The Connected Community: Exploring Possibility

Brainspotting: A Therapy Modality for Processing Deep Emotions

In this episode of the Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck interviews Nichole Jones about brain spotting, a therapeutic technique that evolved from EMDR. Nichole Jones, LPC is a Certified Brainspotting Practitioner (soon to be consultant), Ayurveda+Yoga Therapist, and Money mindset coach who has been practicing brainspotting for the last decade. Nichole explains the origins of brain spotting, its process, and how it differs from traditional therapy methods. The conversation delves into the importance of body awareness, the client-centered approach in therapy, and the use of grounding techniques to manage activation during sessions. Nichole emphasizes that clients do not need to recount traumatic stories, making brain spotting a gentle yet effective method for processing trauma and anxiety. In this conversation, Nichole Jones shares her insights on brain spotting, a therapeutic technique for addressing trauma and emotional distress. She discusses the importance of understanding each client's unique needs and experiences, emphasizing that while brain spotting can be beneficial for many, it may not work for everyone. Nichole also reflects on her personal journey with brain spotting, revealing how it helped her navigate postpartum anxiety and other challenges. The discussion highlights the significance of small T traumas and the role of licensed therapists versus coaches in facilitating healing. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the necessity of support and self-awareness in the therapeutic process.
 
Takeaways:
Brain spotting evolved from EMDR and focuses on body awareness.
The technique was discovered by David Grand while working with athletes.
Brain spotting allows clients to process trauma without reliving the story.
It emphasizes a client-centered approach, adapting to individual needs.
Grounding techniques are essential for managing client activation.
Clients can find their own 'brain spots' for processing emotions.
Therapists follow the client's lead during sessions, known as 'the tail of the comet.'
The technique can be used for various issues, including anxiety and trauma.
Clients do not need to have a detailed story to benefit from brain spotting.
Everybody's a candidate for brain spotting.
Small T traumas can have a significant impact.
Healing often occurs between therapy sessions.
Support is crucial during the healing process.
Licensed therapists may offer more comprehensive care.
Coaches can be effective if they have the right training.
Self-awareness is key in therapy.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Nichole:
www.nicholejones.com
www.awakened-wealth.com
https://www.instagram.com/therealnicholejones/
 
 
Keywords: brain spotting, EMDR, therapy, trauma, mental health, anxiety, counseling, healing, mindfulness, body awareness, mindfulness, emotional healing, coaching, licensed therapist, personal growth

Ceremonial Cacao: Heart Opening Medicine from Indigenous Cultures to Us

In this episode of the Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck interviews Charlotte Nieuwenhuis about the profound relationship humans can cultivate with cacao. Charlotte shares her journey of connecting with cacao as a spiritual teacher, the differences between ceremonial cacao and commercial chocolate, and the importance of ethical sourcing and sustainability in the cacao industry. The conversation delves into the fermentation process, regional variations, and the significance of honoring the ancestral roots of cacao. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes cacao's role in reconnecting humanity with nature and fostering a deeper understanding of our relationship with the earth. In this enlightening conversation, Charlotte Nieuwenhuis shares her profound experiences with cacao, exploring its spiritual significance, cultural reverence, and its role in healing and women's health. She emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with nature and the wisdom of indigenous practices, while also addressing the commercialization of cacao ceremonies in the West. The discussion highlights the continuous journey of learning and the messages received from the cacao spirit, advocating for a deeper understanding and respect for this sacred plant.
 
Takeaways:
Cacao serves as a spiritual teacher and a connection to the earth.
Ceremonial cacao differs significantly from commercial chocolate.
The fermentation process enhances the nutritional value of cacao.
Regional variations in cacao affect its flavor and quality.
Cultivating a relationship with cacao requires intention and openness.
Ethical sourcing is crucial for sustainable cacao production.
Honoring the farmers and indigenous cultures is essential.
Cacao ceremonies can deepen our connection to nature.
Cacao is a living being that offers wisdom and teachings.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Charlotte:
https://heart-to-earth.com/
https://www.instagram.com/heart.toearth?igsh=MTB1c3hjMW1nd29uNg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-nieuwenhuis-30b6b424b?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
 
Tags : cacao, chocolate, ceremonial cacao, fermentation, sustainability, indigenous cultures, cacao ceremonies, ethical sourcing, plant medicine, heart opening, Cacao, Heart Opening, Spirituality, Nature Connection, Women's Health, Indigenous Wisdom, Healing, Mindfulness, Cultural Reverence
 

EMDR: Resolving Childhood Trauma

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck speaks with Tiffany Freer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDRIA Approved Trainer and Consultant. Tiffany shares her deep expertise in using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy with children and adolescents, drawing from her experience in community mental health and the foster care system. Their conversation explores how trauma, both big and small, can impact a child’s development and emotional regulation, often leading to internalized beliefs of self-blame and unworthiness. Tiffany discusses the nuances of adapting EMDR for young clients, the importance of building positive memory networks, and how therapeutic storytelling can support healing, particularly for adopted children. Together, Nicky and Tiffany unpack the power of EMDR to address complex trauma and the vital role of a skilled, attuned therapist in guiding children and families toward lasting transformation.
 
