Beyond Trauma

Julie McGuire shares her journey from suicidal depression to discovering purpose through the mountains. Using her mantra, “let me see how far I can get,” Julie illustrates how life’s hardest experiences can become tools to help others, even when our lives don’t turn out as we envisioned. Through her story, she demonstrates that you don’t have to be the best at something for it to be meaningful, and that hobbies—especially those pursued for joy, not profit—can guide personal growth, slow down the nervous system, and open you up to life’s signs.

Julie is a high...

In this energizing episode of Beyond Trauma, Lara Land sits down with coffee scientist and author Shawn Steiman to explore the surprising intersections between coffee, culture, and mental health. From morning routines to religious rituals, coffee has long been more than a beverage—it’s a way of connecting, bonding, and even healing. Together, they unpack the pros and cons of caffeine, including its impact on memory, mood, and even cholesterol.

Shawn also pulls back the curtain on the ethics of coffee: Does fair trade really work? Should you prioritize organic? And which regions produce the best bean...

In this rich and compassionate conversation, Dr. Mercedes Okosi shares her clinical insights on healing complex trauma—what works, when, and why. We explore her go-to modalities like Prolonged Exposure and Narrative Therapy, and why using the present tense and senses is so powerful when revisiting painful memories. Mercedes breaks down the counterintuitive truth about avoidance, how to prevent emotional flooding, and grounding tools she uses to help clients stay present. We also dive deep into group therapy—how it works, who it helps, and what makes it transformative. Mercedes shares how she builds trust in groups, even for hesi...

What causes estrangement between parents and adult children—and is reconciliation truly possible? In this powerful and nuanced conversation, psychologist and author Dr. Joshua Coleman unpacks the changing landscape of the modern family. We explore how cultural shifts and even well-meaning therapy can unintentionally contribute to family cutoffs, and what parents can do—now—to prevent or repair disconnection.

Dr. Coleman shares:

*The most common (and often surprising) reasons adult children walk away

*What the research actually says about parenting—and why the answer isn’t “gentle” parenting

*How estrangement ripples through genera...

In this episode of Beyond Trauma, Lara Land sits down with psychotherapist Carly Ann to unpack practical, compassionate strategies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that help us shift negative thought patterns and calm anxious minds. From spirals of self-doubt and perfectionism to managing unmet needs and breaking free from judgment, this conversation is full of real-life tools you can start using today.

Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or simply want more peace in your day, this episode will help you understand how your thoughts shape your feelings—and your behaviors. Carly shares her framework for working wi...

In this heartfelt episode of Beyond Trauma, Lara Land welcomes renowned sex therapist Wendy Maltz to explore how couples can reconnect and reclaim their bond—especially after stress, trauma, or disconnection. Wendy offers compassionate insights and trauma-informed practices that help deepen connection, improve communication, and heal sexual wounds.

Whether you're partnered or on a journey of personal healing, this conversation is for anyone looking to build a more conscious and connected relationship—with themselves or with someone they love.

Learn how to:

What if your dreams were trying to show you what you’re not ready to say out loud? In this illuminating conversation, trauma therapist and dreamwork expert Dr. Leslie Ellis joins Lara Land to explore the powerful role dreams play in emotional healing. Together, they uncover how dreams give voice to suppressed feelings, internal conflicts, and unresolved trauma—and why they deserve a central place in therapy.

Leslie shares how to remember more of your dreams, decode their meaning without relying on external symbols, and tap into their wisdom through a gentle, body-based approach. From nightmares and recu...

In this enlightening episode of Beyond Trauma, Lara Land is joined by Dr. Alex Dimitriu, a double board-certified expert in psychiatry and sleep medicine, to explore the powerful intersection between trauma, mental health, and sleep. Together, they unpack how trauma disrupts our ability to rest and regulate, why sleep is often the first casualty in a dysregulated nervous system, and how healing the mind and body requires a truly integrated approach.

Whether you’re dealing with disrupted sleep, chronic fatigue, or just want to understand your brain and body better, this episode offers a powerful blend of sc...

This episode is a re-air from the podcast Xanyland: Comedians on the Coach, hosted by my friend and fellow therapist, Alicia Racine Fink.

In this conversation, Alicia explores comedian, boxer, writer, dancer and illustrator, Gracie Canaan's decade-long mental health quest. In this raw and uplifting episode, Gracie shares how she invites all her parts- manic, depressed, creative, and messy in. Alicia and Gracie share actionable tips for managing mania including phone lockboxes, tracking, caffeine management, and social networks.

I learned so much and laughed while listening to this show and wanted to share it with...

In celebration of Pride Month, in recognition of the heightened risks for the transgender community, and because this is one of my favorite conversations to air on Beyond Trauma, I'm re-airing this talk with Jacoby Ballard. We discuss a wide range of topics, including:

Jacoby is a social justice educator and yoga teacher who leads workshops and...

In this solo episode, I share some of my favorite moments and guests of my third year of podcasting, as well as some "backstage" insider info. I reflect on and expose my latest wellness practices and some shifts in my priorities. I also reveal what you can expect next on the Beyond Trauma Podcast!

Beyond Trauma is a labor of love! If you value the insights you encounter on this platform, please show some love by writing an iTunes review, letting friends know about the podcast, or sending a small donation!

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Can kindness actually make us healthier? In this eye-opening episode of Beyond Trauma, Dr. Kelli Harding, physician, public health expert, and author of The Rabbit Effect, shares groundbreaking research on how our social world—especially our capacity for kindness—shapes our physical health outcomes.

Dr. Harding helps us redefine kindness, not as a soft extra, but as a scientifically supported force that can lower risk factors, improve recovery time, and even extend our healthspan. We explore what it means to build connection, the impact of social isolation, and how small acts of generosity, like a heartfelt hug or r...

