In this conversation, Monika Jiang, a German-Chinese community builder, writer and facilitator, explores the profound distinction between loneliness and "oneliness" - a historical term predating our modern understanding of isolation. Through her work building communities and facilitating gatherings, Monika illuminates how our current societal structures have led to increased disconnection, despite being more technically "connected" than ever before.

The discussion delves into how modern life, particularly in Western cultures, has created an environment where authentic connection has become increasingly rare. Monika shares her journey of discovering how loneliness isn't merely a personal challenge but a societal issue that requires collective healing. She emphasizes that true connection often requires stepping away from the performative aspects of social media and professional life to embrace more vulnerable, authentic interactions.

Throughout the conversation, Monika explains her approach to community building and healing through structured gatherings that combine theoretical understanding with practical, embodied experiences. She highlights the importance of creating safe spaces where people can explore connection through various modalities, including movement, active listening, and conscious touch, while maintaining a balance between addressing deep topics and maintaining a sense of lightness and play

How to Get in Touch:

• Website: https://www.monikajiang.org/
• Instagram: @monika.jiang
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monika-jiang/
• Oneliness Community: Join the WhatsApp Group
• The Oneliness Program: 2025 Waitlist Here

More ways to deepen your own learning:

1. Get the Show Notes Here - https://www.dontsteponthebluebells.com/episodes

3. Join the Saturday Emails for inspiration, insights, and oh-so-relatable stories of growth! - https://couragefactory.ck.page/podmail

4. If you have any questions or feedback (which we love!) write Amanda on Instagram @amandaparker.co

Join us for a transformative conversation with the remarkable Andréa Ararê, who brings her unique expertise in shamanic healing and somatic experiencing to the forefront. Andréa reveals how partnering with our bodies through a deep understanding of physiological responses can lead to profound personal growth and healing. Her insights into earth medicine and the wisdom of observing nature's cycles offer a fresh perspective on maintaining balance and health, even in bustling urban environments.

Discover the powerful role of somatic experiencing in addressing trauma and anxiety as we navigate the interplay between spiritual practices and the brain's survival mechanisms. We explore the evolving landscape of spirituality, discussing the balance of feminine and masculine energies in modern healing practices. Andréa and I highlight how practices such as shamanic rituals, yoga, and nature connection serve as vital languages for communicating with the spirit, and how allowing divine guidance to emerge naturally can lead to unexpected moments of wisdom.

Throughout the episode, we emphasize the importance of understanding and normalizing our body's responses to stress and trauma. Personal anecdotes and examples illustrate the intelligence of the nervous system in ensuring survival and how spiritual guidance can help navigate life's challenges. We invite you to explore diverse healing modalities, encouraging openness to new approaches that can significantly impact well-being. Embrace the opportunity to transform your healing journey—and don't forget to support the podcast by subscribing and leaving a five-star rating.

How to Get in Touch:

• Website: www.andreaarare.com/
• Instagram: @andreaarare

More ways to deepen your own learning:

1. Get the Show Notes Here - https://www.dontsteponthebluebells.com/episodes

3. Join the Saturday Emails for inspiration, insights, and oh-so-relatable stories of growth! - https://couragefactory.ck.page/podmail

4. If you have any questions or feedback (which we love!) write Amanda on Instagram @amandaparker.co

In this powerful episode, Joshua Fineman, founder of Mensch, shares his journey into facilitating men's work and the transformative power of male community. Drawing from his personal experience transitioning from running a creative agency to becoming a men's work facilitator, Joshua explains how regular gatherings of men create spaces for authentic connection, emotional expression, and personal growth.

The conversation explores the unique challenges men face in modern society, particularly around emotional expression and seeking support. Joshua describes how men's work provides a structured, intentional environment where men can "take off their armor" - whether that armor manifests as aggression and standoffishness or people-pleasing and conflict avoidance.

Through powerful examples and personal stories, Joshua illustrates how consistent participation in men's work leads to subtle but profound transformations in how men show up in their relationships, careers, and daily lives. He emphasizes that transformation isn't about dramatic changes but rather small, conscious choices that shift the trajectory of one's life "half a millimeter" at a time.

How to Get in Touch:

• Website: https://www.bemoremensch.com/
• Instagram: @bemoremensch
• LinkedIn: @Josh Fineman

More ways to deepen your own learning:

1. Get the Show Notes Here - https://www.dontsteponthebluebells.com/episodes

3. Join the Saturday Emails for inspiration, insights, and oh-so-relatable stories of growth! - https://couragefactory.ck.page/podmail

4. If you have any questions or feedback (which we love!) write Amanda on Instagram @amandaparker.co