Takeaways:
Childhood trauma can have lasting effects into adulthood.
EMDR requires modifications when working with children.
Concrete tools are essential for engaging children in therapy.
Children can experience dysregulation similar to adults during therapy.
Small traumas can have significant impacts on self-worth.
Memories are stored state-dependently, affecting emotional responses.
EMDR helps synthesize maladaptive and adaptive memory networks.
Building positive memory networks is crucial in therapy.
Therapeutic storytelling can be effective for adopted children.
Many people experience trauma that they may not remember until later in life.
Therapists should not act as fact-checkers but rather support clients in their journey.
Children often internalize negative experiences, leading to self-blame.
EMDR helps clients process trauma by alternating between past and present memories.
The effectiveness of EMDR can vary based on the individual's prior experiences with trauma.
Finding a qualified EMDR therapist is crucial for effective treatment.
Therapists should be aware of the importance of resourcing clients before diving into trauma work.
Children's memory networks are shorter, allowing for quicker reprocessing in therapy.
Building a trusting relationship with clients is essential for effective therapy.
Therapists must accept the limitations of their role in a child's healing process.
 
 
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Tiffany:
https://greenwoodcounselingcenter.com/
https://emdroftherockies.com/
 
Keywords: EMDR, child therapy, trauma, mental health, childhood trauma, EMDR consultant, therapeutic techniques, emotional regulation, memory processing, attachment theory, childhood, therapy, mental health, healing, memory, internalization, therapist, counseling

Art Therapy: Healing Through Creativity

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, Christine Peine joins us to explore the healing potential of therapeutic art. Christine is a Holistic Business Coach and Therapeutic Art Facilitator who supports entrepreneurs feeling stuck or creatively drained, helping them reconnect with their true selves and rebuild their businesses with clarity and purpose. With a Master’s in Art Therapy, Christine integrates polyvagal theory, somatic practices, and parts work into her unique approach.
 
She shares her personal journey from burnout to discovering the power of art as a tool for healing and transformation. We dive into how creativity, body awareness, and nervous system regulation work together to support emotional well-being. Christine also guides listeners through an accessible art exercise, inviting connection with the inner child and the body’s innate wisdom. This inspiring conversation offers a fresh perspective on creativity—not as a talent, but as a vital part of healing and self-discovery.
 
Takeaways:
Therapeutic art is about expressing inner feelings, not creating perfect art.
Polyvagal Theory explains how our nervous system affects our emotions.
The body holds wisdom that can guide us in healing.
Art can help make subconscious feelings visible.
Engaging in creative practices can reconnect us with our inner child.
Movement and breath are essential for regulating our nervous system.
Therapeutic art can be done with simple materials at home.
Self-discovery through art is a personal journey.
Creativity is vital for mental health at any age.
Listening to our intuition can lead to meaningful creative expression.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Christine:
https://christinepeine.com/
https://www.christinepeine.com/courses/conscious-clarity-practice
https://www.instagram.com/create.with.christine/
 
Keywords: art therapy, therapeutic art, polyvagal theory, self-discovery, inner child, creative expression, mental health, emotional regulation, healing through art, mindfulness

Increase Intimacy in the Bedroom: Balancing the Masculine and Feminine

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck welcomes Nicola Navon, a relationship communication and leadership coach, to explore the magnetic dance between masculine and feminine energies and how they shape our most intimate connections. Drawing from over a decade of experience in psychology and communication, Nicola shares how her signature framework, The Union Method, helps individuals and couples cultivate deeper connection, trust, and fulfillment—both in the bedroom and beyond.
 
Together, Nicky and Nicola dive into the often-unspoken dynamics that influence desire, vulnerability, and the expression of needs. They unpack the power of embodied communication, the role of polarity in creating passion, and the ways in which our attachment styles influence the way we relate. This heart-centered conversation invites listeners to reflect on the inner balance of their own masculine and feminine energies, offering a fresh perspective on cultivating intimacy, reigniting passion, and creating relationships that feel whole, alive, and deeply connected.
 
