Are you struggling with loneliness or feeling disconnected from yourself and others? In this transformative episode, we sit down with Dr. Shiv Dawson, South Africa's first integrative psychiatrist, to explore the neurobiology of loneliness, the power of shadow work, and the role of the root chakra in grounding us to the earth.

Discover how self-connection and emotional healing can help you move from isolation to empowerment. Dr. Dawson shares practical grounding practices, insights into holistic healing, and spiritual perspectives to help you reconnect with yourself and others.

Join us as we unpack the difference between loneliness and solitude, the importance of inner work, and why meaningful human connection is key to mental and spiritual well-being.

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (02:01) - Exploring the Epidemic of Loneliness
• (03:00) - The Toxicity of Loneliness
• (05:14) - Loneliness, Social Isolation & Solitude
• (08:54) - Understanding Loneliness from a Nuerobiological Perspective
• (11:37) - Loneliness is Contagious
• (13:11) - Loneliness and Disconnection
• (14:51) - The Role of Self-Connection and Spirituality
• (18:59) - Loneliness and Depression
• (26:06) - Spiritual Perspective on Loneliness
• (31:41) - Navigating Relationships and Personal Boundaries
• (38:10) - Loneliness, Addiction and Rejection
• (41:29) - Embracing Solitude and Shadow Work
• (46:21) - Exploring Shadow-Work
• (52:15) - Exploring Self Rejection
• (54:31) - Embracing Solitude and Inner Dialogue
• (59:55) - Loneliness and Negative Thoughts
• (01:08:34) - Shiv's Journey to Holistic Practice
• (01:16:54) - Acknowledging Loneliness
• (01:19:56) - Shiv's Current Work
• (01:25:13) - Spiritual Bypassing
• (01:29:51) - David Whyte's Poem

Dr. Shiv Dawson's bio:
Name: Dr. Shiv Dawson
Transformational Psychiatrist

About: Siobhan, or Dr Shiv, is a Transformational Psychiatrist who inspires leaders, communities of influence and impact-driven individuals.
She supports them to heal gracefully and evolve into their next level of success through functional medicine, biohacking optimisation, and spiritual evolution.
With 20 years of experience, Dr Shiv pursues mental wellness and vitality for her clients, bridging the gap between science and mysticism.
Her vision is for humanity to achieve a purposeful and enlightened way of living.

Credentials:
MBChB (Medical Degree UCT)
MRCPsych (Psychiatry Specialisation London)
Internship Training Oxford Deanery
Integrative Medicine Diploma (Cape Town 2014)
Functional Medicine AFMCP ( Cape Town 2014)
Functional Medicine (Institute Functional Medicine USA);
Personal Performance Certificate in Life Coaching (Coaching Academy London 2008)
Advanced Diploma in Hypnotherapy Austin Technique London 2003
Member of IMMH www.immh.org
Member of SASIM www.integrativemedicine.co.za
Member of Inategy Ascension Business school www.leighjane.woodgate.com
Entheogenic (psychedelic) facilitation. Initiation with Cathy Coyle.
Breathwork & sound healing

Click here to view the episode transcript.

In Part 1 of this 2 part series on Alt|Life, Sadaf Vahedna sits down with Alan Rosenberg to uncover the powerful connections between modern farming practices and their physical and spiritual impact on our lives. Together, they dive into how industrialized agriculture has moved away from traditional, ecologically harmonious methods, leading to nutrient-depleted soils and foods. From the role of chemical inputs like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) to the degradation of soil health, Alan shares how profit-driven practices have distanced us from nature’s original balance.

Tune in to learn how we can all play a role in nurturing a more sustainable future by embracing mindful consumption and connecting with nature’s cycles!

Join us as we explore in Part 1 of this series:

• Origins of Chemical Fertilization
• Tracing the historical shift from traditional farming to chemical-heavy practices.
• Consequences of Synthetic Fertilizers
• Exploring how synthetic fertilizers have affected soil health and human well-being.
• Glyphosate and GMO Crops
• Understanding the rise of glyphosate, GMOs, and their far-reaching impacts.
• Regenerative and Biodynamic Agriculture
• Discovering holistic methods that prioritize health, soil, and interconnectedness.
• Agricultural Evolution and Organic Practices
• The journey from industrialized to more natural farming practices.
• Evolution of Agricultural “Brands”
• How different philosophies and approaches have shaped the world of farming.
• Plato’s Allegory of the Cave in Modern Context
• Seeing how societal views on agriculture mirror Plato’s allegory of perception and reality.
• Seventh Generation Principle
• Acting with future generations in mind and why this matters in farming.
• A Shift in Consciousness in Agriculture
• Changing the mindset around food production and its impact on human health.

Subscribe to Alt|Life and join us in building a more conscious world, one step at a time!

