<![CDATA[Inside the Village]]>Inside the Village is a podcast sharing conversations from within a living creative ecosystem about writing, creativity, leadership, relationship, and what it means to bring something meaningful into the world without losing yourself in the process.

Hosted by Amanda Johnson, founder of Awaken Village Press, the show offers a window into the real, ongoing conversations happening inside the Village, alongside authors, collaborators, and friends who are exploring slower, more relational ways of creating and belonging.

Episodes take different forms—gatherings at the table, quiet reflections by the fire, and one-on-one conversations at the threshold—each offering space for honesty, inquiry, and speaking from the middle of the journey, not the polished end.

This isn’t a how-to show or a performance of expertise. It’s an invitation into a living conversation, and into a way of creating that values depth, integrity, and connection over speed or scale.

]]>https://riverside.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Mon, 02 Nov 2026 14:37:38 GMTWed, 04 Mar 2026 15:57:34 GMT60Awaken Village Press<p><b><strong>Inside the Village</strong></b> is a podcast sharing conversations from within a living creative ecosystem about writing, creativity, leadership, relationship, and what it means to bring something meaningful into the world without losing yourself in the process.<br /></p><p>Hosted by <b><strong>Amanda Johnson, founder of Awaken Village Press</strong></b>, the show offers a window into the real, ongoing conversations happening inside the Village, alongside authors, collaborators, and friends who are exploring slower, more relational ways of creating and belonging.<br /></p><p>Episodes take different forms—gatherings at the table, quiet reflections by the fire, and one-on-one conversations at the threshold—each offering space for honesty, inquiry, and speaking from the middle of the journey, not the polished end.<br /></p><p>This isn’t a how-to show or a performance of expertise. It’s an invitation into a living conversation, and into a way of creating that values depth, integrity, and connection over speed or scale.</p>episodicAwaken Village Pressadmin@awakenvillage.comno<![CDATA[At the Threshold: Rethinking Masculinity, Power, and Transformation with Matt Sturm]]>What if transforming masculinity begins not by trying to destroy what’s wrong with it, but by learning to face it?

In this episode of Inside the Village, Amanda Johnson sits down with Matt Sturm to celebrate the launch of his new book, Facing the Hydra—a thought-provoking, accessible introduction to his larger body of work exploring masculinity, personal development, and cultural transformation.

Drawing on the ancient Greek myth of Herakles, Matt invites us to reconsider the stories that have shaped Western ideas about what it means to be a man. Beneath the familiar tale of strength, achievement, and heroic conquest, he uncovers deeper narratives about dominance, violence, civilization, and humanity’s relationship with nature.

But what happens when the very things we try to conquer cannot—and should not—be destroyed?

Matt explores the Hydra as a symbol of the parts of ourselves and our world we attempt to suppress, arguing that genuine transformation comes not through domination or self-rejection, but through understanding, integration, and relationship. From the familiar constraints of the “man box” to the possibility of discovering a more authentic expression of gender, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on how masculinity can evolve.

Amanda and Matt also explore the difference between dominator hierarchies and growth hierarchies, the importance of curiosity over condemnation, and why embracing our own messiness may be essential to becoming more whole.

Matt shares how his own journey into men’s work began with difficult feedback in a relationship, led him into the transformative experience of brotherhood, and ultimately inspired him to write about masculinity. He also explains why Facing the Hydra is designed as a workbook—an invitation for men’s groups, friends, and individuals to explore these questions together.

This conversation is not about offering a single answer to what masculinity should be. It is about opening up the questions, examining the stories we’ve inherited, and creating space for new possibilities.

In this episode, we explore:

  • Why Matt wrote Facing the Hydra as the introductory “book zero” in his series
  • How the myth of Herakles has shaped cultural ideas about masculinity and civilization
  • The difference between dominator hierarchies and growth hierarchies
  • What the “man box” reveals about social conditioning
  • Moving from accepting inherited gender norms to resisting and redefining them
  • Why masculinity can be understood as an ongoing process of becoming
  • The power of men’s groups, vulnerability, brotherhood, and accountability
  • Why trying to destroy our flaws can become a form of self-violence
  • How curiosity can help us discover both the challenges and gifts of masculinity
  • Why facing the Hydra means embracing complexity rather than seeking conquest

Matt’s invitation is simple: bring curiosity to the ways gender and masculinity show up in your life, and consider reading Facing the Hydra with a few friends or as part of a group. The conversations that follow may open the door to deeper understanding, personal growth, and cultural change.

Explore Matt’s work:

Website: mattsturm.com

Buy your copy of Facing the Hydra

Subscribe to Matt’s Substack

Explore Awaken Village Press:

