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In this episode of Lucid Cafe, I’m joined by astrologer, shamanic practitioner, and author Madi Murphy to explore her new book, In the Cosmic Zone: Embody the 12 Astro Archetypes to Unleash Your Genius and Activate Your Authentic Self. Madi shares her personal journey from a Christian upbringing to embracing astrology as a powerful tool for alignment, self-trust, and spiritual growth. Together, we talk about her embodied approach to astrology — one that invites us to turn inward and work with the wisdom of each zodiac archetype as a living, breathing part of ourselves. We also explore what it means to live authentically in a world that often asks us to disconnect from our inner knowing, the courage it takes to trust your path, and how astrology can serve as a mirror for self-discovery rather than a set of external predictions. This episode is an invitation to step into your cosmic zone — and remember who you came here to be. In this episode, Madi discusses: Her Personal JourneyQuestioning and Spiritual AwakeningBreakdown and BreakthroughDiscovering Astrology's DepthUsing Astrology PracticallyThe Evolutionary Journey of the ZodiacPatterns and Client ExperiencesFoundations of TrustThe Spirit of the Night SkyRebuilding Trust and Joyful Re-imaginingHer Journey to Writing a BookUnderstanding Your Sun SignExploring Your Birth ChartCommunity and ResourcesPersonal Journey into ShamanismThe Role of Teachers and GuidesParenting and Spiritual LessonsVisit Madi's website CosmicRX________ BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course  For more information about Wendy's new visionary fiction book, Raven's Daughter, or to purchase a copy, visit Three Worlds Press Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®   Lucid Cafe episodes by topic   Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, I’m joined by author and neuro-affirming life coach Sol Smith for a thoughtful and deeply personal conversation about autism (with a focus on high functioning adults), identity, and self-discovery. Sol shares his journey of being diagnosed with autism in adulthood and what inspired him to write The Autistic’s Guide to Self-Discovery: Flourishing as a Neurodivergent Adult. In this conversation we explore the often-overlooked nuances of autistic experience — including high masking, social challenges, intense versus narrow interests, and the impact of societal stigma. Sol also speaks to the barriers many autistic adults face in accessing professional diagnoses, the importance of self-diagnosis, and the vital role community support groups play in fostering belonging and understanding. Woven throughout the conversation is a broader reflection on consciousness and the unique ways autistic individuals may perceive and engage with the world. This episode offers insight, validation, and encouragement for autistic listeners, as well as greater understanding for allies seeking to learn. In this episode, Sol discusses: His Journey to Writing the The Autistic’s Guide to Self-DiscoveryUnderstanding Autism and Narrow InterestsSocial Challenges and Hierarchies Building Friendships as an Autistic PersonMasking and People PleasingGender Differences in AutismRejection SensitivityCultural Changes and AcceptanceThinking Styles: Bottom-Up vs. Top-DownUnderstanding Neurotypical vs. Autistic PerceptionMedia Literacy and Cognitive ShortcutsCommunication Challenges in RelationshipsEncouraging Self-Diagnosis and Access IssuesAutistic Traits and Social PerceptionThe Cognitive Burden of AutismCoaching and Community Support for AutisticsExploring Consciousness and PerceptionVisit Sol's website________ BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course  For more information about Wendy's new visionary fiction book, Raven's Daughter, or to purchase a copy, visit Three Worlds Press Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®   Lucid Cafe episodes by topic   Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Linda River Valente returns to discuss the astrological landscape for the end of 2025 and the beginning of 2026. Our conversation delves into the significant planetary movements that shape collective and personal experiences, reflections on the cultural and political shifts, and a much needed optimistic outlook for new opportunities and momentum in 2026. Astrological Reflections on 2025 Challenges and Retrogrades of Early 2025 Cultural and Political ImpactsNavigating the Heavy Energies of Autumn 2025Looking Forward to 2026Astrological Events and Predictions for Early 2026Uranus in Gemini and the Evolution of CommunicationExploring the Soul in TechnologyDigital Disconnection and Human ConnectionAstrology and Human CultureThe Impact of DigitalizationNavigating Loneliness and IsolationThe Role of Retrogrades in 2025Symbolism and RealityAstrological Insights and Human ExperienceConclusion