Takeaways
Understanding the balance of masculine and feminine energies is crucial for deeper intimacy.
It only takes one person to understand energetics to shift the relationship dynamics.
Vulnerability is key in expressing desires and needs in relationships.
Women often need to step into their feminine to allow men to step into their masculine.
Communication should be playful and inviting rather than controlling or nagging.
Expressing desires requires a strong masculine core to voice them effectively.
The fear of rejection impacts both men and women in expressing intimacy.
Creating passion involves inviting partners to take the lead in a subtle way.
Seduction can be a powerful tool in igniting desire in relationships.
Acknowledging and appreciating partners' efforts fosters connection and balance.
Finding healthy attachment starts with self.
Navigating relationship dynamics requires understanding of attachment styles.
Loneliness is a common human experience that needs addressing.
Passion thrives on polarity and contrast in relationships.
Creating excitement in long-term relationships is essential.
Communication is key to intimacy and connection.
Expressing needs is crucial to avoid resentment.
Wholeness in oneself is necessary for healthy relationships.
The process of intimacy should be prioritized over end goals.
Exploring new experiences together can reignite passion.
 
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Nicola:
https://www.nicolanavon.com/
https://www.instagram.com/nicolanavon/
 
Keywords: masculine, feminine, intimacy, relationships, communication, balance, passion, dynamics, energetics, connection, attachment styles, relationship dynamics, intimacy, communication, passion, wholeness, masculine and feminine energy, loneliness, fulfillment, reigniting passion
 

Spiritual Bypassing: A Deep Dive

Together, Nicky and Sarah explore the often-unspoken side of the spiritual and healing world such as the seductive nature of quick fixes, the glorification of transcendence at the expense of the human experience, and the shadow side of placing mentors on pedestals. They shine a light on the ways spiritual bypassing can subtly undermine genuine growth and emphasize the importance of staying anchored in authenticity, humility, and discernment.
 
The conversation dives into red flags to be aware of in spiritual teachers and healing practitioners, including over-promising results, lack of transparency, and disconnection from their own humanity. They unpack the marketing of transformation at retreats, encouraging listeners to trust their inner knowing, honor their intuition, and approach healing not as something to be outsourced, but as a sacred collaboration between self and guide.
 
Through this rich dialogue, Nicky and Sarah advocate for a return to self-honoring, embodied truth, and the slow, often messy, but deeply rewarding path of healing. Whether you’re just beginning your personal growth journey or navigating the complexities of finding the right support, this episode invites you into a space of reflection, empowerment, and deeper connection to your own wisdom.
 
 
Takeaways:
Spiritual bypassing can be a form of spiritual narcissism.
The desire for quick fixes can lead to avoidance of deeper work.
The journey of healing is more important than the destination.
Humility is a crucial stage in the process of enlightenment.
It's essential to run potential mentors through your own heart filter.
Over-promising in mentorship is a significant red flag.
Look for alignment between a teacher's words and actions.
Avoid placing mentors on pedestals to prevent disillusionment.
Effective teachers empower others to recognize their own light.
The marketing of spiritual experiences can often be misleading.
The intention behind seeking help is crucial for effective healing.
Collaboration in healing is essential; it's not just outsourcing.
Trusting your instincts is vital in any healing journey.
Red flags include guarantees of healing or fixed outcomes.
Empowerment comes from recognizing one's own healing capabilities.
Healing is a layered process that varies for each individual.
Self-honoring is key; it's okay to step back if needed.
There are many paths to healing; no one way is the only way.
Relatability and authenticity in practitioners are important.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Sarah:
https://www.sparkflc.com/
https://www.facebook.com/SarahSparkFLC/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfymRND2sFqBEuWET4RPETg
 
 
Keywords: spiritual bypassing, mentorship, red flags, plant medicine, healing, spiritual growth, self-awareness, ego, transformation, community, healing, practitioners, collaboration, empowerment, trust, self-honoring, intentions
 

Exploring Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck sits down with Crystal Hines to explore the transformative world of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Together, they unpack the foundational concepts of IFS, from the protective roles of managers and firefighters to the tender vulnerabilities held by exiles. Crystal shares her personal healing journey with both IFS and EMDR, offering insight into the deep inner work that fosters emotional resilience and transformation.
The conversation weaves through the complexities of shame, the significance of self-energy, and the power of embracing all parts of oneself. Crystal and Nicky also dive into the spiritual dimensions of IFS, the influence of generational trauma, and the growing intersection of plant medicine and therapy. With compassion and clarity, they highlight the importance of therapist self-work and the healing potential found in external relationships. This episode is an invitation to move toward a more self-led life, grounded in curiosity, connection, and wholeness.
 