In this profound episode of Beyond Trauma, I sit with renowned breathwork teacher and author Max Strom to explore the breath's transformative power in releasing trauma, healing grief, and reclaiming emotional well-being.

Together, we dive into:

In this episode of Beyond Trauma, I sit down with Amber Mitchell, The Astro Lotus, to explore how astrology can serve as a powerful tool for self-understanding and healing. We go beyond sun signs to discuss the psychological depth of birth charts, the role of planetary cycles in personal transformation, and how astrology can help us navigate relationships, trauma, and life’s biggest transitions.

🔮 What You'll Learn:

Work is a fundamental part of our lives, yet the workplace can be a uniquely vulnerable space for experiencing trauma. In this episode of Beyond Trauma, Monica Amorosi helps us explore why trauma in the workplace is particularly complex—because we bring our whole selves into our jobs, and because most of us rely on our jobs for survival. We discuss the rapid social and political changes affecting workplace safety, the different types of stress and their impact, and how to recognize the signs of an unsafe work environment. Monica breaks down what it truly means to have a trauma-sensitive wo...

In times of rapid change, how do we stay grounded, heart-centered, and open to new possibilities? In this episode of Beyond Trauma, meditation teacher Spring Washam shares the deep practices needed for navigating uncertainty—not by over-processing in the mind but by dropping into the wisdom of the heart and body. We explore how to work with anger, why truth is sharper than fire, and how ancestral wisdom can guide us through upheaval. Spring reminds us that “the heart carries the joy and the sorrow of this life”, and that true meditation isn’t an escape into the intellect but a full-b...

In this episode of Beyond Trauma, we delve into the transformative world of energy healing with Dr. Jamil Sayegh. Dr. Sayegh shares his holistic approach to health, emphasizing the interplay between energy and physical well-being. He discusses how aligning one's energy can lead to profound physical healing, offering insights into the body's innate ability to heal from the inside out. Through compelling testimonials, Dr. Sayegh illustrates the effectiveness of energy medicine in overcoming various health challenges. Join us as we explore the principles of energy healing and discover how removing obstacles can pave the way for a healthier, more balanced...

In this episode of Beyond Trauma, mindfulness and meditation teacher Mark Coleman explores the deep connection between the natural world and meditation. We discuss the history of nature-based contemplative practices, the difference between concentration and awareness meditation, and how the elements can support our personal growth. Mark shares why practicing meditation outdoors can enhance mindfulness, how nature fosters a deeper sense of self, and what to do if you don’t have access to outdoor spaces. We also confront a common dilemma—how to process the guilt of not doing enough to protect the environment while still finding joy and pres...

In this fantastically informative episode with Dr. Bonnie J. Kaplan, we explore the direct connection between mental health and nutrient intake. The evidence detailed in this episode and in Bonnie's book, The Better Brain is clear and consistent across populations. It is my hope that by releasing this episode folks will be inspired to change their diets and see for themselves the mental health benefits that transpire. I believe that a proper diet can keep us off medications or help us decrease them, but if you are on psychiatric medications make sure to work with a professional if you plan...

In this immensely informative episode with Dr. Samantha Harte, we discuss the kind of work it takes to break our toxic cycles and make changes that last for the long run. Samantha talks about the role our pain plays in helping us to identify the places we need to change and the importance of looking deeply and honestly at our patterns if we want those adjustments to last. She describes the multiple ways we can deceive ourselves, from fixing others to trying to control and perfect ourselves, and offers an alternative that modernizes and incorporates the 12 steps of recovery as...

This deeply informative episode is recommended for therapists, yoga instructors, yoga practitioners, and anyone interested in managing their stress levels. Licensed clinical psychologist and certified complex trauma professional, Dr. Arielle Schwartz offers insight into her tremendous work combining the modalities of therapeutic yoga, polyvagal theory, and trauma healing. Arielle shares the central elements necessary for creating a therapeutic space for healing trauma and how she has used these elements to create a vibrant online yoga community. Dr. Schwartz also explains and makes relatable polyvagal theory, mapping it onto ancient yoga and ayurvedic models and providing some accessible two-minute practices that...

In this nuanced and elevated episode of Beyond Trauma, David Treleaven shares the core of his findings on best practices for trauma sensitivity in mindfulness and how his recommendations have evolved since his book, Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness, came out five years ago. David gives suggestions for what mindfulness and meditation teachers and practitioners can do if they become stuck in their practice to proceed safely while honoring the tradition of mindfulness.  In the self-paced The Complete Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness Training, David has compiled recommendations from the best in the field including Tara Brach, Rich Hanson, Rhonda Magee, and others who are a p...

In this powerful conversation with Rev. Elizabeth Riley, we discuss what it means to get raw and real in our prayers, something Elizabeth has become well known for on TicTok where she Rage Prays for all to see. We discuss why religion appealed to Elizabeth from a young age and how she sees her place advocating for marginalized communities through her work in the church. Working with Elizabeth's prayers has helped me to open up and reconnect to my spirituality. I hope you might find the same and gain some direction for where to find social justice in the spiritual...

In this powerful conversation with Rev. Elizabeth Riley, we discuss what it means to get raw and real in our prayers, something Elizabeth has become well known for on TicTok where she Rage Prays for all to see. We discuss why religion appealed to Elizabeth from a young age and how she sees her place advocating for marginalized communities through her work in the church. Working with Elizabeth's prayers has helped me to open up and reconnect to my spirituality. I hope you might find the same and gain some direction for where to find social justice in spiritual...