and Future OutlookConnect with Linda________ BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course  For more information about Wendy's new visionary fiction book, Raven's Daughter, or to purchase a copy, visit Three Worlds Press Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®   Lucid Cafe episodes by topic   Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of Lucid Cafe, I’m joined by Bonnie Buckner, author of The Secret Mind, for a fascinating deep dive into the transformative intelligence of our dreams. Bonnie shares how tuning into our dream life can help us grow, heal, and create greater harmony in our waking world. We explore the two cognitive processing systems in the brain, Bonnie’s early childhood realization that dreams hold profound meaning, and the seven types of dreams preserved through a 13th-century lineage. She also offers practical guidance for capturing and interpreting dreams — and using them to unlock the latent potentials we all carry. If you’re curious about the inner workings of the mind, or want to learn how dreams can become a daily tool for insight and transformation, this conversation opens a compelling doorway. Visit Bonnie's website ________ BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course  For more information about Wendy's new visionary fiction book, Raven's Daughter, or to purchase a copy, visit Three Worlds Press Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®   Lucid Cafe episodes by topic   Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, I’m joined by the extraordinary mother–daughter team Norma and Nisha Burton, co-authors of Navigating Liminal Realms: Psycho-navigation Skills for Lucid Dreaming, Trance Journeys and Altered States. Their work blends ancient psychonaut wisdom with modern neuroscience to revive a long-forgotten skill: how to consciously enter, explore, and return from the dreamscape, trance worlds, and psychedelic visions with clarity and intention. Together, we explore the unique ways Norma and Nisha use their complementary approaches to help others navigate the inner wilderness — cultivating practices that deepen self-awareness, expand perception, and reconnect us with the vast terrain of our own consciousness and beyond. This is a rich, fascinating conversation for anyone drawn to lucid dreaming, shamanic journeying, psychedelics, or the mysteries of the mind. Visit Norma + Nisha's websiteVisit Nisha's websiteVisit Norma's website________ BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course  For more information about Wendy's new visionary fiction book, Raven's Daughter, or to purchase a copy, visit Three Worlds Press Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®   Lucid Cafe episodes by topic   Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube  ★ Support this podcast ★

Forget the sanitized fairy tales — Danielle Dulsky, the author of The Night House: Folklore, Fairy Tales, Rites, and Magick for the Wise and Wild,  is here to remind us that the old stories bite back. We talk about the witch as an archetype of creative rebellion, the power of ritual, and how folklore can awaken the wild, wise self that’s been hiding just beneath the surface. Danielle is a heathen visionary, painter, and word-witch. She’s the author of Seasons of Moon and Flame, Woman Most Wild, and The Holy Wild; she teaches internationally and has facilitated circles, embodiment trainings, communal spell-work, and seasonal rituals since 2007. She is the founder of The Hag School and believes in the emerging power of wild collectives and sudden circles of curious dreamers, cunning witches, and rebellious artists in healing our ailing world.  In this episode, Danielle discusses: The Hag SchoolHer background and transformation into a witchThe meaning of her book title, The Night House The mysterious origins of fairy talesArchetypes in fairy talesHow readers can work with her bookThe hidden intelligence contained with fairy tales, myths, etcThe universality of ancient storiesDreaming the futureThe hidden realmThe magic of storytellingAn example of how to work with a fairy taleChech out Danielle's website and the The Hag School________ Register for the free 11/8/25 Entering the Age of Possibility webinar For more information about Wendy's new visionary fiction book, Raven's Daughter, or to purchase a copy, visit Three Worlds Press BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course  Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®   Lucid Cafe episodes by topic   Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube  ★ Support this podcast ★

