Interviews with Innocence Marla Hughes | Podcast Host

join us on a profound episode of "Interviews with Innocence with Marla Hughes" as we delve into the life-altering experiences of Dr. Tony Cicoria, an orthopedic surgeon with a unique twist of fate. Once a typical medical professional, Dr. Cicoria's life took an unexpected turn when he was struck by lightning in 1994, leading to a near-death experience that unveiled his unforeseen talent in classical piano music and composition.
In this episode, Dr. Cicoria shares his astonishing transformation from a board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon to a sudden musical savant, unraveling how a lightning strike led him to discover his hidden prowess in music. We'll explore his journey from the initial shock and the subsequent near-death and out-of-body experiences to his unexpected emergence as a composer and pianist.
Dr. Cicoria will take us through his talk at the IAND's International Conference, providing insights into his research and the spiritual aspects of human history that his experiences have illuminated. His story, featured in Dr. Oliver Sacks' "Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain," showcases the incredible interplay between music, the brain, and the human spirit.
Discover how Dr. Cicoria's compositions, featured in his CD "Notes From an Accidental Pianist" and his upcoming book "On the Other Side of Life," reflect his profound journey and the lessons he has gleaned about life, death, and the transcendent power of music.
Tune in to this captivating episode as Dr. Cicoria takes us on a journey of resilience, transformation, and the undeniable impact of the unseen forces that shape our lives.
Tags: #TonyCicoria #MusicSavant #NearDeathExperience #ClassicalMusic #TransformationStory #OrthopedicSurgeon #InspirationalJourney #HumanSpirit #MusicAndBrain #InterviewsWithInnocence

join us on a profound episode of "Interviews with Innocence with Marla Hughes" as we delve into the life-altering experiences of Dr. Tony Cicoria, an orthopedic surgeon with a unique twist of fate. Once a typical medical professional, Dr. Cicoria's life took an unexpected turn when he was struck by lightning in 1994, leading to a near-death experience that unveiled his unforeseen talent in classical piano music and composition.
In this episode, Dr. Cicoria shares his astonishing transformation from a board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon to a sudden musical savant, unraveling how a lightning strike led him to discover his hidden prowess in music. We'll explore his journey from the initial shock and the subsequent near-death and out-of-body experiences to his unexpected emergence as a composer and pianist.
Dr. Cicoria will take us through his talk at the IAND's International Conference, providing insights into his research and the spiritual aspects of human history that his experiences have illuminated. His story, featured in Dr. Oliver Sacks' "Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain," showcases the incredible interplay between music, the brain, and the human spirit.
Discover how Dr. Cicoria's compositions, featured in his CD "Notes From an Accidental Pianist" and his upcoming book "On the Other Side of Life," reflect his profound journey and the lessons he has gleaned about life, death, and the transcendent power of music.
Tune in to this captivating episode as Dr. Cicoria takes us on a journey of resilience, transformation, and the undeniable impact of the unseen forces that shape our lives.
Tags: #TonyCicoria #MusicSavant #NearDeathExperience #ClassicalMusic #TransformationStory #OrthopedicSurgeon #InspirationalJourney #HumanSpirit #MusicAndBrain #InterviewsWithInnocence

In this deeply moving episode of "Interviews with Innocence," host Marla Hughes sits down with Paul and Amber Poole, the compassionate duo behind the Cross Border House, a sanctuary for Ukrainian refugees. Delving into their inspiring journey, Paul and Amber share the origins and mission of their haven, which has become a beacon of hope for those displaced by the turmoil in Ukraine.
Drawing from their poignant experiences detailed in "Sunflowers at My Table: War Diaries of a Ukrainian Community," the Pooles recount heart-wrenching stories of the residents before finding solace at the Cross Border House. Listen as they narrate the daily lives of forty individuals navigating the complexities of displacement, their emotions intertwining in a symphony of hope, fear, and resilience.
The episode sheds light on the transformative power of community, art, and creativity, revealing how the Cross Border House transcends being a mere shelter. Discover how culinary experiences, creative endeavors, and the touching story of a play titled "Happy Town" helped instill a sense of normalcy and home for the women and children.
Witness the touching narrative of a young chess enthusiast and Paul's soulful recorder sessions, illustrating the profound personal impacts of these interactions. As Paul and Amber reflect on their journey, they unveil the lessons learned and the deep connections forged in the crucible of conflict.
Join us for an episode that not only tells the story of the Cross Border House but also celebrates the indomitable spirit of a community united in adversity, offering invaluable insights and wisdom from the frontlines of compassion and resilience.

