The Connected Community: Exploring Possibility
The Connected Community is a place to explore possibility through mindfulness, movement, and self discovery. Our intention is to deliver inspiration, insight, and authenticity, while fostering conversations that are genuine, unfiltered, and deeply human.
Episodes

Thursday Aug 14, 2025
Thursday Aug 14, 2025
In this powerful episode of The Connected Community, host Nicky Yazbeck is joined by Devon Kerns,visionary leader, entrepreneur, and plant medicine facilitator, to explore psychedelics, integration, and authentic self-discovery. With over 100 psychedelic experiences, more than 100,000 minutes of meditation, and having supported over 100 people through their integration journeys in the past year alone, Devon brings a wealth of lived experience to the conversation.
Together, they explore the sacred role of plant medicine in lifting the veil on who we truly are, the symbolic messages of animal allies like the owl, and how allowing ourselves to feel leads to grace and transformation. Devon shares personal stories from his journeys with ayahuasca and other psychedelics, emphasizing the importance of intention, integration, and embracing both shadow and light as part of the healing process.
In addition to his deep spiritual and healing work, Devon has spent 25 years in business development, founding companies across industries like investment, wellness, and education. He has worked with political leaders, Fortune 500 executives, and nonprofit boards, and currently leads initiatives in sustainable development, remote living, and land conservation.
This episode is a call to deeper authenticity, personal responsibility, and radical self-acceptance. If you’ve ever been curious about the healing potential of psychedelics or how to walk the integration path with clarity and courage, this conversation is for you.
Takeaways:
Plant medicine helps reveal who we are behind the veil.
Experiences with plant medicine can lead to profound insights.
Integration is crucial for lasting change after psychedelic experiences.
We are responsible for our own integration process.
Intention is key when entering plant medicine ceremonies.
Embracing the shadow can lead to personal growth.
Allowing oneself to feel emotions is essential for healing.
Self-forgiveness is a powerful tool for personal transformation.
Authenticity is a high vibration that fosters connection.
We are all mirrors reflecting back the light in each other.
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
Connect with Devon:
https://www.devonkkerns.com/about-devon
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXWc__VYiYErR_ViEoH2IMg
https://www.facebook.com/DevonKerns/
https://www.instagram.com/devonkerns/
Keywords: plant medicine, psychedelics, integration, personal growth, self-forgiveness, authenticity, collective consciousness, healing, shadow work, intention, ayahuasca, psilocybin, mushroom journey

Thursday Aug 07, 2025
Thursday Aug 07, 2025
As a highly empathic and intuitive child, Melissa Kim Corter was captivated by the dark corners of basements and the unseen aspects of the psyche. That early fascination laid the foundation for decades of work exploring the shadow side of human experience. In this rich and layered conversation, Melissa joins host Nicky Yazbeck to discuss how to approach shadow work and how it can be reframed not as something negative, but as a powerful portal for healing and integration.
Melissa shares her unique lens on shadow work, rooted in traditional Jungian studies and brought to life through her book Apothecary for the Afflicted: Shadow Work for Invisible Wounds. Together, we explore the role of avoidance and disassociation, how nightmares and fairy tales can offer symbolic insight, and how tools like the darkness journal create a safe space to give voice to intense and untamed emotions.
We also talk about the duality of light and dark, how to stop pushing the shadow away, and why engaging it directly is key to no longer being ruled by it. Whether you’re a therapist, seeker, or simply curious, this episode offers creative, symbolic, and grounded ways to explore the parts of yourself often left in the dark.
Takeaways:
Shadow work involves confronting uncomfortable truths about ourselves.
Disassociation can manifest in seemingly positive behaviors.
Curiosity is essential for understanding our shadows.
The darkness journal allows for safe expression of difficult emotions.
Fairy tales can help articulate and process our experiences.
Personal stories have the power to heal and connect us.
The transformation of trauma can lead to empowerment.
Engaging with our shadows can illuminate our true selves.
