Ditching the Guru: Ethics, Environment, and the Future of Community

In this thought-provoking episode, host Julian Royce sits down with Waylon Lewis, the founder of Elephant Journal, for a candid exploration of what it means to live an ethical life in a "convenience-obsessed" world. From the toxic reality of plastic-coated books to the complicated legacy of the Shambala Buddhist community, they dive deep into how we can reclaim our personal power from corporate monopolies and addictive algorithms. Whether you're struggling with "junk dopamine" or looking for a way to stay mindful in a polarized political landscape, this conversation offers a grounded, often witty roadmap for moving from "hot boredom" to genuine connection.Main Topics CoveredThe Environmental Cost of Media: Why Waylon moved Elephant Journal online and his obsessive journey to publish the world's only plastic-free books.The "Attention Economy" & Mental Health: Breaking the cycle of "junk dopamine" and the importance of keeping phones out of the bedroom.Consumer Power vs. Systemic Change: A debate on whether individual choices—like boycotting Amazon or skipping to-go cups—actually move the needle.The Shambala Scandal & "Dharma Brats": Waylon’s personal reflections on growing up in the Boulder Buddhist community and the fall of the Sakyong.The End of the Guru: Why the future of spirituality may require dropping the "worship" model in favor of spiritual mentorship and personal dignity.Corporate Monopolies: The shift from boycotting Walmart in the 90s to the ubiquitous (and dangerous) dominance of Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk.Politics & Discernment: A nuanced look at the Biden administration’s antitrust efforts and why Trump isn't actually "anti-establishment."Community as Therapy: Why the Boulder Farmers Market is Waylon’s "free therapy" and how real-world visibility cures isolation.Key TakeawaysBoredom is a Superpower: Waylon describes "hot boredom" (the initial discomfort of no stimulation) and how, if we sit with it, it cools into genuine relaxation and creativity.Plastic is a Climate Issue: Plastic is essentially "solidified big oil." Reducing plastic use isn't just about waste; it's a direct stand against the fossil fuel industry.Principles over Personalities: Using the example of yoga teacher Richard Freeman, Waylon argues that true "masters" are bored by worship. We must move toward a model of "nontheism" where we respect the teachings, not the pedestal.Individual Action is Collective: While systemic change is needed, reclaiming your power through small daily habits prevents "burnout" and "capitulation to the man."Connect with Waylon LewisWebsite: Elephant JournalInstagram: @waylonlewisBooks: Check out his plastic-free titles, Things I Would Like to Do with You and It’s Never Too Late to Fall in Love with Your Life.Connect with Julian RoyceWebsite: A State of MindSupport the Show: Patreon PageFollow Julian: InstagramEnjoyed this deep dive? Please Follow, Like, and Share this episode to help us grow our community of mindful listeners!

This week on A State of Mind, host Julian Royce sits down with Scott Nice—a visionary music producer, visual artist, and educator—to explore the intersection of creativity, mindfulness, and human connection.From overcoming personal challenges to blending ancient wellness practices with modern music production, Scott shares his journey of growth and inspiration. This episode is for artists, creators, and anyone looking to expand their creative potential while staying grounded in health and purpose. Tune in to discover practical insights on holistic living, music innovation, and meaningful engagement with your community.Main Topics Covered: Scott’s early experiences in skateboarding, music, and design Overcoming health challenges through Ayurveda and holistic wellness The evolution of music production and remix culture Storytelling through music videos and visuals The role of mentorship and the impact of AI on art Fostering deeper human connection in a digital worldKey Takeaways: Holistic Creativity: Practices like Ayurveda can profoundly influence your creative energy. Process Over Product: The intentionality behind the creation is as valuable as the final track. Community: Mentorship and authentic audience connection are critical in the age of AI.Episode Chapters: 0:04 - Podcast Intro & Health Supplements 3:20 - Meeting Scott Nice & Early DJ Beginnings 5:07 - Learning the Craft: Turntablism & Practice 8:12 - Technical Side: Sound, Visuals & Immersive Design 12:16 - DJing vs. Producing & Genre Diversity 22:00 - The Pitfalls of Mono-Genre Music 28:43 - Psychedelics, Sensitivity & Sobriety 34:25 - Safety & Risks in Medicine Ceremonies 37:39 - Mindful Music & Interactive Live Shows 47:00 - Advice for Aspiring Artists & Closing ThoughtsSupport the Show:Somatic Therapy & Meditation with Julian: astateofmindtherapy.comPatreon: patreon.com/astateofmindVenmo: @Julian-RoyceInstagram: @julianoceannPlease Visit Our Sponsors:KA! Empathogenics - High-quality Kanna products to boost mood and empathy.Use this link for a discount: kaempathogenics.com/JULIANROYCEEMR-TEK - Science-backed Blue Light blocking glasses and healing light products.Discount Link: emr-tek.com/JULIAN90864Premium Shilajit - Sourced from the sacred Ural Mountains.Message Julian for 20% off your order: astateofmindpodcast.com

