• 144 - The Inspired Art of Living - Conversation with Deng Ming-Dao Part II
    Jun 19 2025
    Continuing the Conversation with Deng Ming-Dao Guest: Deng Ming-Dao (Daoist philosopher, author, and artist) Episode Overview In this powerful continuation of Episode 143, hosts Jaye McElroy and Leta Herman dive deeper into their transformative conversation with renowned Daoist philosopher and artist Deng Ming-Dao. This episode explores the intersection of creativity, healing, and daily practice, offering profound insights for artists, healers, and anyone seeking to live more authentically. This episode is essential listening for artists, healers, and anyone interested in living a more creative, authentic life. The conversation bridges ancient Daoist wisdom with practical modern applications for reclaiming creativity and attention in our distracted world. Key Topics Discussed The Art of Listening to Inner Voices Distinguishing between inspiration and other internal chatterThe importance of waiting and discernment in creative and healing processesHow meditation creates space to reassess and clarify authentic inspiration Trusting Your Inner Compass Why external validation (money, success) cannot replace inner knowingThe courage to follow your heart despite societal pressuresSelf-cultivation as the ultimate measure of success Reclaiming Your Attention How society has co-opted our natural capacity for attentionThe difference between being told what to focus on versus choosing your focusPractical steps to redirect attention from consumption to creation Everyone is an Artist Why 99% of people have had their natural creativity "beaten out of them"The myth of talent versus the reality of daily practiceStarting small: simple tools like pencil and paper, humming, or describing experiences The Progression of Practice Why beginners should expect and embrace being "no good" initiallyThe power of daily practice and incremental improvementUsing constraints and limitations to stimulate creativity Art as Healing How both artist and audience are transformed through creative expressionThe gift of art as a form of healing exchangeCreating "messages in bottles" for future generations The Spiritual Dimension of Art Art as a response to the world and inner experienceThe importance of not pandering to audiencesHow authentic expression naturally carries spiritual essence Memorable Quotes On Trusting Your Heart: "If you trust your heart, if your heart tells you this is where you need to go, then that's what you need to follow. Because no external rewards and no external rejection is going to be a guide for what you need to do in life." On Getting Started: "It's as simple as picking up a pencil and a piece of paper. It's as simple as humming something. It's as simple as saying, this just happened to me. How do I describe it?" On Attention: "We are completely capable of attention, but attention has been co-opted by our society. We have not been allowed to say we deserve attention for our own purposes." On Defining Art: "Art is a response to the world. And from that, other people can see that shape [and] think about how they might want to respond to the world." Practical Takeaways Start a Daily Practice: Get a sketchbook and write or draw in it every day, even if it's "crap"Examine Your Screen Time: Notice how much attention you give to others' content versus your own creative expressionEmbrace Beginner's Mind: Allow yourself to be "no good" initially and focus on the process, not the outcomeSet Constraints: Use limitations to spark creativity (small canvases, limited time, simple materials)Create Space for Reflection: Spend time looking at and contemplating your work, not just producing it Resources Mentioned AlchemyLearningCenter.com - Hosts' website with courses and resourcesNew Book: "Cultivating the Thirteen Ghost Points" by the hostsThe intersection of Daoist philosophy and creative practiceThe concept of the Nine Palaces and the Creativity/Children Palace About the Guest Deng Ming-Dao is an author, artist, and teacher. He is the author of: 365 Tao; Chronicles of Tao; Scholar Warrior; Everyday Tao; The Lunar Tao; The Living I Ching; Zen: The Art of Modern Eastern Cooking; and The Wisdom of the Tao, Every Journey Begins With a Single Step, and The Way of Heart and Beauty. His books have been translated into a variety of European and Asian languages. Deng Ming-Dao has trained in Chinese martial arts since 1975. His teachers have come from Beijing, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and two Taoist mountains, Huashan and Wudangshan. He has been most involved with the internal systems of Xingyiquan, Baguazhang, and Taijiquan, and he has given many workshops to introduce Chinese martial arts and Taoist wellness techniques. Episode Themes Creativity as Spiritual PracticeHealing Through ArtAttention as Sacred ResourceDaily Practice as TransformationAuthentic Expression vs. Commercial Art
    Show More Show Less
    51 mins
  • Art and Self-Cultivation – A Conversation with Deng Ming-Dao, Artist and Author
    Jun 13 2025

