LaidOPEN Podcast

Charna Cassell
  • 5.0 (31)
  • SEXUALITY
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to the LaidOPEN Podcast hosted by Charna Cassell. Charna is a Trauma-Trained Psychotherapist and Sexuality Coach with over 20 years of experience. Every day, Charna helps clients heal from trauma and access more bodily joy, emotional regulation, vitality, and hope. Now she's bringing her expertise to podcasting with interviews from post-trauma thrivers who share creative resources to support living an authentic, passionate, mindful existence. Together they explore how to have a more pleasure-filled, peaceful life while reducing self-sabotaging behaviors and gaining control over reactive behaviors. Charna's mission is to help people like you understand the impact of trauma on their nervous system and therefore their relationships with an emphasis on ways to heal. In every episode, Charna explores how to build our physical and emotional capacity to be with all that moves through us and around us to ultimately feel more liberated on the other side. Join our community as we embark on this transformative journey by reaccessing our connection to aliveness.

  1. FEB 3

    Ep. 116 Mayan Astrology, Cacao, and the Relief of Finally Understanding Yourself with Christine Olivia Hernandez

    In this episode of LaidOPEN Podcast, I sit down with Mayan astrologer, cacao ceremonialist, and author Christine Olivia Hernandez to talk about ritual, gratitude, discernment, and how to live in alignment with your natural rhythm. Christine shares how Mayan astrology and the Sacred Calendar can help you understand who you are and how your energy is meant to move, rather than forcing yourself into systems that lead to burnout and self doubt. We explore gratitude as an embodied, devotional practice, not a bypass, and how daily ritual can support nervous system regulation during uncertain times. We also have an honest conversation about the abuse of power and sexual energy in spiritual and ceremonial spaces, and why discernment is essential when working with teachers, rituals, and plant medicines. Christine talks about ceremonial cacao as a heart opening ally when sourced and used with integrity. The episode includes an exploration of Mayan astrology, elements, the Tree of Life, ancestral memory, and how challenges often reveal our deepest strengths. We close with a guided practice to support grounding and inner connection. ✨ Use code MAGIC for 10% off ceremonial cacao and all purchases at Cacao Magick Shop. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and special episode announcement 00:26 Meet Christine Olivia Hernandez 02:30 Daily practices and the power of gratitude 03:59 Maltiox and gratitude as a lived exchange 06:25 Navigating personal and collective challenges with gratitude 09:17 Grounding, protection, and energetic hygiene rituals 12:29 The healing power of ceremonial cacao and why sourcing matters 20:25 Understanding the Mayan Sacred Calendar and sacred time 24:28 The abuse of power and sexual energy in spiritual spaces 30:41 Navigating ceremony and teachers with discernment 31:16 Learning through hardship, devotion, and gratitude 32:57 Mayan astrology, elements, and energetic makeup 33:55 Exploring the Tree of Life and inherent strengths 37:28 Stability, astrology, and building a life that fits 41:29 Past lives, synchronicities, and ancestral memory 49:35 Guided practice for grounding and inner connection 53:07 Closing thoughts, resources, and next steps

    56 min

  2. JAN 20

    Ep. 115 The Alchemy of Collapse and Using It as a Gateway to Awakening with Taylor Perkins

    In this episode of the LaidOPEN Podcast, host Charna Cassell sits down with content creator Taylor Perkins, better known on social media as Cult Daddy, for a deep conversation about spirituality, embodiment, trauma, and reclaiming personal truth after high control religion. Taylor shares his journey growing up Mormon, achieving financial success, losing everything, and experiencing a profound spiritual awakening that reshaped how he understands consciousness, meaning, and self expression. Together they explore psychedelics as one possible tool for unlearning indoctrination while emphasizing the importance of safety, integration, and nervous system awareness. This episode dives into paradox, expansion versus ascension, parenting as a mirror for inner child healing, embodied boundaries, trauma responses, relationships as reflections, and how suffering can become a signal for realignment rather than something to escape. A grounded and compassionate conversation for anyone questioning inherited beliefs, navigating spiritual awakening, or seeking a more embodied and self directed path. Show Notes:  00:00 Introduction to LaidOPEN Podcast 00:30 Meet Taylor Perkins: A Journey of Spiritual Awakening 02:12 The Paradox of Enlightenment 03:23 From Success to Spiritual Crisis 05:13 The Healing Power of Psychedelics 07:06 Navigating the Psychedelic Experience Safely 12:04 Parenting and Emotional Expression 18:11 The Mirror of Reality and Personal Growth 25:31 Understanding Contraction and Fear 26:33 Introduction to Embodiment Concepts 27:39 The Importance of Boundaries 30:09 Manifesting Intentions and Timelines 35:12 The Path to Authenticity and Self-Expansion 38:00 Partnerships and Self-Reflection 42:18 Unity and Acceptance in Duality 47:46 Final Thoughts and Resources

