Best Adoptee Amplified Voices Podcasts (2025)

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Mike Malloy Returns: Psychedelic Healing, PTSD & the Adoption Journey 56:57

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2d ago56:57

56:57

In this enlightening and deeply heartfelt follow-up episode, we welcome back Mike Malloy, a Korean American adoptee, veteran, and community builder. Mike returns to share his powerful experience with psilocybin-assisted therapy, originally sought to support his PTSD from military service, and how it unexpectedly brought long-buried aspects of his a…

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Episode 39 - Adoption Wasn’t a Big Deal for Michelle … Until It Was! 51:01

6d ago51:01

51:01

Send us a text Today, we’re sitting down with Michelle- a mum, a midwife, a nurse, and someone who has walked the winding path of adoption and healing. Adopted at six weeks old, Michelle grew up in southern Sydney with her brothers and a whole lot of freedom, never really thinking adoption was a big part of her story. But like many of us, life has …

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Trailer: Under the Radar - Stories That Needed Telling 1:10

6d ago1:10

1:10

Send us a text Welcome to The Australian Adoption Podcast: My Unknown Truth, a space for the stories that live beneath the surface. In this trailer, host Nadia Levett shares the origins of the podcast and in Episode 1 she shares her personal journey from foster care to adoption, shaped by both love and complexity. But this series is about more than…

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Paper Cuts and Power: Navigating Adoption Microaggressions 1:05:25

20d ago1:05:25

1:05:25

In this episode, Laurie and Claire delve into the nuanced topic of microaggressions within the adoption community. This discussion was inspired by a KAAN (Korean American Adoptee Adoptive Family Network) Conference workshop that Laurie and Claire attended. We want to help bring microaggressions into the light so that we can talk about them, normali…

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Episode 38 - “Winging It Since 1982: A Bonus Chat with Jo Sparrow” 1:38:16

23d ago1:38:16

1:38:16

Send us a text Hey Everyone, and welcome to this special bonus ep of The Australian Adoption Podcast. This one’s a bit different - I’m flipping the mic and sharing an interview I did with Jo Sparrow on Adopt Perspective. We get into all of it - early care, family, reunion, identity, and what healing really looks like over time. Jo asks the kind of …

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Love beyond the Orphanage - Interview with Julie Duvall, Part 2 1:00:03

24d ago1:00:03

1:00:03

In this follow-up conversation, we welcome back Julie Duvall—an aged-out Korean orphan, late-life adoptee, and fierce advocate for adult Korean orphans. Julie returns to share more deeply about her ongoing journey of healing, faith, and purpose. We dive into the realities faced by those who grow up in orphanages without ever being adopted, and the …

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Marley's Mutts Launches New Veterans Therapy Program: Shelter Dogs Healing Others 44:49

24d ago44:49

44:49

Send us a text Are you ready to discover how rescued dogs are transforming the lives of veterans and first responders? In this eye-opening episode, I welcome back Connor Long, Operations Manager at Marley's Mutts Dog Rescue, to discuss their groundbreaking program, Troops N Tails. Connor shares his personal journey with equine therapy and how it in…

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Heading to KAAN: Calming Nerves and Connecting with our KAD Community 13:40

1M ago13:40

13:40

This week, join Laurie and Claire for a special mini-episode as they share their pre-KAAN conference jitters and excitement! Heading to a large conference, even one filled with supportive community, can bring on a mix of emotions. Laurie and Claire open up about their feelings and, in true Empowered Adoptee fashion, offer some quick and easy tools …

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Why Do Breakups and Loss Hurt So Much—and How Do We Heal From Them? 57:39

1M ago57:39

57:39

In this powerful and validating episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we explore the real reasons why breakups and loss can feel so devastating—not just emotionally, but physically and biochemically. Whether it’s the end of a romantic relationship, the loss of a close friendship, estrangement, heartbreak activates some of the deepest parts of o…

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Understanding Self-Sabotaging Behavior As Adoptees 1:04:11

2M ago1:04:11

1:04:11

In this vulnerable episode, Laurie and Claire dive deep into the complex topic of self-sabotage, particularly among adoptees. We explore the subconscious strategies that lead us to undermine our own relationships and goals, often driven by fear and core wounds. Join us as we uncover the common triggers, patterns of behavior, and the beliefs that pe…

