Today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast is a follow-up to our previous episode: "The Always & Already Here of the Spiritual Journey with Neelama Eyres." In that heartfelt conversation, Neelama shared with such depth and authenticity about the evolution of her relationship with God, and how spiritual growth often moves through unseen stages of development, mystery, and grace. In this follow-up episode, Britta reads from her spiritual memoir, Initiations in Love, a chapter titled "Communion of Saints." This passage speaks to the invisible work of Grace that continues within the soul, especially in times when we feel disconnected, disoriented, or alone. There always is a lineage of mystics behind us, cheering us on, guiding us, and whispering, "Keep going. Grace is working, even here." Britta then offers a guided journaling practice to help you reflect on your own spiritual path and listen more deeply to the quiet invitations of Love. 🎧 If you're walking through doubt, a dry spell, or a dark night of the soul, this episode is a compassionate companion on your journey. - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation! Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love Show Notes  1:10 - Britta welcomes you to the podcast and reflects on the discussion, themes, and learnings from our previously released episode 5:10 - Britta introduces today's reading from the third stage: The Transformation Cauldron - a chapter entitled "Communion of Saints." This passage speaks to the invisible work of Grace that is always unfolding within the soul, whether we feel it or not 6:58 - Britta gives a reading of today's chosen excerpt "Communion of Saints" from her book, Initiations in Love 19:15 - Britta asks processing questions to sense how you've been affected by the passage she read 19:51 - Britta invites you to grab paper and a writing utensil for journaling prompts When in your life have you felt like nothing was happening spiritually - only to realize later that something deeper was quietly transforming within you? What does "Grace" mean to you - not as a concept, but as an experience? Who are the "saints" or spiritual ancestors - living or long gone - who remind you of what's possible in Love? How does it feel to imagine that you are part of a great lineage of awakening souls, being guided and supported even when you can't see it? What helps you trust the process when you can't yet see the outcome? 24:04 - Britta brings the episode to a close - encouraging us to take a slow, conscious breath and feel the presence of all those who have walked this path before us
In today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast, Britta sits down with Neelama Eyres — Director of Program Development at Stanford's CCARE, facilitator, author, and one of her closest friends — for a heartfelt conversation about the stages of her spiritual growth over the decades and her lifelong love story with the Divine. Neelama shares how her relationship with God began in childhood, the barriers she encountered along the way, and how her spiritual journey has deepened her understanding of Love itself. Together, Britta and Neelama explore how our conditioning shapes the way we see "God," the projections we cast upon the Divine, and the mystery of why suffering exists if God is Love itself. They also reflect on the immediacy and vastness of compassion, and how this limitless force becomes medicine for both the individual heart and the world. 🎧 If you're on a spiritual path and seeking guidance or a sense of direction — feeling called toward deeper compassion for yourself, for others, or to receive it more fully — or if you're standing at the edge of a major life change, perhaps even a divine calling, this conversation will speak to your soul. Neelama Eyres is the Director of Program Development at the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education, (CCARE) at Stanford University. Through her work with CCARE Stanford, Neelama has mentored hundreds of people in expanding their access to compassion and bringing compassion to life in personal, professional, and community settings worldwide. For the past three decades Neelama has developed and facilitated transformational growth workshops, trainings, and mentored people personally and professionally. She is the co-founder of The Inner Journey Institute, an organization that delivers transformational seminars throughout the US and Canada. Neelama has been deeply immersed in the study and practice of the contemplative Christian mystical traditions as well as the non-dual traditions of the East. Since 2010, she's led retreats and workshops to help people access the forgotten teachings and practices of the contemplative Christian tradition. Find out more about her here: https://www.thevirtualsanctuary.live/  - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation! Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love Find out more about Neelama's work at Stanford https://www.thevirtualsanctuary.live/ Show Notes 1:16 - Britta introduces special guest Neelama Eyres and shares the focus of this episode 4:27 - Neelama recounts her spiritual awakening, and how it felt like "an undeniable feeling of unconditional Love" 12:17 - Britta requests that YOU the listener, pause and reflect on your own childhood spiritual experiences 14:41 - Neelama divulges what caused her to begin her love affair with God in her 20s and what barriers to that love she ran into 19:08 - Britta and Neelama discuss questions we wrestle with over and over, and how Neelama has brought more ease to those hard inquiries through an expanding understanding of God 25:49 - Neelama details her nuanced relationship with God through the years to now 28:04 - Britta slows Neelama down as she enters a part of her story that Britta describes as "one of the deepest Transformation Cauldrons" for Neelama 31:56 - Neelama and Britta discuss how sometimes a divine calling comes through as a command 34:27 - Britta presses Neelama to detail what happened that broadened Neelama's understanding of God and of Love 40:36 - Neelama and Britta discuss compassion at the core of religious and spiritual experience 44:04 - Neelama describes how she has encountered divine compassion and released the idea she needs to earn her worth - compassionate Love is available to us no matter what 49:56 - Neelama explains how Love can be both infinite and immediate 51:19 - Neelama shares advice for folks who can't access compassionate Love right now 57:09 - Britta brings the episode to a close
