In this episode of the Tales of Recovery Podcast, I sit down with my friend and former megachurch pastor Ryan Meeks and Michelle to talk about his painful, public journey out of evangelical certainty — through theological doubt, cancer, and the slow return to embodiment and intimacy. Together we discuss his new book, the gruesome process of awakening, psychedelics, therapy, community, and the couple’s work at Nautilus Integration helping people navigate transformation, relational healing, and spiritual integration rooted in love and presence. You can order his book their  https://nautilusintegration.com/  Here are my thoughts on his written story: It is a difficult enough process to get out of, or under the constructions and pressure of cultural upbringing and religion.  The questioning, lifting and removing of belief systems is a gruesome, almost pathological fear process in the journey  of awakening.  This book seemed so personal to me- not just because I know Ryan and Michele, and the fact that they completely opened, supported and held Julio and myself in our journey. To be right alongside and behind them during this process of awakening, doubts, fear, grief, what seems like betrayal, and a deeper longing and connection to our true nature and most of all Love, is a treasure I dearly hold on to.  Ryan explains himself in this book with such beauty, compassion and simplicity through this absurdly difficult process.   How he walks through it, and then, on the other side writes about the continuous connection to spirit or to the miraculous unknown that is this beautiful mystery that we are and have the opportunity to experience with such compassion and love.  Life is a Gift and Love is the point was not only a phenomenal reliving of my last 10 years of processing, growth and settling into my body- but an encouragement to anybody out there who’s still in the middle of deciding whether they need to stay under beliefs or become the compost that rebirths, a new breath of understanding how simple life can really be.    

Welcome to this episode of the Tales of Recovery Podcast, where we dive deep into a conversation about life's challenges and the beauty of embracing its messiness. Our guest shares their journey through the struggles of winter's harshness, the transformative power of polyamory, and the revelations of self-discovery. Listen as we explore the significance of breaking free from societal conditioning, finding creative outlets, and the importance of self-compassion. Join us as we discuss the transition from a structured life to one filled with creativity and exploration. We reflect on the necessity of integration, understanding personal limits, and the vital role that somatic work plays in healing and growth. This episode offers candid insights into parenting, questioning established norms, and nurturing individuality in ourselves and our children. Tune in to hear about the power of change, resilience, and the journey toward a more authentic life. You can get Sunny's book here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1864479142/clowns-off-duty-adult-coloring-book-kids?etsrc=sdt   https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FGWCW1W4?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_Y41DM2JF03G5ZP27YAKA&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_Y41DM2JF03G5ZP27YAKA&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_Y41DM2JF03G5ZP27YAKA&bestFormat=true&csmig=1  

Yasmin Beydoun shares about her journey from growing up during the Lebanese civil war to becoming a trauma-informed consciousness coach trained in Compassionate Inquiry and Dr. Shefali’s work. Gris and Yasmine discuss childhood neglect and abuse, therapy and somatic healing, her son’s autoimmune illness and recovery through diet and lifestyle, and how those experiences shaped her coaching with mothers and Arab women. The episode explores resilience, community, and practical wellness tools for emotional and physical healing while living and practicing in Portugal.   You can follow Yasmine on IG @with.yasmine  and reach out to her at www.withyasmine.com

Welcome back to another episode of Tales of Recovery, where host Gris sits down in the South Park studio with the insightful Katie Dove. In this engaging conversation, Katie shares her journey into the transformative world of cranio-sacral therapy and reveals how it has influenced her life and healing practice. Together, they discuss the essence of slowing down, connecting with the heart, and embracing authentic storytelling. Katie recounts her upbringing and how it shaped her path towards becoming a healer. Through personal experiences and family influences, she developed a deep connection to intuition and space, guiding her through various healing modalities including telepathic communication and somatic insights. Join them as they explore the significance of water, both physically and spiritually, and how it can be a conduit for healing. Katie highlights the importance of receiving life with openness and stepping away from the societal expectations that often confine us. The conversation delves into the need for a collective awakening, nurturing our own sovereignty, and embracing the gifts we possess. This episode invites you to reflect on your own journey of self-discovery and the power of slowing down to truly live the life you’re meant to live. Don't miss this enriching discussion on healing, intuition, and the magic that unfolds when we embrace our true selves.

