The Connected Community: Exploring Possibility

Nicky Yazbeck
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The Connected Community is a place to explore possibility through mindfulness, movement, and self discovery. Our intention is to deliver inspiration, insight, and authenticity, while fostering conversations that are genuine, unfiltered, and deeply human.

  1. 1D AGO

    Past Life Regression Therapy: Exploring Reincarnation

    In this episode of the Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck interviews Tracy Fance, an intuitive and hypnotherapist with over 16 years of experience, to explore the profound world of past life regression. Tracy shares her lifelong fascination with past lives and reincarnation, which began in childhood and eventually led her to train as a hypnotherapist. Her journey reveals how unresolved experiences from previous lifetimes can deeply influence our current physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.   Throughout the conversation, Tracy discusses how past life regression can help individuals uncover the roots of persistent fears, patterns, and even physical ailments, offering a path to release trauma and foster healing. She reflects on the role of karma and how reincarnation supports spiritual evolution, as well as why we often do not remember our past lives in order to focus on growth in the present.   The episode also delves into other thought-provoking topics, including the rise in autistic children and the societal dysregulation that affects their experiences. Tracy introduces the concept of soul families, which are groups of souls that reincarnate together to share lessons, and highlights the significance of choosing life environments that catalyze growth. She emphasizes the importance of emotional connection in parenting, the challenges posed by technology in family dynamics, and the need for compassion toward those facing difficult life paths.   Nicky and Tracy’s dialogue illuminates how transforming trauma into growth, understanding reincarnation’s role in our journey, and fostering emotional connection can lead to profound personal and collective healing.   Takeaways: Tracy has been fascinated with past lives since childhood. Past life regression can reveal deep-seated issues and phobias. Many people seek regression out of curiosity or to understand their current life challenges. Karma plays a significant role in why we reincarnate and the lessons we learn. Memory of past lives is often suppressed to allow for growth in the current life. New souls are being born with heightened spiritual awareness. Multiple people can share the same past life experiences due to the concept of over-souls. Spirituality often rises during challenging times, prompting individuals to seek deeper understanding.  Trauma can lead to significant personal growth and healing. The environment we choose can shape our life lessons. Compassion for those who make difficult life choices is essential. Transforming negatives into positives is key to healing. Soul families may reincarnate together for shared lessons.     Connect with me: https://nickyYyoga.com https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity nickynamaste@gmail.com   Connect with Tracy: https://www.facebook.com/tracyfancesoulhealer https://www.instagram.com/tracyfancesoulhealer/ www.tracyfance.com www.tiktok.com/tracy_fance https://www.youtube.com/@TracyFanceSoulHealer     Keywords: past life regression, reincarnation, hypnotherapy, spirituality, karma, spiritual evolution, intuitive, paranormal, consciousness, energy, autism, dysregulation, soul families, reincarnation, trauma, healing, Akashic records, parenting, societal change, emotional connection