Today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast is a follow-up to our previous episode: "The Threshold: How to Stay Open When Nothing Feels Clear with Christine Hassler." In that conversation, Christine shared her profoundly personal Initiation into motherhood. From freezing her eggs at thirty-three, to ultimately becoming a mother on her own terms, her story beautifully illustrated what it means to trust life's timing - and to surrender into a path that looks nothing like the plan we once imagined. In this follow-up episode, Britta reads a section from her spiritual memoir, Initiations in Love, called "Becoming a Mother," one of the most powerful times in her life when she surrendered to a greater Love. Britta then guides listeners through a journaling exercise to help you process what you've heard and reflect on your own invitations to a greater Love. 🎧 If you've ever felt called to birth something new - whether that's a creative project, a new version of yourself, or a more expansive way of loving - this episode is for you! - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation! Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love Show Notes  1:10 - Britta welcomes you to the podcast and reflects on the discussion, themes, and learnings from our previously released episode 5:30 - Britta introduces today's reading from the first stage: The Awakening - a chapter entitled "Becoming a Mother." This passage speaks to that moment of standing at the edge of the unknown, when the old self begins to dissolve and something deeper starts to take shape 7:49 - Britta gives a reading of today's chosen excerpt "Becoming a Mother" from her book, Initiations in Love 14:30 - Britta asks processing questions to sense how you've been affected by the passage she read 15:24 - Britta invites you to grab paper and a writing utensil for journaling prompts Where in your life are you currently standing at a threshold - something ending, something not yet beginning? What fears or doubts come up for you when clarity hasn't arrived? What would it mean to surrender - not in resignation, but in faith - to the timing and intelligence of Life itself? Recall a time when you didn't know how things would unfold, yet looking back, you can see grace was guiding you. What did you learn from that experience? If this threshold is an Initiation into deeper Love, what might be seeking to be born through you right now? 19:45 - Britta brings the episode to a close - encouraging us to take a breath and honor the mystery we are living   EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
In today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast, Britta talks with Master coach and dear friend, Christine Hassler, who offers honest reflections on navigating uncertainty with grace and fierce devotion. She shares her powerful initiation into motherhood. From freezing her eggs at 33, to trusting her own timing and intuition, to the realization that this Initiation set off a dozen others, Christine dives into doing pregnancy and motherhood on her own terms. Together, they explore what it means to stand at the edge of major change – when the next step isn't obvious, and life refuses to follow a script. How do we stay open when clarity hasn't arrived? How do we keep listening for Love in the space between? 🎧If you're feeling you are on a kind of threshold where nothing feels clear, or you are living in self-doubt around decisions about your future - then this episode that covers trust, devotion, surrender, and more, is for you!  Christine Hassler is a Master coach, spiritual psychologist, facilitator and speaker with 20 years of experience. She is the best-selling author of three books, most recently Expectation Hangover: Free Yourself From Your Past, Change your Present and Get What you Really Want and is the host of top-rated podcast "Life Coaching with Christine Hassler" where she coaches people live on the show. She also works with companies and organizations to increase productivity and decrease the stress of their employees. Christine has a Masters degree in Spiritual Psychology and implements elements of NLP, psychology, spirituality, science and her own diverse life experience into her work. She's appeared on: The Today Show, CNN, ABC, CBS, FOX, E!, Style, and The New York Times. - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation! Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love www.christinehassler.com Show Notes  1:16 - Britta introduces special guest Christine Hassler 3:06 - Britta shares the focus of this episode, and Christine and Britta recount the "God moments" that brought them together 6:52 - Christine divulges a bit of her journey into motherhood, as well as what she means when she says she is a different person since her Initiation into motherhood 9:19 - Christine shares how anxiety almost stopped her from pursuing motherhood, and why she chose not to use her previously frozen eggs 11:30 - Christine recollects how her postpartum anxiety led her to get help in order to open to love instead of just managing her fear 15:49 - Britta reflects on Christine's experience and decision-making process within the Initiations in Love framework 18:48 - Christine details her increased capacity for adaptability and resilience 21:11 - Britta slows down to go deeper on Christine's thought that she didn't realize how self-absorbed she used to be 28:24 - Are we ever really prepared for an initiation? Christine and Britta discuss what a shock to the system radical life changes can be 32:29 - Britta and Christine discuss Initiations as ongoing, as well as having gnarly, messy, in-between stages 42:15 - Christine reflects on how her gift to the world has changed from teaching to reclamation, and why 47:55 - Christine shares her final thoughts 49:44 - Britta brings the episode to a close   EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
Today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast is a follow-up to our previous episode: "From Overdoing to Spacious Self-Love with Mary O'Connor." In that conversation, Mary shared the arc of her life: from eldest of nine children and lifelong caregiver, to someone who now lives with an emphasis on being rather than doing, and on allowing rather than striving. As a young girl, she stepped into the role of "the Big One," tending to siblings and excelling in school, all while putting her own needs aside. Over the years, through a series of profound awakenings, Mary gently shifted into a life marked by ease, joy, and self-love. And isn't that what we all long for? In this follow-up episode, Britta reads a section from her spiritual memoir, Initiations in Love, called "Introduction to the Transformation Cauldron". She then guides listeners through a journaling exercise to help you process what you've heard and reflect on your own Transformation Cauldrons. 🎧 If you've ever needed to be the "responsible one" before you felt ready, put your own needs aside for too long, or found yourself overgiving and overdoing, this episode is for you!  - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation! Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love  Show Notes  1:09 - Britta welcomes you to the podcast and reflects on the discussion, themes, and learnings from our previously released episode 4:46 - Britta introduces today's reading from the third stage: The Transformation Cauldron - a chapter entitled "Introduction to the Transformation Cauldron." This reading speaks to what happens when we get thrown into the Transformation Cauldron, why it's so challenging, and how to navigate it with trust 6:07 - Britta gives a reading of today's chosen excerpt "Introduction to the Transformation Cauldron" from her book, Initiations in Love 11:55 - Britta asks processing questions to sense how you've been affected by the passage she read 12:30 - Britta invites you to grab paper and a writing utensil for journaling prompts When did you first take on the role of being the "responsible one"? Where in your current life are you noticing patterns of overdoing or overgiving? Think of a time when you realized your way of operating wasn't working anymore. What helped you see that - and what did you do next? What needs or longings have you pushed aside to stay in control, stay helpful, or avoid being a burden? If you were to allow yourself to do a little less today - and be a little more - what might open up for you? 17:23 - Britta brings the episode to a close - encouraging us to honor the ways we've already said "yes" in our lives   EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