Calling all dog lovers!  In this resource-rich episode, I’m joined by clinical canine herbalist Rita Hogan, who brings over 20 years of experience helping dogs heal naturally. Her new book, The Herbal Dog: Holistic Canine Herbalism Applications and Practice, is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone who wants their pup to thrive. Rita shares empowering, easy-to-apply tips for supporting your dog’s health using herbs, nutrition, and holistic care — and many of her insights are surprisingly helpful for humans, too. Whether you're new to herbalism or just love your dog like family, this conversation will give you tools to help them live a longer, happier life by your side. In this episode, Rita discusses: The importance of organ health in dogsHow she became interested in dog healthThe uptick in cancer in dogsHow dogs know when you're not "present"The canine nervous systemChlorine and histamineHow her book, The Herbal Dog, gives specific remedies, dosages and preparation guidanceThe impact of toxic environmentsSpaying and neutering too youngVaccinationsFlea and tick medsPsych meds for dogsAntibioticsHow to remedy your dog's healthDiet suggestionsClues to identify health issues before they become problemsThe best thing you can do to help your dog friendVisit: The Canine Herbalist website ________For more information about Wendy's new book, Raven's Daughter, or to purchase a copy, visit Three Worlds Press BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course  Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®   Lucid Cafe episodes by topic   Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of Lucid Cafe, I talk with financial advisor and author Elizabeth Husserl about her new book The Power of Enough: Finding Joy in Your Relationship with Money. We explore how our mindset around money shapes not only our finances, but also our sense of self-worth, well-being, and freedom. Elizabeth offers a refreshing alternative to the endless pursuit of more. She shares how stepping off the treadmill of comparison and accumulation can help us redefine wealth on our own terms — and finally feel good about what we have. In this episode, Elizabeth discusses: Cultural ideas regarding wealth and moneyRedefining money and wealthTrustUnderstanding your relationship with moneyMoney as a technologyFinancial DNAFeeling satisfied and fulfilledOpening a dialogue with moneyWendy shares an example of an unhealthy money storyMeaningThe abundance-scarcity loopwebsite: elizabethhusserl.com________For more information about Wendy's new book, Raven's Daughter, or to purchase a copy, visit Three Worlds Press BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course  Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®   Lucid Cafe episodes by topic   Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this very special episode of Lucid Cafe, I celebrate the long-awaited release of my new book, Raven’s Daughter: The Story Keeper. After years of dreaming, writing, and behind-the-scenes work, publication day is finally here. Joining me is my brilliant and hilarious friend Claire Wheeler, who helps me unpack the story, themes, and inspiration behind the book. This is the first time I’m speaking about Raven’s Daughter out loud in any real depth, so it’s part book talk, part soul share — with a few meandering moments along the way. We explore some of the book’s deeper currents, including our complicated relationship with deception, the influence of artificial intelligence, and our growing disconnection from the natural world. Though it’s a work of fiction, Raven’s Daughter offers an imaginative lens for reflecting on the challenges of our time. In this conversation, Claire and Wendy discuss: The inspiration for Raven's DaughterDeceptionHow do you know what's true?Terror management theoryThe three realities described in the bookThe story's shamanic influenceFor more information about Raven's Daughter or to purchase a copy, visit Three Worlds Press Listen to some absurd and unhelpful nonsense Inside the Box with Claire and Wendy podcast BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course  Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®   Lucid Cafe episodes by topic   Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, I sit down with the passionate Alanna Kaivalya to explore the lost — yet ever-present — power of the feminine. While modern women have more freedom than ever to shape our lives and careers, many of us still measure success through a masculine lens, chasing goals and strategies that don’t reflect our deepest desires. This conversation is not about rejecting the masculine, but about reclaiming the feminine — the intuitive, connective, and compassionate energy that too often gets sidelined. Alanna, a bestselling author and spiritual teacher, shares insights from her new book The Way of the Satisfied Woman, a powerful guide for anyone seeking an alternative path to fulfillment. Together, we discuss how embracing the feminine can liberate us from burnout, invite greater ease, and reconnect us with what matters most: meaningful relationships, inner peace, and authentic expression. Alanna Kaivalya, PhD