#227 From Marketing Disconnect to Embodied Practice with Benny Fergusson

This episode dives deep with Benny Fergusson, a foundational member of the show, about his journey from marketing to a career focused on connection, particularly with the body. Benny recounts how his early experiences with marketing highlighted a disconnect from himself, leading him to explore inner connection. He emphasizes that true wants come from within, citing the example of herbs like ashwagandha that foster inner connection.   Benny's current work, the Neurosomatic School, is all about understanding the body and its relationship to life. He shares his personal struggles with spinal issues in his 20s, which forced him to slow down and reconnect. He critiques externalized views of the body, like those in sports, where the body is seen as a tool for tasks rather than a source of inner wisdom.   The conversation touches on the modern world's approach to bodywork, with Mason noting the proliferation of practices like weights, yoga, and meditation to keep society from "breaking." Benny introduces his "SAFE" acronym for cultivating awareness: See, Allow, Feel, Embody. He explains that true healing isn't about fixing something broken, but about allowing what is, and creating the environmental circumstances to support the body's natural healing process. He challenges the idea of "letting go" as an act of doing, emphasizing the need to develop internal reference points for states like relaxation.   Benny also discusses the importance of integrating practice into daily life, rather than separating it as a form of escapism or spiritual ego. He advocates for exploring the full spectrum of human experience, from love to hate, to truly embody qualities. He highlights the interrelationship of things in the body, using knee pain as an example where the focus should be on supporting structures like the ankle and hip, rather than just the knee itself.   The discussion then shifts to the Neurosomatic School's approach for practitioners, focusing on bringing humanity back to health and addressing the "wounded healer" dynamic. Benny stresses the importance of personal embodiment for practitioners, as you can only guide others where you've been yourself. He outlines the school's four pillars: connection, breathing, mobility, and cultivation, emphasizing a pragmatic, individualized approach rather than a "one-size-fits-all" methodology. He aims to develop "all-terrain vehicle practitioners" who can adapt their tools to different contexts and individual needs.   Key takeaways from Benny and Mason: [00:00:37] Internal Connection as a Foundation   [00:04:43] Holistic Body Understanding   [00:17:57] Interconnectedness of the Body   [00:17:57] Pragmatic and Individualized Methodology   [00:23:47] The "SAFE" Framework for Awareness   [00:38:02] Integrating Practice into Daily Life   [00:41:48] Practitioner Embodiment and Humanity  Call to Action Alright, so we've just ripped into a deep chat with Benny Fergusson, one of the OG members of the show, about ditching the external hustle and getting real about internal connection. If you're being honest with yourself and you're tired of just throwing bodywork at a problem to keep from 'breaking,' this is your next, essential step.   The Neurosomatic School isn't just theory; it's the pragmatic, individualized approach that moves beyond the spiritual ego and 'unembodied advice.' It's time to truly apply the SAFE Framework and embrace the messy spectrum of human experience. Remember, as Benny says, you can only guide others where you've been yourself.   Dive into the four core pillars: Connection, Breathing, Mobility, and Cultivation. This work is about building real, internal reference points and developing those "all-terrain vehicle" skills.   Ready to get out of the superficial and start living the work? Don't just listen to the wisdom—go embody it.

