Awakened Souls

Jenney Clark

Award-winning author and researcher Jenney Clark (Durga Shakti Award 2026, Sahitya Ratna Samman 2026) hosts Awakened Souls—a platform for transformative, depth-oriented dialogues. From deep dives into ancient history, stoicism, and Egyptian cosmology to powerful interviews with survivors, advocates, and visionaries, Awakened Souls cuts through the noise to explore resilience, hidden truths, and sovereign living. 🌐 Website & Books: https://jenneyclark.com/ Awakened Souls Podcast Guest Onboarding Form to book a slot: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScTG0qXLTMlDGDPfzjKd-ySKxUtjk1

  1. 5d ago

    7 Years in a Cult: Mind Control, Coercion & Free Will. Guest: Star Spider

    Star Spider is the Founder and Executive Director of Counter—a Canadian non-profit dedicated to helping individuals and families recognize, resist, and recover from coercive influence. In this episode award-winning Host of Awakened Souls Podcast Author Jenney Clark sits down with Star to talk about Star 's background in philosophy and seven years of lived experience within a high-control group. Star dismantles the dangerous myth that manipulation only happens to gullible or naive people. This conversation explores how coercive control relies on ordinary human psychology, how subtle conditioning erodes autonomy over time, and what it truly takes to rebuild identity and self-sovereignty after leaving. In this episode, we explore: Ordinary Vulnerability: Why manipulation targets fundamental human social needs rather than intellect or gullibility.The Architecture of Control: How coercive influence operates gradually and relationally from the inside out.Autonomy & Free Will: Philosophical perspectives on agency, belief, and loss of self.Effective Support: How to maintain connection with a loved one in a high-control group without provoking defensive retreat. We highly recommend you 🌐 Connect with Star Spider & Access Free Resources on the thecounterproject.org 🎙️ Star Spider's Story Feature: Listen to her dedicated episode on This Is Actually Happening 📚 Jenney Clark’s Website & Books: jenneyclark.com🎧 Subscribe to Awakened Souls: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and AudibleEpisode Transcript:0:19 — Introduction: Counter and its mission1:24 — Star’s experience and why she started the organization3:13 — Why anyone can be vulnerable to manipulation5:36 — Early warning signs and coercive control7:26 — Love bombing, exploitation, and relationship control9:29 — Isolation: physical, ideological, and online12:42 — Bullying, family dynamics, and group exclusion13:43 — Star’s personal story and path to recovery17:39 — Why leaving high-control groups is so difficult21:23 — What recovery can look like24:39 — How to support a loved one without pushing them away28:22 — Philosophy, free will, and compassion33:49 — Healing tools, therapy, and rebuilding connection36:37 — Misconceptions about cult recovery and intervention40:33 — Coercive relationships: signs to watch for43:21 — Online recruitment, AI, and modern forms of control45:01 — Writing, current work, and future projects46:42 — Resources from Counter47:49 — Closing advice: stay connected and trust your instincts

    7 Years in a Cult: Mind Control, Coercion & Free Will. Guest: Star Spider
  2. Sep 2

    Bonus Episode: Unlocking the Relics: Ancient Alchemy, Heka, & The Fool’s Journey

    Welcome to this exclusive bonus episode of Awakened Souls. In this special inner-circle commentary, host and author Jenney Clark pulls back the curtain on the hidden lore, ancient philosophy, and temporal mechanics powering her novel Cryptid: Falling into Time. Step into the secret vault to explore: The Esoteric Core: How ancient Egyptian cosmology (Ma'at), Heka energy, and 3,000-year-old secret orders fuel the temporal fractures in the Relics of Eternity universe. The Fool’s Journey Archetype: Why stepping off the cliff into the unknown is the ultimate leap of faith for both story protagonists and real-life survivors breaking inherited trauma scripts. Your Reader Toolkit: How to navigate the prequel short story, Character Lore Guide, and full novel for maximum immersion. Whether you're a reader preparing to start Cryptid or a truth-seeker exploring ancient mysteries and personal autonomy, this commentary sets the stage for reclaiming your narrative against the chaos. Enjoying Awakened Souls? Tap Follow on Spotify/Apple Podcasts and leave a 5-star rating to support independent storytelling and unfiltered conversations. Share this episode with a fellow truth-seeker walking their own path. https://www.amazon.com/CRYPTID-FALLING-INTO-Relics-Eternity-ebook/dp/B0HG3QWTK2https://www.amazon.com/CRYPTID-FALLING-INTO-Relics-Eternity-ebook/dp/B0HG3QWTK2 Show Notes Blurb (To feature in Awakened Souls episode descriptions) Listen to the Companion Soundtrack: Experience Cryptid: Falling into Time through sound. This curated Spotify playlist aligns track-by-track with the chapters of the novel, weaving cinematic atmosphere and esoteric weight into every scene. Official Playlist Link: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5HSMgWYONuWm3sJIWSD943 Keywords & Topics: #AwakenedSouls #JenneyClark #CryptidFallingIntoTime #RelicsOfEternity #EgyptianAlchemy #Heka #EsotericPhilosophy #FoolsJourney #Tarot #SurvivorResilience #DualTimelineThriller #AncientHistory #TraumaHealing #Archetypes #DarkAcademia Website: https://jenneyclark.com/ Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/jenneyclark Cryptid on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0HG3QZW72 Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/jenney_clark Podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/awakenedsouls/

