Noticing

The Importance of Conscious Living and Spiritual Practices

In this episode, Maggie and Urvi sit down with Melvin Hart, a multifaceted healer and spiritual guide, to discuss shamanism, plant medicine, and the journey of personal transformation. Melvin shares his experiences and insights on how to integrate spiritual practices into daily life, the importance of connecting with the metaphysical, and the power of visualizing your future self.
Key Topics:
Introduction to Shamanism and distinguishing it from plant medicine practitioners.
Historical and cultural uses of plant medicine.
Melvin’s personal journey from New York City to Peru and becoming a shaman.
The importance of integrating spiritual lessons into everyday life.
Practical steps for personal growth and transformation.
Existential reflections on life, death, and personal development.
The significance of connecting with the metaphysical realm.
Visualizing the future self and reverse engineering life goals.
Please note: References to astronomy and the distance of star clusters cited in this episode may not be accurate. Visit University of Arizona’s Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory to learn more. 
Connect with Melvin:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evolvewithmelvin/
Reach out for questions, coaching, and spiritual guidance.
Follow Us:
Maggie on Instagram: @maggiewardcoaching
Urvi on Instagram: @urvipatel.co
Awkward Sage Media on Instagram: @awkwardsagemedia

Embracing Creative Intelligence: A Conversation with Sherry Sidoti

In this episode, hosts Maggie and Urvi welcome Sherry Sidoti, an award-winning author and yoga teacher. They reflect on the ups and downs of creative expression and the challenges of putting oneself out there. Sherry shares insights from her journey of writing her memoir, the vulnerability involved, and the joy of creative work. The conversation delves into the intersection of human experience and spirituality, the importance of being present, and how everyday moments are intertwined with spiritual practices. Sherry reflects on balancing life and the role of constant practice in maintaining spiritual awareness, offering advice on overcoming creative blocks and serving others. She also touches on dealing with grief and the importance of noticing signs around us.
Key Themes Discussed in the Conversation with Sherry Sidoti
The Transformative Journey of Writing a Memoir:Sherry's experience of writing her memoir "A Smoke and a Song."
The vulnerability and shock of sharing intimate stories publicly.
The cathartic process of writing and the subsequent realization of the personal impact on her community and family.
Navigating Vulnerability and Public Exposure:Adjusting to the vulnerability of having her personal stories read by others.
The recalibration required to embrace her role as an author.
Sherry's journey of standing firm in her intention and purpose behind writing the memoir.
Creative Intelligence and the Act of Creation:The concept of innate creative intelligence and its presence in everyone.
Creativity as a birthright and the importance of allowing oneself to create.
Sherry's approach to creativity, emphasizing the process over the end product.
Balancing Spiritual and Human Experiences:The integration of spiritual practices into daily life.
Viewing human experiences as inherently spiritual when approached with awareness and presence.
Sherry's practice of using spiritual tools to clear obstacles and enhance the human experience.
Grief and Finding Grace:Sherry's recent personal experience with grief after her mother's passing.
The shift from seeking signs of her mother's presence to naturally noticing them.
Embracing grief as a part of the human experience and finding grace in difficult times.
The Role of Relationships in Spiritual Practice:Relationships as a reflection of one's spiritual progress.
The importance of being seen and heard in relationships.
Sherry's belief in the power of love and authenticity in guiding oneself and others.
Practical Advice for Overcoming Creative Blocks:The importance of getting creative expressions out of the body.
Sherry's methods for clearing creative blocks and making space for creativity to flow.
Encouragement to create freely without the pressure of perfection.
Sherry's Approach to Teaching Yoga and Leading Retreats:The evolution of Sherry's yoga practice and teaching.
The impact of prenatal yoga on her life and its influence on her teaching path.
The importance of following what feels true and needed in her community.
The Significance of Noticing and Presence:The practice of deep noticing and its impact on spiritual and creative practices.
Sherry's emphasis on the in-between moments as spaces where magic happens.
Encouraging listeners to cultivate awareness and presence in their daily lives.
 
