From Friendship to Founders: The Quit With Jones Story

This month, we enter the Temple of the Body — not a place outside of us, but within. Each week, we will explore the body as a sacred site of power, emotion, and pleasure through Kundalini Yoga + Kriyas, Meditations, and exploration of myth, muse and archetypes. We will learn to listen to its whispers. Move with its yes’s. Honor its no’s. Adorning ourselves not to be seen, but to see OURSELVES more clearly. Every ritual becomes a reclamation. Every pleasure, a prayer.WEEK 1 | THE BODY REMEMBERS: Awakening the Temple FireWEEK 2 | THE PULSE OF PLEASURE: Rose Bodied: The Sacred Feminine as a Living FrequencyWEEK 3 | THE INNER ALTAR: The Jewels of the Eight Chakras + Reclaiming PowerWEEK 4 | THE TEMPLE WITHIN: Sacred Flesh, Holy Ground: The Beauty Kriyas Begins May 3rd | Join The Membership Get in Touch:Benshen.co WebsiteBenshen MembershipBenshen.co Instagram

Quitting vaping can feel like an uphill battle, but what if there was a way to make it easier and even enjoyable? In this episode, Desirée sits down with Hilary Dubin and Caroline Vasquez Huber, the co-founders of Quit with Jones, a modern, science-backed program designed to help people quit smoking, vaping, or using other nicotine products, revolutionizing the approach to quitting nicotine.Longtime friends turned business partners, Hilary and Caroline turned their personal struggles with vaping into a mission to help others break free from nicotine addiction. Their innovative method combines nicotine replacement therapy with behavioral support and community building, creating a judgment-free space for those on their quitting journey. Launched in 2022, the program combines FDA-approved nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) mints with a supportive mobile app and text coaching to assist users in their cessation journey.TOPICS COVERED:The power of combining nicotine replacement therapy with behavioral supportHow community support can make quitting easier and more successfulThe importance of addressing both physiological and psychological aspects of addictionWhy a judgment-free approach is crucial for long-term successThe unexpected origins of nicotine replacement therapy (hint: it involves submarines!)Guest Info:Quit With Jones InstagramQuit With Jones WebsiteGet in Touch:Benshen.co WebsiteBenshen MembershipBenshen.co InstagramRate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platform.

In this captivating episode, we dive deep into the world of functional mushrooms and their potential to revolutionize our approach to wellness with Lindsay Goodstein and Charlotte Cruz, the dynamic duo behind Alice Mushrooms.Alice gives people what neither the pharmaceutical industry nor supplements have provided: safe, effective consumables that pair long-term benefits with immediate boosts to cognitive functioning. All in one chocolate bite. Lindsay and Charlotte share their inspiring journey from corporate burnout to entrepreneurial success, highlighting how their diverse backgrounds in pharma and media converged to create a truly unique product. TOPICS COVEREDThe fascinating realm of functional mushrooms and their distinct benefitsHow Alice Mushrooms combines ancient wisdom with cutting-edge scienceThe power of chocolate as a delivery method for potent supplementsThe importance of honest self-reflection before starting a businessEmbracing discomfort and viewing challenges as opportunities for growthThis episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in innovative wellness solutions, entrepreneurship, or simply curious about the untapped potential of mushrooms. Get ready to be inspired, educated, and perhaps even tempted to try a new approach to your daily routine. Guest Info:Alice Mushrooms InstagramAlice Mushrooms WebsiteGet in Touch:Benshen.co WebsiteBenshen MembershipBenshen.co InstagramRate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platform.

A new theme for the month of April, which users in a new year with Aries season, the first sign of the Zodiac. It’s rebirth, a new chapter, an initiation. In this episode, Desirée dives into the theme of the month in our monthly membership. The Initiated Woman, a reclamation of mythic brilliance and self-anointed sovereignty, this month we will explore archetypes not as distant symbols, but as living, breathing aspects of ourselves. April is a portal for remembering who we are beneath the surface—wild, whole, and holy.The Initiated WomanWEEK 1 | THE SOVEREIGN + THE VISIONARY: Self-Initiation into Radiance, Magnetism and PowerWEEK 2 | THE MUSE + ALCHEMIST: Creating a New Self Concept + Reigniting Your Creative ForeWEEK 3 | THE LOVER + THE SIREN: Sensuality, Pleasure and the Divine Altar (Be The Altar)WEEK 4 | THE DARK FEMININE: Embracing the Shadow + Owning Your Power, Presence and PassionBegins April 5th | Join The MembershipGet in Touch:Benshen.co WebsiteBenshen MembershipBenshen.co InstagramRate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platform.