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Episode 37 - "The Fire of Belonging: A Journey Through Loss and Sovereignty" 7:47

2M ago7:47

7:47

Send us a text Welcome to Season 4 of The Australian Adoption Podcast, with your host Nadia Levett, where truth is reclaimed, stories are given a voice, and silence is broken. Today, we are privileged to hear from Shane Bouel, a man whose life was shaped by adoption—not as an act of love, but as a theft of identity. In his own words, he recounts th…

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Kari Rudd: A Whole New World, A Whole New Me 1:03:26

2M ago1:03:26

1:03:26

In this powerful episode, we’re joined by Kari Rudd, a Korean adoptee based in Santa Barbara, California. Kari shares her transformative journey of searching for identity and belonging after her challenging experiences with adoption. Kari was adopted at around six months old into a family that faced significant struggles. After being removed from h…

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Adoptee Mental Health: Stories, Struggles & Strength 1:06:21

2M ago1:06:21

1:06:21

In this heartfelt episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we honor Mental Health Awareness Month by sharing personal stories from our own journeys with mental health as adoptees. We speak honestly about the challenges we’ve faced—grief, anxiety, depression, isolation—and the tools, practices, and moments of connection that helped us keep going. W…

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Julie Duvall's Journey as an Aged-Out Orphan in Korea: A Story of Seeking Family and Connection 1:08:14

2M ago1:08:14

1:08:14

In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Julie Duvall, a Korean aged-out orphan who was adopted later in life. Julie’s unique perspective sheds light on the complexities of growing up in an orphanage in Korea and her journey through finding her way in life without any support from a family of her own. With heartfelt honesty, she shares her e…

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Episode 36 - "Empowered Voices: Emily Hikaiti Elevating Youth in Australia's Care System" 57:55

3M ago57:55

57:55

Send us a text Welcome to Season 3 of the Australian Adoption Podcast, with your host, Nadia Levett. In today’s episode I’m joined by the inspiring Emily Hikaiti. Emily is an Australian-born Māori woman with a powerful story and a deep commitment to youth advocacy. Drawing from her lived experience in Australia’s out-of-home care system, Emily has …

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What Does AAPI Month Mean to Asian American Adoptees? 44:58

2M ago44:58

44:58

In this heartfelt episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we explore a tender and complex question: “What does AAPI Heritage Month mean to Asian American adoptees?” For many of us, this month brings up a mix of celebration and sorrow — pride in our cultural roots, grief for what was lost, and sometimes uncertainty about where we belong. Together,…

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Shark Tank Success: Frame Your Feline's Journey to Fame 51:25

3M ago51:25

51:25

Send us a text Brian Vermeire and Kristina Hughes, founders of Frame Your Feline, return to the podcast to share their journey from creating innovative cat furniture to landing a spot on Shark Tank. • Frame Your Feline offers wall-mounted frames that cats naturally jump into, becoming "living masterpieces" • Traditional cat furniture takes up floor…

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Visiting Korea as an Adoptee: What No One Tells You 1:10:35

3M ago1:10:35

1:10:35

Get ready for an incredibly validating and eye-opening discussion for adoptees preparing for (or processing) a visit to Korea. Laurie and Claire share vulnerably about their experiences visiting Korea and all the feelings, emotions, and awarenesses around their journey back to their homeland as an adoptee. What to Expect in This Episode: Join Lauri…

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Understanding Attachment Styles as Adoptees: How Early Bonding Shapes Our Relationships 1:20:58

3M ago1:20:58

1:20:58

In this episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we explore attachment theory—a powerful psychological framework that helps us understand how we connect, love, and feel safe in relationships. We take a closer look at the four core attachment styles—secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized—and how these show up in the lives of adoptees. From ear…

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Vagus Nerve Activation Tools for Adoptees 24:26

3M ago24:26

24:26

In this episode, we delve into how adoptees can find their path back to calm and connection by tapping into the power of the vagus nerve. This crucial nerve helps regulate your nervous system and supports feelings of safety and belonging. Practicing these tools for just 10 minutes or less each day can significantly help improve your body's ability …