Chapters
00:00 Navigating Grief and Mortality
20:36 Understanding Shadow Work
23:47 Avoidance and Disassociation
26:41 Tools for Shadow Work
29:42 The Darkness Journal
32:24 Transforming Darkness into Light
35:28 The Role of Fairy Tales
38:24 Dreams and Nightmares
41:30 The Impact of Personal Stories
44:18 Conclusion and Resources
57:46 OUTRO
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
Connect with Melissa:
https://www.melissacorter.com
https://www.instagram.com/melissakimcorter/
https://www.facebook.com/melissakcorter/
https://www.youtube.com/c/MelissaKimCorter
https://melissakimcorter.substack.com/
Keywords: shadow work, disassociation, fairy tales, personal stories, emotional healing, journaling, self-discovery, mental health, darkness journal, Jungian, Depth Psychology, grief, mortality, dreams, nightmares, transformation, self help

Thursday Jul 31, 2025
Thursday Jul 31, 2025
In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck speaks with Patrick Fishley, a seasoned trauma nurse and transformational recovery coach, about the powerful healing potential of Iboga. Patrick brings over 30 years of clinical experience as a registered nurse specializing in Intensive Care Units, Emergency Rooms, and Trauma Bays, as well as extensive work in addictions and psychiatry.
Certified through Being True To You as an Addiction Recovery Psycho-Spiritual Integration Coach, Patrick began working with plant medicines in 2012, focusing primarily on Iboga and Ibogaine. Since then, he has served as medical director, lead facilitator, and teacher in retreats across the world, offering medical support, counseling, prescreening, and integration for those journeying with this potent medicine. He and his wife Michele co-founded Soul Reflections, an online Iboga/Ibogaine community offering education, preparation, and integration support—including annual immersive trips to Gabon, Africa, where Patrick has undergone multiple traditional initiations.
Patrick is a Missoko Bwiti initiate who has completed numerous rites of passage and initiations in Gabon, where he was given his Bwiti name: DIBADI Mabunza Mukuku a Kandja, meaning “warrior/fighter who is the Bwete force; Creator’s spirit of fire with flames of truth from the mouth.” Ordained by elders as a Nganga (seer and healer), he is also a member of Maghanga Ma Nzambé, Gabon’s national association committed to the good practice of Bwété and Iboga.
In this episode, Patrick shares insights from his work bridging Western medical systems and ancestral healing traditions, discussing the science behind Iboga, its role in disrupting addiction patterns, and the importance of integration, intention, and community in long-term transformation.
Patrick has been featured in:
• Dosed – dosedmovie.com
• CityTV VeraCity: The Psychedelic Frontier – Watch here
Chapters
Introduction to Iboga and Its Significance
04:21
Personal Journey with Iboga: Healing and Transformation
06:53
The Science Behind Iboga: How It Works
09:37
Case Studies: Transformative Experiences with Iboga
12:15
Integration: The Key to Lasting Change
14:50
Understanding Addiction and Neuroplasticity
17:29
The Role of Intentions in Healing
19:56
Preparation for Plant Medicine Journeys
28:23
The Journey of Integration
31:09
Building Community and Support
33:31
Understanding the Iboga Ceremony
40:19
Contraindications and Safety Measures
47:27
The Role of Self-Healing
49:57
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
Connect with Patrick:
https://soulreflections.net/
https://www.instagram.com/soulreflectionsiboga/?hl=en
RN BScN CCRN,ACLS, TNCC certified
BTTY certified Addiction Recovery Psycho-Spiritual Integration & Transformational Recovery Coaching.