In this especially informative and timely episode with Mindful Meditation Coach Shawna Emerick, we deeply investigate self-compassion, an important practice, especially during the holiday season. You will learn: How to define self-compassion Why to practice self-compassion Misconceptions about self-compassion Methods for eliminating blocks to self-compassion How to start your self-compassion practice even if it feels impossible How to use mindfulness as a pathway to self-compassion What healers can do to support their clients in building self-compassion How to get your new practices to stick What special accommodations should be made for trauma survivors when working with self-compassion Shawna Emerick is...

In this episode with world-famous relationship experts Harville Hendrix and Hele LaKelly Hunt, we get into the interpersonal nature of trauma and how to set the stage to heal it (or at least not retrigger it) in your most intimate relationships. We discuss: How to foster safety in your relationships The difference between how we usually talk to each other and true dialogue What nature can teach us about communication The biggest problem most couples have What our childhood trauma does to predict our future partner How to diffuse tension in your relationship Why we should make an appointment when...

In this episode with world-famous relationship experts Harville Hendrix and Hele LaKelly Hunt, we get into the interpersonal nature of trauma and how to set the stage to heal it (or at least not retrigger it) in your most intimate relationships. We discuss:

How to foster safety in your relationships

The difference between how we usually talk to each other and true dialogue

What nature can teach us about communication

The biggest problem most couples have

What our childhood trauma does to predict our future partner<...

In this riveting episode with Juliette Watt, we get detailed about why every one of us needs to become more aware of compassion fatigue. This debilitating syndrome has spread as more and more of us are being asked to care for parents and children while maintaining demanding careers and trying to run a home. Compassion fatigue can be hard to recognize, and it’s imperative we do, because it has a high correlation with both physical illness and suicidal ideation. In this episode you will learn: Signs you or someone you know may be experiencing compassion fatigue. The most dangerous po...

In this compelling conversation with Dr. Aziz Gazipura, we unpack the risk factors for, symptoms of and remedies for social anxiety. Dr. Aziz offers a creative, multi-faceted approach to supporting folks in breaking harmful patterns. We discuss his techniques and how they can help anyone who is on the path to becoming more true to themselves and more honest in their relationships. This conversation addresses the ways all of us are programmed and how the pressure to conform gets in the way of our deeper desire to be loved and accepted for who we are. You will learn about: Assertiveness...

In this episode with Dr. Edmund J. Bourne we address the epidemic of anxiety and anxiety related disorders. Edmund has been researching panic, phobias, anxiety and OCD for over three decades and has a comprehensive program for overcoming each one. Edmund is highly researched and detailed and in this episode he describes each detail of the various disorders and the most evidence based research for how to reduce their symptoms and live free of their hold. Edmund has combined best practices to create a holistic prevention, healing, and maintenance plan for these common conditions. You’ll want to get your pe...

In this long anticipated conversation, Sharon Salzberg joins the Beyond Trauma Podcast to discuss the ways in which loving-kindness practice can shift our reactivity over time. Sharon takes us back to her discovery of loving-kindness practice, fourteen years into her meditation journey and how it changed her life forever. Sharon shares the benefits of this practice including when and where one is most likely to discover them and gives recommendations for how to adjust your practice if you are feeling triggered or experiencing pain. We talk about the famous loving-kindness phrases and the difference between loving-kindness practice and the loving...

On today's conversation, previously released on Chat off the Mat, Lara Land speaks with Rose Wippich about the profound impact trauma can have on the nervous system and how yoga can serve as a pathway to recovery. Lara guides us through the differences between trauma-sensitive yoga and traditional yoga classes. We explore how this specialized approach creates a sanctuary for students who have experienced trauma by emphasizing safety, choice, and non-judgemental exploration. Our discussion covers the spectrum of trauma responses, acknowledging that each student's healing journey is unique. Lara illuminates how trauma-sensitive practices such as gentle asana, breathwork, and tristana...

In this in-depth conversation with longtime friend Greg Nardi, we discuss the ability yoga has to facilitate healing at every level. Greg walks us through the ways yoga enhances healthy embodiment and personal power. He then connects how restoring these aspects of self leads to a more just world. Greg details what one can expect from a yoga therapist and from a trauma-informed yoga teacher and where those modalities overlap. He shares recommendations for yoga teachers, practitioners, and trauma survivors who may have an interest in the ancient practice of yoga and yoga philosophy. Greg Nardi, C-IAYT, E-RYT 500 began his...

In this brave and transparent conversation, Fostering Meditation founder Demetrius Napolitano shares how his experiences in foster care and detention systems caused him trauma and how he was able to foster various seeds of light and hope to heal himself, make meaning, and support others. We discuss: *typical trauma reactions to abandonment *the impact of the environment on healing *race and belonging *spirituality *yoga in schools *Three and a Half Acres Trauma-Informed YTT *trauma-informed considerations for meditation *and so much more... When he was under a year old, Demetrius Napolitano was placed in New York City's foster care system. He...

In this connected conversation with Henry Fersko-Weiss, the creator of the first End-of-Life Doula program in the United States, we discuss what it means to be a Death Doula. Rather than focus on the technical services a Death Doula can provide, Henry and I dive into the spiritual and generational support that can come from this uniquely powerful role in the dying person's life. We talk about legacy work, about agency in the dying process, and about why and when you might want to hire a Death Doula. In addition, Henry and I speak at length about the Death Doula...

In this very special and meaningful episode with Kate Thompson, we discuss the role of journaling in healing wounds and softening the impacts of trauma. Kate shares in such depth, the unique benefits of journaling and recommendations for how to incorporate it into ones health practice. She shares her favorite journal prompts including two beautiful poems. Through her invitation, I share I very personal poem called "Cherry Tomatoes"* that I recently wrote to process a trauma. Kate also advises therapists who would like to include journaling the healing resources they share with clients. We talk about existential and narrative therapy...