In today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast, Britta talks with entrepreneurial strategist, Mary O'Connor, who shares the powerful journey that led her from over-doing and over-giving to coming into a balanced relationship of receiving and giving, and ultimately to the gift of her own self-love. After years of raising her siblings in a household of alcoholism and neglect, Mary experienced a strong awakening experience where she felt the tangible presence of God, which propelled her into her own journey to self-love, service from fullness, and grace. 🎧Loving ourselves is often the most courageous journey we'll ever take. If you're feeling in need of an inspirational touch point, and some thoughtful advice on connecting with and coming back to YOU - then this heartfelt episode is for you!  Mary O'Connor is an irreverent truth-teller, and entrepreneurial strategist who's helped over 5,000 entrepreneurs grow thriving businesses. With 40+ years of sales savvy and 27 years of coaching under her belt, Mary blends sharp wit, deep empathy, and proven marketing psychology to help business owners get seen, get paid, and get real about their brilliance. She's the creator of the Attract Clients Now Accelerator, the diagnoser of Self-Promotion Anxiety Disorder (SPAD), and a recovering New Yorker who now rocks the hippie-chic life in Asheville with her 12-pound chi-beagle, Gracie. When she's not helping women overcome subconscious blocks, she's doing standup comedy, sipping espresso, or planning her escape to Mexico. - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation! Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love www.coachmaryoconnor.com Show Notes  1:15 - Britta introduces special guest Mary O'Connor 3:08 - Britta shares the focus of this episode, and asks Mary shares how her family life growing up propelled her into her current world of self-care 15:43 - Mary recalls how her new-found freedom in college made way for a rude awakening - and an Initiation into Love 22:07 - Britta and Mary discuss Mary's Calling from this Initiation into being a "helper" (and how it benefitted her sibling relationships) 27:10 - Mary speaks to the influence of alcohol and addiction in the family on self-hatred and violence, and what woke her up to this information 38:10 - Mary describes a strong Awakening experience where she felt the tangible presence of God and grace 45:26 - Mary reflects on the desperation and dismantling it took her - and it takes many - to say YES to an Initiation into Love 48:58 - Mary details her softer approach to her own needs and caring for herself, today, in her 70s 57:06 - Mary discusses how she helps people make space in their lives for rejuvenation 1:01:34 - Mary divulges advice for listeners who might be struggling to give themselves space, and can't find a way out1:05:38 - Britta brings the episode to a close    EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
Today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast is a follow-up to our previous episode: "My Love Story with God with Suwaylu Adams." In that conversation, Suwaylu shared the profound story of her lifelong romance with the Divine. Over the years, her path deepened and widened - through heartbreak, family challenges, and personal reckonings - all of which became fuel for what Britta calls the Transformation Cauldron: periods of intense inner change that, when met with surrender, alchemize into something miraculous. And, goodness, have miracles unfolded for Suwaylu! In this follow-up episode, Britta reads a section from her spiritual memoir, Initiations in Love, called "I Am Yours", recounting a major Transformation Cauldron of her own, the moment she most clearly heard the voice of the Divine. She then guides listeners through a journaling exercise to help you process what you've heard and reflect on your own initiations on your healing path. 🎧 If you've ever felt doubt in your connection to the Divine, or alone on your earthly journey, this episode offers a compassionate invitation to listen - to yourself, to the world around you, and to the Divine. - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation!  Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love Show Notes  1:09 - Britta welcomes you to the podcast and reflects on the discussion, themes, and learnings from our previously released episode 4:46 - Britta introduces today's reading from the third stage: The Transformation Cauldron - a chapter entitled "I Am Yours." In this passage, Britta recounts one of the most pivotal spiritual initiations of her life - the moment she most clearly heard the voice of Spirit. 6:16 - Britta gives a reading of today's chosen excerpt "I Am Yours" from her book, Initiations in Love 12:13 - Britta asks processing questions to sense how you've been affected by the passage she read 12:45 - Britta invites you to grab paper and a writing utensil for journaling prompts When in your life have you heard the voice of Spirit - or felt a strong inner knowing? What have been the "Transformation Cauldron" moments in your own life? Is there an area in your life right now where you are being invited to say Yes to Love? Reflect on your relationship to spiritual guidance and describe your current experience If you were to say, "I Am Yours," to the Divine - what would you be offering? 18:57 - Britta brings the episode to a close - encouraging us to allow our journaling to be a quiet act of devotion, a YES to Spirit   EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
In today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast, Britta talks with minister and founder of The Lord's Chapel and The Land Celebration, Suwaylu Adams, who shares her profound journey of spiritual awakening and her eventual calling to ministry. Suwaylu recounts saying YES to miraculous experiences that shaped her path, including the establishment of The Lord's Chapel and The Land Celebration, a retreat center in Virginia. The conversation emphasizes the importance of listening to the divine voice, embracing all spiritual paths, and the transformative power of saying YES to Love and Spirit. 🎧 If you are feeling a little lost, or like you don't know your next best step forward, this episode is for you!  Suwaylu Adams is the founder and minister of The Lord's Chapel, also known as the Light Center, in Winchester, Virginia. Beginning her path in traditional ministry, Suwaylu underwent a transformative journey toward a more expansive understanding of Spirit—one that embraces all paths as sacred. For over 47 years, she has cultivated a welcoming space where diverse spiritual practices come together in community, compassion, and unconditional love. She also founded The Land Celebration, a 40-acre retreat property in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, which has grown into a sanctuary for personal growth, spiritual gatherings, sweat lodges, and rites of passage.  Though now semi-retired, Suwaylu continues to lead weekly Chapel services and facilitate sacred ceremonies rooted in her belief in the unity of all life, the wisdom of the Earth, and the divine potential within each of us. - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation!  Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love  Show Notes  1:09 - Britta introduces special guest Suwaylu Adams 2:52 - Britta shares the focus of this episode, and asks Suwaylu to recall what happened to ignite her Love story with God 12:34 - Suwaylu takes us back to some intense, dark phases in her life (and Transformation Cauldron) 16:09 - Suwaylu looks back on her time as "Sister Sue" and the miracles that transformed her when she said "yes" to the Call 20:51 - Britta and Suwaylu reflect on Suwaylu's clarity and vision 22:55 - Suwaylu details the transformation that The Lord's Chapel has gone through because of her ability to say "yes" to nearly any Call (including - and especially - the Call to LISTEN) 33:46 - Suwaylu recounts the event in which she was given the name "Suwaylu" 39:10 - Suwaylu shares some wise words of advice for tuning more deeply into our divinity and what Spirit wants us to do 46:09 - Britta brings the episode to a close   EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