In this captivating discussion, Mason and Velan dive deep into leadership—moving past old-school hierarchies to a more custodial vibe, seeing an organization as a soul, not just a machine. Velan brings in seership—reading a culture through patient observation and awakened senses, like a mycelial network. They touch on elemental forces (earth, water, fire, air) as leadership teachers—especially water as a memory keeper. Leadership, they say, should be about self-education, letting things flow like living systems, and shedding those colonial mindsets that cut us off from our senses. They also explore the alchemy of recycling energy—turning discomfort and conflict into gold by creating space for the unspoken. Mason even drops some SuperFeast wisdom about how unacknowledged secrets can disrupt harmony, and how tension can spark new paths—like dandelions breaking through concrete. Velan wraps it up by calling for multidisciplinary education—moving from specialists to diverse thinkers—and finding common ground. He reminds Mason about enchantment, opening up new possibilities. His big advice for new leaders? Get real with your core secret—your profound why—the bedrock for any lasting impact. Mason & Velan's Highlights [00:00:37] The Living Question of Leadership [00:01:21] Custodial Leadership vs. Hierarchical Models [00:03:45] Seership and Sensory Perception [00:05:37] Mycelial Intelligence and Elemental Mastery [00:09:28] Decolonizing Leadership and Reclaiming the Senses [00:17:00] Embodiment and the Practice of Discomfort [00:20:15] Alchemizing Conflict and Recycling Energy [00:22:00] The Power of Secrets and the Inner "Why" [00:27:30] Multidisciplinary Leadership and Cultural Enchantment [00:36:40] Embodiment as an Ecosystemic Practice [00:45:15] Leading Through Initiation and Death Cycles [00:51:04] Returning to the Sacred "Why" – Leadership as Prayer Call to Action If something in this conversation stirred something in you—don't rush to make sense of it. Just sit with it. Let it move through your body, your breath, your week. That's where real leadership begins—not in the doing, but in the listening. If you feel called, share this episode with someone walking that same edge of becoming. And if you haven't yet, subscribe or leave a few words in the reviews—it really helps this work find the ones who are ready to hear it. Thank You to Velan A deep bow to Velan—for the generosity of presence, for weaving wisdom that feels less like information and more like initiation. Brother, thank you for reminding us that leadership is ceremony—a remembering of how to walk well with life.

In this very special episode, Mason sits down with his dear friend, the absolute legend Steve Napolitan, for a powerful conversation that's been 10 years in the making. Steve shares his incredible, vulnerable, and deeply honest adventure through a profound health crisis—Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)—and how he navigated the chasm of doubt between conventional and complementary approaches.   This isn't about choosing one path over the other; it's about the deep journey of inner stewardship, health sovereignty, and patient engagement. Steve's story is a masterclass in discerning appropriate support, understanding the body's innate capacity for healing, and finding gratitude amidst immense challenge. You'll hear how tonic herbs and medicinal mushrooms became more than just supplements—they were allies in a profound process of regeneration and self-discovery.   Prepare to be inspired by Steve's resilience, his unique approach to healing, and his unwavering belief in the body's ability to regrow and restore. This conversation offers a nuanced perspective on what's possible when we engage with our healing journey with courage, intention, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected.   By the end of this episode, you'll feel empowered to approach your own health challenges with a more colorful and responsible perspective, trusting your inner wisdom while seeking external support when truly needed.   Mason & Steven's Highlights [00:00:00] Introducing Steve Napolitan and his 10-year journey with Mason [00:03:22] Steve shares the shocking onset of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) in 2021 [00:09:56] The rapid progression of paralysis and his wife's diligent research [00:13:18] The decision to go to the hospital: when holistic efforts meet Western medicine's limits [00:23:24] Steve's spiritual awakening: "Am I dying?" and the clear "No." [00:26:46] The neurologist's crucial insight: the body's ability to regrow myelin with good fats [00:40:14] Embracing pain as a guide: why Steve refused heavy medication [00:57:04] Napoleon Hill's Think and Grow Rich and the power of belief [01:07:10] Why Steve wouldn't take back his paralysis: the man he became [01:24:00] Post-GBS healing: the critical role of good fats, cacao, and targeted herbs   If Steve's story resonated with you, share this episode with someone who needs to hear a message of hope and resilience today. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation, and visit our website for more resources on supporting your body's incredible healing potential.   About Steve Napolitan   Steven Napolitan is an award-winning producer, brand strategist, and executive coach recognized as a pioneer in new media marketing. He has created viral campaigns generating millions in revenue, worked with global brands like Apple and Intel, and produced content across film, TV, and advertising. Through his coaching, he has trained over 35,000 professionals and entrepreneurs in scaling businesses, boosting sales, and achieving lifestyle freedom. At the core, Steve is passionate about people, storytelling, and helping others align vision, focus, and teamwork to create lasting impact.   Resource Website: stevenapolitan.com Podcast: More Business More Life Podcast  