    52 min

  2. OCT 9

    Breathe to Heal: The Power of Conscious Breath

    In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck sits down with Benedict Beaumont, founder of Breathing Space, to explore the life-changing potential of conscious breathing.   Benedict shares his inspiring journey from being a high school teacher, overwhelmed by stress and burnout, to discovering the transformative power of breathwork during a pivotal trip to Bali in 2014. That experience opened his eyes to the innate healing power of the breath. Inspired by this awakening and supported by his wife Jennifer, whom he met at Everest Base Camp, Benedict trained as a breathwork facilitator in 2017 and co-founded Breathing Space in 2018. What began as small workshops quickly grew into retreats and comprehensive facilitator training programs.   Throughout the conversation, Nicky and Benedict discuss the importance of nose breathing and how it supports overall health, as well as the profound role of breathwork in releasing trauma and promoting emotional and spiritual healing. Listeners are guided through live breathwork practices during the episode, experiencing firsthand the calming and grounding effects of conscious breathing.   Benedict also introduces his offerings, including a 400-hour Certified Breathwork Facilitator Training, a 12-week trauma-sensitive Certified Breathwork Coach program, and free online breathwork classes, making his teachings accessible to anyone interested in exploring this transformative practice.   This episode is a powerful reminder of how something as simple and ever-present as our breath can become a tool for deep healing and personal transformation.   Takeaways: Breathwork can revolutionize personal interactions. Taking a moment to breathe can clear the air in conversations. Benedict's journey into breathwork began with a profound experience in Bali. Breathwork integrates and elevates existing wellness practices. Every breath can be a unique experience, not just about peak moments. Daily breathwork practices can enhance overall well-being. Nose breathing is essential for optimal health. Physical sensations during breathwork can reflect emotional states. Breathwork is a powerful tool for trauma release. Benedict offers various resources for those interested in breathwork.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Breath Connection 04:10 The Transformative Power of Breathwork 07:15 The Journey to Discovering Breathwork 10:20 Daily Breath Practices and Techniques 13:30 Understanding Breath and Its Impact on Health 16:16 The Importance of Nasal Breathing 19:22 Misconceptions About Breathing 21:16 Experiencing Breathwork Together 31:08 Exploring Physical Sensations in Breathwork 37:18 Addressing Common Breathwork Challenges 43:18 Releasing Trauma Through Breathwork 51:13 Practical Breathing Techniques for Everyday Life 55:25 Conclusion and Resources for Breathwork     Connect with me: https://nickyYyoga.com https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity nickynamaste@gmail.com   Connect with Benedict: makesomebreathingspace.com facebook.com/makesomebreathingspace instagram.com/makesomebreathingspace  https://www.bookyogaretreats.com/breathing-space    Here are the two gifts - normally $30 but FREE for my listeners Breathwork for Sleep Embrace your Inner Child - A Breathwork Journey     Keywords: breathwork, mindfulness, emotional healing, trauma release, breathing techniques, wellness, meditation, personal growth, breath awareness, holistic health, conscious circular breath

    59 min

  3. OCT 2

    EFT Emotional Freedom Technique: Nervous System Regulation

    In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck welcomes Amy McNally to explore the practice of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), often referred to as “tapping.” Together, they trace the origins of EFT, explain its scientific foundation, and highlight how this simple yet profound practice combines ancient Chinese acupressure with modern psychology to regulate the nervous system and reduce stress.   The conversation offers listeners a direct, hands-on experience with tapping, guiding them through a live practice designed to ease stress and anxiety in real time. Nicky and Amy also discuss how perspective shifts can unlock deeper healing and lasting change, illustrating EFT’s accessibility and versatility in everyday life.   Amy McNally brings over a decade of expertise in nervous system regulation, backed by a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy. She specializes in supporting high-performing women, particularly entrepreneurs and leaders, helping them overcome anxiety, self-doubt, and burnout. Having used EFT herself to navigate challenges around business, money mindset, and health, Amy now teaches women how to succeed and scale their impact without sacrificing their wellbeing, health, or peace of mind.     Takeaways:: EFT stands for Emotional Freedom Techniques, a stress reduction method. EFT combines ancient Chinese acupressure with modern psychology. Tapping can help calm the nervous system and reduce stress. EFT has been clinically proven to reduce cortisol levels significantly. The technique can be used for various issues, including phobias and anxiety. EFT can be practiced in public settings, making it accessible. The tapping process can be quick and effective, often within minutes. EFT allows for a shift in perspective, helping individuals feel more empowered. Practicing EFT can lead to a greater sense of emotional freedom. EFT can be integrated into therapy for deeper emotional work.       Connect with me: https://nickyYyoga.com https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity nickynamaste@gmail.com   Connect with Amy: www.coachamymcnally.com  www.instagram.com/coachamymcnally https://amymcnally.thrivecart.com/reset-and-rise-tapping-series/     Keywords: EFT, Emotional Freedom Techniques, EFT tapping, tapping exercises, stress relief, nervous system regulation, nervous system, anxiety, phobias, self-acceptance, mental health, wellness

