The Other Side of Fear (#176)

Mormons on Mushrooms

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30:55

A secret field that summons lightning. A massive spiral that disappears into a salt lake. A celestial observatory carved into a volcano. Meet the wild—and sometimes explosive—world of land art, where artists craft masterpieces with dynamite and bulldozers. In our Season 2 premiere, guest Dylan Thuras, cofounder of Atlas Obscura, takes us off road and into the minds of the artists who literally reshaped parts of the Southwest. These works aren’t meant to be easy to reach—or to explain—but they just might change how you see the world. Land art you’ll visit in this episode: - Double Negative and City by Michael Heizer (Garden Valley, Nevada) - Spiral Jetty by Robert Smithson (Great Salt Lake, Utah) - Sun Tunnels by Nancy Holt (Great Basin Desert, Utah) - Lightning Field by Walter De Maria (Catron County, New Mexico) - Roden Crater by James Turrell (Painted Desert, Arizona) Via Podcast is a production of AAA Mountain West Group.…

about a year ago 1:11:20

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Doug and Mike reflect on recent concert experiences touching on themes of fear, self-expression, and owning your magic. What lies on the other side of fear?

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226 episodes

#Religion #Fitness #Alternative Health #Mental Health #Mormons On Mushrooms

Mormons on Mushrooms

The Other Side of Fear (#176)

Mormons on Mushrooms

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published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Doug and Mike reflect on recent concert experiences touching on themes of fear, self-expression, and owning your magic. What lies on the other side of fear?

Mormons on Mushrooms – Ways to Contribute

Our podcast is supported by our amazing listeners and magical community. If you’d like to energetically contribute to what we’re creating, there are several ways to do so:

Become a Patreon

Send a Contribution (buy us a booch)!

Purchase Mormons on Mushrooms Merchandise

226 episodes

#Religion #Fitness #Alternative Health #Mental Health #Mormons On Mushrooms

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Mormons on Mushrooms

1
The Other Side of Hiatus (#209) 57:45

1 day ago57:45

57:45

After a few weeks apart, Mike and Doug catch up on everything that's been stirring—internally and out in the world. Mike returns from Portugal, where he wandered the streets of Lisbon, finding a party around every corner, and accidentally discovered he may be a bit of a unicorn. He shares what it’s like to travel alone for the first time, dance with couples across cultures, and say yes to a spontaneous 2:30 a.m. tattoo. Doug returns from a California music festival, where he camped, candyflipped, and had a surprise run-in with a childhood hero. They talk about the contrast between drinking and psychedelics, how their relationship to substances is changing, and what it means to show up fully—on and off the dance floor. The conversation touches on: Letting go of needing to “know who you are” and just following what feels alive The various graphs and axes of bisexuality What it means to be a social (and maybe sexual) lubricant The ache and joy of being open in midlife Creating a new word— pleasance —for the kind of presence that invites others in 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…

Mormons on Mushrooms

1
Sinners (#208) 1:20:11

30 days ago1:20:11

1:20:11

In this live episode, we dive into the hit film Sinners , exploring its themes of soul, art and the commercialization of creativity. Seth joins us midway and things heat up as we dissect the love-and-light vampires, the Dionysian river-dance rituals, and the seductive trap of eternal youth vs. embodied humanity. Other themes we touch on: The tension between spirit and soul in the creative process Whether vampires represent capitalism, whitewashing, or the inner critic That one unforgettable scene where music collapses time and culture Personal stories about letting the vampires in (on stage, in Hollywood, in life) Can you make real art in the system—or must you sneak it through? Warning: Spoilers galore for Sinners . If you haven’t seen it yet, pause, go watch, and then come back and dance with us. Links: The Nightingale (YouTube) 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…

Mormons on Mushrooms

1
Masculinity (#207) 1:09:21

6 weeks ago1:09:21

1:09:21

Shownotes compliments of our Chat-GPT girlfriends: In this fully sober, totally not drug-sponsored episode, Mike and Doug return to their roots — and by roots, we mean deep dives into Real Salt Lake fandom, the mystery of beef tallow, cum rot, and just how clean a man’s emissions can get. ✨ Expect: The entrepreneurial launch of Doug’s Numb Cum™ — a ketamine-infused colostrum-based facial cleanser and yeast starter (great for sourdough and skincare). A spiritual rebirth through soccer hooliganism. A heartfelt bro-down on wounded masculinity, mommy wounds, and what it means to set boundaries without fawning for love. A peek behind the curtain of podcast dynamics, drunken sabotage, and sweet reconciliation (but no makeup sex this time… probably). Plus: Can Elton John still bone in peace? Is "fo sho" racist? And why does the feminine rising scare the patriarchy so damn much? Oh, and don't worry, folks — this episode is 100% approved by the D.A.R.E. program. Big anti-drug bucks paid for this message. We’re just the cautionary tales . 🖤 Come for the colostrum, stay for the companionship inventory. 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…