Keywords
Iboga, healing, psychedelics, addiction, transformation, community, integration, mental health, personal growth, ceremony, Ibogaine

Thursday Jul 24, 2025
Thursday Jul 24, 2025
In this episode of the Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck and Pam Conboy delve into the transformative world of psilocybin journeys. They explore the therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, including its ability to alleviate depression, anxiety, and trauma. Pam explains the science behind psilocybin's effects on the brain, emphasizing its role in neuroplasticity and inflammation reduction. The conversation also covers the nuances of microdosing, the structure of psilocybin journeys, and the importance of integration post-experience. Listeners gain insights into how to approach psilocybin safely and effectively, addressing common fears and misconceptions. In this conversation, Pam Conboy and Nicky Yazbeck explore the multifaceted journey of healing through psychedelics, emphasizing the importance of personal integration tools, understanding trauma in layers, and the complexities of identity tied to trauma. They discuss the legal landscape surrounding psychedelics and the creation of supportive communities for healing, highlighting the transformative potential of these experiences.
Takeaways:
Psilocybin can resolve ongoing depression and anxiety.
Microdosing offers subtle shifts without psychedelic effects.
Safety and preparation are paramount in psilocybin experiences.
Psilocybin increases neuroplasticity and reduces inflammation.
The experience can lead to profound spiritual connections.
Individual journeys allow for personalized experiences and support.
Group journeys foster community and shared intentions.
Setting intentions can guide the psilocybin experience.
New neural pathways must be actively used to maintain benefits.
Integration is crucial for maximizing the benefits of psychedelic experiences.
Trauma often presents in layers, requiring ongoing work and exploration.
Healing is a continuous journey; one is never truly 'done' with their work.
Identity can be deeply intertwined with trauma, complicating the healing process.
Secondary gains can hinder progress in therapy and healing.
Creating a supportive community is essential for those on healing journeys.
Legal frameworks around psychedelics are evolving but remain complex.
Psychedelics can provide a new perspective on trauma, allowing for healthier processing.
The shift in individuals after healing experiences can be profound and life-changing.
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
nickynamaste@gmail.com
Connect with Pam:
www.setasseminary.org
https://www.setasseminary.org/become-a-member/
info@setasseminary.org
https://www.instagram.com/setas.seminary/
keywords: psilocybin, psychedelic therapy, mental health, microdosing, neuroplasticity, trauma healing, integration, therapeutic benefits, psychedelics, trauma, healing, psilocybin journey, therapy, journey work, plant medicine

Thursday Jul 17, 2025
Thursday Jul 17, 2025
In this episode, Nicky and Adam Yazbeck delve into the science and applications of Kambo, a traditional medicine derived from the secretion of the Amazonian frog. They discuss its physiological effects, health benefits, contraindications, and what individuals can expect during a Kambo session. Adam, with his medical background, provides insights into the peptides involved and their potential therapeutic uses, while Nicky shares personal experiences and the importance of safe practices when administering Kambo.
Takeaways
Kambo is derived from the secretion of the Phyllomedusa bicolor frog.
It has been shown to help with various conditions including depression, PTSD, and autoimmune disorders.
The peptides in Kambo have antimicrobial properties and can aid in gut health.
Kambo can potentially be beneficial for mental health due to the gut-brain connection.
Contraindications include certain medications, heart conditions, and pregnancy.
The experience of Kambo can vary greatly from person to person.
Breath control is crucial during a Kambo session to manage discomfort.
Kambo can help reset the nervous system and improve energy levels.
It's important to have a trained practitioner administer Kambo safely.
Kambo should not be self-administered due to potential risks.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Kambo and Its Significance
03:10 Understanding the Science Behind Kambo
06:47 Peptides and Their Role in Kambo’s Effectiveness
09:28 Benefits of Kambo : A Comprehensive Overview
21:08 Contraindications and Safety Considerations
26:59 Understanding Medication Half-Life and Pharmacokinetics
28:24 The Importance of Professional Guidance in Medication Management
30:16 Risks of Combining Medications with Kambo Therapy
32:37 Contraindications for Kambo Therapy
36:23 The Kambo Experience: What to Expect
48:29 Safety Protocols and Practitioner Responsibilities
52:21 OUTRO
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
nickynamaste@gmail.com
https://www.instagram.com/kambo_mama/
Keywords: Kambo Frog, Kambo, Kambo medicine, Kambo Healing, Jungle Experience, jungle Medicine, Medicine, Kambo Purge, Ethical Treatment, Personal Growth, Spiritual Journey, Peptides, peptide Therapy, Kambo Practitioner, frog medicine, Phyllomedusa bicolor, health benefits, traditional medicine, autoimmune disorders, mental health

Thursday Jul 10, 2025
Thursday Jul 10, 2025
In this episode, Nicky and Adam Yazbeck delve into their transformative experiences with Kambo, a traditional Amazonian frog medicine. They discuss the cultural significance, the process of meeting and extracting medicine from the Kambo frog, and the various methods of application. The conversation highlights the importance of surrendering to the medicine, the physical and spiritual benefits, and the science behind Kambo's effects on the body. Through their personal stories, they emphasize the profound impact Kambo has had on their lives and well-being.
