformative episode of Soul Sessions with CreativeMind, Debra and Dr. Rob Maldonado guide you into the depths of “Maya”—the mysterious force behind the appearance of the world as we know it.Building on last week’s insights on non-dual consciousness, this episode demystifies ancient Eastern philosophy and makes it accessible for anyone ready to live a more awakened, empowered life. In this conversation, we explore:What Maya is—and why it’s more than just “illusion”How your mind projects reality, and why you experience life as separate and fragmentedThe practical impact of understanding Maya on suffering, relationships, and daily lifeWays to navigate life’s challenges by embracing non-attachment and higher knowledgeJoin us as we blend science, psychology, and timeless wisdom to help you wake up from the dream and live with greater freedom and joy. •••Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

Jun 2, 2025 • 36min
How Your Mind Shapes Reality: Breaking Free of Fear-Based Conditioning
In this conversation, Debra and Dr. Rob dive deep into the nature of consciousness from both Eastern and Western perspectives, exploring the fascinating concept of “self-luminous consciousness.” They break down how past experiences condition our minds to prioritize survival and fear, often shaping our perceptions of reality in limiting ways.Drawing from ancient Eastern philosophy and insights from neuropsychology, the episode uncovers how consciousness is not just a byproduct of our brains, but the fundamental fabric from which all reality emerges. You’ll hear powerful metaphors and practical examples—including the intriguing analogy of the mind as a customizable app—that help demystify abstract concepts and show how they can be applied to your everyday life, especially when it comes to wealth, self-perception, and personal growth.If you’ve ever wondered about the deeper connection between the self, the world you experience, and your ability to create a more fulfilling reality, this episode is for you. Tune in as Debra and Dr. Rob set the stage for next week’s exploration of Maya, promising even more mind-expanding insights into the workings of our consciousness.In this episode, we discuss:The difference between mind, body, and pure self-luminous consciousnessHow past conditioning and the “ego app” limit your possibilitiesThe Eastern view that consciousness is the ground of all reality (not a product of the brain)Transforming your relationship with fear, success, and abundance by recognizing the true SelfPractical ways to break free from limiting narratives—whether in money, career, or relationshipsLet us know what topics you'd like us to cover. Visit CreativeMindLife.com•••Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

May 26, 2025 • 33min
Why is there suffering in the world? Answers to life's big questions.
What if everything you knew about reality was an illusion?Continuing our series on Consciousness and Non-Dual Philosophy, In this episode, “Why is there suffering?”, we answer some common questions asked on this topic:Why is there suffering in the world?Am I the cause of bad things happening to me?What is my purpose if everything is one?Here’s a quick recap of what we covered:The Three Principles of Non-Dual PhilosophyEverything is consciousness—without exception.Consciousness is one and indivisible. There is not ‘consciousness and something else’—it’s all one.YOU are that consciousness!We explore why the intelligence that created the world would allow bad things to happen. Why is there war and evil? How am I responsible for the events that happen to me in my life?Dr. Rob breaks it down for us that these tough questions usually come from the ego’s limited perspective. Instead of blaming ourselves, we are invited to see that we are part of the whole, much like branches on a tree. Yes, tragedy and injustice exist in the play of Maya (illusion), but our awareness of them is what connects us, not makes us to blame.Key Points:The three foundational principles of non-dual philosophy and how they apply to daily lifeWhy bad things happen to individuals and the world at large from the lens of consciousness, ego, and MayaThe purpose of suffering, personal identity, and how trauma fits into the greater play of lifeFinding personal and universal purpose: the role of creation, individuation, and the power of inner work✨ Exercise for the Week Ask yourself: What if I am one with everything? Meditate on that. Notice what arises.00:00 Introduction00:15 The Paradigm Shift: Consciousness & Non-Dual Philosophy01:23 Three Principles of Non-Duality04:43 Why Do Bad Things Happen? Suffering, Ego, and Responsibility10:37 Personal Suffering and the Purpose of Pain12:26 Maya, Duality, and the Nature of Reality15:37 Healing, Changing Patterns, and Free Will18:11 Creativity, Evolution, and Lila19:36 Purpose: Are We Born With It or Do We Learn It?25:32 Theory, Practice, and the Path to Individuation26:33 Shadow Work as a Path to Oneness29:40 Practical Wisdom and Final Thoughts•••Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