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Honoring Our Truth: The Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Findings & Their Impact on Adoptees 1:00:57

4M ago1:00:57

1:00:57

In this episode, we dive into the shocking findings of South Korea’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which has exposed systemic fraud and human rights violations in the country’s international adoption program. With over 140,000 Korean adoptees sent overseas, many under falsified circumstances, this revelation forces us to reexamine the ethica…

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A Panel Discussion with Nate Choi and Kirsten Mathis: Advocating For Our Rights and Expressing Our Truth 1:18:39

4M ago1:18:39

1:18:39

In this special panel discussion, we sit down with fellow Korean adoptees Nate Choi and Kirsten Mathis to explore the complexities of the adoptee experience—from finding strength in community to navigating deeply personal emotions. Together, we reflect on the importance of taking pauses, honoring our individual journeys, and creating safe spaces fo…

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State of Animal Welfare: Updates from Marley's Mutts Dog Rescue's Melissa Brunson 57:33

4M ago57:33

57:33

Send us a text Melissa Brunson, Executive Director of Marley's Mutts Dog Rescue, returns to share critical updates on animal welfare in Southern California where shelters are facing overwhelming challenges. Kern County's 40% euthanasia rate reflects a system in crisis where happy, healthy dogs are being euthanized simply due to lack of space. Ways …

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Episode 35 - "Adopted and Adopting: Peter's Journey of Love and Legacy" 59:35

4M ago59:35

59:35

Send us a text "Welcome to the Australian Adoption Podcast, where we explore stories that inspire, challenge, and broaden our perspectives. In this episode, we're honoured to introduce Peter, an 81-year-old adoptee from New Zealand and brother of Jan Peart, who shared her journey in Episode 16. Peter’s story is one of love, resilience, and the tran…

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Finding Safety in Uncertain Times: A Guided Meditation for Adoptees 21:32

4M ago21:32

21:32

Finding Safety in Uncertain Times: A Guided Meditation for Adoptees In this special episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast, Laurie offers a gentle, grounding guided meditation to help adoptees regulate their nervous systems and cultivate a sense of safety amidst uncertainty. With so much unknown in the world, especially for Korean American adopte…

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Befriending Anxiety: Transforming Anxiety Into Self Trust 1:04:06

4M ago1:04:06

1:04:06

In this episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we explore how befriending our anxiety can help us navigate the adoptee journey with more ease and self-compassion. Instead of seeing anxiety as something to fix or get rid of, we discuss how it can actually be a protector, a messenger, and even a guide to deeper self-awareness. We dive into how anx…

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Am I enough? Letting Go Of Unworthiness 1:12:37

5M ago1:12:37

1:12:37

In this episode, we dive into the complex emotions tied to feelings of unworthiness experienced by many adoptees and explore paths to healing and empowerment. By understanding primal wound theory, societal influences, and cultural displacement, we aim to uncover why these feelings emerge and how adoptees can reclaim their sense of self-worth. Lauri…

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Dear White Adoptive Families: Here's What We Want You To Know About Us 59:01

5M ago59:01

59:01

In this episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast we’re amplifying adoptee voices to share what we want adoptive families to understand in order to help us feel truly supported and seen. Transnational and transracial adoptees often have complex, layered experiences that can be difficult to articulate to their adoptive families. While every adoptee’s…

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Episode 34 - FRAGILE, Handle with Care: Barton C Williams Story of War, Art & Identity 46:11

5M ago46:11

46:11

Send us a text Hi listeners, today I am speaking with Barton. A former Surf Life Saver, Australian barefoot water ski champion and an educator, Barton is also a published writer, an actor in film, tv, and theatre. He is also a Vietnamese war adoptee. In April 1975, President Ford initiated the largest-ever humanitarian child evacuation. Thousands o…

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Healing, Identity, and Advocacy: A Conversation with Dr. Hollee A. McGinnis 54:19

5M ago54:19

54:19

In this powerful episode of the Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Hollee A. McGinnis, a Korean adoptee, educator, scholar, and healer with nearly 30 years of experience in adoption and child welfare. Hollee’s work focuses on amplifying adoptee perspectives, advocating for socially just child welfare policies, and supporting individual…

