Ancestral Identity

Lucy and Gwilym inquire into faith and delusion: What do we do with our visions? In an era where traditional frameworks for interpreting spiritual experiences are often missing, they explore how to navigate between genuine faith and insight and potential delusion. They discuss: - The delicate balance between honouring visions and avoiding self-deception - Why lacking cultural frameworks makes modern visionary experiences particularly challenging - The difference between saying "I was inspired" versus claiming absolute authority - How community helps ground visionary experiences - When healthy skepticism becomes cynicism, and why the distinction matters Together, they offer practical wisdom for working with visions in a grounded, authentic way.

Lucy and Gwilym explore the profound concept of sacred time and its impact on religious and cultural traditions. They delve into how the cyclical nature of sacred time connects us to our communities, ancestors, and inner selves. They discuss the psychological effects of repetition and ritual, emphasising the importance of community in experiencing sacred time through various cultural celebrations. Bringing in philosophical perspectives from Mircea Eliade, explaining how sacred time represents the "reactualisation" of mythical events and provides a foundation for profane time. Together, they examine the modern implications of sacred time, addressing issues of loneliness and isolation in contemporary society, and consider how faith and being in relation can foster connectedness and benefit us.

In this episode, Gwilym and Lucy examine controversial figures like Mircea Eliade and Yogi Bhajan, discussing how to reconcile valuable teachings with problematic leaders. They discuss scandals in various spiritual communities and delve into themes of spiritual authority, unchecked power, and ethics. Considering the impact of leader misconduct on followers' faith: debating when a spiritual framework itself should be questioned and asking some questions about faith, behaviour and spirituality.

Join Lucy and Gwilym as they dive into the fascinating world of ancestral identity. In this episode, they explore how understanding our ancestors or Ancestry of Blood shapes who we are today. Our hosts delve into cultures that take care of their ancestor relations, revealing how this reverence impacts daily life. Lucy and Gwilym also tackle the intriguing concept of Ancestry of Voice. How does where we live influence our identity? They'll chat about what happens when we move to a new homeland - does our identity shift too? And what about the groups we're part of? Turns out, they play a big role in shaping our sense of self.

Join hosts Lucy and Gwilym as they explore the art of reshaping identity through ritual and ceremony, drawing on anthropologist Victor Turner's work. Discover how intentional spaces or "containers" allow us to disconnect from our everyday selves and reconnect with something sacred within and around us. Sharing insights on setting up ceremonies, and delving into the liminal stage where hidden aspects of ourselves emerge in a supportive community setting. They discuss the integration process, emphasising how creative practices can synthesise these powerful experiences into meaningful personal narratives. This episode offers a unique blend of academic theory and practical wisdom, inviting listeners to consider how ritual and ceremony can be tools for profound self-discovery and identity transformation in our modern world If you'd like to receive updates about our work, please sign up here

Episode 7 Gwilym and Lucy explore the interplay of identity. They discuss how our self-perception can fuel or hinder the creative process, examining: How we become our identity through practising our craft Aspirational identities (e.g., "poet") vs. imposed limiting identities such as I'm worthless and the impact of limiting beliefs on our identity This episode offers insights into leveraging identity as a creative asset while breaking free from self-imposed constraints, inspiring you to reflect on you own identities and creative journeys. If you'd like to receive updates about our work, please sign up here

Episode 6, Season 2 Lucy and Gwilym delve into Narrative Therapy and Compassionate Inquiry, exploring how these approaches allow space for personal narratives. They discuss key techniques that utilise storytelling for healing and growth. The hosts also explore the importance of listening to the body and the benefits of approaching therapy without an agenda.

In the most recent installment of the Myth Mountain Podcast, husband and wife Lucy (a trauma therapist) and Gwilym (an author, musician and scholar) delve into the benefits of immersing oneself in nature. They explore ways of cultivating a relationship with the natural world, exploring interactions with trees, donkeys, and cold plunges. The episode delves into the transformative effects such experiences have on our overall well-being, from tangible physiological changes within our bodies to the sparks that ignite creativity. Throughout the discussion, Lucy and Gwilym reflect on the interconnectedness between humanity and nature, fostering a deeper understanding that we are not separate entities but integral parts of the natural tapestry. Find out about the Myth Mountain Program here Find out about Lucy's work here

In this episode, Lucy and Gwilym unravel the profound ways in which myths offer a framework for the narratives of our lives. Delving into the timeless art of storytelling, examining how myths have been woven into the fabric of human existence to craft the tales that define cultures, beliefs, and identities. Lucy and Gwilym discuss the universal truths embedded in myths, exploring how these tales, archetypes and tropes continue to guide and inspire the narratives we construct for ourselves and society at large. Discover more about the Myth Mountain and Celtic Source here and about Lucy's work here.

In this episode, join hosts Lucy and Dr Gwilym Morus-Baird as they delve into the intricate realms of imposter syndrome. Drawing on their work as a therapist and a musician, they explore the complexities of imposter syndrome, offering insights into its roots and manifestations. Through engaging discussions and personal anecdotes, Lucy and Gwilym provide practical strategies while celebrating the resilience and creativity that can emerge from this common struggle. Check out the Myth Mountain course here