www.awakenvillagepress.com 

Join the Authors' Village


]]>2bb0e18d-bcf8-4394-8e74-bb1aed0a5b3eMon, 26 Oct 2026 14:34:56 GMT<p>What if transforming masculinity begins not by trying to destroy what’s wrong with it, but by learning to face it?</p><p>In this episode of <i><em>Inside the Village</em></i>, Amanda Johnson sits down with Matt Sturm to celebrate the launch of his new book, <i><em>Facing the Hydra</em></i>—a thought-provoking, accessible introduction to his larger body of work exploring masculinity, personal development, and cultural transformation.</p><p>Drawing on the ancient Greek myth of Herakles, Matt invites us to reconsider the stories that have shaped Western ideas about what it means to be a man. Beneath the familiar tale of strength, achievement, and heroic conquest, he uncovers deeper narratives about dominance, violence, civilization, and humanity’s relationship with nature.</p><p>But what happens when the very things we try to conquer cannot—and should not—be destroyed?</p><p>Matt explores the Hydra as a symbol of the parts of ourselves and our world we attempt to suppress, arguing that genuine transformation comes not through domination or self-rejection, but through understanding, integration, and relationship. From the familiar constraints of the “man box” to the possibility of discovering a more authentic expression of gender, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on how masculinity can evolve.</p><p>Amanda and Matt also explore the difference between dominator hierarchies and growth hierarchies, the importance of curiosity over condemnation, and why embracing our own messiness may be essential to becoming more whole.</p><p>Matt shares how his own journey into men’s work began with difficult feedback in a relationship, led him into the transformative experience of brotherhood, and ultimately inspired him to write about masculinity. He also explains why <i><em>Facing the Hydra</em></i> is designed as a workbook—an invitation for men’s groups, friends, and individuals to explore these questions together.</p><p>This conversation is not about offering a single answer to what masculinity should be. It is about opening up the questions, examining the stories we’ve inherited, and creating space for new possibilities.</p><p><b><strong>In this episode, we explore:</strong></b></p><ul><li>Why Matt wrote <i><em>Facing the Hydra</em></i> as the introductory “book zero” in his series</li><li>How the myth of Herakles has shaped cultural ideas about masculinity and civilization</li><li>The difference between dominator hierarchies and growth hierarchies</li><li>What the “man box” reveals about social conditioning</li><li>Moving from accepting inherited gender norms to resisting and redefining them</li><li>Why masculinity can be understood as an ongoing process of becoming</li><li>The power of men’s groups, vulnerability, brotherhood, and accountability</li><li>Why trying to destroy our flaws can become a form of self-violence</li><li>How curiosity can help us discover both the challenges and gifts of masculinity</li><li>Why facing the Hydra means embracing complexity rather than seeking conquest</li></ul><p>Matt’s invitation is simple: bring curiosity to the ways gender and masculinity show up in your life, and consider reading <i><em>Facing the Hydra</em></i> with a few friends or as part of a group. The conversations that follow may open the door to deeper understanding, personal growth, and cultural change.</p><p><b><strong>Explore Matt’s work:</strong></b></p><p>Website: <a href="https://mattsturm.com" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">mattsturm.com</a></p><p><a href="https://a.co/d/0dXMNl29" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Buy your copy of Facing the Hydra</a></p><p><a href="https://substack.com/@mattsturm" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Subscribe to Matt’s Substack<br /><br /></a></p><p><b><strong>Explore Awaken Village Press:</strong></b></p><p><a href="http://www.awakenvillagepress.com" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">www.awakenvillagepress.com</a> </p><p><a href="http://www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Join the Authors' Village</a></p><p><br /></p>no00:39:3111At the Threshold: Rethinking Masculinity, Power, and Transformation with Matt Sturmfull<![CDATA[At the Threshold: Finding Your Center in a Chaotic World with Shaka Xolani]]>What if the revolution we need begins within us?

In this powerful conversation, Amanda Johnson sits down with Shaka Xolani, yoga teacher, somatic intuitive coach, energy worker, psychic, and author of the forthcoming book Revolution of a Yogi, to explore how an embodied spiritual practice can ripple outward into meaningful social change.

Shaka invites us to look beyond the modern Western understanding of yoga as simply a physical practice. Through yoga, breath, meditation, and consistent self-inquiry, we can learn to regulate our nervous systems, become more centered, and develop the capacity to meet a chaotic world without being swept away by it.

Together, Amanda and Shaka explore what it means to raise consciousness in a time of political polarization, conflict, and profound societal change. They discuss the relationship between personal transformation and collective transformation, the role of highly sensitive people in times of upheaval, and why our discomfort can sometimes be a signal that something in the world around us needs to change.

Shaka also shares her journey from London to Costa Rica, the creation of the Abhyasa School of Yoga, and her vision for immersive yoga teacher training rooted in deep practice, nature, and self-discovery.

This conversation also challenges our ideas about activism. What if meaningful change isn't only about what we do, but also about our capacity to pause, listen, receive, rest, and reconnect with what truly matters?

At its heart, this is an invitation to come back to ourselves—with compassion, awareness, breath, and love—and to trust that the way we show up in the world can become part of the change we hope to see.

In this episode, we explore:

  • Yoga as a revolutionary practice
  • The connection between nervous-system regulation and consciousness
  • How inner transformation can ripple into collective change
  • Activism, receptivity, rest, and the power of being
  • Supporting highly sensitive people during times of chaos
  • The deeper philosophy behind yoga beyond physical postures
  • Shaka's journey from London to Costa Rica
  • The Abhyasa School of Yoga and immersive teacher training
  • Shaka's forthcoming book, Revolution of a Yogi
  • Why coming back to love may be one of the most powerful practices of all

Learn more about Shaka and her work:

Follow her on Instagram: @skiesandflorahealing

Learn more about her school: https://www.theabhyasaschool.com/about

Explore Awaken Village Press: www.awakenvillagepress.com

Join the Authors' Village: www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village

]]>9d1510cb-221e-4ff2-8350-27a46e2a53d3Fri, 25 Sep 2026 17:16:20 GMT<p>What if the revolution we need begins within us?</p><p>In this powerful conversation, Amanda Johnson sits down with Shaka Xolani, yoga teacher, somatic intuitive coach, energy worker, psychic, and author of the forthcoming book Revolution of a Yogi, to explore how an embodied spiritual practice can ripple outward into meaningful social change.</p><p>Shaka invites us to look beyond the modern Western understanding of yoga as simply a physical practice. Through yoga, breath, meditation, and consistent self-inquiry, we can learn to regulate our nervous systems, become more centered, and develop the capacity to meet a chaotic world without being swept away by it.</p><p>Together, Amanda and Shaka explore what it means to raise consciousness in a time of political polarization, conflict, and profound societal change. They discuss the relationship between personal transformation and collective transformation, the role of highly sensitive people in times of upheaval, and why our discomfort can sometimes be a signal that something in the world around us needs to change.</p><p>Shaka also shares her journey from London to Costa Rica, the creation of the Abhyasa School of Yoga, and her vision for immersive yoga teacher training rooted in deep practice, nature, and self-discovery.</p><p>This conversation also challenges our ideas about activism. What if meaningful change isn't only about what we do, but also about our capacity to pause, listen, receive, rest, and reconnect with what truly matters?</p><p>At its heart, this is an invitation to come back to ourselves—with compassion, awareness, breath, and love—and to trust that the way we show up in the world can become part of the change we hope to see.</p><p>In this episode, we explore:</p><ul><li>Yoga as a revolutionary practice</li><li>The connection between nervous-system regulation and consciousness</li><li>How inner transformation can ripple into collective change</li><li>Activism, receptivity, rest, and the power of being</li><li>Supporting highly sensitive people during times of chaos</li><li>The deeper philosophy behind yoga beyond physical postures</li><li>Shaka's journey from London to Costa Rica</li><li>The Abhyasa School of Yoga and immersive teacher training</li><li>Shaka's forthcoming book, Revolution of a Yogi</li><li>Why coming back to love may be one of the most powerful practices of all</li></ul><p>Learn more about Shaka and her work:</p><p>Follow her on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/skiesandflorahealing/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">@skiesandflorahealing</a></p><p>Learn more about her school: <a href="https://www.theabhyasaschool.com/about" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">https://www.theabhyasaschool.com/about</a> </p><p>Explore Awaken Village Press: <a href="https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">www.awakenvillagepress.com</a> </p><p>Join the Authors' Village: <a href="https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village</a></p>no00:34:5110At the Threshold: Finding Your Center in a Chaotic World with Shaka Xolanifull<![CDATA[At the Threshold: Writing, Loving & Becoming with Amanda Johnson]]>What happens when the book you’re writing begins to write you?