In this thorough episode with Dr. Sharon Martin, we explore the different types of boundaries people have and how to determine if yours are healthy. Sharon breaks down the questions you should ask yourself in order to decide if the boundaries you are setting are the right ones for you and if they are working or need to be adjusted. We suggest doable ways for reforming your boundaries and what to do before you set new ones in place to ensure success, how to evaluate if your boundaries are working and a process for adjustment. Sharon details boundary considerations within...

In this enlivening episode with Chris Rackliffe, we discuss the four attachment styles with a deeper examination of the anxious style. We discuss how to determine your attachment style and how to become more securely attached. We talk about social media and texting habits and how those play into attachment. We also discuss what your romantic history might be telling you about your attachment style, common triggers for the anxious personality type, and what anxious and avoidant attachment types have in common. We also investigate how anxious and avoidant attachment types can build better relationships, our feelings through this process...

In this important episode with Adriana Bucci, we discuss narcissistic personality disorder. Adriana walks us through the signs that you are dealing with a narcissist. We detail what the narcissist wants and how they go about getting it. Adriana unpacks the specific cycle the narcissist takes their targets on and the emotional states they put you through to gain control. She explains the layers of this abuse and how it culminates in a trauma response for its targets. We go through the signs that you are suffering from repressed trauma, the connection between chronic pain and previous trauma, learned hopelessness...

In this riveting episode with Alicia Racine, we go deep into a number of important therapeutic topics. We cover the incredible overlap between developing oneself as an artist and as a therapist. The root of most eating disorders and the kinds of therapeutic interventions that work best for folks with an ED. The crucial element of the therapeutic process that is often missed and how that causes eating disorders to return. The difference between eating disorders and disordered eating. Modalities such as brain spotting, EMDR, DBT, and Exposure Response Prevention. Trauma and policing. Co-occurrence of OCD and trauma and the...

In this special second-anniversary episode of Beyond Trauma, Lara is joined by Three and a Half Acres Yoga Trauma Informed Teachers Angela and Yana as we flip the script and take questions from the audience for host, Lara Land. Lara bridges the gap between Ashtanga and Trauma Informed Yoga, discusses her experience teaching kids yoga and her Chloe the Yogi song and app, and shares her insights on yoga retreats, workshops, and festivals. Make sure to listen all the way through to the second half where we discuss discipline, marriage, self-development, mindfulness, boundaries, and breaking harmful cycles. Lara Land shares...

For this first anniversary of the publication of my book, The Essential Guide to Trauma-Sensitive Yoga: How to Create Safer Spaces for All, I'm releasing the Outside the Studio episode I was featured on with Tessa Tovar. We discuss suggested language for shifting power in group settings, how to create after environments, how to practice to reach yoga in a way that includes all, as well as other topics. The Essential Guide to Trauma-Sensitive Yoga has received outstanding reviews and remains an important resource for yoga teachers and practitioners as well as an intro for the yoga curious. "I was...

In this pivotal episode featuring Annie Chen, we delve deep into the fundamental concepts of attachment theory and the distinct indicators of each attachment style. Annie illuminates how early life experiences, particularly traumatic events, can shape these attachment styles and influence recurring patterns within our relationships as we mature. We explore strategies to mend negative behavioral cycles and emphasize the paramount importance of prioritizing healthy relationships. Additionally, we dissect the role of the nervous system and stress in our interactions, examining the profound impact of triggers on relationship dynamics. Our conversation extends to the correlation between relationship quality and overall...

This detailed episode with Dr. Mark Harper, author of breaks down the benefits of cold water swimming for trauma, chronic pain, depression, bipolar disorder, and other illnesses plaguing so many of us these days. Dr. Mark Harper shares the findings of his cold swimming studies and the direction his research is going. We discuss the various reasons you might consider cold water swimming as a priority in your wellness habits and how to start, if, like me, you are terrified of being cold and unable to breathe. Mark explains how cold the water should be to be effective, how long...

In this riveting conversation with cult expert Dr. Steve Eichel, we uncover the common recruitment strategies of some of the most notorious cults. Dr. Eichel shares his personal experience infiltrating a cult and the tactics they used on him and the rest of his cohort. That early encounter with cult culture informed his decades-long work supporting survivors of cult trauma and their families. We cover human psychology and how it impacts politics, signs you might be in a high-demand organization, and the parallels between intimate partner violence (IPV) and cult practices. Dr. Steve Eichel has been a licensed psychologist since 1982...

It was an honor to sit down with April Dinwoodie to learn more about a topic I am admittingly not enough informed on. Until recently, I had not considered how innately traumatic the relinquishing of a child is both for that child and the birth parents. In this episode, we discuss both the personal and political implications of adoption. We talk about what happens when a child is taken away from their family of origin especially if their family of experience (as April likes to call them) is a different race. We interrogate trauma adaptions and how many of those...

In this information-packed conversation with Dr. Elizabeth Guthrie, we discuss the incredible power of herbs in assisting with nervous system regulation. Elizabeth shares ways to work with herbs as a beginner including special herbal considerations for trauma survivors. She describes the benefits of teas versus tinctures and other herbal creations and goes into detail about specific herbs such as Rhodiola, Ashwagandha, Dandelion, and many others. Elizabeth and I explore the importance of nature as part of healing, the power and the dangers of slowing down, polyvagal theory, and the three gunas. We also talk about titration, diet and so much...

In this very vulnerable and candid conversation with esteemed psychologist Dr. Jessa Navide´, we dive into the truth of about suicidality. Jessa details who is at the highest risk for suicidal attempts, the signs that someone you know might be suicidal, as well as how to approach a loved one you suspect is having suicidal thoughts. Jessa shares deep insights from her own experience as a survivor of multiple suicide attempts and what she wishes someone would have done for her. We discuss ways out of these thoughts including the particular power of trauma-sensitive yoga and the science behind why A...