In this heartfelt conversation, I sit down with the talented photographer and creative entrepreneur, Hannah Faith Lord. We explore the depths of her journey, from growing up in a large family on a farm to becoming a renowned and sought-after photographer in Los Angeles.Hannah shares her experiences of overcoming limiting beliefs, navigating the creative industry, and finding inspiration in both large-scale projects and intimate collaborations. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of maintaining a playful spirit in one's work.Hannah's story reminds us that success is not just about external achievements, but also about internal growth and finding peace within ourselves. Her insights offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to pursue their passions while navigating life's challenges. TOPICS COVERED:The impact of childhood experiences on shaping one's work ethic and creative approachStrategies for overcoming scarcity mindset and imposter syndrome in the creative fieldThe value of collaboration and community in fueling inspiration and growthNavigating grief and personal challenges while pursuing a creative careerPractical techniques for maintaining mindfulness and positive thinking in daily life Guest Info:Hannah's InstagramHannah's Website Get in Touch:Benshen.co WebsiteBenshen MembershipBenshen.co InstagramRate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Have you ever wondered how two yoga teachers with diverse backgrounds and experiences come together to create something magical? In this episode, I sit down with my friend and fellow yoga instructor, Tony Lupinacci, to explore our journeys in the yoga world and our upcoming retreat in Portugal. Tony and I dive deep into our personal stories, discussing how we found yoga and the transformative power it's had in our lives. We share vulnerable moments, from dealing with loss to overcoming self-doubt, and how these experiences have shaped our teaching styles.Tony has been practicing and teaching yoga for over a decade in an attempt to metabolize deep grief and to understand the human condition through his own. After countless hours of practice and self-study, he began to shed the protective layers of his personality. Eventually, he found himself thinking less and feeling more, coming to a simple yet profound truth: our true nature is to love and to move from a space of open-hearted compassion. Tony’s classes weave Ashtanga, Kundalini, Gosh and Katonah Yoga together to create a rigorous inward exploration of the self. He also uses vedic meditation, mantra and kriya as tools to reach higher states of consciousness through the physical form. His goal is for practitioners to leave with a stronger connection to themselves and to all sentient beings. The Power of Community and RetreatsWe're both excited about our upcoming retreat at Cocoon in Portugal, a 250-acre forest farm that promises to be a magical experience. We talk about the special bond that forms during retreats and how they allow for deeper connections, personal growth and are also a fantastic way to make new friends! Join us this Summer in Portugal from July 31st - August 6th. Topics CoveredHow we navigate teaching and practicing for many years while staying authenticThe importance of blending different practices and respecting lineagesOur personal journeys with yoga and how it's transformed our livesThe power of saying "yes" to new opportunitiesWhy retreats are so special and transformative Guest Info:Tony's InstagramTony's Website Get in Touch:Benshen.co   WebsiteBenshen MembershipBenshen.co InstagramRate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platform.