    59 min

  4. SEP 25

    Lessons from Indigenous Societies: Community Over Individualism

    Sadhu Dah is a world-traveling digital nomad and spiritualist whose expertise in the occult and esoteric arts has taken him across the globe. Through cultural and spiritual travel documentaries for a major TV network, he captures the wisdom of indigenous peoples and explores what connects us across cultures.   In this conversation, Nicky Yazbeck and Sadhu Dah dive into the profound experiences of connecting with indigenous communities around the world. They reflect on the central role of music and food in community bonding, the contrast between individualism and collectivism, and the deep connection to land and nature that defines many traditional ways of life. The discussion touches on animism as a spiritual practice, indigenous approaches to mental health, and the reverence for elders as carriers of wisdom.   Sadhu Dah shares personal stories from his travels, including experiences in Borneo, and highlights the importance of storytelling, ritual, and communal participation as sources of belonging and healing. The conversation culminates in his path as a Thai Ajahn, where he now teaches shamanism and healing practices, continuing to bridge cultures through spiritual exploration and lived experience.     Takeaways: Indigenous cultures are community-driven and self-policing. Music plays a vital role in expressing emotions and connecting people. Participation in music and dance is essential in these cultures. There is a lack of judgment in communal expressions of joy. Sharing food is a profound gesture of welcome and connection. Communities prioritize collective well-being over individual competition. Rituals around food and drink foster community bonding. Connection to the land is integral to indigenous lifestyles. Experiences of nature are deeply intertwined with daily life.  Indigenous cultures utilize every part of nature as a resource. Animism views spirits in every living thing, connecting us to the natural world. Mental health is approached differently in indigenous cultures, often with community support. Elders are revered for their wisdom and experience in indigenous societies. Storytelling is a vital way to pass down knowledge and wisdom. Community bonding is essential for mental well-being.     Connect with me: https://nickyYyoga.com https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity nickynamaste@gmail.com   Connect with Sadhu: thesadhudah@gmail.com https://www.thesadhudah.com/     Keywords: indigenous cultures, community, music, food, spirituality, connection to nature, cultural rituals, individualism, community bonding, shared experiences, simplicity, nature, animism, mental health, reverence for elders, storytelling, Borneo, shamanism, animism, world travel

    54 min

  5. SEP 18

    Polyvagal Theory: Calm the Vagus Nerve & Reset the Nervous System

    In this episode, Nicky Yazbeck sits down with Erica Bonham to explore polyvagal theory and the vital role of the vagus nerve in emotional regulation and mental health. Together, they break down the different states of the nervous system, how co-regulation supports healing, and practical tools that can calm and reset the body. The conversation touches on the impact of collective trauma, the power of mindfulness, and the importance of finding personal practices that truly resonate. Erica also shares accessible exercises for toning the vagus nerve and emphasizes that healing requires both addressing trauma and cultivating joy.   Erica Bonham, LPC, MA, is a Licensed Professional Counselor, certified yoga instructor, speaker, and trainer who blends counseling psychology with somatic and social justice perspectives. She has worked in diverse clinical and community settings, from outpatient mental health teams to teaching yoga in prisons and leading groups for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Erica is committed to dismantling systems of oppression in her work and to helping people find safety, freedom, and connection. A proud mom of two, she draws inspiration from nature, family, and her belief that every person deserves a life of laughter, love, and gratitude.   Takeaways: Polyvagal theory explains our nervous system's response to stress. The vagus nerve plays a crucial role in emotional regulation. Understanding our nervous system can help us manage anxiety and stress. Techniques like the Butterfly Hug can aid in calming the nervous system. Co-regulation is essential for emotional healing and connection. Practicing mindfulness can enhance our awareness of our emotional states. Collective trauma affects our ability to connect with others. Simple exercises can help tone the vagus nerve and improve well-being. It's important to find personal techniques that resonate with you. Healing involves both addressing trauma and cultivating positive experiences.   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Polyvagal Theory 04:17 Understanding the Vagus Nerve 07:03 The Importance of Nervous System Regulation 09:55 Techniques for Calming the Nervous System 12:46 Exercises for Vagus Nerve Reset 14:47 The Role of Co-Regulation in Nervous System Health 17:41 Collective Nervous System and Community Support 20:36 Navigating Emotional Responses and Regulation 23:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 26:31 Navigating Relationships and Boundaries 27:31 The Butterfly Hug Technique 30:44 Grounding Techniques: 5-4-3-2-1 35:54 Physical Techniques for Regulation 40:40 The Importance of Twisting and Peripheral Awareness 41:56 Finding Your Own Medicine 46:49 The Balance of Internal and External Support 48:48 Embracing Both-and Thinking 49:59 Exploring the Depths of Healing     Connect with me: https://nickyYyoga.com https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity nickynamaste@gmail.com   Connect with Erica: https://www.avoscounseling.com/coaching-packages https://www.avoscounseling.com/freebie https://www.instagram.com/avoscounseling/     Keywords: polyvagal theory, vagus nerve, nervous system regulation, mental health, trauma, co-regulation, mindfulness, emotional well-being, self-care, healing techniques