    Bonus Episode: Unlocking the Relics: Ancient Alchemy, Heka, & The Fool’s Journey
  3. May 17

    Breaking Silos With Hip Hop Star Ciph Boogie

    Today on Awakened Souls, I’m excited to welcome Award-winning Hip Hop Musical Genius Ciph Boogie, a Brooklyn-based music singer, producer, and songwriter who won "Songwriter of the Year" at the Wavy Awards. He is also a prominent figure in hip hop events through initiatives like the ⁠Certified Hip Hop Independent Music Awards⁠, which celebrate pioneering artists in the Mid-Atlantic. Raised in the legendary Marcy Projects, Ciph’s life has been a masterclass in resilience. From earning placements with ESPN and the NBA to his award-nominated tribute "Stars in the Sky," Ciph’s work transcends the genre. He doesn’t just rap; he speaks life into memory, prioritizing legacy over hype and soul over algorithms. Having navigated the profound grief of losing both parents, he has transformed his personal pain into a "living archive" of truth. Ciph Boogie is known for his "cinematic" storytelling that blends raw New York grit with deep emotional vulnerability. You can stream his catalog and keep up with his releases on major platforms: Chapters: Show Notes  00:55 Introduction to Ciph Boogie 01:48 Growing Up in Brooklyn 02:50 Influence of Hip-Hop Royalty 04:05 The Journey of Writing 05:37 Cultural Heritage and Identity 07:03 Lessons from Family 09:03 Childhood Memories and Reality 09:58 Navigating Grief and Loss 10:22 The Impact of Losing Parents 14:37 Coping with Grief 16:00 Overcoming Rejection in Music 19:32 Balancing Grief and Creativity 21:50 Building Confidence as an Artist 23:09 The Meaning Behind the Name 24:51 Musical Influences and Inspirations 25:32 Creative Process and Songwriting 26:45 The Creative Process and Inspiration 28:28 Evolution as an Artist 31:21 Cinematic Hip-Hop and Its Impact 34:10 Behind the Scenes with Combat Jack 36:29 Authenticity in Today's Music Industry 37:46 Musical Aspirations and New Releases 39:44 Vulnerability in Songwriting 42:12 Listener Impact and Feedback 43:40 Mental Health Advocacy 46:48 Spiritual Reflections and Gratitude 48:20 Future Projects and Vision 49:46 Final Words of Wisdom  Where you can listen and follow Ciph Boogie: Streaming: Listen to his tracks on ⁠Apple Music⁠ and ⁠Spotify⁠.Updates: Follow his journey and watch his music videos on his ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠YouTube⁠ channels.Official Hub: Visit ⁠Ciph Boogie's Website⁠ for merch, news, and project details.Other Links: ⁠Certified Hip Hop Independent Music Awards⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ciphboogie24/⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/wavyawards/⁠⁠https://music.apple.com/us/artist/ciph-boogie/418632083⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/artist/5slc5e4hHRcpRUHbZsdp3c⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/user/ciphboogie International Support for CPTSD, Bullying, Trauma & depression: For Trauma, Depression, and Mental Health Advice and Support : https://cptsdfoundation.org/Befrienders Worldwide — Emotional support and listening services in over 90 countries (find local helplines): https://befrienders.org/International Bullying Prevention Association (IBPA) — Global resources for bullying prevention and intervention: https://ibpaworld.org/International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ISSTD) — Resources, fact sheets, and therapist locator for complex trauma: https://www.isst-d.org/Blue Knot Foundation (Australia-focused but useful internationally for complex trauma survivors): https://blueknot.org.au/ (Helpline: 1300 657 380) My Journey: Awakened Souls Podcast | www.jenneyclark.comhttps://jenneyclark.com/