In this episode, we have a Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Virgo Tarot Reading with Iliana “Ana” Mirabal, a Brooklyn based performer, professional Tarot card reader, Pisces Sun, Leo Moon, and Libra Rising.On the 14th, we welcome the first Eclipse of the year, a full moon in Virgo that illuminates our path, creating a wave of positivity, hope, and a clearing of the deep emotions that Pisces season brought to transmute. The Tarot of this Full Moon shows that it’s time to start embracing joy and new beginnings. The Nine of Cups takes center stage, signaling a period where dreams come true and wishes are fulfilled. It's a moment to feel proud of your accomplishments and open yourself to receiving the good things coming your way. However, be mindful of the perfectionist tendencies that Virgo energy might bring – you don't need to do more to deserve this happiness. This is your invitation to release what's holding you back and step into the growth that awaits.For seven years, Ana has practiced the Art of Tarot. As a lifelong storyteller, seeing the world through the archetypes of the cards came naturally. Her mission is to leave her clients with a sense of peace and clarity after each session.Guest Info:Ana’s WebsiteAna’s Instagram Get in Touch:Benshen.co WebsiteBenshen MembershipBenshen.co InstagramRate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Money. It’s topic that can evoke a range of emotions - fear, anxiety, excitement, or even indifference. For many of us, our relationship with money is complex, shaped by our upbringing, experiences, and the beliefs we've adopted along the way. In this candid episode, I open up about my personal journey from financial fear to empowerment, sharing the pivotal moments and mindset shifts that transformed my relationship with money.My financial awakening began when I stumbled upon Kate Northrup's book, "Money: A Love Story." This encounter sparked a series of realizations and intentional changes in how I thought about and interacted with money. I made a powerful declaration to never speak negatively about money again, which set the stage for a profound shift in my financial mindset. Topics Covered:The impact of childhood experiences on our money beliefsHow changing our language around money can shift our realityThe power of consistent, positive actions in building financial stabilityThe importance of continuous learning and surrounding yourself with supportive peopleOvercoming fear and building trust in your ability to create financial successGet in Touch:Desirée Pais InstagramBenshen.co WebsiteBenshen.co InstagramRate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Starting a business and taking risks can be daunting, especially for those just beginning their entrepreneurial journey. In this inspiring conversation, I sit down with Vesper Ireland, founder of VESCORP, a community-building agency specializing in bespoke events and creative strategies rooted in intention. Vesper shares her remarkable story of moving to New York City alone at 15, driven by a passion for fashion and a desire for independence. We explore how her early experiences in the industry shaped her vision for a more intentional approach to community building and marketing initiatives.With nearly 12 years in New York, Vesper has cultivated a career in image-making and brand partnerships across the fashion, beauty, and lifestyle industries. Inspired by her experiences, she launched VESCORP to create meaningful opportunities for connection, especially for women in these fields. In its inaugural year, VESCORP has hosted hundreds of women through engaging panels, intimate dinners in New York and Los Angeles, and a transformative weekend retreat in the Hudson Valley. The agency’s clients include renowned brands such as Agent Nateur, Jennifer Fisher, and Rothy’s. TOPICS COVEREDThe power of taking risks and giving yourself permission to succeedStrategies for overcoming imposter syndrome and comparisonThe importance of creating intentional communities in businessHow to use your experiences to shape a unique business visionTips for using social media as a tool for growth rather than distraction Guest Info:Vesper’s SubstackVesper's InstagramVESCORP InstagramGet in Touch:Benshen.co   WebsiteBenshen MembershipBenshen.co InstagramRate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platform.

In this episode, we have a New Moon in Pisces Tarot Reading with Iliana “Ana” Mirabal, a Brooklyn based performer, professional Tarot card reader, Pisces Sun, Leo Moon, and Libra Rising.Ana shares the forecast of the energy for the New Moon in Pisces. Pisces, a sign of dreams, spirituality, and emotional depth, encourages surrender and also an emotional rebirth. It’s a moon that invites us to connect to our emotions and dreams in a way that allows them to inform us and our visions on our next steps, rather than trying to use our logical minds.“Pisces season is a season about dreams. There is a delusional nature, but in a positive way - sometimes you need to be, to achieve the things that you want to." This New Moon also opens the portal for Eclipse Season, making it an extra powerful time for for setting new intentions and harnessing the dreamy Piscean energy to set intentions for the coming astrological year.For seven years, Ana has practiced the Art of Tarot. As a lifelong storyteller, seeing the world through the archetypes of the cards came naturally. Her mission is to leave her clients with a sense of peace and clarity after each session. Guest Info:Ana’s WebsiteAna’s Instagram Get in Touch:Benshen.co WebsiteBenshen MembershipBenshen.co InstagramRate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platform.