Inner Skilled

I had the great pleasure and honor to guest on Dayna Gerrard's Spirit To Cell podcast. This is a reposting of that podcast so be sure to check out Dayna's full blog post for this episode https://energyovermatter.com/blog/f/meditation-beyond-the-cushion-from-reactivity-to-responsiveness for even more resources as well as Dayna's site https://energyovermatter.com in general for all kinds of healing and developmental goodnessNote: the intro quote of me uses an edit that excludes context and can be interpreted in a way that is not entirely representative of major portions of our conversationHere's a description for the episode from the youtube version https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UD7X8zEtsDU on her https://www.youtube.com/@energyovermatter channel:What if meditation could change not just how you feel—but how you respond to life, stress, relationships, and your own thoughts?In this episode of **Spirit to Cell**, Dayna Wylder sits down with **Josh Dippold**, meditation teacher and founder of Integrating Presence and InnerSkilled, for a deeper conversation about what happens when meditation moves beyond the cushion and becomes a way of living.Josh has maintained a two-hour-a-day meditation practice since 2012, and his journey has taken him from intense inner work toward a subtler exploration of consciousness, energy, ethical living, sense restraint, and presence.Together, Dayna and Josh explore the difference between simply practicing meditation and allowing the practice to change the way you move through the world.They talk about nervous-system resets, mindfulness in everyday life, social conditioning, productivity and the pressure to constantly accomplish, solitude, boundaries, releasing judgment, and the Buddhist and yogic practice of **pratyahara—or sense restraint**.They also explore something particularly powerful: the language we use to describe ourselves.For Dayna, this connects deeply with her own healing journey and the shift from identifying with a diagnosis to recognizing symptoms and experiences without allowing them to become the whole story.• Why Josh began meditating two hours a day—and what changed• How meditation can evolve from intense inner work into deeper awareness• The connection between meditation, ethical living, and daily choices• Breaking social conditioning around habits and behaviors• Why solitude can create space for greater awareness• Moving beyond productivity and the need to constantly accomplish• Simple nervous-system practices that can be used throughout the day• Boundaries, sovereignty, and responding rather than reacting• The practice of pratyahara and reducing sensory overload• What we pick up from other people—and what we can choose to put down• Lessons from silent retreats and noble silence• How language and labels can influence our experience of ourselves• Creating more space for intuition and inner knowing00:00 — Introduction & Welcome01:10 — Josh’s Origin Story with Daily Meditation04:08 — Moving from Suffering to a Sustained Practice07:18 — Ethical Precepts & Lifestyle Shifts14:10 — Breaking Social Conditioning Around Habits18:35 — Releasing Judgment & Finding Solitude21:50 — Dayna’s Recovery, MS Journey & Shifting Meditation Styles26:30 — Mindfulness in Chaos & Daily Life Practices31:10 — Overcoming the Need to Always Accomplish34:55 — Nervous System Resets & Family Dinner Rituals38:40 — Navigating External Stress, Boundaries & Sovereignty49:30 — The Practice of Pratyahara (Sense Restraint)54:20 — Letting Go vs. Picking Up Burdens59:40 — Experiences with Silent Retreats & Noble Silence1:07:50 — The Power of Language & Detaching from Labels1:12:40 — Where to Find Josh & Final Insights1:17:15 — Closing Thoughts & Takeawayshttps://www.amazon.ca/Unlearn-Dis-Ease-Relearn-Well-Being-Frequency/dp/1069897906https://Instagram.com/energyovermatter https://Facebook.com/energyovermatter