In this detailed and important conversation with Dave Emerson, the man who coined the term trauma-sensitive yoga, we get insights into Dave’s extensive research on the impacts of trauma-informed yoga for survivors including his most recent paper comparing trauma-sensitive yoga and cognitive processing therapy. We explore the difference between Complex Trauma and PTSD and the implications of those differences on survivor validation and services. We discuss the harmful power dynamics that occur within abusive relationships and the importance of healthy interpersonal encounters in yoga spaces which propose to heal trauma adaptations. Dave shares why yoga is one of, if no...

In this episode, I share the most impactful moments of 2023 and a preview of guests and topics you can expect in the coming year, including the exceptional first guest of the year! I also share some of my own experiences this year and the modalities I have been using to release stress and heal. Thank you to all my listeners, especially those of you who have been reaching out with specific comments about episodes. This enlivens me so much. Please keep commenting, reviewing, and sharing the podcast! Coming up in 2024 I'll be releasing the on-demand training of The Essential Guide...

I get asked on almost a daily basis for recommendations for yoga teacher training programs. You would think that after 25 years in yoga, I would have some, but the truth is very different. Yoga teacher training programs vary widely, change regularly, and come with a host of problems. On this episode with my friend and colleague, Michelle Lehrman, we discuss some of the biggest issues with YTTs, including forcing participants to make and accept hands-on adjustments, shaming people who hold different opinions or do things differently, and forcing a one-way approach to this ancient, adaptable practice. Michelle Lehrman is a...

In this episode with Deborah Draves-Legg, we discuss the healing power of horses, how they communicate, and what it looks like to receive coaching in partnership with a horse. Deborah shares some secret horse language and some out-of-this-world experiences she has had witnessing horses lead her clients to healing. She also does a session of her Quantum Physics coaching on me! Deborah is a certified Transformational Presence Coach, ICF Accredited Associate Coach, RN, Certified Death Doula, Advanced Eponaquest Facilitator, and author of Pony's Girl Parables. Her coaching philosophy centers around the concept that the power within us lights the way...

Joy Holden is a long-time member of the Margaretville Central School staff. She was a special education teacher for 19 years and then transitioned into an administrative role in 2017. Joy's responsibility as Director of Pupil Services is to support all students with learning and accessing school programming, including being the CSE/CPSE/504 chairperson and Dignity Act Coordinator. Recently, Joy has been taking the lead in training staff on supportive responses to students when they are struggling emotionally and unable to use socially appropriate coping strategies. In 2022, Joy was certified to train staff for Therapeutic Crisis Intervention for Schools (TCIS). She is...

Grab a cup of tea, a notebook, a pen, and a quiet spot, for today you and I have the chance to sit down with a legend. Dr. Pauline Boss coined the term Ambiguous Loss as part of her thesis in the 1970s and has pursued and expanded its definition and treatment ever since. At 89 years old she is still writing, still learning, and as we get into in this talk, has seen quite a large amount of trends come and go in society and in the way we parent, teach, and treat. We discuss all different kinds of ambiguous...

Part 2 of my audio gift to you! Please enjoy the next 25 pages of my book, The Essential Guide to Trauma-Sensitive Yoga: How to Create Safer Spaces for All read to you by me! If you haven't heard the first pages make sure to go back to the last episode of this podcast. If you do enjoy this reading, please support with your purchase of the book which has over a hundred photos and and many more chapters not read to you here. Other ways to work together are to hire me as a coach, bring me to your yoga studio...

An exciting gift for you! Today, listeners can enjoy the first 25 pages of my book, The Essential Guide to Trauma Sensitive Yoga: How to Create Safer Spaces for All read by yours truly, Lara Land. I hope you will enjoy and support my first book with Shambhala Publications by purchasing and reviewing your hard copy which includes over 100 photos! Other ways to support/work with me include hiring me as your coach, to lead a workshop in trauma sensitivity for your school, studio or business or purchasing my first book, My Bliss Book, an undated life-purpose planner or my on-demand...

In this episode, I detail my own experiences with birth trauma and the ways multiple people in different areas of the medical field have used unskillful methods and communication along the way. I hope that the telling of my story helps others. You can find me on Instagram and sometimes on YouTube. Lara Land is a deeply compassionate life coach, consultant, and yoga teacher trainer specializing in trauma sensitivity. Her work is in helping to heal trauma both subtle and significant and train others using trauma-sensitive yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and breathing practices. Lara has spent the last 25 years studying Ashtanga...

You are going to want to sit back and take notes for this one. Today's guest Bintou Diarra and I get in-depth about birth trauma and the current state of maternal health care in the US. We discuss the origins of the issues infecting the medicalized birth system which has taken hold today, including our earliest indoctrination into the female body as pathology in sex ed and structural racism and implicit bias. Bintou details the culture most physicians are steeped in and how it leads directly to negative outcomes in the birthing process. She explains why having a doula may...

In this heartfelt conversation with my longtime friend and colleague, Harmony Slater, we discuss many life transitions that can result in a trauma response and loss of sense of self. Harmony details her own personal experience with divorce and why divorce or any significant relationship end can trigger our most primal survival instincts and leave us in a fight or flight mode for long after the separation has passed. We also get into a deep discussion about different types of practice and how some of even the "best practices" can end up taxing our nervous system or numbing us out...

In this honest and raw conversation, Whitney Lyn Allen shares the details of her husband's tragic accident and later death in service of others also dealing with trauma and loss. Whitney used her experience to catapult her into a career and life change and became a certified grief coach. She shares her extensive knowledge in this episode of what survival mode is and feels like, grief hijacking and how to maintain boundaries, tips for flashbacks, and her feelings on finding love after loss. Whitney is an author, attorney, and certified grief educator. Her book, Running in Trauma Stilettos is about...