    In this episode, Deng Ming-Dao, esteemed author of the Wandering Taoist and several other Daoist-based books—(including our favs Spiritual Warrior and 365 Tao), joins Leta and Jaye as they have an inspiring conversation together. This episode explores the concept of how art isn’t separate from self-cultivation—it is self-cultivation. Ming-Dao dives into what it means to self-cultivate and how creating art, practicing Tai Chi, or even making mistakes can be the fire that transforms us.

    From poetry to Tai Chi to painting—everything becomes part of the Alchemical process of becoming our authentic selves. If you’ve ever wondered whether your creative life is as important as a spiritual practice—this podcast is for you.

    00:53 The Importance of Art in Self-Cultivation 02:00 Understanding Self-Cultivation 03:48 Art and the Creative Process 08:10 Tai Chi and Qi Resonance 10:45 Expression and Self-Cultivation 16:33 Daily Practice and Overcoming Obstacles 21:39 The Role of Inspiration and Inner Voice 25:19 Healing Arts and Self Cultivation 40:16 The Value of Art vs. Healing
    Show More Show Less
    32 mins
  • 142 - Being the Wood Opti-Mystic of Alchemy When You're Overwhelmed 🌴🌳🌲
    Jun 2 2025

    In this episode, Jaye and Leta invite you to take a little time out — not in a punishment sort of way, but in a take-a-step-back-and-breathe kind of way. We’re kicking off a brand-new five-part series on the Alchemy, Five Elements & Overwhelm, starting with Wood — the Element of Hope, Renewal, and of Inspired Action.

    What We Talk About:
    • Why overwhelm is sometimes the new normal — and why is/isn't it OK

    • What ancient Daoist Alchemists did during times of political chaos (hint: it involves retreats, mountains, and silence)

    • Why wind represents change in Chinese Medicine — and how to work with it instead of being blown away

    • Wood Element traits under pressure: survival mode, strategy overload, and full-on gorilla mode

    • The concept of “Opti-mystic” — embracing the mystic and the optimistic during chaotic times

    • Practical advice for Wood types (and everyone with Wood in their chart, which is… everyone) on how to re-center, breathe, and find meaning in challenge

    • A sneak peek into how the other elements (Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water) handle overwhelm — next up: Fire and the fear of losing love

    00:25 Dealing with Overwhelm in Today's World 04:31 Embracing Change and Technological Advances 12:48 Navigating Overwhelm with Elemental Energies 13:13 Understanding Yourself in Chaotic Times 13:53 The Essence of Wood Energy 14:27 Survival Mode and Wood People 15:52 Strategies for Wood People 18:59 Embracing Challenges Positively
    Show More Show Less
    27 mins
  • 141 - Alchemy Rocks… Literally: The Real Magic Behind Stone Medicine
    Apr 25 2025

    Could ancient stones be the missing link in your modern-day transformation?

    In this episode, Jaye and Leta explore the mysterious—yet surprisingly practical—world of Alchemy Stone Medicine. We're talking crystals, gemstones, and minerals, and how these ancient Earth allies can support healing, self-cultivation, and real energetic change.

    From Five Element colors to sacred shapes to the way stones are formed deep within the Earth, you’ll discover that stones have personalities—just like humans. This episode is all about building relationships with stones as transformational partners, not just keeping them around as pretty shelf candy.

    Whether you’re brand new to stone medicine or already knee-deep in crystal clusters, you’ll leave with fresh insights, a few laughs, and maybe a new favorite rock to carry in your pocket.