List of Topics Covered in the Podcast
Connect with Sherry Sidoti:
Instagram: @sherrysidoti
Facebook: Sherry Sidoti
YouTube: Sherry Sidoti FLY Yoga
Website: sherrysidoti.com
Check out her memoir: A Smoke and a Song
 

Breaking the Cycle: Transformation After Incarceration

In today's episode, Maggie interviews Stacey Borden, founder and executive director of New Beginnings Reentry Services. Stacey's incredible journey from nearly three decades of incarceration to becoming a beacon of hope and support for women affected by domestic and sexual violence is truly inspiring.
Guest Bio: Stacey Borden is a transformative leader and the founder of New Beginnings Reentry Services. With a mission to support women reintegrating into their communities, Stacey's organization provides advocacy and services to reduce recidivism. Her personal experiences with trauma and incarceration have shaped her passionate approach to helping women heal and rebuild their lives.
Key Points Discussed:
Stacey's Journey and Mission:
Stacey's background and the founding of New Beginnings Reentry Services.
The importance of addressing trauma that women face before incarceration.
Understanding Trauma and Healing:
The cycle of trauma leading to incarceration.
The lack of attention to women's trauma in the prison system.
The power of education and support in Stacey's own transformation.
The Power of Education and Support:
The role of supportive relationships in Stacey's life.
The impact of educational programs and advocacy within the prison system.
Stacey's journey towards accountability and healing.
Innovative Reentry Programs:
The various programs offered by New Beginnings Reentry Services.
The significance of arts, music, and creative expression in healing trauma.
Success stories of women who have benefited from these programs.
Challenges and the Path Forward:
The harsh realities of women's prisons and the need for systemic change.
Stacey's thoughts on shutting down prisons and the ongoing efforts in Massachusetts.
How to get involved and support the movement.
Conclusion: Join us in this powerful conversation as Stacey Borden shares her journey, the transformative power of community and support, and her vision for a future where women can heal and thrive beyond the confines of the prison system.
Links and Resources:
New Beginnings Reentry Services
Families for Justice as Healing
National Council for Incarcerated and Formerly Incarcerated Women and Girls

Exploring the Healing Power of Sound and Music

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Noticing podcast, hosts Maggie and Urvi dive deep into the world of sound healing with their guest, Kevin Kraft. Kevin, a devoted yogi, sound healer, father, and friend, shares his fascinating journey with sound healing, which began over a decade ago in Hawaii. With a rich background in yoga and music, Kevin brings a unique blend of Vedic themes and wisdom to his sound healing practices.
Discussion Highlights:
Introduction to Kevin Kraft: Kevin's background as a yoga teacher and his introduction to sound healing at a Krishna Das concert.
The Power of Sacred Sound: Kevin explains the concept of NAAD (Sacred Sound Current) and its impact on the body and mind.
Exploring the Science of Sound Healing: How sound affects brainwave states and the benefits of sound baths for meditation and relaxation.
Personal Journey and Creative Expression: Kevin's personal experiences with sound as a healing tool and his creative process in music.
Rediscovering Joy and Playfulness: The importance of embracing imperfection in self-expression and reconnecting with the joy of singing and music.
The Connection Between Music and Yoga: How Kevin integrates music and yoga in his classes to enhance the healing experience.
Closing Thoughts and Sound Bath Experience: Kevin shares a sound bath experience with listeners to help them enter a different brainwave state.
Guest Information: Kevin Kraft is dearly loved by the sound healing community and is known for his jovial celebration and deep devotion to yoga and sound healing. His vision for classes is to create a sanctuary where people can rest and become their truest selves, reducing stress and distractions. Kevin's style blends Vedic themes and wisdom, bringing both levity and learning to the sound bath experience.
Kevin also collaborates with other local musicians to bring global sound fusions to his sessions, creating a rich, diverse experience for participants. As a perpetual student of life, Kevin rises daily to meet his 108 mala beads and vision his day into action and creation, believing in the power of music to inspire and heal.
Connect with Kevin Kraft:
Website: Soundshala
Instagram: @soundshala_wellness
YouTube: Soundshala
TikTok: @soundshala
Facebook: Soundshala Wellness