    Breaking Silos With Hip Hop Star Ciph Boogie
  4. Mar 27

    Talking Sex, Lies and Tacos With Resilience & Reinvention Coach & Motivational Speaker Aly Rice

    Today 's podcast is an interview with Aly Rice — certified resilience and reinvention coach, motivational speaker, and the bold voice behind the podcasts Sex, Lies & Tacos and This Could Get Messy. After navigating profound personal challenges, including  non-consensual recording, revenge porn, sexual abuse, betrayal, grief, and starting over from zero,  Aly turned her raw experiences into powerful tools for transformation. Through her honest storytelling and coaching, she helps women reclaim their voices, rebuild their identities, and rise stronger, unapologetically embracing the messy, beautiful truth of being fully alive. Get ready for a real, raw, and awakening conversation with Aly Rice. 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:19 Childhood Influences and Resilience 03:48 Corporate Life and Red Flags 06:30 Life Changes and Personal Challenges 08:49 Loss and Identity Crisis 11:39 Romantic Relationships and Betrayal 14:15 The Impact of Revenge Porn 16:48 Navigating Grief and Support 19:32 Career Changes and Manifestation 22:05 Lessons Learned and Moving Forward 27:28 The Impact of Love Bombing in Relationships 28:55 Navigating Dark Thoughts and Finding Strength 33:55 Creating the Survival to Thriving Guide 36:03 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 39:06 The Birth of Sex, Lies, and Tacos Podcast 43:31 Transformative Stories and Client Successes 47:40 Reclaiming Identity and Voice 52:02 Mantras for Transformation and Healing 56:17 Creating a Safe Space for Healing 57:41 Overcoming Life's Challenges 59:05 The Importance of Authenticity 59:51 Empowering Women Through Connection 01:00:50 Navigating Relationships and Betrayal Learn more about Aly on the links and handles below: Website: https://alyrice.com/ Substack: https://substack.com/@alyspeaksup Insta: https://www.instagram.com/alyspeaksup Podcast : https://open.spotify.com/show/4s0xfzjl3wBfE9pNqckNmi For crisis resources and help go to : https://cptsdfoundation.org/help-me-find-a-therapist/ https://988lifeline.org/https://rainn.org/ https://cptsdfoundation.org/trauma-informed-blog/ https://www.digitalindia.gov.in/initiative/ncw-womens-helpline/ 1in6.org https://www.domesticshelters.org/resources/national-global-organizations/international-organizations https://www.samaritans.org/https://www.crisistextline.org/https://www.unwomen.org/en ***Trigger Warning***: This episode may contain adult themes, abuse, and trauma, which may be distressing for some listeners. Please take care of yourself and feel free to pause or skip if needed. Resources for survivors are linked in our show notes.

    Talking Sex, Lies and Tacos With Resilience & Reinvention Coach & Motivational Speaker Aly Rice
  5. 07/01/2025