This episode explores how to follow up a powerful retreat where mushrooms and temazcalli were experienced in a supportive and compassionate community — the challenges of returning to everyday life and the isolation that can follow profound group experiences. Gris Alves shares practical integration tools: remembering the felt sense, breath-work, simple daily mindfulness, sleep and nutrition aligned with our body’s design, grounding in nature, movement, and community support. She emphasizes self-care, healthy boundaries, compassionate witness work, and patience — small daily practices that help embody ceremony insights and make lasting change.   May this be helpfull to you all!

Hoy en Recuperando La VIDA, acompaña a Gris Alves y a su invitada especial, la Dra. Violeta Velasco, en una charla profunda sobre el mundo del Bienestar Global. Juntas exploran cómo los problemas de salud crónica y mental impactan no solo a nivel económico, sino también en lo social, y por qué es tan urgente un cambio en el sistema y más participación de la comunidad en temas de salud pública. La Dra. Velasco nos cuenta su inspiradora historia: desde que estudió medicina en México, pasando por su especialización en salud pública global en Israel, hasta su trabajo actual creando intervenciones de salud dentro de empresas. Habla sobre la importancia de construir comunidades saludables y de fomentar hábitos de bienestar que sean sostenibles en el tiempo, invitándonos a pasar del “yo cuido de mí” al “todos cuidamos de todos”. En este episodio, también se abordan los retos y posibles soluciones para manejar la salud pública a nivel global. Escucharás ideas sobre cómo educar y empoderar a las personas para que se hagan cargo de su propio bienestar. Gris y la Dra. Velasco conversan con mucha pasión sobre la necesidad de cambiar nuestra forma de pensar en cuanto a la salud, poniendo el foco en la prevención, la sostenibilidad y la conexión entre la salud mental y física. Gracias por escucharnos, leernos y por tus comentarios!    

Bienvenidos a un episodio fascinante de "Recuperando la Vida". Acompáñanos mientras exploramos las profundas enseñanzas de Martín Garcia Zen Yaotl, un maestro de la sabiduría ancestral y la iluminación. En esta conversación envolvente, Martín comparte un poema de Quetzalcóatl, ofreciendo reflexiones sobre el amor, la sabiduría y el camino hacia la libertad interior. Sumérgete en las verdades ocultas de la historia de México, la colonización y la resiliencia de la identidad cultural. Descubre el impacto de las narrativas coloniales y la importancia de comprender nuestras raíces y herencia genética. A través de un rico intercambio, adquiere una comprensión más profunda de cómo las estructuras sociales modernas se infiltran en las prácticas ancestrales y cómo una reconexión con los valores originarios puede guiar el despertar personal y colectivo. Abraza el reto de la transformación interior mientras hablamos del papel de la conciencia, el poder del sonido y la necesidad de un enfoque holístico de la vida. Este episodio es una invitación a cuestionar, explorar y encontrar unidad en nuestro viaje humano compartido.   Puedes pedir su libro "Malinalco Origenes" aqui https://www.facebook.com/share/1ZUBnpC7Sf/   

On the Tales of Recovery Podcast today: Join Gris and Tiffany as they explore the incredible potential of microdo&ing as a tool for healing, creativity, and breaking the shackles of a mundane routine. Tiffany Hurd is a Microdosing Advisor, Business Leadership Mentor, and Speaker with over a decade of experience pioneering the use of psychedelics for healing, growth, and professional development. She has helped more than 500 individuals and teams unlock clarity, creativity, emotional balance, and resilience through intentional microdosing protocols. After 16+ years in corporate healthcare leadership, Tiffany turned to microdosing to overcome burnout, anxiety, and depression — successfully tapering off Adderall and Lexapro and transforming her life. She left corporate to build a microdosing business and has become a trusted voice in psychedelic leadership. Tiffany now supports individuals, executives, and teams in reaching peak performance through neuroscience-backed microdosing strategies and leadership development. She currently serves as the Microdosing Advisor and Head of Partnerships at Golden Rule Mushrooms, where she leads education, partnerships, and community initiatives. Here's the link to the free community workshop link we mention in this conversation, it is free and set for August 7th 11AM PST, I will see you there! You can find her on IG @ On her website  https://tiffanyhurd.com  and here is the link for Golden Rule Mushrooms. You can use the code GRIS10 to get a discount and start (or continue) your microdo&sing journey~ https://goldenrulemushrooms.com/?coupon-code=gris10&sc-page=shop      