[Ai assist:] In this episode of Inner Skilled I'm joined by Kim Rogers (known online as "The Worm Queen" of RogersHood Apothecary) for an eye-opening conversation on the overlooked impact of parasites, mold, and Lyme disease on human health.After navigating severe health challenges, multiple surgeries, and chronic illness, Kim turned to natural medicine, functional herbs, and medicinal mushrooms like Amanita muscaria to reclaim her well-being. Today, she shares her personal journey from western medicine educator to holistic health advocate, diving deep into how parasites transfer, how biofilms protect hidden infections, and how targeted herbal cleansing protocols support true root-cause healing.In this conversation, we cover:- Kim’s journey from chronic illness to holistic healing- How parasites, mold, and Lyme disease interact in biofilms- Why standard testing often misses parasitic infections- Common pathways of transmission (pets, water, food)- Practical steps for natural parasite cleansing and lymphatic support*Disclaimer: This video and conversation are for educational and informational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.*https://rogershood.com -- use discount code INNERSKILLED for 10% offhttps://www.facebook.com/kim.rogers.549424https://www.youtube.com/@whatseatingupodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/mrsrogers.hoodhttps://www.tiktok.com/@mrsrogershoodhttps://www.threads.com/@mrsrogers.hoodProducts & Protocols Mentioned:ParaFy Cleanse KitLymph Kit (Turkey Tail therapeutic dose / Sustain)Safeguard (monthly dog dewormer on Amazon, referenced around 11:16)Testing services referenced: https://parasites.org / Vibrant Wellness (20:38, 23:14)Chapters:00:00 - Introduction & Meeting Kim Rogers (The Worm Queen)01:05 - Healing Journey, Amanita Muscaria & Medicinal Mushrooms04:03 - Discovering Parasites as a Root Cause06:55 - Functional Mushrooms (Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail & Red Artist tincture)08:09 - Bridging Western Medicine and Herbal Science10:04 - Pet Transmission & Toxoplasmosis Explained14:09 - How Parasites Impact the Gut and Immune System15:53 - Energetic Hygiene vs. Physical Attachments19:24 - Common Parasites (Toxo, Trichinosis, Pinworms & Tapeworms)22:08 - Lyme Disease, Mold Exposure & Chronic Symptoms26:09 - Why Conventional Parasite Testing Often Fails31:06 - Biofilms: How Parasites and Pathogens Hide34:00 - Historical Perspectives on Parasitic Illness38:20 - Scope of Practice & The Need for Patient Sovereignty46:00 - How the ParaFy Cleanse & Lymph Kit Work48:46 - Breaking Down Scar Tissue with Turkey Tail50:37 - Closing Thoughts & Well-Being Blessing

[Ai assist:] Licensed somatic psychotherapist and integrative hypnotherapist Melanie Smithson relates how emotional trauma is stored within the physical body and how we can truly release it.Melanie shares insights from over 30 years of practice blending somatic psychotherapy, the Sedona Method, and Life Between Lives hypnotherapy (trained directly by Michael Newton). We discuss the limitations of traditional talk therapy loops, how past-life memories and bodily contractions reveal core wounds, and practical movement techniques—from conscious groaning to shaking—that help foster wellbeing and live with less anxiety.Approximate Chapters:00:00 - Introduction & Melanie Smithson's Background01:18 - Seeing God as a Verb & The True Self04:51 - Why You Must Let Go Through the Body08:05 - Moving Beyond Talk Therapy Loops14:26 - The Sedona Method & Releasing Core Resistance19:45 - Life Between Lives & Past Life Regression Work26:35 - Practicing "Radical Nothingness"30:45 - Past Life Healing vs. Feeding the Ego37:45 - Somatic Exercises: Movement, Groaning & Shaking Free44:36 - Books, Trainings & How to ConnectWebsite, podcast and Trainings:http://www.smithsonclinic.comhttp://smithsonclinic.com/podcastBooks:https://www.amazon.com/Make-Some-Noise-Conscious-Groaning/dp/0991429931https://www.amazon.com/Shake-Yourself-Free-Practices-Limitation-ebook/dp/B0FWMRNRR7https://www.amazon.com/Stress-Free-Seconds-Irreverent-Navigating-ebook/dp/B00JPV50PASocials:https://www.facebook.com/MelanieBethSmithsonhttps://www.youtube.com/@MelanieSmithson-g8lhttps://www.instagram.com/melaniesmithsonhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/melaniesmithsonRAMCOA resource mentioned: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationpodcastofficial

[Ai assist:] Albert Bramante, a talent agent and PhD researcher, peels back the curtain on the psychological landscape of the entertainment industry. From the intense world of method acting and the "mask" performers wear to the deeper implications of mass persuasion and identity, this conversation explores how the mind navigates the blurred lines between fiction and reality. Albert shares insights from his work with actors on self-sabotage, the importance of a secure identity in an age of hyper-connectivity, and how we can all find agency by setting healthy boundaries and standards00:00 - Introduction to Albert Bramante01:15 - From "White Sheep" to Psychology & Acting04:30 - The Reality of Talent Representation07:50 - Persona vs. Human: The Actor’s Mask09:55 - The Psychological Cost of Method Acting13:50 - Bringing Authenticity to a Role17:05 - Suspension of Disbelief & Hypnotic States23:00 - The Power of Visualization & Priming27:15 - Behind the Scenes of Hollywood History33:50 - Persuasion, Social Media, & Mass Control38:30 - Developing a Secure Identity & Agency47:05 - Where to Find Albert Bramante:http://www.albertbramante.comhttp://www.facebook.com/albertbramantehttp://www.instagram.com/dralbramantehttp://www.linkedin.com/in/albertbramante

[Ai assist:] Health and fitness coach Brian Parana gets into the connection between mindset, habits, and long-term wellness. Brian shares his 20+ years of experience helping people—especially men over 40—reclaim their energy, overcome chronic illness, and build sustainable routines that last. From breaking down the "math problem" of nutrition to understanding the emotional drivers behind our choices, this conversation offers a refreshing and actionable look at what it truly means to be healthy.Approximate chapter markers:00:00 Welcome & Introduction to Coach Brian Parana03:50 The Power of Mindset and Lifestyle06:01 Breaking Unhealthy Habits & Building Routines08:50 Finding Your "Why" for Lasting Change14:08 Meditation as a Practice for Mental Clarity18:07 Empowerment, Empathy, and Environment22:15 Strengthening Your Weaknesses25:17 The "Math Problem" Strategy for Nutrition33:14 Daily Habits for Longevity36:03 Practical Metrics: Calories, Steps, and Strength41:10 Accountability and Emotional Eating45:18 Driven for Health: Where to Find Brian49:52 Final Words and Optimal Healthhttps://brianparana.com/https://www.thecalltorise.comSocialhttps://www.instagram.com/coachbrianparanahttps://www.facebook.com/coachbrianparanahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/coachbrianparana/https://www.youtube.com/@coachbrianparanahttps://www.tiktok.com/@coachbrianparanahttps://coachbrianparana.substack.comhttps://www.threads.net/@coachbrianparana

[Ai assist:] In this episode of innerskilled, I speak with Madhu again, this time to explore the of "monk mindset" and how it applies to modern life, success, and even physical pain. Madhu shares his insights from years of monkhood in India, discussing the relief of knowing we are not our bodies or minds, while I mention the Buddhist teaching of the "two arrows" (of pain and suffering), and a refreshing perspective on why money is an amplifier of character rather than a root of evil. I also ask for first time visitor advice for generosity while visiting India**Key Topics Covered:**- Being okay when things aren't okay: Navigating physical challenges with presence.- Choosing your "hard": The discipline of mind training vs. the consequences of neglect.- The Ethics of Success: Moving past the extremes of austerity and greed.- Money as Currency: Why poverty—not money—is often the root of desperation.- Detachment in Action: How to strive for greatness while letting go of the results.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction: Reconnecting with Madhu00:30 - Being Okay When You're Not Okay01:57 - I Am Not My Body, I Am Not My Mind04:18 - Choosing Your "Hard"05:47 - The Teaching of the Two Arrows07:35 - The Goal of Conscious Success10:04 - Ethics, Intentions, and Cause-and-Effect12:12 - The Two Extremes of Spirituality and Money14:42 - Why Poverty is the Root of All Evil16:24 - Engaging Resources in Service18:30 - Practical Advice for Compassion and Giving21:58 - Developing a Healthy Relationship with Money23:40 - Detachment: Doing Your Duty, Letting Go of Results27:12 - "This is Happening For Me" Meditation29:00 - How to Connect with Madhu & Special OfferOur first chat: https://integratingpresence.com/2024/05/03/mad-service-dos-with-madhuri-pura-dasa**Connect with Madhu:**- Website: https://madhu.life -- Listen to the Conscious Success podcast and join their free community for resources on Ayurvedic health, holistic business, and mind training.- Special Offer: Message Madhu on any platform with the word "innerskilled" for early access to his upcoming monk mindset frameworkhttps://madhu.lifehttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/conscious-success/id1781008487https://www.facebook.com/arjuna.gallellihttps://www.youtube.com/c/madhulifehttps://www.instagram.com/madhu.lifehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/madhuri-pura-dasa-35930894https://www.tiktok.com/@madhu.life