Today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast is a follow-up to our previous episode: "Psychedelics and the Divine Dance of Self Love with Mellie Logan." In that conversation, Mellie shared how she experienced a powerful awakening in her forties through what's often called a "medicine journey"—an intentional, therapeutic use of psychedelics to access and face aspects of ourselves typically hidden from conscious awareness. For Mellie, this journey catalyzed a profound shift, waking her out of an old way of being and initiating her into a much deeper experience of self-love. In this follow-up episode, Britta expands on the idea of breakthroughs as initiations—reminding us that insight alone doesn't lead to transformation. The real healing comes through integration: the tender, courageous work of living the truth we've seen. Britta reads a section from her spiritual memoir, Initiations in Love, called "House of Cards", recounting a major initiatory moment during a time of deep vulnerability while teaching COR's Leadership Development Training. She then guides listeners through a journaling exercise to help you process what you've heard and reflect on your own initiations on your healing path. 🎧 If you've ever felt self-doubt, self-judgment, or even self-loathing—this episode offers a compassionate invitation to explore how true healing is found not just in the initial breakthrough, but in the tender, ongoing work of integration.  - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation! Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love Show Notes  1:09 - Britta welcomes you to the podcast and reflects on the discussion, themes, and learnings from our previously released episode 3:45 - Britta gives a disclaimer: the kinds of breakthroughs that psychedelics can offer are initiations 5:00 - Britta introduces today's reading from the fourth stage: The Emerging - a chapter entitled "House of Cards." In this passage, Britta recounts a major initiatory moment during a time of deep vulnerability while teaching COR's Leadership Development Training 5:56 - Britta gives a reading of today's chosen excerpt "The House of Cards" from her book, Initiations in Love 14:29 - Britta asks processing questions to sense how you've been affected by the passage she read 15:40 - Britta invites you to grab paper and a writing utensil for journaling prompts What parts of myself have I historically kept out of reach, and what might it take to bring them into loving awareness? Have I ever experienced a breakthrough or opening that invited me into deeper self-love or connection with the Divine? If I imagined my own "divine dance" of healing and embodiment, what would it look and feel like? What have been the initiations in my life - chosen or unchosen - that cracked me open to something greater? What would it mean for me to truly live from the knowing that I am inherently good, lovable, and whole - even in my messiest or most tender places? 19:55 - Britta brings the episode to a close - encouraging us to allow our journaling to be a quiet act of devotion   EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
In today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast, Britta talks with spiritual counselor and friend, Mellie Logan. Together, they explore the complexities of emotional healing, the transformative power of surrender, and the role psychedelic medicine can play in personal growth. They discuss the importance of embracing difficult emotions, the process of transformation, and the significance of integration in any healing journey. The conversation also highlights the necessity of preparation and guidance when engaging with psychedelic work, emphasizing that these experiences can lead to profound self-discovery and healing, if held appropriately. 🎧 Curious about mindset shifting, spiritual counseling, and psychedelic healing? Tune in to hear Mellie share her journey and helpful hints on it all!  Mellie Logan is a spiritual counselor and psychedelic guide using Somatic Psychology techniques such as Hakomi, Somatic Experiencing, and IFS to address limiting core material that is held in the body. These are extremely effective ways to help transform what we believe in order to make the changes we desire in our lives. Mellie is on Faculty at The Congregation for Sacred Practices where she trains ministers to work with plant medicines. She is in private practice in Asheville, NC, and she also works on Zoom. - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want to cultivate more compassion in your life? Check out Britta's upcoming program, The Brave Heart, here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation! Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love The Brave Heart: An 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training www.mellielogan.com  Show Notes  1:09 - The Brave Heart: An 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training 3:59 - Britta introduces special guest Mellie Logan 5:30 - Mellie details what her life was like before her awakening 12:49 - Mellie recounts the Awakening she experienced during a medicine journey, post-divorce 18:03 - Britta inquires further about Mellie's journey to integrate her awakening experience into her life 27:13 - Mellie shares how she shifted from hating her body, to loving her body 31:26 - Britta slows Mellie down to process her Transformation Cauldron journey, why she is no longer afraid of pain, and how she serves her clients, because of what she learned. 40:28 - Britta describes what she sees as having emerged from Mellie's medicine journey, and Mellie reflects on medicine journey as a tool 46:15 - Mellie tells a personal story and then breaks down how she works with clients 57:46 - Mellie shares advice for folks who are curious about medicine journeys 1:03:20 - Mellie shares her final message as Britta brings the episode to a close 1:06:37 - Britta briefly reminds us about The Brave Heart: An upcoming 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training!  EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