    Danielle Leukam: Author, Rape Survivor, Activist, Anomaly

    **Trigger Warning:** This episode contains uncensored discussions regarding sensitive subjects such as sexual assault, rape, home invasion, and trauma. It includes explicit details that may be distressing for certain listeners. Listener discretion is advised; feel free to pause or skip sections as necessary. Additionally, resources for survivors are provided in the show notes for further support. At the Awakened Souls Podcast, we share inspiring stories that stir the soul, heal the spirit, and illuminate the path through darkness. Today, we speak with Danielle Leukam, a powerful voice in the fight against sexual violence. A registered nurse, mother, and rape survivor, Danielle transformed her trauma into triumph with her memoir, Four Pounds of Pressure: A Memoir of Rape, Survival, and Taking Back My Power. As an author, advocate, and founder of WISH: We Inspire Survivor Healing, INC., she empowers survivors and educates communities. Through her work with End Violence Against Women International (EVAWI) and as a member of the Survivor Advisory Group to the Governor of Minnesota, Danielle’s journey is a testament to resilience, love, and the fight to reclaim one’s power. 00:00: The Journey of Healing and Justice 05:51: Empowerment Through Storytelling 08:14: Navigating the Aftermath 10:47: Facing the Perpetrator 13:18: Understanding Grief and Support 15:35: The Justice System Experience 18:15: The Ripple Effect of Trauma 21:27: Finding Strength as a Survivor 24:07: Writing as a Tool for Empowerment 26:51: Common Threads Among Survivors 29:18: Shining a Light on Sexual Assault 31:49: Balancing Diverse Writing Projects 31:54: Finding Inspiration in Adversity 33:07: Navigating Relationships After Trauma 35:13: The Healing Power of Writing 38:04: Creating Change Through Nonprofit Work 39:32: Advocacy and Legislative Efforts 42:49: Public Speaking and Survivor Empowerment 45:46: Supporting Survivors in Our Communities 48:17: Reclaiming Power: A New Memoir 49:22: Words of Hope for Survivors 50:42: Vision for the Future of Advocacy Danielle's Links: ⁠www.danielleleukam.com⁠ ⁠www.instagram.com/danielleleukam⁠ or @danielleleukam ⁠www.facebook.com/daniellelouiseleukam⁠  ⁠www.twitter.com/danielle_leukam⁠ Resource for survivors: RAINN ( ⁠rainn.org⁠ ) EVAWI ( ⁠evawintl.org⁠ ) Disclaimer: The information, statements, comments, and opinions provided in this podcast are general in nature, and the resources have been cited.  None of the authors, contributors or anyone else connected with this podcast, in any way whatsoever, can be responsible for your use of the information contained herein. Any and all information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast, nor any content on Awakened Souls is a supplement for or supersedes the relationship and direction of your medical or mental health providers. Thoughts, ideas, or opinions expressed by this guest do not necessarily reflect those of our producers.

    Danielle Leukam: Author, Rape Survivor, Activist, Anomaly
  6. 06/15/2025

    Raymond Bechard: A Fearless Voice Against Human Trafficking

    On the Awakened Souls Podcast, we celebrate Raymond Bechard, an award-winning author, speaker, and human rights advocate. Honored with the Spiritual Life Award for his global fight against human trafficking, Raymond spoke at the Vatican Conference 2019 and is endorsed by leaders like US Senator Richard Blumenthal. His work is cited by Harvard, the University of Toledo, and numerous NGOs. For over 20 years, he has battled modern slavery in places like Iraq and Afghanistan, producing the documentary "Honor Bound" to raise awareness. His books, "The Berlin Turnpike" and "Unspeakable", expose the dark underbelly of human trafficking while inspiring hope. A bold provocateur, Bechard is credited with writing multiple pieces of successful legislation focusing on human trafficking and has driven legislation that forced social media to enhance stronger child safety measures. He also shut down illicit media ads on a Tribune Media publication after it continued to run ads selling illegal "escort" services. He is well-known for generally making people in power uncomfortable whenever he focuses his resources, writing, and public speaking on them. Listen to his harrowing stories of saving victims, from children dying of HIV to teens rescued from brothels, as he challenges an indifferent system. 00:00 Introduction 00:32 Early Influences and Inspirations 04:30 Pivotal Moments Leading to Advocacy 09:26 Shocking Discoveries in Human Trafficking 16:53 Stories of Resilience and Redemption 20:03 Systemic Factors Fueling Human Trafficking 23:34 Challenges in Advocacy and Resistance 29:21 Moral Dilemmas in Advocacy 30:47 Reflections on the Journey 33:52 The Challenges of Recovery from Trafficking 36:39 The Cost of Truth in Advocacy 39:28 Personal Sacrifices in the Fight Against Trafficking 42:52 Coping with Darkness: Humor and Nature 46:42 Defining Success in the Fight for Justice 48:58 Envisioning a World Without Trafficking 53:26 Advice for Aspiring Activists 56:24 intro.mp3 Some gems from Raymond on the Podcast: " Don't follow the crowd." " It does not reduce us to lift other people up. It lifts us all up, it lifts the world up when we do that." " In a nation or society where girls are educated, all boats are lifted with that rising tide of education. Statistics and studies have shown for years that if you educate girls, it makes a culture better. It makes societies better. It makes businesses better." "What still shocks me is when you show people the crime, when you show people the human rights violation, so often, good people will do nothing and turn the other way because they are scared. That shocks me." "People can believe some awful things above what is obviously true and dismiss the truth to propagate their own motivations, as we see in politics." "Because if we face the truth about what's happening to other people, we have to do something about it." Learn more about Raymond on the links and handles below LinkedIn APB Speakers Bureau Youtube Instagram Handle Raymond Bechard imdb Goodreads Author Page Amazon Books link Tedx RaymondBechard@gmail.com LinkTree Threads