In this powerful episode, we discuss a potential outcome of trauma that is often ignored: Post-traumatic growth. Discover how to get through a traumatic experience to growth and the difference between post-traumatic growth and resilience. Learn what makes the difference between people who remain stuck in trauma response and those that are able to make the leap forward. Trauma is relational and generational. Understand how we are all connected to it and impacted by it as well as why the body is so important in relation to our own trauma. Gain new insights you may not have heard before including...

In this episode, we discuss how to work with kids and teens in a way that opens them up instead of closing them off. The information my two guests share so generously is applicable to therapists, parents, teachers, or anyone with a child in their life. Learn what it means to attune to the young people in your life. Some areas of interest are the importance of early intervention, correct attachment, and coregulation. From listening to this episode you will gain a greater understanding of how trauma specifically affects those affected in childhood, about soothing a child and how we...

This episode of Finding Harmony Podcast with Harmony Slater and Russell Case- aired in Feb to promote the pre-sale of my book, The Essential Guide to Trauma Sensitive Yoga which is now available everywhere. If you haven’t gotten your copy please go to my site www.laraland.us and order. If you have ordered- THANK YOU - I appreciate you. Please take a minute to go on Amazon or Goodreads or both and write a review! Reviews make a big difference in getting this work viewed. If you are feeling really generous you can do one here of the po...

In this conversation with activist and healer Reggie Hubbard, we discuss how to be real as a yoga teacher by using your true voice, sound bowls, gongs, and DJs. This truth (Satva) when the students experience it disrupts and creates real change which Reggie has termed “Active Peace”. Reggie illustrates this through his story and his actions. Tune into this episode to grow a deeper understanding of the chakra system and how it helps to express truth with love, how to find your community, get out of hopelessness, wake up, and make change. Reggie is the founder/chief serving officer of A...

In this episode, author and clinician, Dr. Trudy Gilbert-Eliot, explains how exposure to other people's trauma can cause post-traumatic stress. She breaks down how that occurs in the brain of the person exposed, the signs one will experience, and what to do both to prevent against it and help heal it. We talk about the specific professions most likely to encounter that exposure and practices such as mindfulness and CBT for helping change the narrative of one exposed. Dr. Gilbert-Eliot is rich with knowledge and deeply impressed me during our hour together. We will be working on the prevention of...

I discovered Katarina "Kato" Wittich in Gwyneth Paltrow's documentary series “Sex, Love and Goop” episode five, where she guides a client through a Family Constellation session which allows them to understand and process family trauma. It was and remains one of the most powerful moments of television I've ever witnessed, so I was deeply honored when Kato agreed to be in conversation. In doing my research for this interview, I learned much about Kato's dedication to healing through practices that demand deep acceptance and reverence for the interwoven body-mind system. In this conversation, we discuss the Rosen and Family System tech...

Amy B. Scher had a debilitating case of Lyme Disease that resulted in her being bedridden in her twenties. She tried every available solution from intravenous antibiotics to flying all the way to India. Though some of the medicines she tried helped, in the end, she only became completely healthy and relapse-free when she began looking at her traumas, thoughts, and beliefs and neutralizing them. In this conversation, Amy describes her core healing practices which she has taught countless others via workshops, private sessions, her YouTube, and books. Many of these practices I have personally tried and incorporated into my...

Timothy Lewis walked into my yoga studio, Land Yoga on one New Year's Eve and never turned back. He became a regular and dedicated yoga practitioner, got his yoga teacher certification, and then did his Trauma-Informed Yoga Teacher Training with Three and a Half Acres Yoga where he now teaches classes for trauma survivors. Timothy is a born scientist, full of a curiosity which he allows to take him on the journey of life. He is featured in my book, The Essential Guide to Trauma Sensitive Yoga which is out TOMORROW. Make any level donation to Three and a Half...

Not everyone can talk about neuroscience and make it make sense, but Rotem Brayer certainly can. During our time together he showed me why EMDR has become his number one go-to modality for helping his clients process trauma. In this episode, Rotem explains the neuroscience behind this practice and how it can help with trauma and sleep disorders. We also discuss the other elements that need to be in the room to make EMDR most impactful. Finally, Rotem also breaks down the reasons he feels we are seeing such a crisis in mental health and what we can do about...

In this incredible conversation with Christiane Wolf, MD, PhD, we separate out different kinds of pain. Christiane shows us how by learning to differentiate between types of pain, we can plan an appropriate course of action. We discuss when the approaches of mindfulness and compassion may help and how to implement them to feel less stress and suffering when experiencing uncomfortable sensations. Christiane and I also talk about birthing pain, the differences in giving birth in Germany (her home country) and the United States, and how that changes the pain experience. We also touch on the basics of and importance...

In this extraordinary conversation with Jacoby Ballard we cover a wide range of topics from black feminism to queer identity to parenthood and what each of these lenses can teach us about processing our feelings and finding our way to forgiveness. As you will no doubt witness through our very live and in real-time process together, Jacoby is a "calling in" centered person who has done his work to become the fearless, aware, forgiveness-based being he teaches others to be. In this episode, we explore specific yogic and Buddhist practices which can help with dispelling anger and moving toward forgiveness...

In this episode, Dr. Jamie Marich discusses why the martial art Jiu-Jitsu is so specifically good for healing trauma. We discuss in detail the overlaps with yoga and where these practices differ. We offer some ideas for why all facilitators should have trauma sensitivity training and what that might look like. We talk about exposure to triggers, and breathwork, and finally get into some really clarifying discussions about disassociation. Dr. Jamie Marich (she/they) describes herself as a facilitator of transformative experiences. A clinical trauma specialist, expressive artist, writer, yogini, performer, short filmmaker, Reiki master, TEDx speaker, and recovery advocate...