May 19, 2025 • 31min
Projecting Reality: How Our Mind Creates the World We Experience
This week, Debra and Rob peel back the curtain on the concept of non-dual consciousness—a perspective rapidly gaining momentum in science and transformative coaching. Are you just your body and brain, reacting to an outside world? Or are you the consciousness that gives rise to your entire experience?Here’s what you’ll uncover in this episode:The Shift from Materialism to Consciousness: Why leading-edge scientists—and great seers of the past—say consciousness is the ultimate reality, not matter.The Rope & The Snake Story: How our minds project meaning onto the world, sometimes mistaking a harmless rope for a dangerous snake. What are you projecting onto your life right now?Dreamlike Nature of the World: Are your experiences as solid as you think—or more like passing scenes in a dream?Coaching Implications: Learn how these profound frameworks can empower you (or your clients) to move beyond surface-level change and access profound creative power.Dealing with Suffering: Why acknowledging the “apparent reality” of your challenges actually opens the door to relief, creativity, and deep joy.00:00 Introduction & Recap of Consciousness00:54 Why Non-Dual Consciousness Matters03:12 Shifting Scientific Paradigms & What It Means for Coaches04:45 The Upanishads and the Nature of Reality06:22 Appearance vs. Reality: The Dream Analogy08:21 Awareness as Absolute Reality09:16 The Concept of Maya: Apparent Reality10:31 Implications for Personal Growth and Coaching11:27 Projecting Happiness and Power Outside Ourselves13:39 How the Mind Constructs Reality15:04 Transactional and Apparent Reality16:20 Does Anything Matter if Reality is an Illusion?19:30 Is Suffering Real?21:42 Understanding Suffering Through Awareness22:21 Coaching Through Questioning Apparent Reality26:57 Will Life Become Numb Without Suffering?28:10 Living a Full, Enlightened Life•••Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

May 12, 2025 • 28min
Non-Duality Changes How You See Yourself
What if everything you’ve believed about consciousness—and your sense of self—is just the tip of the iceberg? Dive into this mind-expanding episode of Soul Sessions with CreativeMind, as Debra Maldonado and Dr. Robert Maldonado unravel the profound concept of pure consciousness and its origin in ancient non-dual teachings.Discover how understanding the witness within you can unlock freedom from limiting roles, dissolve feelings of separation, and radically shift how you coach, create, and experience life.In this episode, we discuss:What pure consciousness is (and what it isn’t)—drawing from the Upanishads and non-dual philosophyThe illusion of separation between subject and object, and how your “dreams” shape waking realityWhy shadow work is essential for truly experiencing non-dualityPractical ways this awareness can free you from anxiety, redefine your identity, and transform your approach to coachingSubscribe for the rest of our consciousness series, and tap into the unchanging truth at the core of who you are.00:00 Introduction01:03 The Meaning of Consciousness and Non-Duality02:43 Subject vs. Object: True Nature of Pure Consciousness05:44 The Illusion of Separation07:48 Western Science vs. Non-Dual Perspective09:00 The Witness and the Nature of Thought16:15 Non-Dual Consciousness and Its Impact on Coaching17:25 Roles, Shadow Work, and Personal Identity21:03 Thoughts vs. Pure Consciousness21:48 The Upanishads’ Story: Dream, Reality, and the Witness24:45 Implications for Personal Life and Inner Peace•••Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

10 snips
May 5, 2025 • 58min
Romancing the Shadow - Interview with Connie Zweig, Ph.D.
Dr. Connie Zweig, a retired Jungian therapist and author, shares insights on shadow work and its relevance in midlife. She explores the hidden aspects of ourselves that shape our lives and relationships. Zweig discusses the dangers of spiritual bypassing and emphasizes the need for personal and collective healing. Practical methods for identifying shadow figures like the inner critic are provided. The conversation highlights how confronting our shadows can lead to empowerment and deeper connections, enriching our understanding of both self and spirituality.

