Christmas Crossroads: Tradition, Consumerism And Authentic Connection (#157) Mormons On Mushrooms podcast

1:01:49

Mike and Doug reflect on a milestone weekend that was both deeply creative and profoundly emotional. They dive into the experience of recording their first official song in a studio—a song that Doug wrote for his mother—and explore the healing power of artistic expression. From confronting vulnerability to embracing full creative freedom, they share their personal journeys of transformation through music, connection, and community. What You'll Hear in This Episode: 🔹 Recording Their First Studio Song – Doug’s emotional journey writing a song for his mother, and Mike’s harmonies bringing it to life 🔹 The Creative Process & Overcoming Perfectionism – Letting go of expectations and embracing the flow of artistic expression 🔹 Music as Healing – How creativity shifts from healing trauma to full self-expression 🔹 Tribe & Authenticity – Finding a community where weirdness, ritual, and artistic exploration are fully embraced 🔹 Panther Mode & Ecstatic Dance – Mike’s realization about freedom and responsibility, and how it all leads to full panther mode on stage 🔹 The Power of Ritual – Transforming a Mormon Airbnb into a sacred creative space 🔹 A Dream of Vulnerability – Doug’s post-weekend nightmare and how it led to a cathartic solo dance session Send your email to join the MoM Underground : Co-create with a community of artists and stay informed of online and local events, including gatherings, concerts, live podcast recordings, meditations, etc. Support Mormons on Mushrooms: Become a Patreon Send a Contribution…

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The Old Gods Are Calling (#202) 1:01:17

17 days ago1:01:17

1:01:17

Mike and Doug dive into the Ten Commandments, Moses’ wild ride through the desert, and how biblical stories can be read symbolically rather than literally. They explore the connections between Christianity and pagan traditions, the gods of their ancestors, and why it might be time to start a cult—one that actually empowers people instead of controlling them. Topics Discussed: The story of Moses, the golden calf, and God's temper tantrums The Ten Commandments—what’s actually in them vs. how they’re used today The Book of Job as an archetypal journey of individuation How Christianity absorbed older pagan traditions ( Easter? More like Ostara! ) Reconnecting with ancestral spirituality and the old gods The idea of a modern, non-dogmatic spiritual "cult" rooted in autonomy and ritual The Mormons on Mushrooms underground newsletter and how to get involved Send your email to join the MoM Underground : Co-create with a community of artists and stay informed of online and local events, including gatherings, concerts, live podcast recordings, meditations, etc. Support Mormons on Mushrooms: Become a Patreon Send a Contribution…

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The Most Satisfying Experience of Being Alive w/ Kelli & Seth (#201) 1:06:46

19 days ago1:06:46

1:06:46

In this special episode, Kelli and Seth take over Mormons on Mushrooms to explore the power of imagination, somatic practices, and the creative process. If you've ever felt stuck creatively or disconnected from your body’s wisdom, this episode is for you. 🔹 Key Topics Discussed: The Mormons on Mushrooms vision as a creative collective The power of imagination and the imaginal realm Somatic practices to enhance creativity and embodiment The symbolism of the sleeping dragon and what it protects How to navigate emotions without bypassing them The connection between creativity and ferocity in protecting one's energy The role of play, wonder, and acceptance in personal transformation The importance of self-approval and embracing complexity 🔹 Guided Practice: Seth leads Kelli through a body scan meditation and active imagination exercise, helping listeners tap into their own embodied wisdom. 🔹 Special Offerings & Resources: ✨ Kelli Christine Case Kelli offers an ongoing in-person SLC-based group support group for people navigating life after the death of a loved one as well as personal grief tending and relationship coaching and a nonviolent communication training in SLC at the end of February. Visit her website for more details: kellichristinecase.com ✨ Seth Share Circles: Seth hosts guided active imagination meditations as part of his share circles, offering a safe space for people to connect with their inner worlds and share authentically. For more details, email mormonsonmushroomspod@gmail.com or reach out to Seth on Instagram at @sethlloyds . Creativity Coaching: Seth is a creativity guide who helps people develop spiritual and creative practices through somatic methods and active imagination, leading to a more satisfying and embodied life.Email Seth.Stephenson@protonmail.com for inquiries. Send your email to join the MoM Underground : Co-create with a community of artists and stay informed of online and local events, including gatherings, concerts, live podcast recordings, meditations, etc. Support Mormons on Mushrooms: Become a Patreon Send a Contribution…