Alan Rosenberg’s bio:

Alan Rosenberg, with over 50 years in agriculture across four countries, is a leading advocate for sustainable farming, specializing in soil health, fertility, and agroecology. Educated at Glen Agriculture College in South Africa and trained in Biodynamic Farming at Emerson College in the UK, Alan has earned multiple certifications, including Permaculture Design and Holistic Resource Management.

He has held influential roles in South Africa's organic agriculture sector, shaping national policies through positions with the Biodynamic Agricultural Association of Southern Africa and the South African Organic Sector Organization. Alan is also an accomplished author, with notable works like *Organic Agriculture: A Handbook* and *Agroecology: The Promise of Future Flourish*. He continues to drive innovation as the founder of Lindros Whole Earth Consultants, developing agroecological systems and initiatives like the ROAM Mindfulness-based Learning™ Program.

Residing in South Africa, Alan is a passionate educator, consultant, and family man, dedicated to a resilient, sustainable agricultural future.

• (00:00) - INTRO
• (00:50) - The Loss of Life in Soil and Food
• (02:43) - The Crisis in Global Health and Soil Degradation
• (07:19) - The Role of Microorganisms
• (14:43) - The Origins of Fertilizer
• (19:48) - The Dangers of Herbicides and Pesticides
• (22:47) - Beyond Organic: A Higher Philosophy of Food
• (28:34) - Are We Feeding Our Souls or Just Our Stomachs?
• (30:29) - The Spiritual Aspects of Farming
• (34:58) - Breaking Free From Empty Nutrition
• (46:19) - Outro
• (46:29) - Stay Tuned for Part 2

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Alan Rosenberg Link:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-rosenberg-7233a91/?originalSubdomain=za

Production Credits:

Produced by Sadaf Vahedna
Podcast Manager and Marketing: AVC Studio | Sarah Jane Ponce Asok
Video Editing: Simbarashe Nyahwa

In this episode of Alt|Life, Sadaf Vahedna talks with Brian Segal about somatic relating—using body awareness to improve communication and emotional balance. They dive into how paying attention to physical sensations can strengthen friendships, encourage vulnerability, and build empathy across cultures.

Brian also shares practical techniques for grounding and self-soothing, helping listeners navigate tough conversations and set healthy boundaries in difficult relationships.

Brian then shares his insights on his upcoming documentary, which explores the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and how somatic practices might foster greater cultural understanding. Tune in for valuable insights and practical tools for building better connections.

Join us as we explore:

• (00:15) - Introducing Brian Segal: Somatic Relationship Coach
• (02:35) - Understaing Somatic Relating
• (08:40) - Vulnerability in Friendships
• (12:48) - Safety in Relationships
• (18:16) - Silliness for Connection
• (23:42) - Breaking Out of Echo Chambers
• (31:14) - Friendship in Romantic Relationships
• (33:00) - Honesty and Connection
• (37:57) - Awareness of Your Own Body
• (40:49) - The Dynamics of Toxic Friendships
• (48:05) - Uncomfortable Interactions
• (53:18) - The Energetic Pause
• (56:10) - Brian's Journey: From Logic to Somatics
• (01:00:40) - Practical Techniques for Self Soothing
• (01:05:48) - Brian's Current and Future Projects
• (01:09:29) - Outro
• (01:09:39) - Like and Subscribe to Support Us

Don't miss this in-depth discussion that combines scientific rigor with practical advice. Subscribe, hit the notification bell, and join us on this enlightening journey!

Brian’s bio:

Brian Segal grew up in a family steeped in expectations, commitments, and obligations, raised with a clear vision for his future: a wonderful marriage, a successful business, and a life rooted in family traditions within a close-knit community.

However, life’s path took unexpected turns. At just two months old, Brian’s first child, Holly, tragically passed away. His early business ventures faltered, and instead of seeking support, Brian found himself consumed by resentment. He pushed away his extended family, friends, and community, burying himself in work and growing increasingly isolated.

After 18 years of struggle, his marriage ended, marking a turning point in his life. It was then that Brian realized his unhappiness stemmed not from the world around him, but from within. He had been living disconnected from his true self, driven by logic and masking his grief and anger. His inability to express genuine emotions left him not only isolated from others but also from his own heart.

Determined to change, Brian embarked on a journey of self-discovery. He studied numerous techniques and processes to reconnect with his vulnerability and express his deeper emotions authentically. This transformation softened his heart, allowing him to build meaningful connections and emerge from isolation.

In 2007, Brian's professional life soared when he developed an innovative product for the tourism industry, which became a global success, exported to over 60 cities worldwide. Yet, despite this achievement, Brian felt a deeper calling.

The profound personal growth and insights he had gained inspired him to share his journey with others. He dedicated his life to helping people soften their hearts, find true connection, and discover real love. Today, Brian Segal is a devoted father, partner, successful entrepreneur, and life coach, passionately sharing his hard-earned wisdom to guide others toward a life of fulfillment and authentic connection.