Takeaways:
IFS is a therapeutic model created by Richard Schwartz.
Protective parts develop to help us function in the world.
Managers are proactive parts that prevent vulnerability.
Firefighters are reactive parts that shut down feelings.
Exiles carry the pain of past experiences.
Shame often stems from a lack of co-regulation in childhood.
Healing involves building a relationship with self-energy.
Therapists must do their own work to support clients effectively.
Self-energy is essential for healing and connection.
Living a self-led life means embracing all parts of self.
The best way to build access to self energy is to be with your parts.
Triggers can be seen as opportunities for self-reflection and growth.
Skepticism about parts work often stems from a part of the individual.
Generational trauma can be addressed through personal healing work.
Plant medicine may help protective parts feel safe enough to heal.
IFS emphasizes the importance of external relationships in healing.
Finding a qualified IFS therapist is crucial for effective therapy.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Crystal:
https://www.aligntherapyandconsultation.com/
https://www.aligntherapyandconsultation.com/ifs-emdr-certification
 
 
 
Internal Family Systems, IFS, therapy, trauma, self-energy, shame, mental health, EMDR, parts work, healing, IFS, self energy, parts work, triggers, generational trauma, epigenetics, plant medicine

This Is Me: Unfiltered, Unapologetic, Unmasked

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck takes the guest seat for the first time, offering a deeply personal and unfiltered glimpse into her own story. With honesty and vulnerability, Nicky reflects on her path of self-discovery, the inspiration behind launching the podcast, and the role community has played in her personal and professional evolution. She opens up about the transformative impact of motherhood, the healing journey through therapy and plant medicine, and how travel and intuition have shaped her understanding of self.
 
Drawing from her 20+ years as a yoga teacher, her background as a licensed clinical social worker, certified Gestalt therapist, and certified Kambo facilitator, Nicky shares how her personal healing journey informs the way she holds space for others. From navigating her inner critic to reconnecting with her intuition, Nicky speaks to the courageous act of reclaiming one’s identity beyond societal roles and expectations. She reflects on how her experience as an adoptive mother, world traveler, and intuitive healer have deepened her capacity to see both the shadow and light in herself and in others.
 
This episode is an exploration of what it means to live authentically, to heal in community, and to lead with soul. It’s an invitation to slow down, tune in, and remember that our stories—no matter how messy or beautiful—are the bridges that connect us.
 
Takeaways:
The podcast aims to bring experts' perspectives to the audience.
Community is a central theme in Nicky's work.
Nicky's interests guide her choice of podcast guests.
Understanding her audience is a work in progress.
Nicky's past experiences have shaped her current path.
Motherhood has influenced Nicky's identity and self-perception.
Ayahuasca has been a transformative experience for Nicky.
Painful experiences can lead to profound learning and clarity.
Living intuitively has been a guiding principle in Nicky's life.
She learned to recognize when things are in flow and when to shift directions.
The inner critic can be harsh, but self-acceptance is a powerful journey.
Community support is crucial in the healing process.
Nicky's capacity to hold space for others has deepened through her experiences.
Reclaiming identity involves recognizing oneself beyond societal labels.
Self-care is essential for personal well-being and positively impacts others.
Priorities may shift during motherhood, but self-reflection is key.
Nicky aims to inspire others to see their own light and potential.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
nickynamaste@gmail.com
 
Keywords: podcast, self-discovery, community, ayahuasca, personal journey, motherhood, intuition, healing, mental health, self-acceptance, therapy, identity, self-care, personal growth, transformation, plant medicine
 
 
 
 

Cannabis and Cancer: THC, CBD, RSO, Phoenix Tears

In this episode of The Connected Community: Exploring Possibility, Nicky Yazbeck sits down with Eddie Funxta, a passionate advocate for cannabis as a treatment for cancer. Eddie shares his personal journey into the world of cannabis, discussing how personal loss led him to explore its healing potential. He delves into the evolution of medical marijuana laws, the science behind THC and CBD, and the importance of personalized treatment.
The conversation explores how cannabis can help cancer patients manage symptoms, improve their quality of life, and reconnect with themselves and their communities. Eddie also emphasizes the role of diet, lifestyle choices, and education in the healing process, shedding light on the power of high-quality cannabis products and their impact on overall well-being.
 