In this episode, Mason sits down with Dr. Carol Haddad to explore a topic close to the hearts of so many—how traditional medical treatments and complementary approaches can work together for deeper healing. Instead of choosing one path over the other, Dr. Carol shares how integration creates a more personalized, compassionate, and effective journey toward wellness. You'll hear real-world examples, practical strategies, and encouraging insights that remind us healing isn't just about treating the body—it's about nurturing the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or simply curious about integrative approaches, this conversation offers hope, wisdom, and a refreshing perspective on what's possible when different worlds of medicine come together. By the end of this episode, you'll feel empowered with new ways to think about health, inspired by stories of resilience, and encouraged to see healing as more than a diagnosis—it's a journey.   Key Insights & Timestamps 02:15 The importance of blending science with holistic approaches 05:42 Why patients shouldn't feel forced to choose "either/or" in treatment 09:10 Dr. Carol's story of how she embraced integrative care 14:27 The role of nutrition and lifestyle in healing 18:55 How mindset and emotional health impact physical recovery 23:40 The science behind complementary therapies 28:05 Stories of patients who found strength through integrative care 33:12 How caregivers can support the journey with compassion 38:46 The future of medicine: collaboration over competition 42:19 Practical steps to begin your own integrative path About Dr. Carol Haddad Dr. Carol is a highly trained physician who bridges the gap between conventional oncology and holistic healing. With a background that includes a Medical Science degree from UNSW, a postgraduate degree in Medicine from the University of Sydney, specialty training in Radiation Oncology, and certification in Functional Medicine, she has more than a decade of experience treating patients within hospital and cancer center settings. Her journey led her beyond traditional medicine into the world of integrative oncology, where she combines evidence-based treatments with complementary therapies such as natural medicine, psycho-energetic healing, nutrition, and lifestyle interventions. This unique approach allows her to deliver truly holistic cancer care—addressing not just the disease, but the whole person. Dr. Carol believes that patients deserve a more balanced model of treatment, one that draws from the strengths of both science and spirituality to improve outcomes and quality of life. Today, she consults with patients and healthcare professionals worldwide, offering guidance on functional medicine, integrative cancer strategies, and ways to minimise side effects while maximising recovery. Her mission is to empower individuals to embrace long-term wellbeing, reduce recurrence risk, and experience healing in a more sustainable way. If you're curious about functional medicine, holistic oncology, or integrative cancer support, this episode is for you.   Resources Mentioned: Email: [email protected] Website: www.drcarolhaddad.com

Embark on an illuminating journey with Nicholas Giannasi in this episode, where Mason guides a profound and deeply insightful conversation that seamlessly weaves together ancient spiritual concepts with their tangible, practical applications in the fabric of everyday existence. This is not merely a surface-level discussion; it's an exploration that delves into the very heart of what it means to be human, to err, and to transcend.   From the nuanced and often misunderstood true meaning of forgiveness—revealed not as a mere act of absolution, but as a dynamic interplay of understanding and compassion—to the profound yet accessible importance of humility in an increasingly self-promotional world, Nicholas shares wisdom that resonates deeply. The conversation gracefully flows through the inevitability of change, emphasizing how embracing impermanence can liberate us from suffering and foster a deeper appreciation for the present moment. Mason and Nicholas collectively peel back the layers, revealing how ancient wisdom, distilled through centuries of profound contemplation and practice, offers an indispensable compass to navigate the intricate and often turbulent waters of the modern world. They invite listeners to discover how these timeless truths can not only illuminate our individual paths but also foster greater harmony and meaning in our lives, making the sacred visible in even the most mundane of activities. This episode promises to be a transformative listen, encouraging a shift in perspective that allows for greater peace, understanding, and authentic engagement with life's rich tapestry.   Episode Highlights: 00:01:34 - Forgiveness and Compassion: Nicholas emphasizes that true forgiveness comes from understanding another's suffering (compassion), which is love with understanding. He suggests stopping the effort to forgive and instead looking into the other person's suffering, creating space for understanding. 00:03:23 - The Importance of Space: Meditation and creating "space" are crucial for spiritual practice and achieving genuine understanding and forgiveness. 00:05:00 - Non-Clinging to "I, Me, Mine": Drawing from Buddhist teachings, Nicholas highlights that suffering arises from clinging to the illusion of a separate "I, me, or mine." True wholeness and appreciation of interconnectedness come from dropping this self-identity. 