    52 min

  6. SEP 11

    Decluttering: The Psychology Behind Why We Accumulate Too Much

    In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck is joined by Kate Evans, a psychologist and life and home decluttering coach, to explore the deeper emotional and psychological layers of decluttering. Together, they unpack why letting go of possessions can feel overwhelming and why clutter is rarely just about the physical items piling up.   Kate shares how decluttering is intimately tied to mental health, values, and personal history, highlighting the role of anxiety, depression, relationships, and even upbringing in shaping our attachment to things. She explains how sentimental value, the sunk cost fallacy, and the weight of family heirlooms often stand in the way of creating clear, intentional spaces. The conversation distinguishes between clutter and organization, emphasizing that true decluttering isn’t about perfect systems but about aligning one’s environment with one’s life and personality.   Kate also introduces her upcoming book, Ditch Your Sht: Decluttering Your Mindset to Declutter Your Home*, due out this October. Drawing from her own experiences, she encourages listeners to approach decluttering with compassion, understanding that they are not broken or failing if they struggle with it. Instead, the process is about acknowledging emotional barriers, facing fears, and creating sustainable systems that genuinely support well-being and joyful living       Takeaways Decluttering is not just about physical items; it's deeply emotional. Items can symbolize our beliefs and memories, making it hard to let go. The sunk cost fallacy can trap us into keeping unnecessary items. Finding sustainable ways to let go of items is crucial. Family heirlooms can carry emotional weight that complicates decluttering. Most adult children do not want the items their parents hold onto for them. Keeping multiples of items often stems from a fear of scarcity. Clutter and organization are not the same; true decluttering removes excess. The one in, one out rule helps maintain a clutter-free space. Awareness and intentionality are key to successful decluttering.   Chapters: 00:00 The Emotional Weight of Decluttering 04:01 Understanding Sentimental Attachments 06:47 The Sunk Cost Fallacy in Decluttering 09:44 Navigating Guilt and Responsibility 11:58 The Challenge of Family Heirlooms 14:32 Letting Go of Expectations for Future Generations 16:00 The Burden of Multiples and Unused Items 22:26 Decluttering Electronics and Boxes 23:34 The Dangers of Excess: Kitchen Tools and Gadgets 24:42 Mindset Around Scarcity and Abundance 26:36 Understanding Emotional Attachments to Items 28:19 Managing Linens and Towels Effectively 29:43 Clutter vs. Organization: The Tetris Master 32:09 One In, One Out: Maintaining Decluttered Spaces 35:27 The Motivation Behind Decluttering 39:52 Introducing 'Ditch Your Shit': A New Approach to Decluttering     Connect with me: https://nickyYyoga.com https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity nickynamaste@gmail.com   Connect with Kate: https://www.soulfulspacecoaching.com/ @katesevans.coaching    Keywords: decluttering, psychology, emotional attachments, sentimental value, sunk cost fallacy, family heirlooms, organization, clutter, mental health