    Show More Show Less
    33 mins
  • 140 - Is That a Stone in Your Pocket? 💎 Lucky You! Alchemy Stone Medicine with Mikhael Oskarsson
    Mar 19 2025

    Stone Medicine is an ancient healing modality rooted in Chinese medicine. In this conversation with Stone Medicine practitioner, Mikhael Oskarsson, we delve into the methods and philosophies of Stone Medicine, emphasizing its transformational potential and how it can enhance self-cultivation practices.

    Practical Applications of Stone Medicine

    Stone medicine isn't just theoretical—it's incredibly practical. In this conversation, Jaye, Mikhael and Leta explore various ways to incorporate stone medicine into daily life:

    • Jewelry and Talismans: Wearing stones as jewelry offers a constant energetic reminder and support, aligning with personal intentions and goals.
    • Grids and Elixirs: Creating stone grids around spaces or using stones in elixirs (vibrationally potent water) can enhance environments and personal energy fields.

    • Feng Shui and Placements: Stones can be strategically placed in homes to influence energy flow, attract positivity, and repel negativity or stale energy.

    Connecting with Stones

    Building a vibrational, personal relationship with stones is important to maximizing their healing benefits. When you enter into the world of Stone Medicine, it's an invitation to explore and discover which stones you are naturally attract to. Holding and connecting with these stones helps in developing an intimate understanding of Stone Medicine energies and how stones can support your journey. This will help you identify your allies as a Stone Medicine practitioner.

    If you want to learn more about Alchemy Stone Medicine, join us for an upcoming free Alchemy Stone Medicine webinar on March 31st, 2025. This webinar will talk about Alchemy Stone Medicine in our Modern world and introduce our new 12-week immersive certification program for Alchemy Stone Medicine for Self-Cultivation.

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 4 mins
  • 139 - Who Rules Your Rules? Examining Oppression and Your Core Identity with the Thirteen Ghost Points
    Mar 13 2025

    In our final episode on the Thirteen Ghost Points, we discuss how they serve as metaphors for past traumas, events, or aspects of ourselves that haunt us. The journey through these themes is all about confronting these ghosts and working through them to cultivate a deeper sense of self.

    This episode addresses your ability to guide your own destiny and connect with your higher self. It's about asking yourself the tough questions: Are you living by your own rules? Are you fulfilling your true purpose?

    Exploring Ghost Official and Ghost Seal

    In this episode, we delve into two significant Ghost Points: Ghost Official and Ghost Seal.

    • Ghost Official: This is about being in charge of your destiny. It asks us to examine whether we are living under our own life's rules or if we are being oppressed by the expectations and control of others. The key takeaway here is the freedom to fulfill your own will and walk your own path.

    • Ghost Seal: This point speaks to the core essence of who you are, predating even this lifetime. It challenges us to connect with our authentic self, beyond labels and roles society gives us. Who were you before life defined you as an occupation, a familial role, or social identity?

    Unfinished Business and a Life of Completion

    A life with no unfinished business is one that aligns with your core purposes and values, bringing the idea of completing your life's journey with a sense of fulfillment. By working through these themes, you can clear past burdens, enabling you to fully realize and embody your authentic self.

    Join the Alchemical Journey

    Our exploration of the 13 Ghost Points ties in seamlessly with our upcoming book, Cultivating the Thirteen Ghost Points. If you want more information about the book, you can sign up to receive updates about the book launch and more at AlchemyLearningCenter.com.

    We also invite you to join us for our upcoming live events. We’re hosting a webinar on March 31st, 2025 about Alchemy and Stone Medicine, an ancient Chinese healing modality, at the end of March. This event promises to be as enlightening as our podcast discussions.