In this special conversation from the Writing the World Forward Summit, Amanda Johnson—founder of Awaken Village Press and author of the Becoming trilogy—turns the tables and becomes the one answering the questions.

Amanda shares the deeply personal journey behind her forthcoming book, Becoming One: On Love, Union, and the Illusion of Separation, and what it has taught her about relationships, identity, trust, and the creative process itself.

She reflects on what it means to write from lived experience, to let life become the laboratory for a book, and to discover that the ending you thought you were writing toward may not be the ending life has in store.

Together, Amanda and Matt Sturm explore writing at the speed of trust, the paradox of being both alone and all one, and how our deepest wounds can become invitations to build the communities we long for.

At the heart of the conversation is a simple but powerful question:

What is the story that only you can tell—and what will it ask of you to write it?

If you're a writer, creator, or simply someone navigating the unfolding story of your own life, this conversation is an invitation to trust the process, listen more deeply, and remember that you don't have to walk the path alone.

🌿 Get a Free Chapter of Becoming One

Want to read a chapter from Amanda's forthcoming book and stay informed about its release this fall?

Get a free chapter + join the list for updates

🤝 Contribute to Help Bring This Book Into the World

You can also support Amanda and the wider Awaken Village Press ecosystem by contributing to help bring this book—and future stories—into the world.

Contribute to help bring this book into the world

Join the Authors’ Village: awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village

Awaken Village Press: awakenvillagepress.com

Follow Awaken Village Press: Instagram 


]]>d8766caf-7563-4365-a2d2-6a3c150a2e3bFri, 28 Aug 2026 15:11:55 GMT<p>What happens when the book you’re writing begins to write you?<br /></p><p>In this special conversation from the <i>Writing the World Forward Summit</i>, Amanda Johnson—founder of Awaken Village Press and author of the <i>Becoming</i> trilogy—turns the tables and becomes the one answering the questions.<br /></p><p>Amanda shares the deeply personal journey behind her forthcoming book, <i>Becoming One: On Love, Union, and the Illusion of Separation</i>, and what it has taught her about relationships, identity, trust, and the creative process itself.<br /></p><p>She reflects on what it means to write from lived experience, to let life become the laboratory for a book, and to discover that the ending you thought you were writing toward may not be the ending life has in store.<br /></p><p>Together, Amanda and Matt Sturm explore writing at the speed of trust, the paradox of being both alone and all one, and how our deepest wounds can become invitations to build the communities we long for.<br /></p><p>At the heart of the conversation is a simple but powerful question:<br /></p><p><b>What is the story that only you can tell—and what will it ask of you to write it?</b><br /></p><p>If you're a writer, creator, or simply someone navigating the unfolding story of your own life, this conversation is an invitation to trust the process, listen more deeply, and remember that you don't have to walk the path alone.</p><h3><b>🌿 Get a Free Chapter of <i>Becoming One</i></b></h3><p>Want to read a chapter from Amanda's forthcoming book and stay informed about its release this fall?</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/becoming-one?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">Get a free chapter + join the list for updates</a></p><h3><b>🤝 Contribute to Help Bring This Book Into the World</b></h3><p>You can also support Amanda and the wider Awaken Village Press ecosystem by contributing to help bring this book—and future stories—into the world.</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/contribute?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">Contribute to help bring this book into the world</a><br /></p><p><b>Join the Authors’ Village:</b><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village" target="_blank">awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village</a></p><p><b>Awaken Village Press:</b><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://awakenvillagepress.com" target="_blank">awakenvillagepress.com</a></p><p><b>Follow Awaken Village Press:</b><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> Instagram</a> </p><p><br /></p>no00:39:129At the Threshold: Writing, Loving & Becoming with Amanda Johnsonfull<![CDATA[At the Threshold: Reclaiming Your Relationship With Worth with Amron Bevels]]>What happens when we stop asking whether we’re worthy of what we desire and begin to trust the desire itself?

In this conversation from the Writing the World Forward Summit, Amanda Johnson welcomes Amron Bevels back to Inside the Village for a deeper exploration of money, worth, desire, focus, and the invisible codes we carry about what we are allowed to receive.

Amron invites us to look beneath the surface of our beliefs about money and prosperity—to notice the places where sacrifice, self-denial, overgiving, and the need to be “good enough” may have quietly shaped the way we move through the world.

Together, Amanda and Amron explore what it means to put our resources behind something we believe in, why focus may be one of our most powerful forms of currency, and what can happen when we stop scattering our energy and begin choosing ourselves.

This conversation moves through spiritual mastery, prosperity, self-permission, generosity, the wisdom of desire, and the possibility of creating a life that feels deeply aligned and free.

At the heart of it all is a simple invitation:

Choose yourself.

You are your own best investment.

Amron Bevels works at the intersection of spiritual mastery, prosperity, and self-permission. A physician, mentor, and author, she brings together her scientific background with a spiritual and intuitive lens to support women in reclaiming their inner authority, sharpening their spiritual mastery, and creating lives that feel rich, aligned, and free.

She is the co-author of The Priestess Transmissions and the author of the forthcoming Light Codes of Money.