Unlocking Personal Excellence: The Power of Curiosity and Creativity

 Welcome to another episode of the Noticing Podcast, hosted by Maggie and Urvi. In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Rupal Patel, a former CIA analyst turned entrepreneur, speaker, and author. Rupal's career journey is nothing short of extraordinary, taking her from military briefing rooms in war zones to corporate boardrooms and international stages. She is the author of the international best-seller "From CIA to CEO: Unconventional Life Lessons for Thinking Bigger, Leading Better, and Being Bolder," which has been translated into multiple languages and been hailed as an “essential manual” and “one of the best business books,” and and her TED talk explores the power of “owning your weird” to unleash personal excellence. Join us as we delve into her insights on personal excellence, creativity, and living an impactful life. 
Episode Highlights:
[00:03:05] Origin Story: Rupal shares the story of how her career path evolved, emphasizing curiosity and the non-plan plan approach.
[00:06:08] CIA Experience: Maggie asks about Rupal’s journey to the CIA and how she maintained her adventurous spirit in high-stress environments.
[00:09:39] Pursuit of Excellence: Urvi and Rupal discuss the components of excellence, self-belief, and the importance of high standards.
[00:13:31] Role Models: Rupal talks about the idea of being your own role model and the power of owning your unique qualities.
[00:16:07] Owning Your Weird: The conversation explores the concept of embracing individuality and how it contributes to personal and professional success.
[00:23:24] Creativity and Process: Maggie, Urvi, and Rupal discuss the importance of the creative process, letting go of perfection, and the joy of creating.
[00:33:30] Time and Progress: The trio reflects on the societal pressures related to timing and success, especially for women.
[00:40:51] Collective Effort: The discussion highlights the importance of collective effort in addressing societal issues and the role of creativity and leadership in driving change.
[00:49:33] Final Thoughts: Rupal emphasizes the importance of letting go of external expectations and living authentically.
Connect with Rupal Patel:
Website: rupalypatel.com
Twitter: @rupalypatel
Instagram: @rupalypatel
YouTube: Rupal Patel
LinkedIn: Rupal Patel
Follow Us:
Maggie’s Instagram: @maggiewardcoaching
Urvi’s Instagram: @urvipatel.co
Podcast Website: Noticing Podcast

Integration of Spiritual and Human Experiences for Personal Growth

Welcome to another episode of the Noticing Podcast, where hosts Maggie and Urvi dive deep into the nuances of balancing spiritual seeking with the human experience. This episode is a special duo session where Maggie and Urvi share what they’re noticing currently about their personal journeys, challenges, and realizations from their ongoing explorations of spirituality and life.
Key Topics Discussed:
Leveraging Tools for Deeper Impact:
Urvi opens the discussion by questioning how we can use existing tools to deepen our impact and life experiences.
Maggie's Nomadic Journey and Spiritual Exploration:
Maggie reflects on her travels and spiritual journey over the past two years, sharing how her quest for spiritual understanding has evolved.
Challenges in Spiritual Seeking:
The hosts discuss the pitfalls of spiritual seeking, including the tendency to outsource personal power and the importance of integrating spiritual knowledge into the human experience.
Integration of Spiritual and Human Experiences:
Urvi shares her perspective on integrating spiritual insights into everyday life, emphasizing the need for coherence between our spiritual and human aspects.
Navigating Health and Wellness Trends:
Urvi talks about her health journey and the importance of discernment when engaging with health trends and wellness practices.
Creative Expression and Personal Growth:
Urvi shares her process of writing a children’s book, highlighting the courage and love involved in creative expression.
Empowerment and Self-Trust:
Maggie and Urvi emphasize the importance of self-trust and the power of creative acts to impact not only the individual but also the broader community.
Conclusion: This episode is a reflective and empowering conversation that encourages listeners to embrace the fullness of their human experience while integrating spiritual insights. Maggie and Urvi provide valuable lessons on trust, discernment, and creative expression.
Call to Action: Thank you for listening! Don’t forget to follow or subscribe to the Noticing Podcast to stay updated with our latest episodes. We appreciate you noticing us and look forward to more engaging conversations.
Where to Find Us:
Instagram: @maggiewardcoaching
Instagram: @urvipatel.co
Website: https://www.awkwardsagemedia.com/show/noticingpodcast/

From Stress to Success: Embracing Entrepreneurial Freedom

In this enlightening episode of "Noticing," hosts Maggie and Urvi sit down with entrepreneur and coach Matt Gerlach to explore his transformative journey from scarcity to entrepreneurial abundance. Together, they delve into themes of self-worth, healing past traumas, and the importance of setting personal boundaries.
  Key Topics
     - The impact of childhood experiences on financial and personal self-worth.
     - Strategies for entrepreneurs to recognize and charge their true value.
     - The therapeutic benefits of somatic experiencing and therapy in overcoming personal crises.
     - Matt’s insights on the importance of separating desire from gratitude and how it fuels personal and professional growth.
     - Techniques for maintaining mental health and balance amidst entrepreneurial challenges.
 
