Are you on a journey of personal growth but keep bumping up against the same emotional triggers or patterns? Ever wonder why certain people or situations push your buttons—or why you sometimes feel disconnected from your true self?

This week, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Mike Simmons (aka "Shadow Mike") to the podcast. Mike is a shadow work coach and soul initiator who helps people explore the hidden parts of themselves they’ve been taught to ignore or suppress. Together, we dive deep into the world of shadow work—an often misunderstood yet profoundly transformative path rooted in Jungian psychology.

Mike opens the conversation with a beautiful poem that reframes what it means to do shadow work. Rather than something dark or negative, the “shadow” is presented as the unlived self—the parts of us that hold incredible wisdom, creativity, and power.

We talk about how shadow work can:

• Reduce emotional triggers and “psychic inflammation”

• Reveal what our projections say about ourselves (and how to use them for growth)

• Positively impact our relationships—especially as parents

• Help us reconnect with our purpose and live more authentically

I also share real-life stories, including experiences from my own clients, that show how shadow work isn’t about fixing yourself—it’s about integrating your wholeness.

Whether you’re a parent wanting to break generational cycles, someone exploring spiritual and emotional healing, or simply curious about your deeper purpose, this conversation will give you a fresh perspective on what’s possible when you meet your shadow with compassion.

More about Shadow Mike:

Dr. Michael Simmons (aka Shadow Mike) is an expert shadow work coach and soul initiator. He specializes in finding the psycho-spiritual root ailing you, then guiding you to your own abundant medicine, power, and agency to embody your unlived soulful life.

Michael offers Shadow Work Journeys to guide individuals through their dense, dark, inner landscape. Schedule a free 60-minute Consultation Session

Email: mike@shadowmike.com

Website: ShadowMike.com

1:1 Shadow Work: Schedule a free 60-minute Consultation Session

YouTube: @ShadowMikeCommunity

Substack: substack.com/@shadowmike

Patheos Column: Transgressive Spirituality 

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