In this deeply touching and sensitive episode, I'm in conversation with a long-time friend and colleague, former Sergeant for Transit District One, Annie Labrada. In this conversation, we discuss Annie's time at the New York Police Department (NYPD) and the traumas she and her colleagues experienced. She shares her coping mechanisms, her journey to becoming a certified yoga teacher, and her and her colleagues' efforts to bring yoga to the NYPD through NYPD Blue Karma Yoga and NYPD Health and Wellness. We talk about one particular officer, Aaron Lohman who has a very inspirational health story. We also dive into...

In this conversation, I interview my former teacher, Betsy Polatin who taught me Alexander Technique at Boston University as part of my theater studies. Those teachings had a profound impact on my life, helping me to recognize where I was making unuseful efforts both with my body and in my life. I began to understand personal responsibility in a new way and my relationships shifted. Twenty years later those lessons are still with me and resonate strongly as I prepare to release my first book. Here we talk about the mind-body connection and Betsy's expanded model for releasing trauma with...

In this deeply important conversation with Thenmozhi Soundararajan, we discuss the often overlooked, devastatingly real trauma of caste. Thenmozhi's eye-opening work exposes how the brutal creation of caste is still harming so many, both in South Asia and here in the states. Her personal story of surviving religious trauma and her insights into the ways caste-oppressive rituals are steeped in our yoga culture are a must for any yoga practitioner or teacher. Thenmozhi Soundarajan is a Dalit Civil rights artist, organizer, and theorist who has worked with hundreds of organizations to better understand the urgent issues of racial, caste, and...

In this episode, Sabrina Vedete Elmaliah and I discuss the power of intention especially as it applies to healing generational trauma. Sabrina shares her family's trauma history and how this informs who she is and how she works on herself. We explore group healing and the power of combining crystals, yoga, chanting, nature, and group work to heal. Sabrina's Jeweled Womb Membership starts January 20th in divine timing with the New Year. Learn more at: https://www.sacredlotusyonisteam.com/certification Sabrina and I met at Steady Slope AirBnB Sauna & Camping Experience. Please check them out: and support https://www.steadyslope...

In this conversation, I speak with prosocial entrepreneur, Rachel Aiden about what we know about the use of psychedelics on healing the impacts of trauma. We discuss what steps and precautions one should talk before embarking on the world of plant medicine, what one can expect if one decides to go on a journey with her company Synthesis and the roles of the guides, group work and integration in the process. Rachel Aiden is a prosocial entrepreneur with 20+ years of experience working on projects across the U.S., East Africa, and Europe. Currently, she’s the CEO at Synthesis Institute, a...

Chris Wilson had a normal childhood with a loving and nurturing mom who gave him many of the lessons and skill sets he uses today, but when gun violence started showing up in his neighborhood everything changed for Chris. In this podcast, we discuss the traumatic stress young Chris had to go through surrounded by so much violence both from kids on the streets and the folks who were supposed to be protecting him, how that landed him with a life sentence, and how he got free both literally and mentally. We cover the specific tools Chris used and continues...

In this wonderful conversation with my long-time friend and yoga service comrade, Pamela Stokes Eggleston, we discuss her experience with secondary trauma which she faced after taking care of her husband who returned from service with PTSD. We talk about the signs of trauma and how she's been able to take what she's learned to heal herself with yoga practice and help war veterans and their families. We also explore the importance of sleep and Pamela's core work helping folks to sleep better using the practice of yoga. Pamela Stokes Eggleston, MBA, MS, C-IAYT, E-RYT-500, YACEP is the founder and...

In this episode with Michelle Casandra Johnson, we cover the importance of the grieving process and having practices that support it. We discuss how our practices have shifted since Covid-19 and the things we hope will not go back. Michelle talks about working with our ancestors and learning from their traumas and resistance as well as her special connection to her honey bees. Michelle wrote the foreward for my forthcoming book, The Essential Guide to Trauma Sensitive Yoga out with Shambhala Publications in May 2023. It was wonderful to connect with her here. Michelle C. Johnson is an author, yoga teacher...

In this conversation, Zahabiyah Yamasaki and I talk about how trauma-informed yoga can help survivors of sexual trauma, the power of the fully accepting, non-judgemental relationship, and tips for yoga teachers including trauma-informed language and the energy trauma-informed yoga teachers should bring into the classroom. Zabie shares why a survivor might choose yoga over talk therapy, the limitations on resources for survivors on college campuses and how she has been able to launch her 8-week trauma-sensitive yoga program in Universities nationwide. Zabie Yamasaki is the Founder of Transcending Sexual Trauma through Yoga which is an organization that offers trauma-informed yoga...

In this special BONUS episode, I share a bit about the writing of my forthcoming book, The Essential Guide to Trauma Sensitive Yoga: How to Create Safer Spaces for All due out this May for Shambhala Publications. I also detail what you can expect to find inside the book and how you can get a first look at the cover and a chance to WIN a free copy! Make sure to listen to find out how! Follow me at laralandyoga for more updates!

In this bravely vulnerable interview, D'Angela Alberty shares what it was like to grow up in an abusive family. Her story helps us understand how abuse follows an individual and just what it takes to disrupt that cycle. D'Angela's story is a gift for both folks going through abuse and for those who care enough to understand and look out for it. She details the people, resources, and questions that helped her escape and the practices she uses now to stay in tune with her self-worth and inner peace. Please note that this episode could be triggering. D’Angela Alberty (sh...