In this thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation, host Julian Royce continues his dialogue with Zen priest, martial arts lineage holder, and developmental coach Keith Martin Smith to explore a vital question: How do we disagree without dehumanizing each other?From immigration and ICE enforcement to DEI, identity politics, gun rights, and charismatic political leadership, this episode moves beyond partisan talking points into deeper developmental insight. Keith and Julian examine how contempt fuels polarization, how cultural overcorrections create backlash, and why compassion — not agreement — may be the only viable path forward.If you’re tired of outrage culture and looking for grounded, adult conversation about power, justice, and democracy, this episode offers clarity over chaos.Main Topics CoveredImmigration enforcement, local resistance, and competing narrativesContempt, polarization, and the psychology of public discourseHistorical lessons: post–World War I vs. post–World War II reconstructionInstitutions, judicial process, and limits on charismatic leadershipIdentity politics, DEI overreach, and political backlashMasculinity, self-censorship, gun rights, and cultural pendulum swingsThe “middle path” as a civic and developmental necessityKey TakeawaysContempt destroys dialogue; dignity keeps it possible.Compassion doesn’t require agreement.Cultural overcorrections often fuel backlash and counter-movements.Strong institutions help stabilize polarized systems.Memorable Moments“The minute you throw the punch, you’ve lost the fight.” — applying martial arts ethics to politicsThe comparison between the Treaty of Versailles and post-WWII reconstructionWhy “believe all women” and “silence is violence” lost nuance in public discourseThe idea that development sometimes “goes down a blind alley” and must backtrackTending your own garden — inspired by Voltaire’s CandideFinal ReflectionPolarization thrives on outrage. But strength — whether in martial arts, democracy, or personal character — is restraint, clarity, and compassion under pressure.As Keith reminds us:You can disagree with someone’s beliefs while still treating them with dignity. And if we want to change hearts and minds, that’s where we must begin.Connect with Keith Martin SmithWhite Tiger Academy (Northern Shaolin & Praying Mantis Lineage)Developmental Coaching & WritingSomatic trauma informed therapy, Psychedelic assisted Therapy, Meditation training & more with Julian Royce:www.astateofmindtherapy.comSupport the show:www.patreon.com/astateofmindDonate with Venmo:@Julian-RoyceInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/julianoceann/Find Julian on SoundCloud at:https://soundcloud.com/julian-ocean-1Please Visit Our Sponsors:KA! Empathogenics — offering high quality Kanna products. Kanna is a legal South African herb that boosts mood, with scientific studies demonstrating measurable increases in empathy and compassion after taking it. Consult your health care providers before trying this or any supplements.Use this code for a discount and to support the podcast:https://kaempathogenics.com/JULIANROYCEHigh quality, science-backed blue light blocking glasses and other healing light products.Use this link to support the podcast and receive a discount:https://www.emr-tek.com/JULIAN90864Order premium quality Shilajit from the sacred Ural Mountains of Russia.Message Julian for 20% off your order:www.astateofmindpodcast.com