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Here's To 200 More! (#200) 1:29:28

28 days ago1:29:28

1:29:28

🎉 200 EPISODES! 🎉 Can you believe it? We've been doing this for almost five years, and in this milestone episode, Mike and Doug take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reflecting on the journey of Mormons on Mushrooms —the highlights, the cringeworthy moments, the unexpected transformations, and what’s next. In This Episode: The Beginning: How a casual conversation turned into a four-and-a-half-year podcasting adventure. Memorable Moments: From our first guest episodes to the wildest interviews and unexpected community connections. Lessons Learned: How podcasting has been an unfolding process—both messy and profound. Personal Growth: Mike and Doug reflect on how they’ve changed since the podcast began, including their evolving relationship with spirituality, self-expression, and even... masturbation? (Yup, it's in there.) The Vulnerability Hangover: What it’s like to put yourself out there, be truly seen, and deal with the unexpected repercussions. Music & Creativity: How the podcast paved the way for deeper artistic exploration and new creative projects. Future of the Podcast: New formats, potential new hosts, and a vision for Mormons on Mushrooms as a collective platform. Send your email to join the MoM Underground : Co-create with a community of artists and stay informed of online and local events, including gatherings, concerts, live podcast recordings, meditations, etc. Support Mormons on Mushrooms: Become a Patreon Send a Contribution…

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Dream Bigger: Imagination, Creativity and Dragons w/ Seth (#199) 1:13:46

about a year ago1:13:46

1:13:46

Episode Summary: Seth returns and is joined by Mike for a deep dive into imagination, creativity, and the transformative power of channeling. Together, they explore active imagination, engaging with the imaginal realm, and Seth's journey toward connecting with dragons as primal, ancestral forces. The episode is a celebration of creativity, personal growth, and embracing the mysterious depths within. Topics Discussed: Active Imagination and Shadow Work: Mike and Seth share their experiences with active imagination, discussing its challenges and the breakthroughs it offers. They reflect on entering the imaginal realm, confronting fear, and engaging with the unconscious without judgment. Channeling Dragons: Seth recounts his journey of connecting with dragons as symbols of ferocity and transformation. He describes the physical and emotional sensations that led him to this practice and how it has shifted his perspective on creativity and power. The Power of Somatic Therapy: Seth explains how Hakomi somatic psychotherapy combines mindfulness and body awareness with imagination to foster healing and self-discovery. Creativity and the Middle World: Drawing on James Hillman’s concept of the "middle world," the duo discusses how creativity bridges the abstract and material realms, allowing us to co-create with consciousness. Imagination as a Tool for Healing and Growth: From inviting magical beings to help with mundane tasks to dreaming bigger, the conversation underscores the importance of imagination in expanding one’s sense of self and engaging with life fully. Soul-Making and Self-Acceptance: The hosts reflect on how engaging with the imaginal world fosters self-acceptance and offers new perspectives on challenges and emotions. Links Seth's Share Circles: Seth hosts guided active imagination meditations as part of his share circles, offering a safe space for people to connect with their inner worlds and share authentically. For more details, email mormonsonmushroomspod@gmail.com or reach out to Seth on Instagram at @sethlloyds . Creativity Coaching with Seth: Seth offers coaching sessions to help individuals connect with their subconscious, engage with creativity, and establish life-affirming spiritual practices. Email Seth.Stephenson@protonmail.com for inquiries. 200th Episode Live Recording: Join Mike and Doug for a special live recording of their 200th episode on February 2nd at 5 PM MT. To participate, email mormonsonmushroomspod@gmail.com . Join the Conversation: Sign up for the Mormons on Mushrooms Underground Newsletter to stay connected and hear about future events and updates. Share your thoughts, stories, or questions by emailing mormonsonmushroomspod@gmail.com . Episode Highlights: “The face we show the unconscious is the face that it shows back.” “We are part of creation, and all we can do is fully be a part of it.” “An emotion is a sensation with a story.” “Imagination is not about escaping reality; it’s about enriching it.” Thank You for Listening! If this episode inspired or resonated with you, don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to Mormons on Mushrooms on your favorite podcast platform.…