More about Matt:
Matt’s a highly accomplished entrepreneur and author who’s triumphed over adversity, emerging as an expert in personal transformation. He believes everyone possesses wisdom within themselves and empowers his clients to access it and overcome the obstacles that hinder their dreams from becoming reality. Matt’s consulting business grosses $1M in annual revenue, and he now leads The Abundance Activation Mastermind, which takes entrepreneurs through his signature program to total fulfillment and extreme emotional and financial abundance.
 
Connect with Matt Gerlach:
Dive deeper into Matt's journey and discover more about his transformative coaching techniques by visiting his website here. Don't miss the opportunity to join his mastermind for entrepreneurs or schedule a free consultation to explore how you can elevate your personal and professional life.
Follow Matt on Social Media:
Stay updated with Matt's latest insights and projects by following him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/iammattgerlach, TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@iammattgerlach , or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mattggerlach
 
Engage with Us:
We love hearing from our listeners! If Matt's story inspired you or if you have questions about this episode, reach out through our social media or leave a comment on our podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow or subscribe to the "Noticing" podcast on your favorite platform to keep up with all our latest episodes.
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Disrupting the Status Quo: Inclusive Leadership and Social Impact

In this insightful episode, Urvi speaks with Sophia Fifner, CEO of the Columbus Metropolitan Club, about her transformative journey, the intersections of her identity, and her unique approach to leadership and community engagement. Sophia shares her experiences as a black woman, daughter of immigrants, survivor of sexual assault, and mother. She discusses overcoming code-switching, embracing authenticity, and the power of finding your own voice. Together, we explore civic discourse, how to get involved in your community, and the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels empowered to make a difference.
Key Takeaways:
Our identities are multifaceted: Our experiences are shaped by the intersectionality of factors like race, gender, sexual orientation, ability, and more. Recognizing this helps us understand ourselves and others better.
Authenticity is a superpower: Overcoming societal pressures to conform lets us connect with our true selves and leads to personal growth.
Community matters: Everyone has a role to play in creating positive change. Giving your time, talent, or treasure makes a difference.
Bridging the divide: Good leaders listen to and collaborate with the communities they represent. It's important to understand the power dynamics between citizens and elected officials.
Shine your light: We all have inner brilliance. Reflecting on your values and goals helps you embrace your luminosity and inspire others.
About Sophia Fifner:
Sophia Fifner is the President and CEO of the Columbus Metropolitan Club, a visionary organization dedicated to connecting people and ideas through community conversations. She's a passionate advocate for survivors of sexual violence and gender equity and supports several organizations focused on these causes.
Connect with Sophia:Website: https://www.sophiafifner.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sophiafifner
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sophiafifnerTikTok
Learn more about the Columbus Metropolitan Club: https://columbusmetroclub.org/
Additional Resources:
Book: "Song in a Weary Throat" by Paulie Murray
 
Call to Action:
Reflect on your own identity: How do your experiences shape your perspective?
Find your community: Where can you get involved and make a difference, even in small ways?
Support organizations championing change: Seek out causes that align with your values.
We hope this episode sparked meaningful reflection and inspired you to embrace your authentic self and take positive action in your community!
 
Visit our website to connect with us!