Welcome back to the Tales of Recovery podcast! Join us in this revealing episode as we delve into the inspiring recovery story of Mika Chait, a wellness coach who was sober by age of 17.  Mika opens up about her struggles with addiction, depression, and anxiety, shedding light on the challenges that many youths face in today's world. Discover how Mika transformed her life, navigating through a tumultuous journey of substance abuse, mental health challenges, and recovery. Her candid discussion covers the importance of self-discovery, forgiveness, and the power of support systems in overcoming adversity. This episode highlights the possibilities of recovery, offering hope and encouragement for anyone battling similar issues. Whether you're a parent, friend, or someone seeking your path to healing, Mika's story is a testament to resilience and the potential for a brighter future. Tune in and be inspired by her incredible journey. You can follow Mika on IG @coachhmikaa and message her directly for her coaching practice.     

Welcome back to Tales of Recovery. I’m honored to welcome today’s guest, Kale Kaalekahi — a Hawaiian cultural artist, ceremonialist, and devoted grief tender. Kale’s work is deeply rooted in the practices of Reindigenization and what he calls the Art of Human Making — guiding people back to their humanity through culture, ceremony, and collective healing. In this powerful conversation, Kale shares his journey growing up in Hawai‘i, navigating cultural identity, and healing intergenerational wounds. He speaks to the transformative power of grief, the importance of spiritual practice, and the sacred role of community in the healing process. We also dive into how his path became intertwined with Sacred Sons, and how part of his purpose now is to help prepare men to meet and support the feminine in sacred space — which led to the co-creation of Remembrance 2, a ceremonial retreat centered on rites of passage, healing, and deep reconnection. Together, we explore the importance of honoring ancestry, offering our grief as a sacred gift, and reclaiming our shared human experience — rooted in love, land, and and truth. In deep gratitude for this connection and shared words, may this land on your hearts with the opening of possibility for a better humanity.  Gris @kale.kaalekahi  www.kahukaalekahi.com

En este episodio de 'Recuperando la Vida', entablamos una conversación especial con la artista Gloria Muriel, explorando el profundo impacto que tuvo el journaling (escritura reflexiva) en su camino durante el tratamiento contra el cáncer de mama. Gloria presenta su nuevo diario artístico bilingüe, una recopilación de bocetos y afirmaciones diseñadas para inspirar sanación y amor propio. Acompáñanos el 23 de julio en un círculo de té y journaling centrado en el corazón, donde se invitará a los participantes a compartir experiencias personales, guiados por el proceso de introspección y arte de Gloria. Este encuentro promete ser un espacio seguro para la reflexión y la conexión, fomentando el crecimiento y la sanación en nuestras vidas. Para más información y lista de espera, comunícate con Gris Alves en www.grisalves.com.

En este episodio de "Recuperando la Vida", acompaña a Gris y Julio mientras se adentran en el camino de transformar pensamientos y emociones a través de la autoconciencia, la meditación y el amor. Julio Alves comparte experiencias personales sobre los retos y descubrimientos que ha tenido al conectar con la conciencia del cuerpo, cambiar la manera de pensar y crear una vida más auténtica y alegre. Hablamos sobre la importancia de las afirmaciones diarias, el poder del mindfulness y lo valioso que es conectar con uno mismo para fortalecer nuestras relaciones desde adentro. También compartimos vivencias con la medicina ancestral, cómo funciona la neuroplasticidad y de qué manera las prácticas con intención pueden ayudarnos a sanar y crecer. Es una charla sincera que busca inspirarte y darte ideas prácticas para vivir de forma más conectada y plena, dejando atrás el estrés de lo que “debería ser” y volviendo a lo esencial de lo que significa ser humano. Dale play y descubre cómo también puedes recuperar y reconectar con una vida llena de sentido y energía.   #recuperandolavida #mindfulness #puroamor #libertad #porlalibre #descubretunaturaleza