What if your imagination holds memories from other lifetimes? What if humanity is being quietly guided through a massive evolutionary transition — one that includes free energy, advanced physics, and contact beyond Earth?In this expansive conversation, we explore past life memory research, suppressed scientific breakthroughs, zero-point energy, extraterrestrial contact, and why mainstream institutions resist paradigm-shifting ideas. This episode challenges materialism, invites curiosity, and offers a hopeful vision of where humanity may be headed next.This episode is for thinkers, seekers, scientists-at-heart, and anyone feeling the tension between skepticism and spiritual knowing — and wondering what comes after the current world model breaks.Main Topics CoveredChildhood imagination as a doorway to past life memoryScientific research into reincarnation (Dr. Ian Stevenson, James Leininger case)Why psychic phenomena and past lives remain outside mainstream academiaAcademic incentives, tenure, and resistance to paradigm shiftsUnified physics, spacetime as a structured energetic field, and challenges to the Standard ModelCERN, black-box research, and suppressed discoveriesZero-point energy, free energy systems, and why open-sourcing is essentialAlleged silencing of disruptive energy researchersExtraterrestrial contact, drone encounters, and nuclear deactivation eventsHumanity’s transition toward abundance, free energy, and galactic civilizationAI, free energy, and the coming singularityKey TakeawaysImagination may not be fantasy — it may be memoryThere is substantial research supporting past life recall in childrenParadigm-shifting science is often delayed by institutional self-preservationFree energy and gravity-based technologies could radically reshape civilizationIf disruptive technology exists, openness is the safest path forwardHumanity may already be protected from self-destruction by non-human intelligenceHope, curiosity, and openness are essential during times of global transitionOne-Liner Quotes“Imagination might be memory — our brains just haven’t caught up yet.”“If Independence Day was going to happen, it would have happened already.”“Open-source your breakthrough — that’s your safety net.”“The darkest moments in history often precede the greatest awakenings.”“We are standing at the threshold of becoming a galactic civilization.”Connect with Adam ApolloInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/adam_apollo/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/master.adam.apollo/Connect with Julian RoyceSomatic trauma informed therapy, Psychedelic assisted Therapy, Meditation training & more with Julian Royce: www.astateofmindtherapy.comSupport the show: www.patreon.com/astateofmindDonate with Venmo: @Julian-RoyceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianoceann/Find Julian on SoundCloud at: https://soundcloud.com/julian-ocean-1Order Premium quality Shilajit from the sacred Ural Mountains of Russia.Message Julian for 20% off your order: www.astateofmindpodcast.comExplore deeper conversations, expanded episodes, and transformational dialogues by following and supporting the show.Stay connected for future episodes that challenge consensus reality and explore what’s emerging next for humanity.

In this urgent and deeply moving episode, Julian Royce speaks with D, an anonymous Iranian PhD student living in the U.S., who shares why staying silent has sometimes been the only way to survive. From firsthand experiences with Iran’s morality police to witnessing how academic institutions in the West can erase lived realities, D offers a rare, unfiltered perspective on power, fear, and human rights.This episode is for listeners who care about truth beyond political narratives, the global struggle for women’s rights, and the cost of speaking out. It matters because real lives—and voices—are still being silenced, both abroad and closer to home. Main Topics CoveredWhy the guest remains anonymous and the real risks of speaking publiclyLife as an Iranian woman under the morality policeThe ongoing protests in Iran and mass human rights violationsFear of deportation and ICE from the perspective of a student immigrantSilencing of Iranian voices within Western academic institutionsIdeology vs. human rights in global and campus politicsHistorical context: foreign intervention, revolution, and the Iranian regimeThe psychological toll of living between multiple systems of powerKey TakeawaysSilence is often a survival strategy, not a lack of courageHuman rights abuses can be ignored when they conflict with ideologyPower is not only exercised by governments, but also by institutions and individualsLived experience should never be erased in the name of political narrativesSupporting human rights requires consistency, nuance, and moral clarityConnect with Julian RoyceSomatic trauma informed therapy, Psychedelic assisted Therapy, Meditation training & more with Julian Royce: www.astateofmindtherapy.comSupport the show: www.patreon.com/astateofmindDonate with Venmo: @Julian-RoyceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianoceann/Find Julian on SoundCloud at: https://soundcloud.com/julian-ocean-1Order Premium quality Shilajit from the sacred Ural Mountains of Russia.Message Julian for 20% off your order: www.astateofmindpodcast.comIf this episode moved you, please follow, like, and share A State of Mind with Julian Royce. Conversations like this depend on listeners who are willing to amplify voices that are often forced into silence.