    42 min

  7. SEP 4

    Menopause: Reclaim Sexuality and Confidence

    In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck talks with Lisa Fitzpatrick, a pelvic and sexual health educator and physiotherapist with more than 30 years in women’s health. Lisa is the founder of the Sexy Menopause movement and Womankind Pelvic Care. After becoming a mother in 2000, she focused her clinical work on pelvic floor health and later broadened it to include sexual well-being and midlife care. Her approach combines physiotherapy with yoga, mindfulness, meditation, and practical empowerment skills.   The conversation looks at what actually changes in perimenopause and menopause and how those shifts show up in daily life physically, emotionally, and in relationships. Lisa explains how pelvic floor function connects to continence, comfort with sex, and core stability, and how hormonal changes affect tissues, lubrication, desire, and mood. She and Nicky discuss the value of clear communication with partners and care providers, and why many women feel unseen or rushed in medical settings. Lisa offers straightforward steps for building support: learning basic pelvic floor awareness, using breath and gentle movement to regulate the nervous system, and making self-care a regular, realistic practice rather than a project.   Lisa also shares how mind–body tools can sit alongside evidence-informed physiotherapy. She describes simple ways to reduce shame and increase body confidence, including getting accurate information about estrogen and testosterone, tracking symptoms over time, and normalizing conversations about pleasure and pain. Throughout, she emphasizes that midlife is not a decline but a phase that can bring clarity about values, boundaries, and sexual expression when women have useful education and a supportive community.   Beyond her clinical work, Lisa has taught and presented nationally and internationally for two decades, creating anatomy manuals and wellness programs for yoga schools and workplaces, and contributing to pre- and postnatal, menopause, yin, and Iyengar curricula. She has given keynotes at Uplift Festival, International Women’s Day events, the Ausmumpreneur Conference, and The Artful Business Conference. She closes the episode with themes from her forthcoming book, Sexy Menopause (February 2026), which lays out a practical pathway for women to understand their bodies, reclaim sexuality and confidence, and make informed choices in midlife and beyond.     Takeaways:   Menopause is often not discussed enough among women. Many women feel lonely during their menopausal journey. Physical changes during menopause can impact relationships. Estrogen withdrawal affects tissue resilience and libido. Foreplay is essential for comfort during intimacy. Communication with partners is crucial during this transition. Post-menopause can lead to a new beginning for many women. Self-care and lifestyle changes are vital during menopause. Therapeutic support can help address intimacy issues. Women can experience post-traumatic growth during this time.       Connect with me: https://nickyYyoga.com https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity nickynamaste@gmail.com   Connect with Lisa: https://www.lisafitzpatrick.com.au https://www.sexymenopause.com https://www.instagram.com/sexy.menopause https://femininebodyspeaks.substack.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@thelisafitzpatrick   Keywords: menopause, perimenopause, sexual health, estrogen, progesterone, intimacy, self-care, weight gain, sleep issues, relationships, women's health, pelvic floor, pelvic health, midlife, intimacy, self-pleasure

    50 min

  8. AUG 28

    The Gottman Therapy Method: Resolving Couples Conflict

    In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck talks with Christie Sears Thompson, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Colorado, about the Gottman Method, which is a leading approach to couples therapy. Together, they explore how this method equips partners with tools to repair, strengthen, and deepen their relationships.   Christie explains the core principle of treating the relationship itself as the client and outlines the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse: criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling. These are the four patterns that often predict relationship breakdown. She shares practical antidotes to these destructive dynamics, highlighting the power of gentle startups, appreciation, and specific communication strategies.   The discussion emphasizes the role of self-soothing and emotional intelligence in resolving conflict, showing how couples can pause, regulate their emotions, and return to difficult conversations with greater empathy and clarity. Christie also explores common pursuing–distancing patterns, ways to prevent escalation, and the value of building a culture of appreciation.   While praising the Gottman Method’s strengths, Christie acknowledges its limits, particularly in addressing infidelity and domestic violence, which require additional training and sensitivity. Throughout, she reinforces the idea that lasting change depends on both partners’ willingness to grow and practice new skills.   The conversation concludes with encouragement for couples to access resources like the Partnerhood Workbook and Gottman tools, reminding listeners that with intention, communication, and emotional awareness, it’s possible to transform conflict into deeper connection.       Takeaways: The Gottman Method is a popular approach to couples therapy. Couples therapy requires treating the relationship as the client. The Four Horsemen of conflict are criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling. Antidotes to the Four Horsemen can help repair relationships. Building a culture of appreciation is essential for relationship health. Self-soothing techniques can prevent escalation during conflicts. Communication is the primary concern for couples seeking therapy. Understanding triggers can lead to personal growth in relationships.     Connect with me: https://nickyYyoga.com https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity nickynamaste@gmail.com   Connect with Christie: christie@tradewindstherapy.com  https://www.facebook.com/tradewindstherapy https://www.facebook.com/thepartnerhood tradewindstherapy@gmail.com https://www.amazon.com/Partnerhood-Workbook-resources-knowledge-successful/dp/B08QBPSBDF       Keywords: Gottman Method, couples therapy, relationship dynamics, Four Horsemen, conflict resolution, communication skills, emotional intelligence, therapy techniques, relationship advice, self-soothing, couples counseling

    50 min
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The Connected Community is a place to explore possibility through mindfulness, movement, and self discovery. Our intention is to deliver inspiration, insight, and authenticity, while fostering conversations that are genuine, unfiltered, and deeply human.

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