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How To Cultivate Unshakable Self-Love As An Adoptee 1:07:00

5M ago1:07:00

1:07:00

In this episode, we dive deep into the journey of self-love from the unique perspective of Korean adoptees. Self-love isn’t just about bubble baths and positive affirmations—it’s about creating safety, trust, and embodiment. Join us as we share our personal experiences and practical tips for cultivating a deep and unconditional love for ourselves. …

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From Adoption to Advocacy: Leah Brighton’s Journey of Reconnection & Leadership 56:48

6M ago56:48

56:48

In this episode of the Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we sit down with Leah Brighton, a Korean Canadian adoptee, passionate advocate, and the founder of the first adoptee-led organization in Canada. As the President of the Asian Adoptees of Canada, Leah has been instrumental in creating spaces where adoptees can connect, learn, and embrace their histor…

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Breaking Boundaries: Rob 'Loebz' on His KAD Journey Through Hip Hop and B-Boy Culture 1:00:35

6M ago1:00:35

1:00:35

In this episode, we sit down with Rob ‘Loebz,’ a talented Korean Canadian b-boy, to explore his inspiring journey through hip hop culture and dance. Rob shares his experiences growing up as a Korean adoptee (KAD) in Canada, navigating questions of identity, and finding a sense of belonging within the global b-boy and hip hop community. What you can…

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Kaleena Bliss: A KAD Following Her Culinary Passion From Pacific Northwest To Top Chef 50:16

6M ago50:16

50:16

In this episode, Laurie and Claire are joined by Kaleena Bliss, a KAD who grew up in WA and is now living and working in Chicago as an executive chef. Kaleena shares her experiences navigating racism and identity challenges, how building relationships with other Asians helped to foster a sense of belonging and pride for her heritage, and the impact…

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Animal Voices Amplified A New Season of Heartwarming Pet Stories 7:15

6M ago7:15

7:15

Send us a text Welcome back to the Story of My Pet Podcast! After a brief hiatus, I'm thrilled to return with a fresh season filled with heartwarming pet stories and spotlights on remarkable animal organizations. As your host, Julie Marty-Pearson, I'm eager to share how this podcast has not only grown but also profoundly impacted my own life and th…

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How Adoption Impacts our Relationships: Part Two 1:03:17

6M ago1:03:17

1:03:17

After the incredible response to our first episode on how adoption impacts relationships, we’re diving even deeper into this important topic. In this heartfelt follow-up, Laurie and Claire explore the lasting effects of adoption on attachment styles, emotional intimacy, and relationship dynamics, sharing new insights from their personal journeys. W…

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Episode 33 - Every Child Deserves Better: Renee Carter on Reform, Resources & Adopt Change 43:55

6M ago43:55

43:55

Send us a text Hi everyone, today I will be speaking to Renee Carter, CEO of Adopt Change Australia. Adopt Change is a non-profit organisation with its purpose to support children in need, focussing on government care, foster care, orphans, or children without families, and their carers, families and guardians. They have continued to achieve this b…

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How To Manifest Anything You Want in 2025 50:43

6M ago50:43

50:43

What are you bringing into 2025? When it comes to manifestation, how do we know we are doing it right? Join Laurie and Claire on their very first episode of season 2, kicking off a brand new year! This just might be the podcast episode that will help you transform your life, re-write your narrative, and manifest that thing you have always wanted in…

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Highlights From Our Guests in 2024 46:23

7M ago46:23

46:23

In this final podcast episode of this Season 1, Laurie and Claire reflect and highlight some of our guests over the year. Join us while we share some of the messages, lessons, and special moments from our beloved guests that we have treasured and taken to heart. Freeing Your Voice: A Journey with Phoenix Song, Trans Korean Adoptee and Sound Healer …

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Reflections From 2024: A Conversation Full of Insights, Relatable Moments, and Inspiration as Laurie and Claire Prepare to Step Boldly Into 2025 50:00

7M ago50:00

50:00

In this heartfelt episode, Laurie and Claire sit down to reflect on the lessons, challenges, and growth they’ve experienced in 2024. As the year comes to a close, they share what they’re leaving behind and what they’re taking into 2025. •Laurie on Letting Go of People-Pleasing: Laurie opens up about how people-pleasing has shaped her life and the s…