Takeaways
Kambo is a traditional Amazonian medicine derived from the secretion of the Kambo frog.
Cultural perspectives on Kambo highlight the blending of Western and indigenous practices.
Meeting the Kambo frog can be a profound and emotional experience.
The preparation process for Kambo involves making tools and understanding the significance of each step.
Hunting for the Kambo frog is a challenging yet rewarding experience.
Extracting the medicine requires care and respect for the frog.
There are different methods of applying Kambo, including wet and dry techniques.
The therapeutic use of Kambo can vary based on individual needs and conditions.
Surrendering to the medicine is a key aspect of the Kambo experience.
The science behind Kambo reveals its effects on the body and its potential benefits.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Kambo Experience
04:24 Cultural Perspectives on Medicine
07:09 Meeting the Kambo Frog
10:09 The Process of Making Tools for Medicine
12:57 Hunting for the Kambo Frog
15:58 Extracting the Medicine
18:33 Methods of Applying Kambo
21:26 The Dry Method of Application
24:27 Understanding Frog Face and Health Indicators
27:22 Using Kambo for Specific Ailments
30:16 The Spiritual and Emotional Aspects of Kambo
33:15 Lessons Learned from the Frog
36:03 Conclusion and Future Discussions
40:51 OUTRO
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
nickynamaste@gmail.com
https://www.instagram.com/kambo_mama/
Keywords: Kambo Frog, Kambo, Kambo medicine, Kambo Healing, Jungle Experience, jungle Medicine, Medicine, Kambo Purge, Ethical Treatment, Personal Growth, Spiritual Journey, Peptides, peptide Therapy, Kambo Practitioner, frog medicine, Phyllomedusa bicolor

Thursday Jul 03, 2025
Thursday Jul 03, 2025
In this episode of the Connected Community Podcast, Nicky and Adam Yazbeck delve into their transformative experiences with Kambo, a frog medicine from the Amazon. They share insights from their recent trip to Peru, where they engaged in Kambo training and learned about the ethical considerations surrounding the use of this powerful medicine. The conversation covers their personal experiences with the 3x3 method, the significance of the purge, and the differences between Western and indigenous practices. They emphasize the importance of the correct amount of water and the body's natural responses during the Kambo experience, concluding with a promise to explore more about the application methods in future episodes.
Takeaways:
Kambo is a powerful medicine derived from the secretion of the Kambo frog.
The 3x3 experience is a Western adaptation that can be profound and transformative.
Ethical treatment of the Kambo frog is crucial in the extraction process.
The purge during Kambo sessions can manifest in various ways and is an important aspect of the experience.
Water intake is critical during Kambo sessions to avoid complications.
The experience of Kambo can vary greatly between individuals and settings.
Indigenous practices offer valuable insights into the use of Kambo medicine.
The relationship with the Kambo frog can deepen through personal experiences and training.
Understanding the body's responses during Kambo can enhance the healing process.