Connect with Amron:
🌐 amronbevels.com
📱 Instagram: @amronbevelsmd

📖 Get your copy of Light Codes of Money: Order on Amazon

🌿 Join the Authors’ Village: awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village

📚 Awaken Village Press: awakenvillagepress.com

📱 Follow Awaken Village Press: Instagram


Chapters

00:00 — Welcome to Inside the Village
02:46 — Meeting Amron Bevels
03:20 — Becoming a Match to What You Desire
06:55 — The Invisible Codes Around Money & Worth
11:48 — Putting Your Resources Behind Your Vision
13:46 — Focus Is Our Limitless Currency
17:41 — Desire, Doubt & the Permission to Receive
20:30 — Money Wants to Be in Motion
21:39 — Generosity Is Joy in Motion
26:10 — Trusting Your Own Discernment
30:24 — Choose Yourself: The Shift That Changes Everything
33:07 — Holding the Vision & Bringing Books Into the World
34:44 — Closing Invitation to the Authors’ Village

]]>c6c7a270-b3d6-4f19-8237-747c3019f7caWed, 29 Jul 2026 14:11:41 GMT<p>What happens when we stop asking whether we’re worthy of what we desire and begin to trust the desire itself?</p><p></p><p>In this conversation from the Writing the World Forward Summit, Amanda Johnson welcomes Amron Bevels back to <i>Inside the Village</i> for a deeper exploration of money, worth, desire, focus, and the invisible codes we carry about what we are allowed to receive.</p><p></p><p>Amron invites us to look beneath the surface of our beliefs about money and prosperity—to notice the places where sacrifice, self-denial, overgiving, and the need to be “good enough” may have quietly shaped the way we move through the world.</p><p></p><p>Together, Amanda and Amron explore what it means to put our resources behind something we believe in, why focus may be one of our most powerful forms of currency, and what can happen when we stop scattering our energy and begin choosing ourselves.</p><p></p><p>This conversation moves through spiritual mastery, prosperity, self-permission, generosity, the wisdom of desire, and the possibility of creating a life that feels deeply aligned and free.</p><p></p><p>At the heart of it all is a simple invitation:</p><p></p><p><b>Choose yourself.</b></p><p></p><p>You are your own best investment.<br /><br /></p><p>Amron Bevels works at the intersection of spiritual mastery, prosperity, and self-permission. A physician, mentor, and author, she brings together her scientific background with a spiritual and intuitive lens to support women in reclaiming their inner authority, sharpening their spiritual mastery, and creating lives that feel rich, aligned, and free.</p><p>She is the co-author of <i>The Priestess Transmissions</i> and the author of the forthcoming <i>Light Codes of Money</i>.</p><p></p><p><b>Connect with Amron:<br /></b>🌐<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.amronbevels.com/" target="_blank"> </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://amronbevels.com" target="_blank">amronbevels.com</a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.amronbevels.com/" target="_blank"><br /></a>📱 Instagram:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/amronbevelsmd/" target="_blank"> @amronbevelsmd</a></p><p>📖 <b>Get your copy of <i>Light Codes of Money</i>: </b><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H854VYDK" target="_blank">Order on Amazon<br /><br /></a></p><p>🌿 <b>Join the Authors’ Village:</b><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village" target="_blank">awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village</a></p><p>📚 <b>Awaken Village Press:</b><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> </a><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://awakenvillagepress.com" target="_blank">awakenvillagepress.com</a></p><p>📱 <b>Follow Awaken Village Press:</b><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> Instagram</a> <br /><br /></p><p><br /><b>Chapters</b></p><p><b>00:00 — Welcome to Inside the Village<br />02:46 — Meeting Amron Bevels<br />03:20 — Becoming a Match to What You Desire<br />06:55 — The Invisible Codes Around Money &amp; Worth<br />11:48 — Putting Your Resources Behind Your Vision<br />13:46 — Focus Is Our Limitless Currency<br />17:41 — Desire, Doubt &amp; the Permission to Receive<br />20:30 — Money Wants to Be in Motion<br />21:39 — Generosity Is Joy in Motion<br />26:10 — Trusting Your Own Discernment<br />30:24 — Choose Yourself: The Shift That Changes Everything<br />33:07 — Holding the Vision &amp; Bringing Books Into the World<br />34:44 — Closing Invitation to the Authors’ Village</b></p>no00:30:578At the Threshold: Reclaiming Your Relationship With Worth with Amron Bevelsfull<![CDATA[At the Threshold: Why the Crisis Is a Story Problem with Zach Bush ]]>What if the greatest challenge facing humanity isn't simply environmental, technological, or political—but a crisis of disconnection?

In this opening conversation of Writing the World Forward, Amanda Johnson sits down with physician, educator, and regenerative systems thinker Dr. Zach Bush to explore the stories shaping our world and the deeper narratives that determine how we relate to ourselves, one another, and the living Earth.

Together, they reflect on storytelling as a vehicle for wisdom rather than entertainment, the difference between authentic feeling and emotional abstraction, and why our future depends on remembering our place within nature rather than apart from it.

Dr. Bush also offers a compelling preview of his forthcoming book, Biological Elegance, sharing why he views artificial intelligence as "abstract intelligence"—a mirror reflecting humanity back to itself—and how this moment in history may be an invitation into what he calls a Biological Renaissance.

Throughout the conversation, Amanda and Zach explore what it means to write a new story for humanity—one rooted not in fear or scarcity, but in connection, regeneration, and belonging.

Follow Zach for ongoing reflections and updates:

📸 Instagram: @zachbushmd

📖 Get a copy of his latest book, Biological Elegance:

→ Biological Elegance

🌱 Join the movement

Contribute to our Emerging Voices fundraising campaign:
www.awakenvillagepress.com/contribute

Learn more about our Emerging Voices projects:
www.awakenvillagepress.com/projects

Interested in becoming part of our community? Join the Authors' Village:
www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome to Inside the Village and the Writing the World Forward Summit

02:57 – Why story is both humanity's greatest gift and greatest responsibility

11:59 – Writing from authentic experience instead of emotional formulas

17:05 – Biological Elegance and why AI is better understood as "abstract intelligence"

28:07 – The deeper story beneath today's environmental, health, and cultural crises

31:10 – Origin: reclaiming humanity's relationship with nature

35:52 – Practical ways to reconnect with the living world in everyday life

37:45 – Glyphosate, the microbiome, and humanity's growing disconnection from nature