[Ai assist:] In this moving conversation, Steven Ferrara, author of "From Grief to Gratitude," shares his profound journey through the loss of his son and wife. Discover how he used daily journaling as a lifeline, shifted his perspective on death, and found a path toward spiritual awakening and gratitude. Whether you are navigating your own loss or seeking a deeper understanding of life's transitions, Steven’s insights offer a powerful roadmap for healing and peace.00:00 - Introducing Steven Ferrara01:32 - A Life-Changing Loss02:50 - The Power of Daily Journaling04:33 - Rethinking Death and Dying07:25 - Shifting Your Perspective on Loss12:02 - Redefining Love and Connection17:35 - Why Journaling is Life-Saving20:43 - Moving Beyond Societal Sympathy25:40 - Detaching from Sadness29:22 - The Path from Grief to Gratitude36:41 - Responding to Life with Lovehttps://www.stevenferrara.comhttps://www.amazon.com/Grief-Gratitude-Embracing-Pathway-Healing-ebook/dp/B0G64T416T/https://stevenferrara.substack.comhttps://www.instagram.com/stevenferraraauthor

[Ai assist:] In this episode of innerskilled, I'm joined by Graham Hawley, a certified health and wellness coach who helps busy professionals and families reclaim their vitality. Graham shares his personal journey of discovering the truth about metabolic health after witnessing the devastating effects of lifestyle diseases in his own family.We dive deep into the systemic issues within the food and medical industries, and Graham outlines his "Five Pillars of Health": Nutrition, Exercise/Movement, Sleep Quality, Stress Management, and Mindful Alcohol Consumption. Discover how small, consistent changes can lead to radical transformations, from reversing type 2 diabetes to achieving sustainable weight loss.00:00 Introduction to Graham Hawley01:50 The "Broken" Healthcare System02:16 The Five Pillars of Health05:50 Graham's Personal Story & Motivation06:43 Big Food, Big Pharma, and Addictive Engineering08:45 The Truth About "Healthy" Eating10:44 Sourcing Real Food & Farmers Markets12:54 Chemical Differences: USA vs. Europe20:19 Small Steps, Big Results24:03 Important: Logging Your Health Data27:18 Identifying Damaging Ingredients30:37 The Importance of the First Meal35:05 Insulin: The Fat Storage Hormone39:50 Optimizing Sleep Hygiene42:49 The Power of a Morning Routine49:05 Identifying Habits vs. AutoPilot52:41 Managing Chronic Stress & Setting Boundaries58:39 How to Work with Grahamhttps://www.simplyhealthconscious.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/graham.hawley.52Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/simplyhealthconscious/Linkedin:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/grahamhawley/

[Ai assist:] Bryan Bourgeois relates his journey from chronic neck pain to full recovery. Bryan shares how he developed the Da Vinci Orthopedic Pillow to avoid major surgery and how it now helps thousands stop snoring and improve sleep quality. We also dive into his personal research on anti-aging, the importance of detailed blood work, and taking full agency over your health decisions.Approximate Chapter Markers:00:00 - Introduction to Bryan Bourgeois00:25 - Overcoming Chronic Neck Pain00:51 - How the Da Vinci Pillow Works03:00 - Stopping Snoring and Acid Reflux09:00 - The Science of Spinal Rehydration18:50 - Transformational Power of Posture24:00 - Anti-Aging and Longevity Research28:40 - The Importance of Baseline Blood Work33:00 - Taking Agency Over Your Health44:12 - Sleep as a Critical Pillar of Wellnesshttps://www.davinciorthopedics.comhttps://www.amazon.com/DaVinci-Orthopedic-Patented-Breathing-Prevents/dp/B0DGQWGDNC/