00:32:00 - The Mundane is Sacred: Both speakers agree that everyday life and seemingly mundane tasks (like "chop wood, carry water") are part of spiritual practice and that true spiritual growth doesn't necessarily mean escaping worldly obligations. 00:18:12 - Preparing for Death: The conversation touches on impermanence and preparing for death by living a grateful and aware life, free from fear and attachment. 00:13:51 - The Role of a Sense of Humor: A sense of humor is presented as an important aspect of the spiritual journey, helping to navigate suffering and the absurdities of life without becoming cynical. 00:44:10 - Jing, Qi, and Shen: The concept of Jing, Qi, and Shen is discussed, with Nicholas emphasizing that healing the soul (Shen) first allows the mind and body (Qi and Jing) to follow. Connecting with a "higher Jing" or the Dao through practice is key. 00:50:04 - Avoiding Over-Complication: Nicholas stresses keeping spiritual practices simple, as the Dao itself is "extremely simple." He notes that attachment to material possessions and the desire for wealth can lead to emptiness and unhappiness.   Resources Mentioned: Stephen Harrod Buhner's final book (an herbalist earth poet) The Psychology of Money (audiobook) Nickdanbeau Love  Email: [email protected]  

Mason and Stephanie Hazel dive deep into the real talk about herbalism and healing in today's AI-driven world. They kick off by revisiting Stephen Harrod Buhner's "heart perception" and stress how crucial it is to actually feel that connection, especially as AI becomes more prevalent. Stephanie calls out the worrying trend of new herbalists losing touch with plants, often due to a lack of hands-on experience and over-reliance on ready-made formulations. They both hammer home the importance of sensory engagement—tasting, smelling, touching, and truly observing herbs—arguing that this embodied learning sticks with you way better than just theory.   The conversation shifts to the idea of oscillating between rational thought and embodied sensing, emphasizing that true wisdom in healing comes from blending both. Stephanie warns against getting too caught up in hyper-scientific jargon, suggesting that language grounded in sensory experience, like Chinese medicine energetics, is more accessible and effective. They link society's increasing disembodiment to mental health struggles and the addictive pull of digital spaces, offering practical tips for grounding yourself in daily life. Ultimately, they argue that AI's efficiency highlights the irreplaceable human capacity for embodied sensing and intuitive insight in healing, something no machine can replicate.   Timestamps: 00:00:34 - Heart Perception & Embodiment: Mason and Stephanie reflect on their previous conversation about Stephen Harrod Buhner's concept of heart perception and the importance of embodying this skillset, particularly in the context of rising AI. 00:01:05 - The Elder Tree Podcast & Stephen Harrod Buhner: Stephanie shares how their previous discussion inspired a tribute episode to Stephen Harrod Buhner on her podcast, The Elder Tree. 00:03:33 - The Decline of Herbalism & Lack of Embodiment: Stephanie and Mason discuss concerns about the dwindling connection to herbs among new practitioners, often due to a lack of hands-on experience and reliance on pre-compounded formulations. 00:07:20 - The Importance of Sensory Engagement with Herbs: Stephanie highlights the crucial role of taste, smell, touch, and observation in truly understanding herbs, arguing that this embodied learning is more memorable and profound than theoretical knowledge. 00:10:51 - Oscillating Between Rational and Embodied Sensing: They explore the dynamic interplay between rational analysis and embodied sensing in understanding herbs, emphasizing how a blend of both leads to deeper insights. 00:21:26 - Beyond Hyper-Scientific Language in Healing: Stephanie cautions against solely relying on scientific terminology in natural medicine, advocating for language that is grounded in sensory experience and accessible to the body, like traditional Chinese medicine energetics. 00:36:21 - The Societal Impact of Disembodiment: The conversation broadens to the wider implications of a lack of embodiment in society, linking it to mental health struggles and the addictive nature of virtual digital spaces. 00:40:51 - Cultivating Embodiment in Daily Life: Practical tips are offered for incorporating embodied practices into daily routines, such as mindful engagement with herbal supplements and spending time in nature. 00:49:10 - AI and the Future of Healing: They discuss how AI's efficiency in data analysis highlights the unique human capacity for embodied sensing and intuitive insight in healing practices, which AI cannot replicate. 01:07:44 - Yarrow and the Wounded Healer Archetype: Stephanie shares a powerful client story illustrating the "leap of insight" in diagnosis, drawing on the mythopoetic story of Yarrow to highlight the importance of non-rational understanding in healing. Resources Mentioned: Stephen Harrod Buhner's Work: Referenced for his concept of "heart perception" and sensing the metaphysical background of the world. The Elder Tree Podcast: Stephanie Hazel's podcast, which featured a tribute episode to Stephen Harrod Buhner. David Abram, Becoming Animal: Recommended for its exploration of grounding analytical thought and language into the senses. Stephanie Hazel's "The Wild Edge of Herbalism" Course: Mentioned as a way for practitioners and individuals to deepen their relationship with plants and their own intuition, with a "Plant Allies" taster option. The online course starts on August 14th. If you found this conversation insightful, subscribe to the podcast for more deep dives and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!