Future discussions will explore different methods of applying Kambo medicine.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Kambo Frog and Personal Experiences
05:08 Understanding the Kambo Frog's Habitat and Ethical Considerations
07:53 The 3x3 Experience: A Deep Dive
10:58 Journey to the Jungle: Meeting the Kambo Frog
13:43 Experiencing Fresh Kambo Personal Stories
16:26 The Importance of Dieting the Frog
19:32 The Purge: Understanding Its Significance
22:21 Analyzing the Purge: Medical Perspectives
25:13 Conclusion and Next Steps
38:10 OUTRO
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
nickynamaste@gmail.com
https://www.instagram.com/kambo_mama/
Keywords: Kambo Frog, Kambo, Kambo medicine, Kambo Healing, Jungle Experience, jungle Medicine, Medicine, Kambo Purge, Ethical Treatment, Personal Growth, Spiritual Journey, Peptides, peptide Therapy, Kambo Practitioner, frog medicine, Phyllomedusa bicolor

Thursday Jun 26, 2025
Thursday Jun 26, 2025
In this episode of The Connected Community: Exploring Possibility, Nicky Yazbeck is joined by Sarah Haas, a Women’s Weight Release & Body Love Coach, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Certified Personal Trainer, and yoga instructor. Sarah brings her deep expertise and personal journey as a fifty-something single mom and breast cancer survivor to a conversation about supporting women through midlife, menopause, and beyond.
Together, they explore the physical and emotional changes that come with menopause—particularly hormonal fluctuations, weight gain, and the impact of stress. Sarah shares insights into the importance of strength training, adequate protein intake, and mindful nutrition to maintain muscle mass, boost metabolism, and support overall well-being. The conversation also touches on the role of self-compassion, body acceptance, and navigating dietary challenges like dairy sensitivity. Sarah offers practical tips for reading food labels and making empowered, nourishing choices that align with the body’s evolving needs.
** Side note: While recording this podcast, I was struggling with allergies and the massive amounts of pollen in the air, so please ignore the extremely red eyes, random tearing, and stuffiness! **
Takeaways:
Many women struggle with hormonal imbalances during menopause.
Nutrition plays a vital role in managing health during menopause.
Weight gain can be rapid and unexpected during midlife.
Maintaining muscle mass is crucial for metabolism as we age.
Stress significantly affects hormonal balance and weight.
Strength training is essential for women, especially in midlife.
HIIT workouts can efficiently combine strength and cardio.
Women often under-consume protein, impacting muscle health.
Protein is necessary for muscle repair and growth.
A balanced diet and exercise can alleviate menopause symptoms.
A good starting point for protein intake is 0.8 grams per pound of body weight.
Protein helps keep you satiated longer than carbohydrates.
Fiber and protein together can help control hunger throughout the day.
Nuts are primarily fats, not proteins, and should be consumed in moderation.
It's essential to balance fat intake with protein and fiber for overall health.
Dietary trends often swing between extremes, leading to confusion.
Vegetables are crucial for a balanced diet; aim for 5-7 servings a day.
Dairy can be hard to digest for many; listen to your body.
Reading food labels is essential to avoid misleading claims.
Body acceptance is vital as we age; focus on nourishing and respecting your body.
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
Connect with Sarah:
https://sarahhaaswellness.com/
https://www.facebook.com/sarahhaaswellness/
https://www.instagram.com/sarahhaaswellness/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCans4T9oK_RYiq9YBumOTZA
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1922289
https://sarahhaaswellness.lpages.co/rev-up-your-metabolism-guide/
Keywords: hormones, nutrition, wellness, strength training, protein, health, women, weight gain, stress, nutrition, protein, satiety, dietary trends, vegetables, hormonal health, dairy, food labels, body acceptance, aging, menopause, perimenopause

Thursday Jun 19, 2025
Thursday Jun 19, 2025
In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck welcomes transformational coach and Self-Care Alchemist, Samantha Gregory, for a powerful conversation about religious trauma and the path to spiritual freedom. With a background that includes surviving a dysfunctional family, cult upbringing, domestic abuse, divorce, bankruptcy, and early menopause from chronic stress, Samantha has turned her pain into purpose. She now teaches women how to reclaim their well-being through radical self-care, feminine embodiment, and sovereign leadership.