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Jenna Lee Kim: Connector, Ally, and Advocate For Adoptees On A Journey to Finding Their Truth 1:05:08

7M ago1:05:08

1:05:08

In this episode of The Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we sit down with Jenna, an American, transracial Korean adoptee currently residing on Jeju-Do, South Korea. Jenna’s life journey reflects a deep commitment to exploring the complexities of identity, belonging, and self-discovery through meaningful connection and storytelling. Jenna’s path has been a…

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Navigating Holiday Triggers: Turning Triggers Into Opportunities for Growth and Connection 49:14

8M ago49:14

49:14

In this episode of our podcast, Laurie and Claire delve into the often challenging topic of navigating holiday triggers. With the holiday season approaching, many adoptees find themselves facing emotional triggers that can disrupt their peace and joy. Laurie and Claire share personal stories about their own experiences with holiday triggers, offeri…

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Going Deep with a Deep South Korean Adoptee 49:25

8M ago49:25

49:25

Get ready to meet April Williamson, a Korean Adoptee who grew up in West Virginia and is now living in Bedford, OH. She shares stories from her childhood, stories of identity formation, and her challenges while growing up in white spaces in small town America. April shares her mental health journey and some of the tools she has used to feel more sa…

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Finding Unconditional Love: Su Brooks healing journey through pets 49:49

8M ago49:49

49:49

In this episode of the Empowered Adoptee podcast, In this episode of the Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we’re joined by Su Brooks, a Korean American adoptee, as she shares her unique journey of healing and finding unconditional love through her dog, Chewy, and her deep love for animals. Su opens up about how connecting with Chewy has been a powerful so…

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Episode 32 - The Gift That Keeps on Giving: Kura Perkins on Love, Loss & Legacy 53:16

9M ago53:16

53:16

Send us a text Hi everyone, today I speak with Kura. Kura Perkins is a Perth-based adoptee. Born in 1975 and was adopted in Western Australia at 6 weeks of age to newly arrived immigrants from New Zealand. They decided to give her a Māori, name and although she wasn’t Māori, her adoptive parents had heard of this incredible name Kura and loved it, …

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Amplifying Adoptee Voices: Honoring National Adoptee Awareness Month 44:45

9M ago44:45

44:45

In this episode of the Empowered Adoptee podcast, we are honoring National Adoptee Awareness Month by sharing stories and voices of Korean adoptees. We believe that our messages and experiences as Korean adoptees matter, and that it is important to amplify our voices in order to raise awareness and promote understanding and acceptance. In this epis…

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Mike Malloy's Journey and Navigating whats True. 36:54

9M ago36:54

36:54

In this episode of the Empowered Adoptee Podcast, we sit down with Mike Malloy to explore the complexities and truths behind adoption stories. Mike opens up about his personal adoption journey, sharing insights into the nuanced and often overlooked layers that go beyond the simplistic narrative of "black and white." He discusses how his experiences…

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Connecting with our Ancestors: Practices and Rituals for Healing and Personal Growth 46:12

9M ago46:12

46:12

In this episode, Laurie, Jolie, and Claire discuss the importance of connecting with our ancestors and the practices and rituals we have developed to honor and heal from the past. We share our personal experiences and the ways in which we have used ancestral healing to help us on our own journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Tune in to the…

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EFT Tapping and Somatic Breathwork Adoptee Workshop 57:02

10M ago57:02

57:02

Join us for a transformative experience as we share an adoptee virtual workshop hosted by Laurie and Claire, where they explored the power of Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) Tapping and Somatic Breathwork. Through guided sessions, you will learn how to release emotional blocks, reduce stress, and cultivate a deeper connection with yourself. This …

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Episode 31 - Adopted & Amplified: Jim Moginie’s Soundtrack of Searching 46:47

10M ago46:47

46:47

Send us a text Hi Listeners, In this episode I sit down with Jim Moginie. We had an amazing conversation over zoom from his home in Ireland and I was fortunate to meet him for the launch of his new book earlier this year. For 50 years, Jim was a driving force behind one of Australia’s most iconic bands Midnight Oil. He grew up in Sydney’s northern …