In this deep episode with Lama Rod Owens, we discuss the what it means to face the reality of life and do the hard work of coming to know and love ourselves. We discuss the difference between practicing for comfort verses freedom, the wise message in anger, and how becoming more expansive actually leads to better boundaries. Plus, the roles of the teacher, the student and the teachings along this path. Lama Rod Owens is an author, activist, and authorized Lama (Buddhist Teacher) in the Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism. Lama Rod is the co-founder of Bhumisparsha, a Buddhist tantric...

Micah Mortali and I discuss how nature immersion, rewilding, survival, ancestral skills can support our circadian rhythms, and proper release of melatonin, regulate our nervous systems and ease the impacts of trauma. We talk about the impact of technology on our psychies and that of our children, especially teens, the minimum unnegotiable outdoor time a human needs each week (so start tracking) and I share my personal experiences learning from Micah and how they helped me through some tough dysregulated times.  Micah’s life’s work is about helping modern humans reconnect with their deeper, truer selves through mindfulness, rewilding, and i...

Seane Corn is an internationally-acclaimed yoga teacher, author, and public speaker who has been at the forefront of yoga, activism, and community service for 28 years. In this episode we delve into the significance of the tension we carry in our bodies, our addiction to holding onto it, and what happens when we begin to release it. We examine the specific medicine that yoga offers in allowing us to release past trauma, how it works, and the awakening to true self and to love that lies on the other side. Seane details her own ongoing process of coming to know herself...

In this solo episode of the Beyond Trauma Podcast, I take a look back at the wisdom our guests shared with us in Season 1 as well as drop some hints about Season 2 and who is to come...(hint... some MEGA stars) I also make some announcements about what I have been working on and how we might work together! Join me as usual for our next guest episode in two weeks! Lara Land is a deeply compassionate coach, consultant and yoga teacher trainer specializing in trauma sensitivity. Her work is in helping to heal trauma both subtle and significant and...

In this conversation with community organizer, wellness activist and author, Kerri Kelly, we talk about the perpetual and often unspoken trauma present in our country due to the systems in place that have created and sustain a health, education, wealth, and wellness gap where some are able to seemingly thrive and others are given so little. We also talk about about what it does to us to be on the privileged side of that chasm and the ways it trains us to be isolated, numbed out, scarcity focused, and lonely. We also discuss an evolving definition of the word wellness...

Nikki Myers is the creator of Y12SR Yoga of 12-step recovery. She is an expert on the subtle nature of addition and the ways to apply both cognitive and embodies practices to fully address addiction. We discuss how addiction is a part of us all and the ways we use it to find relief from being uncomfortable. Nikki is such a wealth of knowledge quoting Patanjali’s yoga sutras like pie and making the connections between the cognitive, somatic, and spiritual that we ALL NEED.  Nikki is an accomplished speaker and teacher, yoga therapist, somatic experiencing practitioner, addictions recovery spe...

Dr. Liz Cohen discusses how the field of trauma research is changing and helping us understand more about neuroplasticity, the rewiring that happens to our brains from ongoing "small t traumas" that we may not have thought about as impacting us. Childhood situations where our needs were regularly unmet can result in responses which are more likely to be chronic. Do you find yourself in patterns with your partner or kids you can’t seem to get out of? We dissect how to get to know and understand our survival mechanisms and break those patterns. Dr. Cohen also shares great in...

I am honored to be in conversation with Devika Shankar, a transnational feminist, organizer, and advocate interested in supporting activists and organizers of color in building an embodied practice and increasing their capacity for resilience in the face of long-haul social justice work. In this conversation we talk about what happens when our nervous system over reacts and the subtle practice of becoming more aware when that occurs. We discuss how to find practices which regulate us and why this self regulation is important for social justice movements to survive and thrive. We also dig into activism, resilience and how...

As you will hear in this episode, Samantha Lucas is the survivor of multiple traumas which have impacted her life and for which yoga and meditation have been great practices on her path to healing and softening. In this episode Sam shares some of the ways the traumas she’s experienced have shown up in her personality and how yoga has shifted that, the ways she was able to practice when in the hospital, a realization she had in a previous interview with me about her body and her practice, and the number one advice she would give yoga teachers wh...

In this episode with my dear friend, Alexandra Seidenstein, we discuss the study of epigenetics, a biological science which tracks patterns of activation or deactivation of our DNA expression. Ali's work and our conversation revolves around the changes in expressions of genes as a result of PTSD and her hypothesis of how those same genes might express themselves differently after longterm yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices. We also talk about the importance of science in validating what we yoga practitioners know to be true, the loops associated with pain and trauma and how yoga can shift those, and what Ali...

Yin/Restorative yoga teacher Marcy Tropin does not just help others heal through the teachings of yoga, she has survived multiple traumas herself. In this conversation she offers some really important insights she's had through her own experience taking ownership of her healing and her own narrative. We discuss the importance of right effort in maintaining a longterm yoga practice. As you listen, I encourage you to think about places in your yoga practice and life you could increase or reduce effort for a better result. If you are a yoga teacher, there are some really good tips in here...

In this inaugural episode Hala and I dissect the core components to creating a safer, more trauma sensitive environment when teaching yoga. Hala offers invaluable advice about what yoga teachers should ask themselves before stepping in the yoga room and what we need to understand about the nervous system so that we don't cause harm to our students. Hala also offers outstanding advice about how to navigate different stress levels within the yoga space and how to understand where yoga fits in in the range of tools available for stress management. Hala Khouri, M.A., SEP, E-RYT (she/her), is...

We have all been touched by trauma and we have all experienced trauma and its impacts in very varied degrees and ways. Uncovering and understanding our own traumas whether generational, racial, sexual, medical or any combination of these or others, is the first step in identifying and eventually broadening our patterns and reactions. This is the commitment necessary for being better in our lives and more positively impacting others. Whether you are a yoga teacher or practitioner, body worker, or coach, you'll want to tune in to broaden your understanding of trauma and the embodied practices we can use to...