Hello, hello, hello everybody! We are back in the podcast studio, and I, Mason Taylor, founder of SuperFeast, am resuming my role as host. Joining me today is Tahnee, who will be making occasional appearances as a guest, especially focusing on women's health and cultivation practices. Tahnee also shares about her own podcast, "Body of Wisdom."   Mason and Tahnee dive into the fascinating stage of SuperFeast's existence, discussing how the business navigates commercial demands while upholding its foundational "source essence" – the ontological storytelling that defines its purpose: "to dramatically reduce disease and degeneration, creating super humans who may enter into the realm of elderhood." They explore the "birth pain" of growing a business and draw parallels between birthing a business and birthing a child, highlighting the unique "male opportunity" in creating something tangible that lives forever.   The conversation delves into the core tenets of Daoism, particularly the concept of "from the Dao comes the one, then the two (yin yang), then the three (Jing, Qi, Shen), and from the three you get everything (the 10,000 things)." They emphasize the importance of not getting "trapped in the world of 10,000 things" – the endless details, protocols, and symptoms – and instead focusing on cultivating the "three treasures" (Jing, Qi, and Shen) for a well-rounded and meaningful life, aiming to "slide into the grave light" rather than deteriorating.   Mason expresses his desire to re-engage with the "enjoyment of the 10,000" while always linking it back to the foundational three treasures. They discuss the importance of cleansing the "heart mind" and cultivating an inner antenna to navigate life's initiations and make authentic choices. The goal is to move beyond external validation and dogma, fostering a deeply personal cultivation practice that prepares one for elderhood and a "good death."   The episode concludes with a look ahead at future topics, including interviews with practitioners and discussions about specific herbs, all framed within the context of the three treasures and the ultimate mystery of the Dao. Tahnee also shares about her "Birth Magic Course" and the upcoming "Daoist Energetics" course, inviting listeners to connect with them and stay tuned for regular episodes. It's a rich conversation about ancient wisdom applied to modern life, business, and personal well-being.   Key Insight From This Episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction: Mason and Tahnee return to the SuperFeast podcast, discussing their roles. 00:02:31 - SuperFeast's Evolution: Navigating commercial growth while maintaining the business's "source essence" and purpose. 00:04:35 - The "Birth Pain" of Business: Parallels between birthing a business and birthing a child, and the "male opportunity" in creation. 00:11:42 - Daoist Core Tenets: Exploring the Dao, Yin Yang, Jing Qi Shen, and the 10,000 things, and the importance of cultivation over symptoms. 00:14:52 - Cultivating the Three Treasures: Protecting essence (Jing), activating energetic flow (Qi), and expressing unique spirit (Shen). 00:18:36 - Sovereignty and Inner Antenna: Moving beyond external dogma to cultivate a personal practice and make authentic choices. 00:24:04 - Re-engaging with the 10,000 Things: Mason's desire to find enjoyment in the material world while staying grounded in the three treasures. 00:30:43 - The Art of Dying Well: Discussing mortality, grief, and how cultivation prepares one for elderhood and a "good death." 00:04:35 - Tahnee's Offerings: Information on Tahnee's "Birth Magic Course" and the "Daoist Energetics" course.   Mentioned In This Episode - "Body of Wisdom" podcast (Tahnee's podcast) - "Birth Magic Course" (Tahnee's course) - "Daoist Energetics" course (Tahnee's course) - Shennong Bencaojing (classical Chinese medicine text) - Wuxing (Five Phases/Elements concept) - The Red Hand Files (Nick Cave's email letter/blog)