What happens when spiritual practices designed to liberate instead become tools of control? In this episode of A State of Mind, Julian sits down with educator, researcher, and ritualist Rayann Gordon to explore spiritual abuse, cult dynamics, and the hidden risks of coercive meditation environments. Together, they unpack how teachings around “no self,” thought dissolution, and surrender can undermine discernment, memory, and agency—and how healing begins by reclaiming choice, body wisdom, and an organic relationship with the sacred. This episode is for seekers, therapists, spiritual practitioners, creatives, and anyone navigating or recovering from high-demand spiritual groups. Why it matters: understanding these dynamics reduces shame, prevents harm, and helps people find their way back to themselves.Main Topics CoveredWhat defines spiritual abuse and cult dynamics (beyond belief systems)How coercive control operates in spiritual and meditation settingsThe shadow side of “no self,” oneness teachings, and thought-stopping techniquesWhy meditation retreats can create conditions where abuse goes unnoticed or unreportedThe role of memory, discernment, and healthy ego in spiritual lifeHealing after spiritual abuse and reclaiming personal authorityRebuilding spirituality after leaving a high-demand groupThe importance of body care, creativity, awe, and beauty in recovery Key TakeawaysCults are defined by patterns of control and harm, not strange beliefsHealthy spirituality supports autonomy, discernment, and the freedom to chooseDissolving thoughts without balance can weaken decision-making and self-trustHealing often involves grief, creativity, and reconnecting with the bodyAuthentic spiritual practice expands life—it doesn’t compress it Key TakeawaysCults are defined by patterns of control and harm, not strange beliefsHealthy spirituality supports autonomy, discernment, and the freedom to chooseDissolving thoughts without balance can weaken decision-making and self-trustHealing often involves grief, creativity, and reconnecting with the bodyAuthentic spiritual practice expands life—it doesn’t compress itConnect with Rayann GordonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rayanngordon_/?hl=enWebsite: https://rayanngordon.com/Connect with Julian RoyceSomatic trauma informed therapy, Psychedelic assisted Therapy, Meditation training & more with Julian Royce: www.astateofmindtherapy.comSupport the show: www.patreon.com/astateofmindDonate with Venmo: @Julian-RoyceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianoceann/Find Julian on SoundCloud at: https://soundcloud.com/julian-ocean-1Order Premium quality Shilajit from the sacred Ural Mountains of Russia.Message Julian for 20% off your order: www.astateofmindpodcast.comIf this episode resonated with you, follow the podcast, like the episode, and share it with someone who may need this conversation. These stories help bring awareness, accountability, and healing to spiritual spaces.

In this episode of A State of Mind, Julian sits down with Dr. Christine, a holistic functional medicine practitioner with a background in cognitive neuroscience, for a wide-ranging conversation on what real healing actually requires.Dr. Christine shares her unconventional path into healthcare and why she ultimately chose a model rooted in collaboration, nervous system regulation, and whole-person care rather than prescription-based treatment. Together, they explore the limits of credentialism, the failures of the industrialized healthcare system, and the quiet truth most people resist: sustainable healing requires participation, not outsourcing.They discuss why nervous system regulation and sleep must come before gut protocols, supplements, or hormone interventions; how trauma, stress, and emotional states directly affect cellular health and energy; and why so many people feel like they’re “doing everything right” yet still feel exhausted or stuck.The conversation also moves into somatic healing, parts work, and the importance of engaging the body—not just the story—when working with trauma and mental health. Dr. Christine shares how helping people understand their own physiology empowers them to take ownership of their health rather than remaining dependent on practitioners.They also touch on food systems, reading labels, taking responsibility without shame, and how small, consistent lifestyle changes can restore agency in a culture that often undermines it.This is a grounded, honest conversation about health, responsibility, and the deeper work of listening to the body before it has to scream.Learn more about Dr. Christine Smith: https://wellnessevolutioncommunity.com/