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Brian Links:

Website: https://www.briansegalmethod.com/

Production Credits:

Produced by Sadaf Vahedna
Podcast Manager and Marketing: AVC Studio | Sarah Jane Ponce Asok
Video Editing: Simbarashe Nyahwa

In this episode of Alt|Life, we dive into the science of change with Debbie Craig, exploring why personal change and transformation can be difficult, but how change is within our reach. Discover how neuroscience, meditation and shifting our feelings can help us manifest a new reality.

Join us as we explore:

• (02:40) - Debbie's journey: From corporate to conscious
• (08:07) - Effecting change in corporations
• (12:31) - The approach to changing yourself
• (16:25) - From the Old to the New
• (18:06) - Active and passive meditation
• (19:52) - The different brainwave states
• (21:38) - Switching from a stressed state to a meditative state
• (23:45) - Distractions during meditation
• (26:37) - The neuroscience of stress
• (28:37) - The neuroscience of elevated emotions
• (30:23) - The neuroscience of change
• (35:50) - The human energy field
• (37:03) - How to become more magnetic
• (39:16) - The role of community in our lives
• (40:28) - We are the creators of our own lives
• (42:28) - How to deal with difficult people in our lives
• (43:38) - Debbie's process for personal transformation
• (48:36) - The three brains in the body
• (49:44) - The Vagus Nerve
• (50:27) - How meditation reprograms the mind
• (53:52) - How manifestation works
• (55:58) - Intention vs Surrender
• (01:03:26) - Challenges faced in personal transformation
• (01:05:37) - Stories of transformation
• (01:09:25) - Research on meditation's effects on the brain and body
• (01:11:03) - Final thoughts

Don't miss this in-depth discussion that combines scientific rigor with practical advice. Subscribe, hit the notification bell, and join us on this enlightening journey!

Debbie Craig’s bio:

Debbie is the founder of Catalyst Global and Quantum Global and has been designing and facilitating personal and organisational transformation for over 30 years, both locally and internationally in over 5 continents and 20 countries.

Debbie is renowned as a courageous, creative CATALYST in the areas of talent, learning, team and culture transformation with a key focus on systemic solutions and behavioural and mindset shifts. She has worked and consulted at leading local and global organisations in the private and public sector and is a skilled strategist, design architect, team builder, facilitator, change agent and executive coach. Her passion is transformation and empowerment which she facilitates through coaching, workshops, training and large-scale consulting assignments in her +27 year consulting business, Catalyst Global.

Debbie is also a deeply skilled and intuitive transformation coach and facilitator and runs workshops and retreats empowering people to take QUANTUM Leaps in their lives. She is a certified international NeuroChange Solutions consultant with Dr Joe Dispenza and certified in NLP and Reiki. She is continuously learning and brings an integrative approach to her work combining the best of both science and spirituality in a pragmatic way. She has deepened her experiences through many trips to the OSHO centre in India and advanced meditation retreats with Dr Joe Dispenza.

Debbie loves sharing and building communities and is a core member of the Dr Joe Dispenza SA community and co-hosts various meditation groups and related events.

Debbie is an author, writer, speaker and has published 4 books. Debbie is a warm and down to earth facilitator, leader and coach. She is an engaging speaker with practical advice and information that is easy to apply. She holds a B.Comm, PDM and MBA and is a registered Master HR Professional.

Debbie brings her extensive life experience, adventures and wisdom into sessions. She has travelled to more than 70 countries, hiked to Machu Pichu, Kilimanjaro, Everest Base Camp and walked the Spanish and Italian Caminos.

SOME NUMBERS

4 books published

+20 countries have facilitated sessions

+30 years facilitating personal transformation

+100 public talks

+100 public transformation workshops & retreats

+2000 coaching hours

+30000 people in facilitated sessions over 30 years

Click here to view the episode transcript.

Follow us on:
Instagram: @altlifeZA
Tiktok: @altlife.podcast

Have you ever wondered if neuroscience can explain manifestation or if the law of attraction really works? Are you curious about whether meditators can actually levitate or just how far the limits of our minds and universe extend? Welcome to "Alt Life," the podcast designed for the open-minded and the curious.

If you're dreaming of a different reality, eager to expand your mind, or simply interested in exploring fascinating new ideas, you're in the right place. Join me, Sadaf Vahedna, as I engage with experts, scientists, and practitioners who delve into extraordinary topics like neuroscience, biohacking, and ancient spiritual practices.

In each episode, we dive deep into the connections between mind, body, and environment to help you unlock new potentials and express your highest self. Our lives are shaped first in our minds, and by understanding these profound connections, we can truly transform our reality.

Subscribe now and embark on this journey with me as we explore the intersections of science and spirituality. This is "Alt Life." Let’s uncover the extraordinary together.

Follow us on:
Instagram: @altlifeZA
Tiktok: @altlife.podcast