In this episode of the SuperFeast podcast, Tahnee interviews Roni Edlund, a senior teacher at the Lotus Nei Gong School in Bali and an acupuncturist. Roni shares her journey of being exposed to Taoist internal cultivation practices despite their rarity in Sweden. She discusses feeling a void in her life and how she transitioned from a passion for horse riding to a path of holistic health and well-being. Tune in to learn more about Roni's unique journey and her fascinating experiences in the world of cultivation practices.   For those eager to delve deeper into Nei Gong and the teachings of Damo Mitchell, the current HQ for Lotus Nei Gong is in Bali, Indonesia. It is here that many of the most in-depth and advanced trainings of Lotus Nei Gong material take place. To learn more about Lotus Nei Gong, visit the website here.   Roni & Tahnee discuss: - Women's Qigong and the Tahnee's Practice - Menopause as a Second Spring - The Importance of Blood in Taoist Philosophy - Cultural Views on Menopause - When to Start Cultivation Practices - The Role of Craft and Creativity in Cultivation - Chinese Medicine for Women's Health - Lack of Menstrual Health Education - The Momentum of Nei Gong Practice - Gender Balance in Lotus Nei Gong School - The Activation Phase in Nei Gong - Women's Connection to the Moon and Menstruation - Pregnancy and Cultivation Practices - Emotional Clearing and Pregnancy - Preparing for Pregnancy with Chinese Medicine - Returning to Practice Post-Pregnancy   RESOURCE GUIDE Guest Links Lotus Nei Gong International Roni Edlund Bio Damo Mitchell Bio Roni's Instagram Damo's "A Comprehensive Guide to Daoist Nei Gong" Book Lotus Nei Gong Bali HQ Mentioned In This Episode "Taoist Neigong for Women" by Roni Related Podcasts Pregnancy Prep with Tahnee and Mason Taylor (EP#14) After Birth We Eat Strong Food; Postpartum Care with Jenny Allison (EP#38) Nurturing All Phases of Birth with Nutritionist Tahlia Mynott (EP#138) Real Nutrition For Maternal Wellbeing with Lily Nichols (EP#98) Connect With Us: SuperFeast InstagramSuperFeast FacebookSuperFeast TikTok SuperFeast Online Education   Check Out The Transcript Below:  https://www.superfeast.com.au/blogs/articles/taoist-internal-practices-for-women-with-roni-edlund

In today's episode, prepare to be transported into the enchanting world of herbalism as Mason sits down with the incredible Stephanie Hazel. Stephanie, a traditional Western herbalist, teacher, and earth lover, brings forth a passion for her craft that is as robust as it is poetic, inviting listeners to explore realms beyond intellectualism and linear thought. Stephanie and Mason embark on a captivating exploration of the sensory landscapes, diving deep into topics that range from heart perception and animism to herbal dieta and apprenticeship. With each exchange, they unveil the rich tapestry of wisdom woven through Stephanie's experiences and teachings. At the heart of their conversation lies the concept of heart perception in herbalism—an idea that transcends the notion of the heart as merely a pump. Stephanie eloquently elucidates how heart perception involves listening with both body and heart, allowing for profound insights into the healing properties of plants to emerge. Emphasising the fusion of intellectual knowledge, intuitive knowing, and embodied experience as essential components in cultivating herbal wisdom. Stephanie generously shares her approach to teaching herbalism, highlighting the importance of reverence and respect when interacting with plant allies. She advocates for a guided process that honours the deep connection between humans and plants, ensuring a safe and meaningful exploration of this sacred relationship. For those eager to delve deeper into Stephanie's teachings, her courses—Plant Allies and The Wild Edge of Herbalism—offer unique opportunities to engage with herbalism in a way that transcends conventional education. Each course is a doorway to a world where plants become not just subjects of study, but cherished partners in the journey of self-discovery and healing. Stephanie's wisdom shines through as she and Mason explore the practice of embodied listening, highlighting its transformative power in fostering harmony with plants and the environment. Their conversation serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of honouring perceptive senses alongside intellectual understanding—a testament to the profound wisdom that awaits those willing to listen with an open heart. Tune in today for a powerful and profound journey into the heart of herbalism with Stephanie Hazel—a true plant person and universal voyager whose insights will leave you inspired and enlightened. To learn more about Stephanie and her courses, visit her website here.   