is a bestselling author, educator, thought leader, and expert on mythology, spirituality, psychology, and women’s empowerment. The author of Sacred Sound and Myths of the Asanas, she earned a doctorate in mythological studies with an emphasis in depth psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute and is the host of The Satisfied Woman podcast. In this conversation, Alanna discusses: What defines femininity Why connecting with the feminine is more important than everWhat models of satisfaction look like for the modern womanHow women don't realize how minimized and oppressed they areThe definition of "satisfaction"Her run-in with facebookMasculinity and femininityCurating your lifeFour keys to a satisfied lifeRelearning how to interactTrustThe habit of apologizingVisit Alanna's website Listen to The Satisfied Woman podcast________ Listen to some absurd and unhelpful nonsense Inside the Box with Claire and Wendy podcast BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course  Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®   Lucid Cafe episodes by topic   Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode we explore the magic of writing and the power of telling your story. My guest Nancy Slonim Aronie wants you to know that writing is not an exclusive club, that everyone has a really good story to tell. And usually not just one. In her new book Seven Secrets to the Perfect Personal Essay she writes “Essay writing is personal. Sharing what you think about a certain topic is risky. Especially if what you think is not what everyone else thinks.” Nancy Slonim Aronie is the founder of the Chilmark Writing Workshop on Martha’s Vineyard and the author of Memoir as Medicine and Writing from the Heart. A regular commentator for NPR’s All Things Considered, Aronie has taught at Harvard University and conducted writing workshops and lectures at Kripalu, Omega, Esalen, Rowe Conference Center, Wainwright House, and the Open Center in New York City. In this episode, Nancy discusses: Creativity is its many formsThe healing power of the personal essayThe mystery and magic of writingHow everyone is a writerBeing vulnerableThe importance of feeling safe when writing and sharing your writingWriting workshopsTo learn more about Nancy and her workshops, please visit https://chilmarkwritingworkshop.com/ ________ BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course  Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®   “Gifts and Tools to Explore and Celebrate the Unseen Worlds” - The Lucid Path Boutique Lucid Cafe episodes by topic   Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube  ★ Support this podcast ★

Does what goes around, really come back around? Do you reap what you sow? My guest Mordy Levine, who along with his coauthor, Lama Lhanang Rinpoche, recently released the book The Beginner’s Guide to Karma: How to Live with Less Negativity and More Peace. In this episode Mordy explains the role that the universal law of cause and effect, or karma, plays in our lives and how to use this understanding to create a positive path forward. “Learning about karma will help us understand why we are experiencing this contentiousness so broadly and deeply,” write Rinpoche and Levine. “But more important, understanding karma will allow us reduce anger and division among ourselves, our community, our country, and the world.” Lama Lhanang Rinpoche and Mordy Levine are the authors of The Beginner’s Guide to Karma. Lama Lhanang Rinpoche was born in the Amdo region of historic Tibet and received a traditional monastic education and later studied under several respected Tibetan lamas. Today, he teaches Vajrayana Buddhism at the Jigme Lingpa Center in San Diego, California. Mordy Levine is an entrepreneur, meditation teacher, and the president of the Jigme Lingpa Center. He also created the Meditation Pro Series, a meditation program designed to alleviate chronic health issues.  In this episode, Mordy discusses: The definition of karmaWhat karma is and what it isn’tThe three consequencesLooking at motivationThe connection between action and thoughtMeditation as a tool for awarenessEscaping our own prisonsWhat led him to practice BuddhismManaging frustrationHeavy and light karmaSociopathy and psychopathyBuddha natureWhat care about karma? The Jigme Lingpa Center website  Mordy’s website  ________ BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course  Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®   “Gifts and Tools to Explore and Celebrate the Unseen Worlds” - The Lucid Path Boutique Lucid Cafe episodes by topic   Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube   ★ Support this podcast ★