Samantha shares her personal story of growing up in a restrictive, fear-based religious environment and the impact it had on her sense of self, mental health, and identity. She offers an honest look at how religious control can manifest as trauma and the inner work required to heal from it. Through her journey of leaving the church and reclaiming her spirituality, Samantha discovered the difference between externally imposed beliefs and an internally guided spiritual path. Together, Nicky and Samantha explore the nuances of family dynamics, the courage to question long-held beliefs, and the role of self-care and inner wisdom in rebuilding a life of authenticity, sovereignty, and self-acceptance.
Takeaways
Religious trauma is defined by control and manipulation.
Fear-based teachings can lead to mental health issues.
Separation from religion can lead to self-acceptance.
Spirituality offers freedom and personal growth.
Leaving toxic environments is essential for well-being.
Community can be found outside of traditional religious structures.
Self-worth is not determined by religious dogma.
Miseducation in religion can hinder personal development.
The journey to spirituality can be challenging but rewarding.
Recognizing one's own power is key to spiritual freedom. There are phases of transition when leaving a religion.
Internal validation is crucial for self-acceptance.
Going no contact can be necessary for healing.
Family dynamics can complicate personal growth.
Reframing relationships with family can aid in healing.
Questioning beliefs is essential for personal growth.
Self-care is foundational for transformation.
Trusting your own voice is vital in the healing process.
Journaling can help clarify thoughts and feelings.
Suffering is not a requirement in spirituality.
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
Connect with Samantha:
SamanthaGregory.com
SamanthaGregory.com/links
blyss.substack.com
Keywords: religious trauma, spirituality, self-acceptance, fear-based control, toxic environments, mental health, church, personal growth, community, freedom, religion, spirituality, self-discovery, trauma, family dynamics, personal growth, critical thinking, inner wisdom, self-care, healing

Thursday Jun 12, 2025
Thursday Jun 12, 2025
In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck sits down with Shena Jade Jensen, a licensed therapist and relationship coach with over 15 years of experience. Shena brings a deep, body-oriented perspective to her work, drawing from extensive training in somatic modalities including Somatic Experiencing and Hakomi.
Together, Nicky and Shena dive into the world of somatic therapy, exploring how the body holds emotional experiences and the powerful role present-moment awareness plays in healing. The conversation touches on how trauma shows up in the nervous system, the importance of grounding and embodiment, and why a trauma-informed approach is essential to effective therapeutic work.
Shena also offers insight into the distinctions between coaching and therapy, and the value of having professional guidance when working with deep emotional patterns. Throughout the episode, Nicky and Shena illuminate the layered nature of healing and the importance of connection, mindfulness, and compassion on the path toward emotional well-being.
Takeaways:
Somatic therapy focuses on the mind-body connection.
Memories can be stored in the body as tension and pain.
Trauma can manifest in small, everyday experiences.
Talking about trauma has limitations; somatic therapy addresses the body.
Dissociation is a common response to trauma.
Present moment awareness can help in processing trauma.
Somatic release can take many forms, including shaking and crying.
Professional guidance is crucial in trauma work.
Healing involves rewriting patterns in the nervous system.
Grounding through the body is essential for healing.
Embodiment leads to empowerment and self-acceptance.
Changing posture can transform self-perception.
Trauma-informed therapy is crucial for effective healing.
Therapists must be trained to hold space for clients' emotions.
Mindfulness practices are foundational in somatic therapy.
Repatterning thoughts requires a complex understanding of trauma.
Healing is a layered process that unfolds over time.
Connection with others enhances the healing journey.
Practicing self-compassion is vital for emotional growth.
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
Connect with Shena:
https://bayfamilycounseling.com/
https://www.instagram.com/themarriagetherapist/
https://www.facebook.com/ShenaWakeUpInLove
Tags: somatic therapy, trauma, Hakomi, emotional healing, body awareness, mindfulness, dissociation, personal growth, therapy techniques, mental health, somatic work, overcoming trauma, grounding, embodiment, healing, empowerment, therapy, coaching, emotional processing