Mason & Stephanie discuss: - Heart perception in herbalism. - The power of using single herbs over formulas. - What it means to hold an animist worldview, in herbalism, and life. - Plant dieta and the importance of holding reverence in herbal practice.    Resource guide Guest Links Stephanie's Website Stephanie's Podcast Stephanie's Instagram Stephanie's FacebookStephanie's Herbal Allie's Online Course Stephanie's Wild Edge Of Herbalism Online Course Mentioned In This Episode Stephen Harrod Buhner Mathew Wood HerbalistThe Emerald PodcastSuperFeast Reishi Related Podcasts Wild Woman Way with Susun Weed (EP#23)Entering The Imaginal Realms with Stephen Harrod Buhner (EP#88)Alchemystic Fungi with Bryan & Mikaela (EP#190) Connect With Us: SuperFeast InstagramSuperFeast FacebookSuperFeast TikTok SuperFeast Online Education   Check Out The Transcript Below: https://www.superfeast.com.au/blogs/articles/heart-perception-in-herbalism-with-stephanie-hazel-ep-219  

Sibyl and Zoe Coldham join Mason on the show today, to share about their documentary, Journey To The West, an award-winning film that follows the journey of Chinese medicine into Western culture, exploring the roots of the profession, and the many obstacles it has faced, especially within the realm of consciousness held by mainstream medicine and allopathic thought.  Journey to the West navigates between an in-depth exploration of Chinese medicine's struggle for legitimacy and a serene unveiling of Chinese medical philosophy. Weaving historical and contemporary plot lines, to reveal the intricacies of a profession that seeks acceptance and understanding by the Western medical model at large. Throughout the podcast Sibyl and Zoe speak passionately from the heart, discussing the film's inception, creative process and their overarching intention; to tell the story of Chinese medicine in a way that is accessible to a wide audience. The women express that limitations in the Western education system, including the curriculum often offered, stand as great obstacles to the continuing legacy and authentic practice of the craft. Highlighting that the methodologies of the scientific model, particularly the placebo effect as applied to acupuncture, should never get in the way of the actual medicine. They go to share why energetic medicine can not be accurately measured in the same way as a pharmaceutical drug, where the placebo is a dead entity, and results against an active constituent will never compare. Western medicine's political terrain is also covered, particularly within the context of the UK's National Health Scheme, who's views on Chinese medicine differ greatly from those here in Australia. An aspect of the conversation that allows us to understand the influence of social ideology on the integration of Chinese medicine and acupuncture into mainstream systems of healthcare at large.  The duo emphasise the importance of understanding the philosophy and principles of Chinese medicine and the need for practitioners to continue their work with patience and perseverance. An illuminating chat today, offering many thought provoking concepts for us all to marinate on. Dive in and enjoy.   Sibyl, Zoe & Mason discuss: - The challenges Chinese medicine faces in the West. - The scientific model and its limitations when applied to Chinese medicine. - Where Chinese medicine fits within an allopathic system. - Why Chinese medicine can't change to appease the limitations of the education system.    Resource Guide: Film LinksJourney To The West WebsiteJourney To The West Instagram Related Podcasts The Body Electric and Chinese Medicine with Dr. Daniel Keown (EP#150)   Connect With Us: SuperFeast InstagramSuperFeast FacebookSuperFeast TikTok SuperFeast Online Education   Check Out The Transcript Below:  https://www.superfeast.com.au/blogs/articles/journey-to-the-west-with-sibyl-zoe-coldham-ep-218