Join us on "Interviews with Innocence" as we delve into a profound conversation with Peter Russell, a luminary in the realms of consciousness and contemporary spirituality. In this captivating episode, Peter takes us on a journey through his early years, revealing how his childhood and connection with nature sparked a lifelong quest for deeper understanding and purpose. We explore his dual interests in the realms of science and spirituality, and how they have intertwined to shape his groundbreaking work.
Peter shares fascinating insights into how the Beatles and the psychedelic influences of the 60s played a pivotal role in his exploration of consciousness. He opens up about the moment he realized that traditional academics could not satiate his thirst for knowledge, leading him to embark on an awakening project that transformed his life and work.
Our conversation also transports you to Peter's formative years in India, where meditation, non-duality, and his studies with the Maharishi profoundly influenced his path. He elucidates his philosophy where simplicity is key—when the mind stops, true knowing emerges, offering a fresh perspective on the essence of all spiritual teachings.
Dive deep into Peter's thoughts on the coexistence of two realities, as he explains our perception of the world around us, using the example of a green leaf. He also gives us a glimpse into his latest work, "Letting Go of Nothing," sharing how its wisdom can guide the younger generation to live from the inside out.
Peter discusses the importance of letting in, letting be, and the transformative power of understanding our feelings and the essence of forgiveness. He emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the vital role of kindness and creativity in our lives and the lives of our children.
As we touch upon the support of nature and the phenomenon of synchronicities, Peter offers insights into how aligning with our true nature can lead to a harmonious interplay with the universe. The episode concludes with a thoughtful discussion on the implications of near-death experiences on our understanding of consciousness and reality.
Join us for this enlightening conversation with Peter Russell, where wisdom meets wonder, and explore the depths of human consciousness and our collective journey towards awakening.

Episode Summary: Join us on "Interviews with Innocence" as we delve into the captivating world of Kate Searle, a multifaceted individual who embodies the roles of a mother, geologist, author, and inspirational guide for children. In this episode, Kate shares her journey from exploring the depths of the earth as a geologist to uncovering the treasures of the soul through her children's books. Discover how Kate's passion for gemstones and her transition into motherhood led her to create magical stories that aim to empower young minds, fostering a deep connection with their inner selves and the natural world.
Bio: Kate Searle's life is a tapestry woven with the threads of science, spirituality, and storytelling. With a rich background in geology and law, Kate's true calling emerged upon embracing motherhood, leading her to craft enchanting narratives that bridge the gap between earthly treasures and the soul's innate wisdom. Her works, including "My Soul Treasure" and "Find Your Treasure," are not just stories but gateways to inspiration, empowerment, and connection for children globally. Kate's mission extends beyond her books, as she engages with her audience through various platforms, offering resources that ignite the imagination and spirit of young ones everywhere.
In This Episode:
Kate's journey from geologist to children's author The transformative power of motherhood and storytelling Insights into Kate's books and their profound messages for children The role of nature, play, and spirituality in child development and healing Kate's vision for a world where children recognize their soulful essence

Dive into the enigmatic world of spirituality with "Interviews with Innocence" as we proudly present Episode 212, featuring the remarkable Michael Mayo. An internationally renowned medium, astrologer, and spiritual teacher, Michael has honed his extraordinary skills in the mystic realms of the United Kingdom, guided by eminent figures such as Gordon Smith and Eileen Davies. With a rich academic background from the University of California, Irvine, blending psychology and drama, Michael offers a unique, grounded perspective on the ethereal.
In this captivating episode, Michael shares his 18-year odyssey in astrology, providing listeners with an intimate glimpse into the cosmos through his eyes. He recounts his transformative experiences with the Spirit World, delivering messages of love and eternal hope that challenge our perceptions of life and death. Michael's mission is to illuminate the timeless nature of our existence, urging us to embrace our spiritual journeys and the profound connections that bind us to the universe.
As a second-generation astrologer and a seasoned spiritual educator, Michael has touched lives across the globe, from the United States to Europe and Australia. His workshops and consultations offer a sanctuary for personal growth, self-discovery, and spiritual awakening. Through his teachings, Michael empowers individuals to uncover their innate strengths, overcome obstacles, and tap into their inner resilience and grit.
Join us on a journey of enlightenment and empowerment in Episode 212 of "Interviews with Innocence." Whether you're a spiritual seeker, an astrology enthusiast, or simply curious about the greater mysteries of life, this episode promises a thought-provoking exploration of the unseen forces that shape our world and beyond. Tune in to discover how Michael Mayo's insights can inspire a deeper understanding of your place in the cosmos and the eternal dance of life and love.