Apr 28, 2025 • 33min
Spiritual Awakening: Plant Medicine and Jungian Psychology
Are you curious about the role of plant medicine in personal growth and self-discovery? In this episode of Soul Sessions, we're delving into the intriguing intersection of plant medicine and Carl Jung's concept of individuation, revealing how these natural substances can open new pathways within the psyche.Join hosts Debra and Dr. Rob Maldonado as they explore the cultural context and psychological impacts of plant medicine on individuation:The influence of psychedelics when taken out of cultural contextsThe effect of psychedelics on the brain, including the scrambling of brain function and its spiritual effectsThe dissolution of the ego through plant medicine and its parallels with Jung's individuationHow to integrate profound experiences for lasting personal growthSubscribe now and embark on a journey of exploration into the consciousness-expanding potential of plant medicine. 00:00 Introduction00:31 Plant Medicine and Its Popularity02:18 Cultural Context and Use of Psychedelics04:31 Advice for Research and Safe Practice04:55 Human Experience and Mind-Altering Substances08:10 Plant Medicine and the Brain09:30 Experiencing the Unconscious11:06 The Default Mode Network and Ego13:16 Connection and Spiritual Experience14:45 Individuation vs. Plant Medicine15:48 Lucid Dreaming and Natural Hallucinations25:06 Brain Restructuring and Adaptation26:50 The Role of Resistance in Lasting Change30:00 Yoga Systems and Psycho-Spiritual Awakening30:44 Conclusion and Breaking Free from Limitation•••Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

Apr 21, 2025 • 40min
Understanding Shame and the Shadow
Unlock the transformative power of understanding shame in our latest episode of Soul Sessions: A Jungian Coaching Podcast with CreativeMind. We're diving deep into how this often misunderstood emotion can be an ally in personal growth and empowerment.Join hosts Debra and Dr. Rob Maldonado as they discuss the dual nature of shame, viewing it through the lens of coaching and personal development. In this episode, we explore:The empathetic origins of shame and its role in societal harmonyHow shame manifests in our lives and its impact on self-confidenceStrategies for transforming shame from a limiting force into a catalyst for growthIntegrating the shadow to unleash your natural confidence and creative mindDon't miss this insightful conversation that encourages you to embrace every part of your human experience, turning shame into a stepping stone towards achieving your fullest potential. Subscribe now to stay updated on new episodes every week!00:00 Introduction00:22 The Importance of Understanding Shame01:06 The Coaching Perspective on Shame01:56 Shame as a Functional Social Emotion04:34 Misconceptions about Shame05:39 The Role of Shame in Childhood07:19 Internalizing Shame into Adulthood11:58 Overcoming the Fear of Shame32:17 Integration and Acceptance34:24 Activating the Creative Mind37:00 Conclusion: Upcoming Topics and Opportunities•••Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com

Apr 14, 2025 • 32min
Unlocking Potential: The Observer Effect and Creating Reality with Your Mind
We're excited to bring you another enlightening episode of Soul Sessions with CreativeMind! In this episode, titled "Unlocking Potential: The Observer Effect and Creating Reality with Your Mind" hosts Robert Maldonado, PhD, and Debra Maldonado share the fascinating interplay between neuroscience, Jungian psychology, and Eastern philosophy.Episode Highlights:The Observer Effect: Discover how our perceptions shape our reality. The universe as infinite potential is influenced by our expectations – a perspective validated by neuroscience and quantum mechanics.Embodied Consciousness: Explore the concept of observing the world from the lens of the 'I' or ego, creating a sense of separation. Understanding this can empower us to rewrite our narratives.Witness Mind: Learn about cultivating metacognition, allowing you to step aside from default patterns and engage with your thoughts consciously. It's like seeing your mind from a bird's eye view!Active Imagination: We dive into Jung's method of engaging with the unconscious mind. By interacting with symbols, we can envision new possibilities, breaking free from repetitive patterns.Self-Directed Neuroplasticity: Direct your brain's potential to reshape and reorganize itself through intentional imagination and visioning, guiding your personal development intentionally.This episode offers tools for intentional living, empowering you to engage actively with your thoughts and transform your life by harnessing the power of your mind.Chapters:00:00 Introduction 01:06 Exploring the Observer Effect 04:02 Embodied Consciousness Explained 10:38 The Witness Mind and Its Benefits 16:17 Jungian Coaching and Active Imagination 26:00 Self-Directed Neuroplasticity•••Want to be a Certified Jungian Life Coach? Download your free program brochure: https://www.creativemindlife.com/download-now-lct-brochure Stay Connected with Debra and Dr. Rob:Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Facebook | creativemindlife.com | connect@creativemindmethod.com