A deep, unfiltered conversation on men’s vitality, sexual energy, emotional integration, and why conscious embodiment—not repression—is the path to healing, intimacy, and leadership.Main Topics Covered:Sexual energy as life force, creativity, and vitality—not just sexSacred masculinity vs. toxic masculinityEmotional repression, trauma, and men’s disconnection from feelingDaily embodiment practices: breath, movement, self-inquiry, and sexual transmutationPorn, outsourcing intimacy, and the cost to relationships and presenceConsent as a healing force for individuals and the collectiveCommunity, men’s groups, and the necessity of being witnessedIntegrating biology, spirituality, and consciousness without bypassing realityConnect with John Paul:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jpkexperience/John Paul is starting his own podcast soon! Be on the lookout.To explore therapy, men’s work, and embodiment practices with Julian Royce, visit:👉 www.astateofmind.comA State of Mind Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astateofmindpodcast/Follow for weekly podcasts with your host Julian Royce.

Dr. Stephinity joins Julian Royce for this far reaching conversation About Stephinity:Stephinity is a bioenergetic and natural medicine doctor with a focus on biophysics and frequency medicine.  She has a private practice, Your Body Electric, and is an adjunctive professor at IBEM school in Denver.  She has two original polymathic theories, both based around the subjects of sovereignty, health and unified physics and additionally loves to share wisdom on other related subjects.  She is a retired performing artist and producer of transformational events, has many hobbies, and a voracious appetite for all that life has to offer. Find Stephinity at:YourBodyElectric.comSovereignLiaison.com Order Premium quality Shilajit from the sacred Ural Mountains of Russia.Message Julian for 20% off your order: www.astateofmindpodcast.com Somatic trauma informed therapy, Psychedelic assisted Therapy, Meditation training & more with Julian Royce: www.astateofmindcounseling.org Support the show: www.patreon.com/astateofmindDonate with Venmo: @Julian-Royce Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianoceann/ Find Julian on SoundCloud at: https://soundcloud.com/julian-ocean-1

Julian Royce talks with Clayton Ickes about the state of legal psychedelic therapy and natural plant medicines in the state of Colorado.Topics include cutting edge psychedelic science specifically on psylocibin and mental health and well being, current laws and regulations, ways in which psychedelic therapy differs from traditional therapy and psychiatric approaches, Clay's journey to being the first licensed psychedelic therapist in Colorado and more 0:00 - 11:07 Intro11:08 - End Conversation with Clay Ickes References:Learn more about Clay Ickes: https://www.kykeonwellness.comhttps://www.instagram.com/themushroomtherapist Order Premium quality Shilajit from the sacred Ural Mountains of Russia.Message Julian for 20% off your order: www.astateofmindpodcast.com Somatic trauma informed therapy, Psychedelic assisted Therapy, Meditation training & more with Julian Royce: www.astateofmindcounseling.org Support the show: www.patreon.com/astateofmindDonate with Venmo: @Julian-Royce Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianoceann/ Find Julian on SoundCloud at: https://soundcloud.com/julian-ocean-1 Scientific Studies:•        Griffiths, R. R., et al. (2016). Psilocybin produces substantial and sustained decreases in depression and anxiety in patients with life-threatening cancer. Journal of Psychopharmacology.•        Davis, A. K., et al. (2020). Effects of psilocybin-assisted therapy on major depressive disorder. JAMA Psychiatry.•        Carhart-Harris, R., et al. (2021). Trial of psilocybin versus escitalopram for depression. The New England Journal of Medicine.•        Griffiths, R. R., et al. (2006). Psilocybin can occasion mystical-type experiences. Psychopharmacology.•        MacLean, K. A., et al. (2011). Increased openness following psilocybin. Journal of Psychopharmacology.- Laws and Regulations and the Natural Medicine Health Act in Colorado: https://dpo.colorado.gov/NaturalMedicine