Today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast is a follow-up to our previous episode: "Reclaiming the Sacred in Sexuality with Diana Richardson." In that episode, Diana shared how she experienced a powerful awakening around her relationship with her body and her sexuality, and became a lifelong student—and eventually a teacher—of the tantric approach to sexuality. In this follow-up episode, Britta explores the question of "what if?" when it comes to sex and sexuality. Britta reads an intimate section from her spiritual memoir, Initiations in Love, called "Marriage," recalling profound spiritual insights she had after making love with her husband. Britta then leads listeners through a journaling exercise for self-discovery (and possibly some perspective shift) regarding their own relationship to sexuality, intimacy, and making love. 🎧If you've ever felt disconnected, confused, or unsatisfied when it comes to sex, or you're simply curious about its deeper meaning - you are not alone, and this episode is for you!  - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want to cultivate more compassion in your life? Check out Britta's upcoming program, The Brave Heart, here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation! Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love The Brave Heart: An 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training  Show Notes  1:09 - The Brave Heart: An 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training 3:56 - Britta welcomes you to the podcast and reflects on the discussion, themes, and learnings from our previously released episode 7:12 - Britta introduces today's reading from the fifth and final stage: The Gift - a chapter entitled "Marriage." In this passage, Britta shares a profound insight and opening she had one morning after making love with her husband, Lee 8:31 - Britta gives a reading of today's chosen excerpt "Marriage" from her           book, Initiations in Love 15:26 - Britta asks processing questions to sense how you've been affected by the passage she read 16:30 - Britta invites you to grab paper and a writing utensil for journaling prompts What messages did you receive growing up about sex, and how have they shaped your current relationship to your sexuality? When have you experienced sex or intimacy as something sacred, connective, or healing? What would it mean for you to "slow down" in your sexual experience? Where do you notice pressure, expectation, or performance in your sexuality? How do you currently experience the connection between love, intimacy, and the Divine? 20:50 - Britta brings the episode to a close - encouraging us to honor what has surfaced in this time and trust our own insights as meaningful 21:54 - Britta briefly reminds us about The Brave Heart: An upcoming 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training!  EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of Initiations in Love, Britta sits down with Diana Richardson—Tantra teacher and pioneer of the slow sex movement—for a deep dive into the healing potential of sexuality. Together, they explore themes of deep connection and awareness on the journey to understanding sexuality, and how we can move beyond performance and pressure toward a more relaxed, joyful, and curious connection with our bodies and our partners. Diana shares insights on how conditioning shapes our sexual habits, why slowing down can radically transform intimacy, and how sex can be a practice of love—not just stress relief. They also touch on the power of pleasure, the emotional awakenings that can follow loss or tragedy, and how reclaiming your sexuality can be a path to spiritual and personal transformation. 🎧 Tune in if you're curious about how to bring more ease, awareness, and sacredness into your sexual life—and how sexuality, when approached with presence, can become a powerful portal to self-discovery.  Originally from South Africa with a background in law and therapeutic massage, Diana Richardson is a leading authority on human sexuality and a pioneer of the Slow Sex movement. For over 30 years, she has been teaching couples how to integrate sex and meditation for a more fulfilling love life. Together with her partner, Michael Richardson, she co-leads the renowned Making Love retreats in Switzerland, drawing participants from around the world. Her approach, rooted in 'generative sex' or 'cool sex,' offers practical tools for deeper intimacy, encapsulated in her Love Keys teachings. An acclaimed author, Diana has written eight books on Tantra, sharing her insights in multiple languages.  - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want to cultivate more compassion in your life? Check out Britta's upcoming program, The Brave Heart, here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation!  Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love The Brave Heart: An 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training Follow Diana on Instagram Find Diana on Facebook www.livinglove.com  Show Notes  1:09 - The Brave Heart: An 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training 4:00 - Britta introduces special guest Diana Richardson 5:47 - Diana details the Awakening she experienced when she realized she wanted a different kind of sexuality for herself 12:35 - Britta inquires further about why Diana doesn't feel she had an attachment to inherited sexual conditioning (and what that means) 15:06 - Diana continues to detail her Awakening 19:25 - Diana reveals how her body (and body of work) changed when she changed the way she made love 23:25 - Diana shares how a challenging time in her thirties quickly became a turning point in her journey 27:06 - Diana describes her approach to sex as opposed to society's tense, goal-oriented act 35:25 - Diana explains how to reorient the act of sex from merely stress relief, to love 38:16 - Diana highlights her distinction between "orgasm" and "orgasmic" 41:49 - Britta and Diana discuss different ways we can receive information, support, and awareness that could lead to transformation 48:20 - Diana breaks down what "Love Keys" are as tools 52:15 - Diana and Britta discuss the pressure modern folks feel that sex has to be "hot" and "intense" - as well as what the alternative is 1:01:06 - Diana shares some advice for single people who want to open to this kind of love making 1:05:27 - Britta reflects on the episode's message of coming back to love 1:07:08 - Britta brings the episode to a close and briefly reminds us about The Brave Heart  EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
Today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast is a follow-up to our previous episode: "Are You Dreaming Big Enough?! with Morgan Zanotti." In that episode, Morgan shared how she experienced a powerful awakening in her mid-twenties—one that taught her to trust herself through anxiety, imposter syndrome, and self-doubt, and ultimately led her to claim her purpose and thrive as an entrepreneur. In this episode, Britta explores the theme of trusting your vision - whether in your career, work life, or sense of purpose in the world. Britta reads a section from her spiritual memoir, Initiations in Love, "The Call of the Masculine" from the second Initiation stage, The Call. Britta then leads listeners through a journaling exercise for self-discovery. - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want to cultivate more compassion in your life? Check out Britta's upcoming program, The Brave Heart, here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation!  Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love The Brave Heart: An 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training Show Notes  1:09 - The Brave Heart: An 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training 3:56 - Britta welcomes you to the podcast and reflects on the discussion, themes, and learnings from our previously released episode 6:51 - Britta introduces today's reading from the second stage, The Call. It's the story of how the Noble Man workshop came to be, entitled "The Call of the Masculine" 7:41 - Britta gives a reading of today's chosen excerpt "The Call of the Masculine" from her book, Initiations in Love 15:00 - Britta asks processing questions to sense how you've been affected by the passage she read 15:26 - Britta invites you to grab paper and a writing utensil for journaling prompts What is one big dream that keeps nudging at you, even if you've tried to ignore it? If you fully trusted your unique gifts and purpose, what would you allow yourself to create or bring into the world? Where in your life are you being called to step forward and "take your post"—to claim your place, your voice, your role? What fears, doubts, or external opinions have held you back from dreaming big? Imagine yourself one year from now, having said yes to your post. What does your life look and feel like? What's changed—and what's possible now? 18:35 - Britta brings the episode to a close - encouraging us to honor what has surfaced in this time and trusting our own insights as meaningful 19:41 - Britta briefly reminds us about The Brave Heart: An upcoming 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training!  EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
In today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast, Britta talks with Morgan Zanotti, a Natural Products industry expert and health and wellness enthusiast, discussing her journey from a quarter-life crisis to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Together, they explore themes of navigating anxiety and imposter syndrome, the challenges of self-doubt in entrepreneurship, and the role compassion can play in these situations. Morgan shares how learning to let in the good – even amidst pressure and uncertainty – helped her steer her own ship in business and in life. 🎧 Tune in to hear Morgan share her experiences with Primal Kitchen, emphasizing the significance of personal growth and the entrepreneurial spirit, as she prepares to launch into her next business venture.  Morgan Zanotti is a Natural Products industry expert and health and wellness enthusiast. Morgan was the President and Co-Founder of Primal Kitchen—one of the fastest growing brands in the natural products industry. She launched the brand, bootstrapped the business to $50M in revenue profitably and then led the company through their $200 million Kraft-Heinz acquisition. Morgan was subsequently named Kraft's Vice President of New Ventures, where she spearheaded corporate development and M&A strategy in the health and wellness category. She is an Executive in Residence for Summit Partners $9.5 billion PE fund helping them with their investment thesis in the food & beverage space. When Morgan's not tirelessly working to make our food system a better place, you can find her surfing, playing tennis, chasing her boys (all 3 of them) or aimlessly wandering the farmers market.  She's working on launching her next project: a sparkling protein water with only 2g of sugar and 12 g of protein. It's called Waay and she would love it if you checked it out on socials @drinkwaay or drinkwaay.com.  - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation! Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love The Brave Heart: An 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training https://www.tiktok.com/@morganzanotti https://www.instagram.com/morganzanotti Show Notes  1:09 - The Brave Heart: An 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training 3:59 - Britta introduces special guest Morgan Zanotti 6:57 - Morgan details the Awakening she experienced during her quarter life crisis 12:05 - Britta inquires further about what called Morgan to emerge herself in natural foods 15:45 - Morgan shares what drives her passion for entrepreneurship 18:15 - Morgan reveals that she is going through a Transformation Cauldron right now, and reflects on rough spots and self-doubt along her journey 21:57 - Morgan recounts her journey to business partnership - and how she developed the skills necessary to succeed 30:08 - Morgan explains what Primal Kitchen is, why it was developed, and when she and her business partner knew it was time to sell the business 35:40 - Morgan shares her money mindset, and what she's got her sights set on next in her entrepreneurial journey 40:57 - Britta reflects on a previous call she had to push past self-doubt and do something never done before 43:14 - Morgan describes her vision for her upcoming product, and shares words of wisdom for someone who is in a similar place as her (ready to start/launch something new) 46:08 - Britta brings the episode to a close and briefly reminds us about The Brave Heart: An upcoming 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training!  EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
Today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast is a follow-up to our previous episode: "How Can I Serve Today - The Call to a Deeper Love with Rob Schware, PhD." In this episode, Britta explores the themes of purpose, service, and the life-changing power of saying YES through the lens of two events in Rob's life which called him to continually step deeper into his purpose. And isn't that what our souls want - to listen to the calls life presents, and to grow into new levels of loving service? Britta reads a section from her spiritual memoir, Initiations in Love, from the second Initiation stage, The Call. Britta then leads listeners through a journaling exercise for self-discovery, emphasizing that challenges can become gifts on the path to love and growth.  If you are curious about the concept of 'The Call' and how individuals can respond to life's challenges as opportunities for deeper connection and purpose, then this week's episode is for you! - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation!  Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love The Brave Heart: An 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training Show Notes  1:09 - The Brave Heart: An 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training 3:56 - Britta welcomes you to the podcast and reflects on the discussion, themes, and learnings from our previously released episode 7:54 - Britta introduces today's reading from the second stage, The Call, entitled "Introduction to The Call" 9:01 - Britta gives a reading of today's chosen excerpt from her book, Initiations in Love 14:44 - Britta asks processing questions to sense how you've been affected by the passage she read 15:41 - Britta invites you to grab paper and a writing utensil for journaling prompts Think about a time when you felt a deep inner call to something greater. How did you respond? Have you ever experienced a moment when an even deeper purpose or realization emerged within an already existing journey? When faced with challenges, what inner voices tend to emerge? If you asked yourself Rob's daily mantra, "How can I serve today?", what answer arises? Reflect on a moment in your life when you pushed past doubt and difficulty and came out stronger. What helped you move forward, and what can you take from that experience into your next challenge? 19:54 - Britta brings the episode to a close - offering peace and insight on your journey, and suggesting sharing your exploration with someone with whom you feel safe 21:00 - Britta briefly reminds us about The Brave Heart: An upcoming 8-Week Compassion Cultivation Training!  EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