    Raymond Bechard: A Fearless Voice Against Human Trafficking
  7. 05/19/2025

    The Tanya Kach Story, Abducted at 14, Captive For 10 years

    Hey there, Awakened Souls listeners! It’s Jenney Clark, and I’m beyond thrilled to bring you the latest episode of our podcast. At Awakened Souls, we endeavor to showcase the incredible stories of survivors, warriors, activists, and leaders who’ve faced unimaginable challenges and risen to triumph. Get ready for a conversation that’ll move you, inspire you, and remind you of the unbreakable power of the human spirit! Today, I’m honored to sit down with the extraordinary Tanya Nicole Kach—a survivor, author, and fierce advocate whose story of resilience will leave you in awe. At just 14, Tanya endured a decade of captivity in her predator’s bedroom, a harrowing ordeal that’s been covered by CBS News, NBC, People Magazine, and the New York Times. You may know her from her New York Times bestselling book, Memoir of a Milk Carton Kid, or the gripping Lifetime movie, The Girl Locked Upstairs: The Tanya Kach Story. She’s even shared the screen with Elizabeth Smart in a powerful TV special. In this episode, Tanya opens up about the chilling realities of grooming, the sting of victim-blaming, and the courage she found to reclaim her life. Her advocacy lights the way for countless victims, offering hope and healing from trauma. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this raw, uplifting conversation with a woman who embodies strength and survival. Tune in and let Tanya’s journey ignite your soul! 00:00 Introduction to Tanya's Journey 04:08 Transition to Adolescence and Bullying 05:36 Meeting the Predator: The Beginning of Grooming 08:48 Captivity: Life Under Control 12:20 Survival and Spiritual Resilience 14:50 Identity Transformation and Reclaiming Self 16:47 The Escape Plan 19:09 Reunion and Aftermath 21:43 Understanding Abuse and Healing 22:59 Therapy and Healing Journey 24:06 Advocacy and Helping Others 25:16 The Movie and Its Impact 26:10 Forgiveness and Moving Forward 27:13 Writing the Memoir 28:32 Messages of Hope 29:42 Finding Love and Healing 30:47 Continuous Healing Process 32:05 Spiritual Growth and Strength 33:12 Advice to the Younger Self 34:36 Future Aspirations and Speaking Engagements 36:25 intro References: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kidnapping_of_Tanya_Nicole_KachThe Tanya Kach Story with Elizabeth Smart (TV Special ...https://people.com/where-is-tanya-kach-now-8666583https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/India/who-is-thomas-hose-and-where-is-tanya-kach-s-captor-now/ar-BB1nXXOp Her movie:Watch The Girl Locked Upstairs: The Tanya Kach StoryThe Girl Locked Upstairs: The Tanya Kach Story Her Book: Memoir of a Milk Carton Kid: The Tanya Nicole Kach Story Disclaimer: The information, statements, comments, and opinions provided in this podcast are general in nature, and the resources have been cited.  None of the authors, contributors or anyone else connected with this podcast, in any way whatsoever, can be responsible for your use of the information contained herein. Any and all information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Nothing in this podcast, nor any content on Awakened Souls is a supplement for or supersedes the relationship and direction of your medical or mental health providers. Thoughts, ideas, or opinions expressed by this guest do not necessarily reflect those of our producers.

    The Tanya Kach Story, Abducted at 14, Captive For 10 years

About

Award-winning author and researcher Jenney Clark (Durga Shakti Award 2026, Sahitya Ratna Samman 2026) hosts Awakened Souls—a platform for transformative, depth-oriented dialogues. From deep dives into ancient history, stoicism, and Egyptian cosmology to powerful interviews with survivors, advocates, and visionaries, Awakened Souls cuts through the noise to explore resilience, hidden truths, and sovereign living. 🌐 Website & Books: https://jenneyclark.com/ Awakened Souls Podcast Guest Onboarding Form to book a slot: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScTG0qXLTMlDGDPfzjKd-ySKxUtjk1