46:08 – Why children give Zach hope for humanity's future

49:15 – Rewild, Origin, and stepping into a new story together

52:29 – Closing reflections and ways to support emerging voices 


]]>0e7bf7fb-b063-4862-93a5-6cec55052952Tue, 14 Jul 2026 16:26:49 GMT<p>What if the greatest challenge facing humanity isn't simply environmental, technological, or political—but a crisis of disconnection?</p><p></p><p>In this opening conversation of <b>Writing the World Forward</b>, Amanda Johnson sits down with physician, educator, and regenerative systems thinker <b>Dr. Zach Bush</b> to explore the stories shaping our world and the deeper narratives that determine how we relate to ourselves, one another, and the living Earth.</p><p></p><p>Together, they reflect on storytelling as a vehicle for wisdom rather than entertainment, the difference between authentic feeling and emotional abstraction, and why our future depends on remembering our place within nature rather than apart from it.</p><p></p><p>Dr. Bush also offers a compelling preview of his forthcoming book, <b>Biological Elegance</b>, sharing why he views artificial intelligence as "abstract intelligence"—a mirror reflecting humanity back to itself—and how this moment in history may be an invitation into what he calls a <b>Biological Renaissance</b>.</p><p></p><p>Throughout the conversation, Amanda and Zach explore what it means to write a new story for humanity—one rooted not in fear or scarcity, but in connection, regeneration, and belonging.<br /><br />Follow Zach for ongoing reflections and updates:</p><p>📸 Instagram: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/zachbushmd/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">@zachbushmd</a></p><p>📖 Get a copy of his latest book, <i>Biological Elegance</i>:</p><p>→ <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://zachbushmd.com/products/biological-elegance?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">Biological Elegance</a></p><p></p><p>🌱 <b>Join the movement</b></p><p>Contribute to our Emerging Voices fundraising campaign:<br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.awakenvillagepress.com/contribute" target="_blank">www.awakenvillagepress.com/contribute</a></p><p>Learn more about our Emerging Voices projects:<br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.awakenvillagepress.com/projects" target="_blank">www.awakenvillagepress.com/projects</a></p><p>Interested in becoming part of our community? Join the Authors' Village:<br /><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village" target="_blank">www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village</a></p><p></p><hr /><p></p><p><b>Chapters</b></p><p><b>00:00</b> – Welcome to <i>Inside the Village</i> and the <i>Writing the World Forward</i> Summit</p><p><b>02:57</b> – Why story is both humanity's greatest gift and greatest responsibility</p><p><b>11:59</b> – Writing from authentic experience instead of emotional formulas</p><p><b>17:05</b> – <i>Biological Elegance</i> and why AI is better understood as "abstract intelligence"</p><p><b>28:07</b> – The deeper story beneath today's environmental, health, and cultural crises</p><p><b>31:10</b> – Origin: reclaiming humanity's relationship with nature</p><p><b>35:52</b> – Practical ways to reconnect with the living world in everyday life</p><p><b>37:45</b> – Glyphosate, the microbiome, and humanity's growing disconnection from nature</p><p><b>46:08</b> – Why children give Zach hope for humanity's future</p><p><b>49:15</b> – Rewild, Origin, and stepping into a new story together</p><p><b>52:29</b> – Closing reflections and ways to support emerging voices </p><p><br /></p>no00:56:077At the Threshold: Why the Crisis Is a Story Problem with Zach Bush full<![CDATA[At the Table: The Power of Collective Creation]]>Inside the Village: 

This podcast is an open conversation about creativity, community, and what becomes possible when we stop trying to build everything alone.

In this episode, Amanda Johnson, Clinton Brown, and Matt Sturm explore the power of collective creation through the lens of Awaken Village Press' first-ever Writing the World Forward Summit. Together, they discuss why emerging voices matter, how regenerative publishing challenges traditional industry models, and what happens when authors, readers, and supporters become active participants in bringing meaningful books into the world.

The conversation dives into the courage required to ask for support, the importance of creating spaces where new ideas can emerge, and why community-centered publishing may offer a more sustainable path forward for both creators and culture itself.

From funding creative projects to reimagining how stories are shared, this episode is an invitation to consider what becomes possible when we embrace the truth that we are stronger together.


Want to go deeper and be part of what we’re building?

Register for the summit: www.awakenvillagepress.com/summit  

Contribute to the fundraising campaign ($50 or more gets you access to all 20 recorded sessions): www.awakenvillagepress.com/contribute

Learn more about our emerging voices: www.awakenvillagepress.com/projects  

Join our Authors’ Village: www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village

Follow Awaken Village Press on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/


Chapters:

00:00 Welcome & Stronger Together

02:22 Why We Created the Writing the World Forward Summit

05:58 Reimagining the Publishing Process

09:07 Why Authors Shouldn't Build Alone

11:23 The Challenge of Asking for Support

18:44 A New Model for Funding Creative Work

24:57 What It Feels Like to Be Supported Before a Book Exists

28:52 The Voices Traditional Publishing Often Misses

32:42 Inspiration, Emerging Ideas & Cultural Change

34:33 Signal Over Noise in a Distracted World

40:36 Final Reflections on Community & Culture

]]>4ac90f46-0d25-4f6a-9045-e2fe7a25aadbMon, 15 Jun 2026 15:15:00 GMT<p><b>Inside the Village: </b></p><p></p><p>This podcast is an open conversation about creativity, community, and what becomes possible when we stop trying to build everything alone.</p><p></p><p>In this episode, Amanda Johnson, Clinton Brown, and Matt Sturm explore the power of collective creation through the lens of Awaken Village Press' first-ever <i>Writing the World Forward Summit</i>. Together, they discuss why emerging voices matter, how regenerative publishing challenges traditional industry models, and what happens when authors, readers, and supporters become active participants in bringing meaningful books into the world.</p><p></p><p>The conversation dives into the courage required to ask for support, the importance of creating spaces where new ideas can emerge, and why community-centered publishing may offer a more sustainable path forward for both creators and culture itself.</p><p></p><p>From funding creative projects to reimagining how stories are shared, this episode is an invitation to consider what becomes possible when we embrace the truth that we are stronger together.</p><p><br /></p><p><i>Want to go deeper and be part of what we’re building?</i></p><p></p><p>Register for the summit: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.awakenvillagepress.com/summit" target="_blank">www.awakenvillagepress.com/summit</a>  </p><p>Contribute to the fundraising campaign ($50 or more gets you access to all 20 recorded sessions): <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.awakenvillagepress.com/contribute" target="_blank">www.awakenvillagepress.com/contribute</a></p><p>Learn more about our emerging voices: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.awakenvillagepress.com/projects" target="_blank">www.awakenvillagepress.com/projects</a>  </p><p>Join our Authors’ Village:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village" target="_blank"> www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village</a></p><p>Follow Awaken Village Press on Instagram:<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/" target="_blank"> https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/<b><br /><br /></b></a></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><b><br />Chapters:</b></p><p><b>00:00 Welcome &amp; Stronger Together</b></p><p><b>02:22 Why We Created the Writing the World Forward Summit</b></p><p><b>05:58 Reimagining the Publishing Process</b></p><p><b>09:07 Why Authors Shouldn't Build Alone</b></p><p><b>11:23 The Challenge of Asking for Support</b></p><p><b>18:44 A New Model for Funding Creative Work</b></p><p><b>24:57 What It Feels Like to Be Supported Before a Book Exists</b></p><p><b>28:52 The Voices Traditional Publishing Often Misses</b></p><p><b>32:42 Inspiration, Emerging Ideas &amp; Cultural Change</b></p><p><b>34:33 Signal Over Noise in a Distracted World</b></p><p><b>40:36 Final Reflections on Community &amp; Culture</b></p>no00:46:076At the Table: The Power of Collective Creationfull<![CDATA[At the Threshold: Money, Desire & Becoming ]]>In this deeply honest and expansive conversation, Amanda Johnson sits down with writer and guide Megan “Mira” Lathrop to explore money, self-trust, embodiment, and what it means to stand at the threshold of personal transformation.