In today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast, Britta speaks with Rob Schware, PhD, who shares his transformative journey from a senior manager at the World Bank, to co-founding the Give Back Yoga Foundation. Together, they discuss the importance of service, the concept of Whole Brain Living, and how understanding the four characters of our brain can enhance relationships and personal growth. 🎧 Tune in to hear Rob share two inspiring stories of adhering to a calling, the transformative power of learning and mindset shifts, and how yoga continues to shape his journey of purpose and service. Rob Schware, PhD, was part of the first batch of coaches trained in Whole Brain Living. He is the Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director of the Give Back Yoga Foundation, his second career. His first career was working as a senior manager at the World Bank in Washington, DC. He has worked with leaders in both nonprofit and corporate sectors. - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation!  Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love www.learn-wholebrainliving.com https://givebackyoga.org/ Whole Brain Living - book by Jill Bolt Taylor, PhD Show Notes  1:15 – Britta introduces special guest Rob Schware, PhD 2:20 - Rob recounts his career pivot after 23 years at the World Bank to creating the Give Back Yoga Foundation 7:22 - Rob looks back on the challenges he faced stepping into a deeper level of calling with his second career 8:32 - Rob describes the four characters of your brain - as defined in the book, "Whole Brain Living" - and how they contributed to a second calling he experienced just a couple of years ago 19:44 - Rob explains how taking himself through the brain huddle process made him realize he was safe in his climb of Mount Kilimanjaro 21:20 - Britta inquires about how Rob's initiation into the world of Whole Brain Living has impacted his marriage 27:52 - Rob revisits a previous point Britta made about being in service 33:28 - Britta pulls Rob's stories from his journey together in terms of Initiations in Love 36:54 - Rob discusses the work he does with the Give Back Yoga Foundation, and why it's so important 42:50 - Rob shares his advice for people who work in this field, or a field of service, who are feeling a higher/deeper calling into service  EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
Today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast is a follow-up to our previous episode: "Trusting Your Inner Knowing - How an Ultra Runner Found Healing and Self-Love with Katie Arnold." In this episode, Britta explores the themes of healing, resilience, and self-advocacy through the lens of Katie Arnold's journey. After a traumatic accident Katie suffered while river rafting, she learned to trust her inner knowing and harness the power of her mind to heal her body. Britta discusses the importance of trusting one's inner knowing, the interplay of mind and body in healing, and the transformative power of movement and creativity. Britta reads a story from her spiritual memoir, Initiations in Love, from the third Initiation stage, The Transformation Cauldron, recounting a profound spiritual experience she had while running in the rain in the midst of a deep heartbreak. Britta then leads listeners through a journaling exercise for self-discovery, emphasizing that challenges can become gifts on the path to love and growth. This episode is an inspiring exploration of how trusting your inner knowing and embracing your journey of healing can transform you in ways you never imagined.  - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation!  Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love  Show Notes  1:11 - Britta welcomes you to the podcast and reflects on the discussion, themes, and learnings from our previously released episode 4:55 - Britta introduces today's reading from the third stage, The Transformation Cauldron, called "Broken Open" 5:37 - Britta gives a reading of today's chosen excerpt from her book, Initiations in Love 12:59 - Britta asks processing questions to sense how you've been affected by the passage she read 13:41 - Britta invites you to grab paper and a writing utensil for journaling prompts Can you recall a time when you just knew what was right for you, even if others doubted it? In what areas of your life do you struggle to advocate for yourself? Where in your life are you being asked to both surrender to what is and fight for what you truly want? Think of a time when you faced a major setback or challenge. What strengths, resources, or practices helped you move through it? In what ways do you currently use movement, creativity, or mindfulness to support your emotional and physical healing? 16:55 - Britta brings the episode to a close - offering blessings on your journey, encouraging curiosity, and suggesting sharing your exploration with someone with whom you feel safe  EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
In this compelling episode of the Initiations in Love podcast, Britta speaks with Katie Arnold—author, ultra runner, and student of Zen—about her transformative journey following a traumatic wilderness accident. The conversation explores themes of love, healing, and the connection between physical movement and creativity. Katie shares how running serves as both meditation and creative fuel, offering her a path to deeper awareness and self-expression. She reflects on awakening through trauma, the importance of trusting one's inner voice, and the duality of vulnerability and strength in the healing process. Together, they discuss self-love, advocacy, and navigating life's challenges, particularly in the context of competitive sports, personal growth, and Zen. 🎧 Tune in to hear Katie's inspiring story of hope and despair (and the significance of both), and what a profound role the mind-body connection plays in the journey of healing.  Katie Arnold is a longtime journalist and bestselling author of Brief Flashings in the Phenomenal World: Zen and the Art of Running Free (2024), which tells the story of a traumatic wilderness accident and her path to healing. Her critically acclaimed memoir, Running Home, was published in 2019. An elite ultra runner and student of Zen, Katie teaches Flow Camp writing and running retreats, exploring the link between movement, nature, and creativity. Her writing has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Outside, ESPN The Magazine, Runner's World, and Elle, among others, as well as on NPR Weekend Edition Sunday and The Upaya Zen Center Podcast. She has been awarded fellowships from MacDowell and Ucross. Katie lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico, with her husband, Steve Barrett, their two teenage daughters, and two dogs. - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation!  Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love Katie Arnold's Website - and book!  Show Notes  1:15 – Britta introduces special guest Katie Arnold and sets the focus for the episode 3:09 - Katie shares the event that catalyzed the initiation she chronicles in her book and what she was like before the event occurred 11:19 - Katie explains how running is a form of meditation AND creativity for her 14:43 - Britta and Katie discuss bringing mindfulness into competitive sports and the strong foundation it can bring to an athlete 18:52 - Katie chronicles what happened directly after her rafting accident 22:54 - Katie details The Call in this story, and what it precipitated for her (including advocating for herself during a difficult time) 30:21 - Britta and Katie discuss the idea of holding oneself as precious and worthy 33:04 - Katie recounts her healing process 40:04 - Britta encourages Katie to reflect a little more on the difficult "Transformation Cauldron" time in her story 49:35 - Katie and Britta discuss what emerged from Katie's healing during this difficult time 57:56 - Britta reflects on the ongoing initiation cycle(s) in life 1:01:14 - Katie shares the gifts she is taking from this particular initiation experience 1:04:12 - Katie shares advice for our listeners who feel stuck creatively or energetically, and reflects on the initiation process' necessity in her life 1:09:40 - Britta brings the episode to a close  EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