"Recuperando la Vida"  aqui seguimos platicando, y hoy mientras reflexiono sobre el poder transformador del empoderamiento personal y el cambio interior platico de la capacidad que tenemos para vivir mejor.  Tras una enriquecedora capacitación de nueve días, me recuerdo una vez mas cómo la verdadera transformación comienza desde dentro, entiendo lo que en realidad es la autocompasión y la responsabilidad personal. Siempre sigo explorando las presiones de la sociedad, ya sea el constante flujo de información o las expectativas sociales que nos limitan. Podemos profundizar en cómo la ingeniería cultural y social moldea nuestras realidades y cómo podemos liberarnos de estas ataduras al desacelerar y re-conectar con nosotros mismos. Como podemos  resistir la necesidad de validación externa y encontrar consuelo en nuestro propio valor interior?  Descubre herramientas para afrontar los desafíos de la vida con atención plena, formar una comunidad compasiva y abrazar la sabiduría natural que habita en cada uno de nosotros. Espero sea util esta platica, compártela si quieres y comenta tu opnion!    

In this episode of "Tales of Recovery," host Gris Alves is joined by Miguel Contreras, a friend, and spiritual brother, to explore the transformative power of plant medicine and the journey of healing. Miguel shares his upbringing as a child of immigrants, the impact of a challenging youth growing up near San Ysidro and the US?Mexico border, and how these experiences shaped his path toward consciousness and heart connection. The conversation touches on the struggle with conventional religious teachings, the powerful effects of psychedelic experiences, and the journey of overcoming depression and addiction. Miguel opens up about the tragic loss of friends to suicide, which became a catalyst for embracing plant medicine as a tool for healing and self-discovery. Listeners are given a glimpse into the significance of cultivating vulnerability, especially among men, and breaking free from cultural norms of machismo. Miguel emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for men to express love, strength, and genuine connection with one another. Throughout the episode, Miguel and Gris discuss the liberating experience of shedding layers of emotional armor and integrating the profound lessons from plant medicine into everyday life. The episode is a heartfelt testament to the power of love, community, and the courage required to embark on a journey of personal growth and transformation.   You can follow Miguel on IG @miguelitomigs  

Bienvenidos a este episodio de Recuperando la Vida, donde exploramos el fascinante viaje de Salvador "Chava" Quiroz, el visionario detrás de ARRE Adventures. En esta conversación cautivadora, Salvador, también conocido como Chava, comparte su inspiradora transformación:  después de toda una gran carrera en las artes y el diseño, reconocido en México y el mundo, pasó de una vida agitada en el 'hustle' cultural y de la cuidad de Mexico a fundar una empresa única de bio-aventuras en Baja California.  Platicamos de la Vida y lo que este camino recorrido nos logra enseñar, que estar viv@ , consciente y despierto a agradecer todo lo que hemos vivido es todo un privilegio! Descubre la increíble biodiversidad de Baja California Sur mientras Salvador nos lleva en un recorrido a través de la hipnotizante migración de las móbulas, conocidas también como las "mantarrayas del diablo". Vive la emoción de nadar entre estas magníficas criaturas y explora la vibrante vida marina en lo que Jacques Cousteau llamó "El Acuario del Mundo". Acompáñanos mientras descubrimos cómo ARRE Adventures ofrece mucho más que un simple retiro en la naturaleza. Las experiencias de Salvador —desde las reflexiones provocadas por el COVID hasta la creación de expediciones inmersivas— resaltan el profundo impacto de re-conectar con la naturaleza. Conoce los espectaculares cielos nocturnos, las perspectivas culturales únicas y el poder sanador del mundo natural que ARRE brinda, haciendo de cada aventura una fusión de exploración e introspección. Aqui les dejo su Instagram para que lo sigan:    @arre.baja Su pagina web  www.arrebaja.com Y el numero para reservas +52-55-14733434    