Takeaways:
Eddie's journey into cannabis began with personal loss.
The medical marijuana movement was fueled by the AIDS crisis.
Cannabis can help cancer patients manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
THC and CBD have different effects and benefits for patients.
Personalized treatment is crucial for effective cannabis use.
Diet and lifestyle choices significantly impact health outcomes.
Cannabis can help patients reconnect with themselves and their community.
Education about cannabis is essential for patients and healthcare providers.
The importance of using high-quality cannabis products.
Cannabis can be a powerful tool for healing and empowerment.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Cannabis and Cancer
03:15 Eddie's Journey into Cannabis
06:45 The Impact of Medical Marijuana Laws
11:21 Cannabis as a Treatment for Cancer
11:44 Understanding Cannabis Expectations
17:00 Customizing Cannabis Treatments
23:10 The Science Behind Cannabis Oil
28:46 Navigating the Cannabis Market
32:22 The Therapeutic Effects of Cannabis
35:20 Empowering Patients Through Personal Consulting
38:19 Diet, Inflammation, and Cancer
41:00 Reconnecting with Self and Community
45:32 The Role of THC and CBD in Healing
51:45 Finding Quality Cannabis Products
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Eddie:
linktr.ee/eddiefunxta
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100004496209259
https://www.instagram.com/entheogenic_eddie
https://www.youtube.com/user/eddiefunxta
 
Keywords: cannabis, cancer, THC, CBD, medical marijuana, treatment, health, wellness, diet, lifestyle, RSO oil, Rick Simpson Oil, Phoenix Tears, cannabis and cancer

21 Days of Radical Self-Love: Divine Feminine and Tantric Practices

In this episode Nicky Yazbeck is joined by Christine Renee, a Reiki Teacher, Chakra Coach, and Shamanic Reiki Practitioner, to explore the transformative power of radical self-love. They dive into the practices of Yoni yoga and tantra, highlighting their role in healing, empowerment, and embracing the divine feminine. Christine shares how self-awareness, inner child healing, and sacred rituals can help shift limiting beliefs, strengthen self-worth, and create fulfilling relationships.
 
The conversation challenges common misconceptions around tantra, presenting it as a path of intimacy, self-awareness, and sacred connection rather than just sexuality. Christine also explains how the womb space holds unprocessed emotions and how Yoni yoga can support deep energetic cleansing. Throughout the discussion, listeners will gain practical insights into integrating self-love into their daily lives through mindfulness, playfulness, and embodiment practices.
 
Christine Renee is the founder of Moon Rising Shamanic Institute, where she empowers students through her Soul Rising program, certifying them as Shamanic Reiki practitioners. With over 15K YouTube followers, a podcast (Wisdom Rising) with over 130K downloads, and an active online community (Moon Rising Mystics), she is dedicated to guiding spiritual seekers on their path to healing and transformation.
 
Join us for a powerful conversation on the journey of self-love, the wisdom of the feminine, and the practices that help us connect more deeply with ourselves and the world around us.
 
 
Takeaways:
21 days is the timeframe it takes to shift our habits.
Radical self-love requires a commitment to oneself.
Healing is a continuous journey with no definitive end.
Awareness of toxic thoughts is the first step to healing.
Inner child work is essential for overcoming limiting beliefs.
Healthy relationships are built on self-love and awareness.
Support systems play a crucial role in our healing journey.
Mindfulness can be integrated into daily routines for self-love.
Simple practices can lead to profound transformation.
Embracing playfulness is vital for adult happiness.
Embracing femininity involves connecting with our wildness and nature.
Self-love allows us to love without judgment and play freely.
Yoni yoga is a practice that helps cleanse and strengthen the womb space.
The womb is a receiving space that can hold unprocessed emotions.
Yoni kissing helps women understand their pelvic floor and energy flow.
Many women carry sexual trauma, and healing practices are essential.
Radical self-love can transform not just the individual but their community.
Tantric practices focus on intimacy and self-awareness, not just sexuality.
Breath work is integral to moving energy through the body.
Healing trauma requires commitment to self-love and honoring one's journey.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
nickynamaste@gmail.com
 
Connect with Christine:
https://moonrisinginstitute.com/
moonrisinginstitute.com/wisdom-rising-podcast
https://www.youtube.com/@moonrisinginstitute
http://facebook.com/groups/moonrisingmystics
mystics@moonrisinginstitute.com
https://calendly.com/christinerenee/10-minutes-power-call
 
 
Keywords: self-love, healing, mindfulness, inner child, relationships, personal growth, self-awareness, daily practices, radical self-love, emotional healing, femininity, self-love, Yoni yoga, radical healing, tantra, empowerment, creativity, emotional healing, women's health, spiritual growth, reiki, tantric practices