Today's episode of the Initiations in Love podcast is a follow-up to our previous episode: "Rebuilding Marriage with Courage and Love with Kristy Arnett Moreno." In this episode, Britta explores the courage it takes to honestly expose our shadow side in relationships, and the profound healing that happens when we are met with love and acceptance. She reflects on the power of authenticity, self-responsibility, and taking a stand for what we truly desire in a relationship. Britta reads a story from her spiritual memoir, Initiations in Love, from the fourth Initiation stage, The Emerging Stage, depicting her own version of taking a stand for herself (by setting an ultimatum!) and her vision of the kind of relationship she wanted—with or without her then-boyfriend, Lee (her now-husband). Britta then leads the listener in a journaling exercise designed to take an honest look at what their needs and values in an important relationship are, and how to be in right relationship with them. This episode is an inspiring exploration of how honesty and vulnerability can transform relationships and lead to deeper connection and authenticity. - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation!  Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love  Show Notes  1:11 - Britta welcomes you to the podcast and reflects on the discussion, themes, and learnings from our previously released episode 7:14 - Britta introduces today's reading from the fourth initiation stage, The Emerging Stage, called "The Ultimatum" 8:04 - Britta gives a reading of today's chosen excerpt from her book, Initiations in Love 14:27 - Britta asks processing questions to sense how you've been affected by the passage she read 14:59 - Britta invites you to grab paper and a writing utensil for journaling prompts What is one thing you wish your partner or a close loved one truly understood about you? What fears or vulnerabilities do you often hide? What would it feel like to share them with someone you trust? Are there areas in your relationships where you feel you've settled? What would taking a stand for your desires look like? What would radical honesty look like for you in your closest relationships? What vision do you have for your ideal relationship, and what small steps could you take toward creating it, starting with yourself? 25:48 - Britta brings the episode to a close - offering blessings on your journey, encouraging curiosity and suggesting sharing your exploration with someone with whom you feel safe  EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman
In this powerful episode of the Initiations in Love podcast, Britta speaks with Kristy Arnett Moreno—professional poker player, writer, and speaker—about the raw and courageous path she took to heal and rebuild her marriage after her husband's affair. Kristy's journey, marked by deep personal awakening, became a catalyst for transformation—not only in her relationship but within herself. Through vulnerability, self-responsibility, and a profound commitment to love, Kristy chose to face what needed to be faced, rebuilding trust from the ground up. Their conversation explores the importance of truth, the healing power of love, and the resilience and beauty found in recommitting to one's marriage. This episode is a testament to the strength of the human heart and the profound growth that emerges when we say Yes to life's greatest Initiations in Love. 🎧 Tune in to hear Kristy's inspiring story of courage, love, and the transformative journey of rebuilding marriage. Kristy Arnett Moreno is a professional poker player, writer, and speaker who has built a life around taking risks and following her passions. With over a decade of experience in the poker world, Kristy has competed at the highest levels and served as a reporter and host for major poker networks. She's known for her engaging storytelling, sharp wit, and ability to connect with audiences through her journey of personal growth, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. Whether she's at the table, on stage, or behind the mic, Kristy inspires others to bet on themselves and embrace the uncertainty of life's biggest challenges. - - - - - - - - - If you liked this episode of Initiations in Love, tell your friends! Find us on iTunes, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to rate/review/subscribe to the show. Looking to buy Britta's book Initiations in Love? Click here. Want more? Visit our WEBSITE, connect with Britta on FACEBOOK, and follow her on Instagram: @brittaeskey or @cortrainings. Thanks for listening and joining the conversation!  Resources and References Britta's Book- Initiations in Love Kristy's YouTube Show Notes  1:15 – Britta introduces special guest Kristy Arnett Moreno and sets the focus for the episode 3:17 – Kristy reflects on the awakening to the lonely life she had built during a challenging period in her marriage 9:47 – Kristy acknowledges that there were likely many opportunities for awakening before this pivotal moment 12:34 – Britta introduces the concept of the Call as the second initiation stage. She highlights the calls she detects in Kristy's story and asks why Kristy chose to say "yes" to the call of taking responsibility for the challenges in her relationship 15:29 – Kristy shares the life she began to envision—and live—as she navigated the Transformation Cauldron stage 22:58 – Kristy recalls a transformative exercise from a COR Workshop with her husband and the realizations it sparked about herself and their relationship 27:31 – Kristy reflects on how her childhood relationship with her mother shaped her and how healing also unfolded in that relationship during the time she faced her marriage challenges 32:45 – Britta highlights the familial trauma Kristy inherited and asks how long she remained in the "messy middle" of the Transformation Cauldron 34:50 – Kristy shares her experience of Emerging from the Transformation Cauldron 42:12 – Britta invites Kristy to discuss what surfaced from her fertility journey, which followed the rebuilding of her marriage 47:07 – Britta and Kristy explore the Gifts that arose from Kristy's marriage initiation and personal transformation 53:13 – Kristy offers words of wisdom for those who may find themselves on a similar path 58:08 – Britta closes the episode  EPISODE CREDITS: Executive Produced & Hosted by Britta Eskey Produced and Edited by Erin Zimmerman