A beautiful conversation with author and entrepreneur Leo Mars. We chat about and explore Leo's fascinating journey from his idyllic Alaskan upbringing to a transcendent (not on psychedelics) experience that changed his life, to studying for months with Ken Wilbur and his staff, and becoming a trailblazer in conscious creativity. The discussion delves into the power of recovery stories, particularly for younger audiences seeking meaning beyond traditional paths like medicine or law or whatever else we might think is 'the only way' to live/make a living. Chris underscores the importance of embracing individuality and honing creative talents, drawing inspiration from Leo's experiences and his book, "The New Creator, Rise of the Mindful Artist in the New Meaning Economy." Throughout the episode, Leo shares engaging anecdotes, from his transformative encounter with a wild dolphin at sixteen to his near-miss with a grizzly bear, reflecting on how these moments shaped his creative and entrepreneurial spirit. Join the conversation as they delve into topics ranging from the significance of consciousness and the beauty of the natural world to the emergence of a new generation of mindful creatives. This thought-provoking dialogue invites listeners to explore their own gifts while navigating the balance between passion and pragmatism. Here is a link to more of Leo's story and all of his  offerings: www.leomarrs.com you can also follow him on Instagram @theleomarrs  

Welcome to 'Tales of Recovery,' where we delve into an inspiring episode featuring the talented artist and breast cancer survivor, Gloria Muriel. In a candid and heartfelt conversation, Gloria shares her journey of battling breast cancer, the emotional and physical transformations that followed, and the profound impact of spiritual healing and community support. Join us as we explore topics such as life after a cancer diagnosis, the importance of listening to one's body, and the power of art and spirituality in personal recovery. Through her story, Gloria sheds light on the challenges faced by cancer survivors and emphasizes the significance of self-compassion, holistic practices, and embracing vulnerability as a source of strength. This episode is an offering to all seeking hope and guidance on their path to healing, encouraging listeners to celebrate their unique journeys while finding solace in connection and creativity. www.gloriamuriel.com @gloriamuriel

Welcome to "Tales of Recovery" with Gris Alves. In this episode, Gris is joined by her guest Kat Kurner, a psilocybin coach, facilitator, and activist. Together, they delve into the profound impact of psilocybin and psychedelics, discussing its potential in end-of-life care and the journey of healing through plant medicines. Kat shares her personal journey from trying psilocybin at a young age to becoming deeply involved in healing practices. The conversation explores the role of psychedelics in introspection and personal growth, alongside the challenges and transformative experiences in end-of-life work. They also engage in an enlightening dialogue about the legalization and decriminalization of psychedelic substances. With heartfelt anecdotes and insightful reflections, Gris and Kat navigate through the complexities of human emotions, grief, and the pursuit of freedom and love through psychedelics. This episode offers a compassionate perspective on life, death, and the potential for radical healing.

In this episode of "Tales of Recovery," join us for a heartfelt and enlightening conversation with Karen 'Golden' Drake, as we delve into the intricacies of life's transitional stages. We discuss the challenges and wisdom of aging, focusing on the often misunderstood journey of menopause and the identity shifts that come with it. Through personal anecdotes, we explore topics such as menopause, the transformative power of ancestral wisdom, and the joy and complexity of becoming a crone. We share candid stories and insights on emotional and physical changes, the significance of community, and the societal expectations placed on women. Join us as we celebrate the aging woman, question the narratives we've been told, and embrace the rebellious act of owning our life's story.

En este episodio de 'Recuperando la Vida', Gris Alves se adentra en el profundo y a menudo desafiante tema del duelo y la muerte. Gris comparte experiencias personales y reflexiones sobre cómo transitar estos momentos intensos, haciendo hincapié en la importancia de la introspección y la autoconciencia. Los oyentes serán invitados a explorar las emociones profundas y complejas que acompañan a la pérdida, entendiendo que prepararse para el duelo no se trata de seguir pasos específicos, sino de un camino continuo de autodescubrimiento. Desde la importancia de la salud mental y física hasta la organización responsable de la vida, Gris ofrece consejos prácticos y un acompañamiento compasivo. El episodio resalta la necesidad de conectarse con uno mismo, cuidar el cuerpo y cultivar relaciones de apoyo, todo mientras se reconoce la inevitabilidad de los ciclos de la vida y la muerte. 'Recuperando la Vida' te invita a enfrentar estas experiencias no con miedo, sino con aceptación y disposición para abrazar el viaje interior.