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We Were Always Tree People (#198) 53:51

about a year ago53:51

53:51

Send your email to join the MoM Underground : Co-create with a community of artists and stay informed of online and local events, including gatherings, concerts, live podcast recordings, meditations, etc. Support Mormons on Mushrooms: Become a Patreon Send a Contribution In this episode, Mike and Doug dive deep into the themes of community, connection, and finding meaning amidst chaos. Mike shares his recent experience with the devastating Los Angeles fires, reflecting on how disasters highlight the fractures in our modern, isolated lifestyles. The conversation weaves through topics like the cultural importance of tribal connections, the challenges of corporate America, and the lost wisdom of our pagan ancestors. The duo also explores animism, the spiritual significance of nature, and how movies like The Witch and The Northman bring ancient traditions to life. They discuss the Salem Witch Trials, the roots of hysteria, and the importance of reclaiming communal rituals that connect us to our shared humanity. Along the way, there’s plenty of humor, nostalgia, and even a shout-out to some heartfelt song lyrics. Key Topics Discussed : The Los Angeles fires and the fragility of modern life. How corporate structures create isolation and stifle creativity. The significance of community and tribal connections in raising children. Animism and reconnecting with nature as a spiritual practice. Reflections on the Salem Witch Trials and the evolution of "witch" as a concept. Pagan roots and the myths of Scandinavian and Celtic cultures. The transformative power of rituals, both ancient and modern. Musings on the importance of connection through art, music, and storytelling.…

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Maybe It’s My Nosferatu Era (#197) 55:20

about a year ago55:20

55:20

Send your email to join the MoM Underground : Co-create with a community of artists and stay informed of online and local events, including gatherings, concerts, live podcast recordings, meditations, etc. Support Mormons on Mushrooms: Become a Patreon Send a Contribution In this episode, Mike and Doug dive into a riveting conversation sparked by Mike's eerie solo trip to see the terrifying new Nosferatu movie—while high, no less! This opens the door to a deep discussion about fear, creativity, and how our media choices reflect and shape our inner lives. Key Topics Discussed: Mike's Nosferatu Experience What it’s like to immerse yourself in a terrifying film while grappling with existential questions. The surprising symbolic themes in Nosferatu and how they mirror our pursuits and sacrifices in life. Exploring the Hero’s Journey Reflections on the archetype of the hero, from Frodo to Neo, and how it resonates with our longing to matter. The paradox of seeking external validation versus finding fulfillment through self-discovery. Soul-Making Through Art and Expression Doug and Mike discuss James Hillman’s concept of soul-making: engaging deeply with life’s ecstasies and heartbreaks. The difference between creating for external approval and the fullness that comes from authentic, communal experiences—whether on stage, around a fire, or during a chill Friday night gathering. TikTok and the Validation Trap Navigating the highs and lows of sharing content online. Why likes, comments, and views can never fully satisfy the soul. New Year Intentions: Living Authentically Mike shares a new ritual inspired by Doug: defining “I am” statements to align with personal truths and aspirations. How these intentions tie back to music, community, and creating moments of true connection.…

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Our Best of 2024 (#196) 1:26:42

about a year ago1:26:42

1:26:42

Send your email to join the MoM Underground : Co-create with a community of artists and stay informed of online and local events, including gatherings, concerts, live podcast recordings, meditations, etc. Support Mormons on Mushrooms: Become a Patreon Send a Contribution Doug and Mike reflect on the past year, sharing their top cultural moments and the personal stories behind them. From the films and TV shows that left a mark to the music that became a soundtrack to their lives, it’s a nostalgic and thoughtful journey through the art that shaped their 2024. A mix of humor and insight as they count down their favorite moments in culture, including standout shows like Shogun and Welcome to Wrexham and emotional films like The Outrun . Reflections on the music that shaped their year, from the harmonies of The Lone Bellow’s “Honey” to the powerhouse vocals of artists like Dua Lipa and Olivia Rodrigo. Stories of live performances that were transformative, from intimate concerts to the collective joy of sports victories like the Dodgers’ championship. A laid-back conversation that invites you to think about your own highlights of the year, sprinkled with the kind of humor and tangents that feel like catching up with old friends. It’s a celebration of art, connection, and the little things that make a year memorable—perfect for anyone looking to reflect or rediscover the joy of shared experiences.…