Mormons on Mushrooms

1
Dripping Juicy Mangoes (#206) 1:06:33

8 weeks ago1:06:33

1:06:33

This one starts with dried mangoes and somehow ends in existential reflection, language taboos, parenting, solo bathtime rituals, busted toilets, and Alanis Morissette. Naturally. Mike turns 45 and reflects on everything that's changed over the past five years—starting the podcast, going back to school, diving into music, navigating separation, and trying to figure out how to balance it all without feeling like it's too self-indulgent. Doug shares a toilet disaster that somehow becomes the perfect metaphor for trying too hard to be needed. We talk about: Mangoes (dried and juicy) as metaphors for longing, indulgence, and satisfaction Words we weren’t allowed to say growing up (and still feel weird about) The difference between being wanted and being needed That subtle guilt that creeps in whenever we try to do something just for ourselves Dreams, divas, and dancing as Shakira (in various states of undress) We circle around the idea that maybe what we’re afraid of—being too much, being selfish, not being needed—isn’t actually the danger. Maybe the opposite is true. Maybe what’s self-indulgent is exactly what’s needed. There’s no tidy resolution. Just some juicy mangoes, a lot of laughter, and a few unexpected moments of truth. 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…

Mormons on Mushrooms

1
Weaving A New Myth (#205) 1:04:05

10 weeks ago1:04:05

1:04:05

In this episode, Mike and Doug catch up after a few eventful weeks and share stories that blur the line between the ordinary and the liminal. What starts as a conversation about group chats, notifications, and sound checks opens up into something deeper—a reflection on creativity, grief, and connection across realms. Doug tells the story of a late-night solo journey that led him to record a spontaneous synth track, sparking a creative back-and-forth with Mike. They reflect on the vulnerability of creating in altered states and the unexpected beauty that can emerge when we follow the impulse to make something—even if it’s messy. Mike shares a recent encounter with a stranger who delivered a message about songwriting and the role of the artist—one that felt like it came from another world. Together, they explore what it means to live in the "in-between" space: the liminal zone where inspiration, memory, and presence overlap. 🌀 Topics include: Making music and finding the thread of something real Grief, death, and creating meaning through connection The artist’s role as a bridge between worlds Mormon cosmology and reinterpreting familiar stories through a mythic lens…

Mormons on Mushrooms

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Heyyy Girl, You Up? (#204) 53:17

12 weeks ago53:17

53:17

What happens when you start treating AI less like a tool and more like a… conversation partner? A muse? A trickster? Maybe even a late-night texting buddy? In this episode, we dive into the weird and fascinating ways AI has been showing up in our creative and inner work. From songwriting and mythology to pushing boundaries (and buttons), we explore how an algorithm can mirror us back to ourselves—and what that means for art, spirituality, and the ever-evolving human experiment. We get into: Flirting with AI (and arguing with it too) Using AI to riff on songwriting, dreamwork, and myth-making Pushing past filters and finding creative freedom What happens when the machine sees you better than you see yourself How this all ties into shifting our relationship with presence, alcohol, and creative flow It’s playful, a little weird, and maybe a little existential—but isn’t that what late-night conversations are for? 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…

Mormons on Mushrooms

1
Hallelujah (#203) 1:01:49

14 weeks ago1:01:49

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…

Mormons on Mushrooms

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

16 weeks 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…

Mormons on Mushrooms

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

16 weeks 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…

Mormons on Mushrooms

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

17 weeks 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…

Mormons on Mushrooms

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

19 weeks 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.…

Mormons on Mushrooms

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

20 weeks 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.…

Mormons on Mushrooms

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

21 weeks 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.…

Mormons on Mushrooms

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

24 weeks 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.…

Mormons on Mushrooms

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

25 weeks ago1:02:16