Together, they unpack the hidden emotional and nervous system patterns that shape our relationship with money, intimacy, creativity, and self-worth. Mira shares insights from her own journey through corporate finance, identity shifts, and spiritual transformation, while offering a radically compassionate perspective on shame, scarcity, feminine embodiment, and receiving.

This episode explores what happens when we stop organizing our lives around fear, external validation, and survival, and begin creating from a place of truth, aliveness, and deep self-trust.

Amanda and Mira also dive into:

  • The connection between money, desire, and vulnerability
  • Why so many women struggle to receive fully
  • The illusion of external security
  • Nervous system patterns around overgiving and self-sacrifice
  • Embodiment, intimacy, and creative power
  • What it means to become the “author” of your own life
  • How shame dissolves through honest conversation and community

At the heart of this conversation is a powerful reminder: there is nothing wrong with you.

If you’ve ever questioned your worth, struggled with money, felt disconnected from your voice, or found yourself standing between who you were and who you’re becoming, this episode is for you.

Want to go deeper and be part of what we’re building?

🎟️ Register for the Summit: www.awakenvillagepress.com/summit

Join our Authors’ Village: www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village

Follow Awaken Village Press on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/

Follow Megan “Mira” Lathrop on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miramegslathrop/

Learn more about the work she does in the world: http://finanseer.com

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Inside the Village
01:34 What It Means to Stand at the Threshold
05:27 Overgiving, Identity, and Self-Abandonment
11:10 Creating Your Own Signal
14:39 Feminine Embodiment and Authorship
20:44 Letting Go of the Illusion of Security
23:27 Desire, Longing, and Receiving
31:35 Embodiment, Vulnerability, and Money
45:30 Aliveness, Shame, and Healing Through Conversation
52:25 Standing at the Edge of Transformation


]]>5d895301-f20a-4e72-8e47-576d9703715bMon, 01 Jun 2026 15:15:00 GMT<p>In this deeply honest and expansive conversation, Amanda Johnson sits down with writer and guide Megan “Mira” Lathrop to explore money, self-trust, embodiment, and what it means to stand at the threshold of personal transformation.</p><p></p><p>Together, they unpack the hidden emotional and nervous system patterns that shape our relationship with money, intimacy, creativity, and self-worth. Mira shares insights from her own journey through corporate finance, identity shifts, and spiritual transformation, while offering a radically compassionate perspective on shame, scarcity, feminine embodiment, and receiving.</p><p></p><p>This episode explores what happens when we stop organizing our lives around fear, external validation, and survival, and begin creating from a place of truth, aliveness, and deep self-trust.</p><p></p><p>Amanda and Mira also dive into:</p><ul><li>The connection between money, desire, and vulnerability</li><li>Why so many women struggle to receive fully</li><li>The illusion of external security</li><li>Nervous system patterns around overgiving and self-sacrifice</li><li>Embodiment, intimacy, and creative power</li><li>What it means to become the “author” of your own life</li><li>How shame dissolves through honest conversation and community<p></p></li></ul><p>At the heart of this conversation is a powerful reminder: there is nothing wrong with you.</p><p></p><p>If you’ve ever questioned your worth, struggled with money, felt disconnected from your voice, or found yourself standing between who you were and who you’re becoming, this episode is for you.</p><p></p><p>Want to go deeper and be part of what we’re building?</p><p></p><p>🎟️ Register for the Summit: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.awakenvillagepress.com/summit" target="_blank">www.awakenvillagepress.com/summit</a></p><p></p><p>Join our Authors’ Village: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village" target="_blank">www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village</a></p><p></p><p>Follow Awaken Village Press on Instagram: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/</a></p><p></p><p>Follow Megan “Mira” Lathrop on Instagram: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/miramegslathrop/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/miramegslathrop/</a> </p><p></p><p>Learn more about the work she does in the world: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://finanseer.com" target="_blank">http://finanseer.com</a> </p><p></p><p></p><h2>Chapters</h2><p>00:00 Welcome to Inside the Village<br />01:34 What It Means to Stand at the Threshold<br />05:27 Overgiving, Identity, and Self-Abandonment<br />11:10 Creating Your Own Signal<br />14:39 Feminine Embodiment and Authorship<br />20:44 Letting Go of the Illusion of Security<br />23:27 Desire, Longing, and Receiving<br />31:35 Embodiment, Vulnerability, and Money<br />45:30 Aliveness, Shame, and Healing Through Conversation<br />52:25 Standing at the Edge of Transformation</p><p><br /></p><p></p>no00:55:055At the Threshold: Money, Desire & Becoming full<![CDATA[At the Table: The Human Voice in the Age of AI]]>This episode of Inside the Village steps into one of the most pressing and complex conversations of our time: the rise of AI and what it means for creativity, authorship, and the human experience.

We explore a central question: What makes a human voice truly irreplaceable? As AI becomes increasingly capable of generating content, ideas, and even entire manuscripts, we examine where it can support the creative process and where it risks bypassing it entirely.

Through an honest and nuanced conversation, we dive into the tension between efficiency and authenticity, the difference between generated language and lived experience, and the subtle ways we can feel when something is no longer fully human. We also explore how AI is shaping the way we think, write, and express ourselves, and what happens when we rely on it before fully developing our own voice.