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Let's Get Canceled (#195) 1:02:16

about a year ago1:02:16

1:02:16

Send your email to join the MoM Underground : Co-create with a community of artists and stay informed of online and local events, including gatherings, concerts, live podcast recordings, meditations, etc. Listen to the Christmas Songs on Soundcloud: Ho Ho Ho Hosanna Pour Ourselves Some Cheer Support Mormons on Mushrooms: Become a Patreon Send a Contribution The conversation delves into the captivating saga surrounding the murder of a healthcare CEO, exploring the complexities of the suspect's manifesto, media portrayal, and societal implications. The hosts discuss the nature of violence, personal boundaries, and the influence of women in society, while also critiquing the current state of woke culture and the importance of intention in representation. The dialogue reflects on personal experiences and the evolving landscape of societal norms and expectations. The saga of the adjuster is multifaceted and captivating. Luigi Mangione's manifesto reveals deep-seated thoughts on the healthcare system. Media portrayal can significantly influence public perception of individuals. The complexity of violence is intertwined with human nature and survival instincts. Boundaries are essential for personal identity and self-protection. Pacifism and aggression coexist within individuals, creating internal conflict. The influence of women in society is powerful and necessary for change. Secrets can shape personal relationships and self-perception. Political dynamics often reflect deeper societal issues and personal experiences. Intention in art and representation is crucial for authenticity. Chapters 00:00 The Captivating Saga of the Adjuster 03:35 Unpacking the Manifesto and Its Implications 06:46 The Arrest and Its Aftermath 09:48 Media Narratives and Public Perception 12:34 The Nature of Violence and Human Instincts 15:36 The Role of Secrets and Boundaries 18:45 Kinks, Nature, and the Human Condition 21:49 The Evolution of Wolves and Humans 24:46 The Political Landscape and Division 27:44 The Power of Public Opinion 30:42 Rationality vs. Animal Instincts in Voting 32:38 The Flaws of Perfectionism in Women 36:45 Challenging the Patriarchy 41:47 The Complexity of Masculinity 45:35 The Dilemma of Corporate Ethics 50:41 Woke Culture and Authenticity 01:00:34 Resting in Intentions 01:01:57…

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I Think I'll Try Defying Gravity: Substances and Letting Go (#194) 1:07:45

about a year ago1:07:45

1:07:45

Send your email to join the MoM Underground : Co-create with a community of artists and stay informed of online and local events, including gatherings, concerts, live podcast recordings, meditations, etc. Listen to the Christmas Songs on Soundcloud: Ho Ho Ho Hosanna Pour Ourselves Some Cheer Support Mormons on Mushrooms: Become a Patreon Send a Contribution Episode Summary In this conversation, Doug and Mike delve into topics ranging from microdosing LSD and the importance of rituals to the cultural impact of the musical Wicked . They share candid reflections on their relationships with various substances—caffeine, alcohol, ketamine, and psychedelics—emphasizing the significance of mindfulness, set and setting, and surrendering to personal growth. This dialogue is a thoughtful exploration of creativity, intentional living, and the lessons learned from both practices and accidents. Key Takeaways Microdosing requires careful measurement and a mindful approach. Rituals hold significance in grounding practices and experiences. Wicked has made a lasting cultural impact, though Defying Gravity is often considered overrated. Set and setting are critical factors when using substances for personal growth. Reflection and intentionality can deepen understanding and enhance creativity. Letting go is less about achievement and more about surrender and relaxation. Ketamine can help access suppressed emotions and unlock creative potential. Daily mindfulness can help manage stress and encourage balance in life. Creativity is often sparked by inspiration but can also emerge from accidents. Being a vessel for creativity involves allowing flow and staying present. Chapters 00:00 Exploring Microdosing and Its Challenges 06:04 The Cultural Impact of Wicked 11:53 The Length of Modern Musicals 17:55 Reflections on Personal Relationships with Substances 25:02 Rethinking Caffeine and Its Role in Our Lives 31:18 The Spectrum of Substances: From Ketamine to Mushrooms 48:50 The Bufo Experience: Letting Go and Surrendering 01:00:02 Mindfulness in Substance Use and Daily Life…