Reclaiming Feminine Empowerment: A Deep Dive into Self-Worth and Advocacy

In this powerful episode of the Noticing Podcast, hosts Maggie and Urvi welcome Katie Henricks, a certified life and relationship coach with a deep focus on women's self discovery and sexuality. Katie brings years of experience and a refreshing perspective on personal growth, recovery, and empowerment that transcends traditional boundaries.
Katie offers deep insights into the journey of embracing one’s full potential through personal anecdotes and professional experiences, providing listeners with actionable advice on living a fulfilled and empowered life.
Key Topics Discussed:
Commitment to Self:
Katie shares her philosophy on the importance of self-commitment, discussing how women can cultivate resilience and self-sufficiency regardless of external circumstances.
Exploring Sexuality and Sovereignty:
An in-depth discussion on how sexuality plays a crucial role in personal sovereignty and why it's vital for women to reconnect with this aspect of their identities.
Cultural Impacts on Sexuality:
Katie discusses the influence of cultural narratives on women’s sexual experiences and expressions, highlighted by a critique of how modern media, like reality TV, shapes perceptions of women's roles and expectations.
The Role of Ego in Personal Growth:
Exploration of how the ego can serve both protective and limiting roles in personal development, and how understanding its impact can lead to more authentic self-expression.
Recovery and Self-Worth:
Katie emphasizes the importance of recovering self-worth and dignity in all aspects of life, from personal relationships to professional environments.
Empowerment vs. Patriarchal Structures:
A critical look at how contemporary movements for women’s empowerment often inadvertently perpetuate patriarchal standards.
Integration of Feminine and Masculine Energies:
Discussion on the importance of balancing these energies within oneself to achieve a more harmonious life.
 
Call to Action:
Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their personal journeys and explore the resources Katie offers for those looking to deepen their understanding of self-worth and empowerment.
Where to Find Katie Hendricks:
Instagram: @KatieHCoaching
TikTok: @KatieHCoaching
Website: katiehenrickscoaching.com
Closing Note:
Thank you for tuning in. Remember to follow or subscribe to the Noticing Podcast on your preferred platform to never miss an episode. Join us next time as we continue to explore the nuances of life and personal growth.
 
 

Finding Liberation through Courage and Creativity

With Special Guest: Krystopher Scott.
In this deeply insightful episode of "Noticing," Urvi and Maggie delve into the profound impact of human connection, the power of community, and the transformative role of creativity in social justice with our guest, Krystopher Scott,  a visionary creative director and community leader. Discover how embracing our shared humanity can bridge divides and foster meaningful change in society.  
Key Topics Covered 
The Importance of Human Connection - Exploring how empathy and understanding can mend societal divides.
Empowerment through Creative Leadership - The role of creative direction in uplifting underrepresented voices.
Storytelling as a Tool for Social Change - Harnessing the power of narrative to advocate for justice and inclusion.
Personal Growth and Community Building - Insights into personal development and its impact on community engagement.
Transformative Journeys in Multicultural Contexts - Lessons from personal experiences that shape leadership and advocacy in diverse communities.
Guest Bio
Krystopher Scott is a highly experienced visionary and creative director known for his commitment to empowering underrepresented communities and elevating minority voices across all industries. With over a decade of experience in entrepreneurship, filmmaking, and investing, Krystopher has developed a deep understanding of the power of storytelling to drive positive social change. As the founder of Atelier 411 Studios, he has become a respected leader in his field, dedicated to celebrating and preserving the richness of black culture and inspiring others to join in this crucial work.
Exciting Quotes from the Episode
"I'm just tired of us being at odds with everybody. I'm tired of this person not liking this person, this side against this side. That's not helping anybody."
 
"We don't know how to express, we know how to say, the material things that we want, but the simple things that we need is something just like, Hey, I need a hug."
 
"It's about preserving culture as a whole, not just black culture. that is definitely something that's prominent because that's what I am, for sure. But however, you know, The preservation of humans and how we communicate and commune with each other is  important."
Suggestions for Links for This Episode
Atelier 411 Studios: Explore the innovative works and projects led by Krystopher Scott at Atelier 411 Studios.
Krystopher on Social Media: Connect with Krystopher on Instagram and LinkedIn to follow his ongoing projects and insights.
Krystopher on YouTube: Watch more about Krystopher’s impact and interviews on his YouTube Channel.
Twitter: Follow Krystopher on Twitter for his latest thoughts and engagements in real-time.
Engage with Us
We hope this episode has inspired you as much as it has inspired us. Your thoughts and experiences enrich our community, and we'd love to hear from you!
Here’s how you can engage:
Ask Questions: Curious about topics discussed in today's episode or have questions for Krystopher, Maggie, or Urvi? Send us an email at noticingpodcast@gmail.com and we might feature your question in an upcoming episode!
Subscribe and Follow: Don’t miss out on any episodes! Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform and follow us to get updates as soon as new content is released. 
Your engagement means the world to us, and we can’t wait to hear from you. Let’s keep noticing and shaping the world together!