This episode opens up deeper philosophical questions about intelligence itself. Is intelligence uniquely human?

What can we learn from nature, collective systems, and emerging technologies? And how might this moment invite us to reconnect with what is most essential about being human?

We also reflect on how AI can be used as a tool for growth. It can challenge our thinking, refine our ideas, and support our creative process, while still asking us to remain in the seat of the creator.

At its core, this podcast is about honest conversations. Expansive, sometimes uncomfortable, but always real. It’s a space for creatives, writers, and thinkers navigating what it means to create, express, and evolve in a rapidly changing world.

If you’ve been questioning your relationship with AI, your creative process, or what it means to truly use your voice, this conversation is for you.

Want to go deeper and be part of what we’re building?

Join our Authors’ Village: www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village

Follow Awaken Village Press on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/

Visit our website to learn more: https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome + Framing the AI Conversation

07:11 What Makes a Human Voice Irreplaceable?

17:28 Finding Your Voice vs Mimicking Others

22:23 AI and the Creative Process

33:16 Humane and Regenerative Relationship with AI

47:29 What Becomes More Valuable About Being Human?

50:11 Rethinking Intelligence (Human, Machine, Nature)

]]>e7b25b82-bd1c-468d-ba9b-79b2396e229cFri, 01 May 2026 03:15:00 GMT<p>This episode of Inside the Village steps into one of the most pressing and complex conversations of our time: the rise of AI and what it means for creativity, authorship, and the human experience.</p><p></p><p>We explore a central question: What makes a human voice truly irreplaceable? As AI becomes increasingly capable of generating content, ideas, and even entire manuscripts, we examine where it can support the creative process and where it risks bypassing it entirely.</p><p></p><p>Through an honest and nuanced conversation, we dive into the tension between efficiency and authenticity, the difference between generated language and lived experience, and the subtle ways we can feel when something is no longer fully human. We also explore how AI is shaping the way we think, write, and express ourselves, and what happens when we rely on it before fully developing our own voice.</p><p></p><p>This episode opens up deeper philosophical questions about intelligence itself. Is intelligence uniquely human?</p><p></p><p>What can we learn from nature, collective systems, and emerging technologies? And how might this moment invite us to reconnect with what is most essential about being human?</p><p></p><p>We also reflect on how AI can be used as a tool for growth. It can challenge our thinking, refine our ideas, and support our creative process, while still asking us to remain in the seat of the creator.</p><p></p><p>At its core, this podcast is about honest conversations. Expansive, sometimes uncomfortable, but always real. It’s a space for creatives, writers, and thinkers navigating what it means to create, express, and evolve in a rapidly changing world.</p><p></p><p>If you’ve been questioning your relationship with AI, your creative process, or what it means to truly use your voice, this conversation is for you.</p><p></p><p>Want to go deeper and be part of what we’re building?</p><p>Join our Authors’ Village: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village" target="_blank">www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village</a></p><p>Follow Awaken Village Press on Instagram: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/</a></p><p>Visit our website to learn more: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/" target="_blank">https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/</a></p><p></p><p></p><p>Chapters:</p><p>00:00 Welcome + Framing the AI Conversation</p><p>07:11 What Makes a Human Voice Irreplaceable?</p><p>17:28 Finding Your Voice vs Mimicking Others</p><p>22:23 AI and the Creative Process</p><p>33:16 Humane and Regenerative Relationship with AI</p><p>47:29 What Becomes More Valuable About Being Human?</p><p>50:11 Rethinking Intelligence (Human, Machine, Nature)</p><p></p>no00:55:114At the Table: The Human Voice in the Age of AIfull<![CDATA[At the Table: Creative Tension between Impact and Visibility]]>This episode of Inside the Village explores a question many creatives quietly carry: Am I building something meaningful—or just something visible?

Through an honest and expansive conversation, we dive into the tension between impact and metrics, the pull of virality versus the slow work of creating something that truly lasts. From the perspective of authors, creators, and builders, we reflect on what it means to show up for the work without always seeing immediate results—and how to stay grounded in purpose when feedback loops are delayed or invisible.

We explore the deeper layers of creative work: writing as a process of self-discovery, the role of intuition in creation, and the challenge of trusting that what we’re building matters—even when all we can see are the “bricks.” This conversation also opens up a broader reflection on culture itself—how it’s shaped, how it evolves, and how creatives play a role in redefining it.

From slow burns and regenerative systems to gardens, ecosystems, and the long arc of meaningful work, this episode invites you to reconsider how you measure success—and what you’re truly here to build.

At its core, this podcast is about honest conversations—expansive, sometimes uncomfortable, but always real. It’s a space for creatives, writers, and thinkers who are choosing depth over speed, and meaning over metrics.

If you’ve ever questioned the impact of your work, or felt caught between creating for visibility and creating for truth—you’re not alone in it.

Want to go deeper and be part of what we’re building?

Join our Authors’ Village: www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village

Follow Awaken Village Press on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/

Visit our website to learn more: https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/

Chapters:
00:00 Welcome + The Creative Dilemma
02:39 Impact vs Visibility in Creative Work
11:12 Measuring Success Beyond Metrics
18:41 The Slow Burn vs Virality
31:33 Staying Motivated in Long-Term Work
42:59 Slow Work in Publishing + Regenerative Models