This seems like one of the more important episodes I’ve released since the podcast started back in 2018. My guest Dr Janine Oliver is a clinical psychologist who has expertise in social media, reality TV, and critical thinking. In this episode we discuss her research, its implications and practical ways to take care of your amazingly resilient brain.  Janine is a Cognitive Psychologist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker who, in addition to working with clients in her Philadelphia area practice, offers professional presentations and specialized consulting regarding her research. She is also the author of the book The Anxiety Cure: Practical DRUG-FREE Ways to RE-WIRE Your Brain. In this episode, Janine discusses: Her background and what inspired her researchWhat critical thinking isMirror neuronsThe impact of regular social media and reality TV exposureNeuroplasticityCultural impactReal world examples of the impactAges effected Stages of brain developmentPractical solutionsDopamine and human connectionBoredom(And then wendy pretends she knows what she’s talking about re: consciousness!)Janine’s website ________ BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course  Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®   “Gifts and Tools to Explore and Celebrate the Unseen Worlds” - The Lucid Path Boutique Lucid Cafe episodes by topic   Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube  ★ Support this podcast ★

Have you ever wanted to create change? Or unapologetically chase your dreams? Yet for some reason you stop before you ever get started? Do you ever feel stretched in so many different directions that it feels like you’ve lost your creative spark? My guest Becca Powers wants to empower you to unleash your potential and become everything you were meant to be. In this episode we discuss her new book A Return to Radiance: The POWER Method to Ignite Your Soul and Unleash Your Potential and the creative ways she helps people to get unstuck. Becca has been referred to as the female Tony Robbins, is a renowned keynote speaker and the visionary Founder of Powers Peak Potential, a leading keynote and training company specializing in mindset mastery for high performers. From her humble beginnings as a minimum-wage Dollar Store employee to an award-winning, 20-year career as a Fortune 500 sales executive, Becca has perfected her expertise in empowering senior leaders and high-performance teams to unlock their full potential through her proprietary methodology, The POWER Method. In this episode Becca discusses: What the word radiance means to herUn-potentialHer early exposure to living a radiant lifeHow she lost her radianceThe five pillars of The Power MethodFinding ways to both survive and live your radianceLooking to your early life for cluesSelfishnessMeaning makingHow finding meaning can deepen your connections with othersFinding your purposeThe importance of valuesActivating your personal power Becca’s website: https://www.beccapowers.com/ ________ BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course  Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®   “Gifts and Tools to Explore and Celebrate the Unseen Worlds” - The Lucid Path Boutique Lucid Cafe episodes by topic  Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube   ★ Support this podcast ★

With all the external noise vying for our attention these days, it’s easy to forget that we have access to a wealth of wisdom within each of us and beyond. My guest Happy Ali shares easy  techniques that work on every level of intuition starting with hunches, precognition, and dream analysis and building to direct communication with a multidimensional level of intelligence that is always available. Happy’s clear explanations and insightful guidance, combined with inspiring true stories from his own and others’ direct experiences, demystifies the intuitive process and makes it accessible to all.  Happy Ali is the author of The Intuition Bible: How and Why to Tap Into Your Inner Wisdom. With a BA degree in psychology from UCLA, he is a prophetic dreamer, certified master NLP practitioner, certified master clinical hypnotherapist, and host of the Happy Insights podcast. Happy’s spiritual journey began in 1995 when he dedicated his life to the exploration of metaphysical disciplines after a near-death experience inspired a dramatic awakening.  In this episode, Happy discusses: What intuition isDifferentiating between true intuitive guidance and wishful thinkingThe benefits of not always getting it rightAcceptanceHis prophetic dream experiencesThe evolutionary challenge of accessing intuition The “yes” or “no” techniqueHow your agenda can get in the wayInner worldGroup coaching and online courses he offers Happy’s website  ________ BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course  Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®   “Gifts and Tools to Explore and Celebrate the Unseen Worlds” - The Lucid Path Boutique Lucid Cafe episodes by topic  Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube   ★ Support this podcast ★