    00:43 Engaging with Your Ghosts 01:06 Deep Dive into the Last Two Points 01:38 Self-cultivation and the New Book 03:24 Introduction to Stone Medicine 03:48 Personal Connection with Stones 05:51 Exploring Ghost Official 06:51 Understanding Will Blocks 07:29 Living by Your Own Rules 08:41 Exploring Ghost Seal
    Show More Show Less
    16 mins
  • 138 - Lost and Found: Embracing Intimacy - Reclaiming Your Innocence with the Ghost Points
    Mar 4 2025

    In this episode, we discuss the next Ghost Points themes surrounding intimacy with yourself and the safest people in your life as well as releasing the guilt and shame you may be carrying.

    Ghost Hall: Embracing Intimacy with Yourself and Others

    Intimacy, whether with yourself or others, often involves vulnerability and trust. When we've been betrayed or taught to doubt ourselves, we often feel uncomfortable and afraid to expose our inner selves. Cultivating intimacy starts with introspection and building trust within yourself first.

    Ghost Hall, is a metaphor for a private sanctuary within you- a small, intimate chamber next to your heart. You decide who is safe enough to be allowed into that intimate space. Intimacy is about trusting yourself to make the decision as to who to let in so that you can reclaim your power and achieve a deeper sense of connection with others.

    Ghost Hidden: The Journey Through Shame and Guilt

    Shame and guilt can be significant barriers to achieving innocence and self-forgiveness. Forgiveness, particularly of yourself, allows for healing and can guide you back to your original state of innocence. The theme of Ghost Hidden is about embracing the idea that freedom and innocence are innate rights, available to everyone willing to undertake this journey of self-discovery.

    00:52 Deep Dive into Intimacy and Innocence 01:19 Exploring Ghost Hall and Ghost Hidden 01:31 The Importance of Self-Cultivation and Awareness 05:34 Understanding Ghost Hall 08:33 The Concept of Intimacy with Yourself 10:17 Challenges of Vulnerability and Trust 12:28 Introduction to Ghost Hidden 12:53 Dealing with Shame and Guilt 13:58 Advanced Forgiveness and Innocence 16:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Links

    Advanced Forgiveness Meditation

    Silly Walks

    *********************************

    Visit the Podcast Website:

    Click here to get more information on the Inspired Action podcast and the Five Element Fridays podcast.

    Visit the Alchemy Learning Center Website:

    Click here to get more information about our meditations and online classes.

    Join Our Facebook Group

    Click here to join our Facebook group for additional content or to send us a question.

    Join Our Inner Circle

    If you would like to join our email newsletter list, click here. (We will never sell or misuse your email in any way, it is safe.)

    Through the Mystery Gate book

    #InspiredActionPodcast

    Show More Show Less
    18 mins
  • 137 - Fields of Healing and Change - Interview with Keith Parker
    Feb 20 2025

    In this episode, we consider the realm of fields of energy in our healing journeys. This interview Keith Parker from Field Dynamics is a fascinating journey through the realms of energy fields, healing, and the intricate connection between mind, body, and spirit.

    Keith elaborates on how energy fields are often described in various cultures and spiritual traditions as chi, prana, or aura, encapsulating electromagnetic, bioelectrical, and informational domains.

    Join us for this thought-provoking conversation and uncover the intricate pathways that lead to a deeper connection with our inner healing potential. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or a curious seeker, this episode explores the boundless possibilities of energy fields in enhancing healing.

    00:31 Exploring the Heart's Energy Field 01:54 The Intersection of Science and Alchemy 03:44 The Power of Thoughts and Emotions 06:11 Introducing Keith Parker 07:37 Understanding Energy Fields 19:46 The Science Behind Energy Fields 32:21 Quantum Entanglement and Modern Science 33:49 The Holographic Principle and Reality 35:41 Fractals and the Nature of the Universe 39:24 Mind, Body, and Spirit: A Unified Perspective 43:03 The Heart's Role in Inner Transformation 49:01 Meditation and Self-Cultivation
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 7 mins