]]>466dfc13-e7d7-43da-9964-35ee10f04777Fri, 17 Apr 2026 03:15:00 GMT<p>This episode of Inside the Village explores a question many creatives quietly carry: Am I building something meaningful—or just something visible?</p><p></p><p>Through an honest and expansive conversation, we dive into the tension between impact and metrics, the pull of virality versus the slow work of creating something that truly lasts. From the perspective of authors, creators, and builders, we reflect on what it means to show up for the work without always seeing immediate results—and how to stay grounded in purpose when feedback loops are delayed or invisible.</p><p></p><p>We explore the deeper layers of creative work: writing as a process of self-discovery, the role of intuition in creation, and the challenge of trusting that what we’re building matters—even when all we can see are the “bricks.” This conversation also opens up a broader reflection on culture itself—how it’s shaped, how it evolves, and how creatives play a role in redefining it.</p><p></p><p>From slow burns and regenerative systems to gardens, ecosystems, and the long arc of meaningful work, this episode invites you to reconsider how you measure success—and what you’re truly here to build.</p><p></p><p>At its core, this podcast is about honest conversations—expansive, sometimes uncomfortable, but always real. It’s a space for creatives, writers, and thinkers who are choosing depth over speed, and meaning over metrics.</p><p></p><p>If you’ve ever questioned the impact of your work, or felt caught between creating for visibility and creating for truth—you’re not alone in it.</p><p></p><p>Want to go deeper and be part of what we’re building?</p><p></p><p>Join our Authors’ Village: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village" target="_blank">www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village</a></p><p>Follow Awaken Village Press on Instagram: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/</a></p><p>Visit our website to learn more: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/" target="_blank">https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/</a> </p><p></p><p></p><p><b>Chapters:</b><br />00:00 Welcome + The Creative Dilemma <br />02:39 Impact vs Visibility in Creative Work <br />11:12 Measuring Success Beyond Metrics <br />18:41 The Slow Burn vs Virality <br />31:33 Staying Motivated in Long-Term Work <br />42:59 Slow Work in Publishing + Regenerative Models</p>no00:54:513At the Table: Creative Tension between Impact and Visibilityfull<![CDATA[At the Threshold: Editing, Identity, and Letting Your Work Be Seen]]>This episode of Inside the Village: At the Threshold is an honest, unfiltered conversation about the creative process—specifically what it means to write, edit, and evolve through the journey of bringing a book into the world.

We explore the emotional and psychological layers of editing a manuscript: the vulnerability of having your work seen, the tension between your voice and outside feedback, and the challenge of revisiting past versions of yourself through your writing. This conversation opens up the reality that a book is not just a finished product, but a snapshot of who you were at a moment in time.

Together, we reflect on the role of editors as thought partners, the importance of alignment and challenge in the creative process, and the deeper transformation that happens as authors learn to trust their intuition while receiving feedback. We also touch on bigger questions around creativity, identity, and what it means to create something meaningful in an ever-evolving world.

At its core, this podcast is about honest conversations—expansive, sometimes uncomfortable, but always real. It’s a space for creatives, writers, and thinkers who are reimagining how we create, share, and grow.

If you’ve ever questioned your work, your voice, or your path as a creator—you’re not alone in it.

Want to go deeper and be part of what we’re building?

Join our Authors’ Village: www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village

Follow Awaken Village Press on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/

Visit our website to learn more: https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/

]]>5a9fec92-3e1b-4cd5-a614-ca9c4fd7c169Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:15:00 GMT<p>This episode of Inside the Village: At the Threshold is an honest, unfiltered conversation about the creative process—specifically what it means to write, edit, and evolve through the journey of bringing a book into the world.</p><p></p><p>We explore the emotional and psychological layers of editing a manuscript: the vulnerability of having your work seen, the tension between your voice and outside feedback, and the challenge of revisiting past versions of yourself through your writing. This conversation opens up the reality that a book is not just a finished product, but a snapshot of who you were at a moment in time.</p><p></p><p>Together, we reflect on the role of editors as thought partners, the importance of alignment and challenge in the creative process, and the deeper transformation that happens as authors learn to trust their intuition while receiving feedback. We also touch on bigger questions around creativity, identity, and what it means to create something meaningful in an ever-evolving world.</p><p></p><p>At its core, this podcast is about honest conversations—expansive, sometimes uncomfortable, but always real. It’s a space for creatives, writers, and thinkers who are reimagining how we create, share, and grow.</p><p></p><p>If you’ve ever questioned your work, your voice, or your path as a creator—you’re not alone in it.</p><p></p><p>Want to go deeper and be part of what we’re building?</p><p>Join our Authors’ Village: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village" target="_blank">www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village</a></p><p>Follow Awaken Village Press on Instagram: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/</a></p><p>Visit our website to learn more: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/" target="_blank">https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/</a></p><p></p>no00:28:592At the Threshold: Editing, Identity, and Letting Your Work Be Seenfull<![CDATA[At the Table: A New Publishing Model for Creatives (Rooted in Regeneration, Not Extraction)]]>This podcast is an open conversation about rethinking how we live, create, and build in today’s world.

We explore the purpose behind what we do—questioning current systems, challenging traditional business models, and imagining new ways of working that are sustainable, meaningful, and regenerative.

From the way humanity interacts with the planet to how creatives and creators can build differently, this space dives into regenerative models that prioritize long-term impact over short-term gain. We talk about community-based publishing, the “village” model of creation, and what it means to be part of an ecosystem rather than just an individual.

At its core, this podcast is about honest conversations—expansive, sometimes uncomfortable, but always real. It’s a place for divergent thinking, cultural creation, and reimagining business and society as a whole.

If you’re looking to think deeper, create differently, and be part of something more intentional—you’re in the right place.


Want to go deeper and be part of what we’re building?

Join our Authors’ Village: www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village

Follow Awaken Village Press on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/
Visit our website Awaken Village Press to learn more: https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/



]]>d0b21dbe-c540-416e-af8a-e7b1393d99a2Fri, 20 Mar 2026 13:56:29 GMT<p>This podcast is an open conversation about rethinking how we <b>live, create, and build</b> in today’s world.<br /></p><p>We explore the purpose behind what we do—questioning current systems, challenging traditional business models, and imagining new ways of working that are sustainable, meaningful, and regenerative.<br /></p><p>From the way humanity interacts with the planet to how creatives and creators can build differently, this space dives into regenerative models that prioritize long-term impact over short-term gain. We talk about community-based publishing, the “village” model of creation, and what it means to be part of an ecosystem rather than just an individual.<br /></p><p>At its core, this podcast is about honest conversations—expansive, sometimes uncomfortable, but always real. It’s a place for divergent thinking, cultural creation, and reimagining business and society as a whole.<br /></p><p>If you’re looking to think deeper, create differently, and be part of something more intentional—you’re in the right place.<br /><br /><br /><i>Want to go deeper and be part of what we’re building?</i></p><p>Join our Authors’ Village: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village" target="_blank">www.awakenvillagepress.com/authors-village</a> </p><p>Follow Awaken Village Press on Instagram: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/awakenvillagepress/</a><br />Visit our website Awaken Village Press to learn more: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/" target="_blank">https://www.awakenvillagepress.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><br /></p>no00:45:091At the Table: A New Publishing Model for Creatives (Rooted in Regeneration, Not Extraction)full