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Heretic - Movie Breakdown (#193) 1:16:39

about a year ago1:16:39

1:16:39

Send your email to join the MoM Underground : Co-create with a community of artists and stay informed of online and local events, including gatherings, concerts, live podcast recordings, meditations, etc. Listen to the Christmas Songs on Soundcloud: Ho Ho Ho Hosanna Pour Ourselves Some Cheer Support Mormons on Mushrooms: Become a Patreon Send a Contribution Enjoy these show notes courtesy of our overlords at ChatGPT: Join Mike and Doug as they dive into the magic of the holiday season, faith crises, and the beauty of creative expression. From writing Christmas songs to discussing the themes of the movie Heretic , this episode takes listeners on a journey through existential questions, love, and the power of finding meaning. Plus, they introduce the first snippets of their quirky and heartfelt Christmas music project. Show Notes: Holiday Magic & Music : Mike shares his prolific streak, writing 25 minutes of Christmas songs with themes ranging from cozy nostalgia to solstice-inspired rebirth. Doug introduces the playful anthem "Ho Ho Ho Hosanna," setting the tone for their holiday album. Themes from Heretic : Exploring the psychology of faith crises and existential dread. The metaphors of descent, transformation, and rebirth in the film. The symbolic role of love and survival as guiding principles. Creative Flow vs. Performance : Struggles with authenticity when sharing music on platforms like TikTok. Balancing the joy of creation with the pressures of performance and visibility. Connection to Archetypes : Tying holiday traditions back to their ancient, archetypal roots. The solstice as a time of hope and renewal amid the darkest days. Listener Engagement : Updates on the "Mormons on Mushrooms Underground" newsletter. Teasing a live episode and ways to stay connected. Special Endings : Stay tuned for clips of their original Christmas songs! Enjoy this festive and thought-provoking episode filled with laughter, reflection, and a sprinkle of holiday cheer.…

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We Need a Safe Word with the Universe (#192) 1:03:49

about a year ago1:03:49

1:03:49

Mike and Doug dive into a candid conversation exploring themes of chaos, music, and the rising feminine energy in today’s world as well as the wild dance of the human experience, holding space for both the serious and the playful. Highlights: Divine Feminine Rising: Mike shares a oncert experience that led to a deep connection with feminine energy, including an encounter with the goddess Hecate. Reconnecting with Prayer: Mike talks about rediscovering prayer, not as a religious ritual but as a way to ground himself and send love to the people in his life. Embracing Community: We’re excited to keep Mormons on Mushrooms underground, and we’re building a close-knit, lo-fi network to keep our listeners connected without all the noise of mainstream platforms. Reflecting on the Election: We reflect on some hard truths we have learned about ourselves this past week.…

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Tonight I'm a Bitch Babe (#191) 1:03:05

about a year ago1:03:05

1:03:05

In this raw and unfiltered episode, Mike and Doug dive deep into the emotional whirlwind of the recent election results, expressing their frustrations, disappointments, and hopes for the future. They navigate complex topics like voter turnout, the power of social media echo chambers, and how political figures shape—and sometimes divide—our perceptions. Key Topics: Election Reflections : The impact of voter turnout and explores why many eligible voters stayed home this election. Doug vents his frustrations about the current political climate, particularly about how the media and social media algorithms feed polarized views. Kamala Harris’s campaign and the barriers faced by women and people of color in politics. Echo Chambers and Social Media : Mike opens up about getting swept into TikTok's echo chambers and reflects on how quickly it feeds confirmation bias. The importance of staying aware of these digital bubbles, how they influence emotions, and their role in elections. Tripping with Men : The importance of spaces for men to connect, find camaraderie, and be wild. Sometimes, all we need is a safe space to let it all out, to howl at the moon, and reconnect with ourselves and each other…

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Air Travel Elitists (#190) 1:11:35

about a year ago1:11:35

1:11:35

Mike and Doug catch up after a break, covering everything from luggage durability tests to the strange world of TikTok rabbit holes. They dive into echo chambers, politics leading up to the election, and the odd realities of air travel. Highlights: Doug’s quest for the toughest carry-on luggage. Mike’s deep dive into TikTok, from Secret Lives of Mormon Wives to political spirals. The value of stepping out of echo chambers, and how air travel forces us to interact with different people. A chat on Trump, Kamala, the election landscape and feeling like elitists. Mike’s reflections on freedom after losing their Mormons on Mushrooms Instagram account.…

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The Earth is Sexy: Eros, Allurement, and Longing w/ Ann Amberg (#189) 1:29:31

about a year ago1:29:31