    49 min

  3. JAN 6

    Ep. 114 You're Manifesting Wrong and Colette Baron-Reid Knows How to Fix It

    Manifesting isn't about wanting harder, visualizing longer, or thinking positively enough. In this episode of the LaidOPEN Podcast, Charna Cassell sits down with master manifestor, psychic medium, and intuitive Colette Baron-Reid to unpack why so many people feel stuck despite "doing all the right things" and what actually creates change. Colette shares her unconventional approach to manifestation through meditative drawing, a practice designed to retrain the brain, regulate the nervous system, and bring the body into alignment with what you're calling in. Together, they explore the science behind creativity and brain plasticity, why alignment matters more than intention, and how art can act as a bridge between intuition and reality. The conversation also weaves through Colette's personal spiritual journey, including her path to sobriety, her evolving relationship with a higher power, and the collaborative creation of her latest book. Along the way, Colette offers practical exercises and grounded insights you can use immediately to shift patterns, release emotional blocks, and approach manifestation as a lived practice rather than a fantasy. This episode is for anyone who feels like manifesting hasn't worked for them and is ready to understand why and how to do it differently. Chapter Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and welcoming Colette Baron-Reid 00:25 Manifestation, brain science, and why intention alone isn't enough 01:42 Colette's work, background, and the origins of her new book 03:12 The intersection of art, neuroscience, and manifestation 08:36 Colette's spiritual journey and the influence of New Thought 09:54 Why art is a powerful tool for manifesting and alignment 11:47 Synchronicity and collaborating with artist Anna Denning 16:00 Alignment, intuition, and lived personal experience 21:02 Gratitude and daily practices that support manifestation 28:31 The role of creativity and drawing in mental health 31:57 Synchronicity, spirituality, and meaning making 32:34 Finding comfort in non denominational spiritual spaces 34:01 Sobriety, 12 step programs, and redefining a higher power 39:55 Intention, energy, and embodied awareness 41:23 Manifestation through inner work and nervous system training 44:39 Everyday synchronicity and reflection 49:13 Finding meaning in challenge and uncertainty 51:05 Practical drawing and emotional release exercises 57:17 Closing thoughts and resources

    59 min

  4. 12/16/2025

    Ep. 113 Solving Crimes Using Psi Ability with Former Psychic Detective Elizabeth Rea

    In this episode of the LaidOPEN Podcast, host Charna Cassell sits down with Elizabeth Rea, an evidentiary clairvoyant psychic medium and former psychic detective whose work has evolved from solving cold murder cases with federal agents to advising high-net-worth founders and investors behind the scenes. Elizabeth shares how a near-death experience at sixteen cracked open her psychic perception, setting her on a path shaped by trauma, intuition, and non-conventional intelligence. Together, Charna and Elizabeth explore different forms of psy ability, how trauma can act as a doorway to spiritual awakening, and the ethical responsibility that comes with seeing beyond dominant ways of knowing. The conversation also dives into the realities of living with heightened perception, navigating relationships, choosing discernment over disclosure, and why Elizabeth now works exclusively with influential, heart-centered leaders to help them avoid unseen risks and identify opportunities others miss. Grounded, candid, and surprisingly pragmatic, this episode reframes psychic ability as a form of intelligence meant to be used with integrity, precision, and purpose. Show Notes 00:00 Introduction to the LaidOPEN Podcast 00:24 Meet Elizabeth Rea: Clairvoyant Psychic Medium 00:33 Exploring Psychic Abilities and Near-Death Experiences 01:25 The Role of Trauma in Spiritual Awakening 03:23 Elizabeth's Journey and Psychic Development 07:39 Working with Law Enforcement 17:39 From Psychic Detective to Corporate Medium 19:29 Navigating Personal and Professional Life as a Psychic 23:49 The Story We Tell Ourselves 24:22 Near-Death Experience and Bliss 25:47 Precognition and Psychic Abilities 26:32 The Faja Building Murder Case 30:05 The Telepathy Tapes and CIA Infiltration 35:40 Developing Intuition and Psychic Abilities 37:51 Community and Psychic Development 43:27 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

    47 min

  5. 12/02/2025

    Ep. 112 The Heart Opening Reality of Kundalini Practice with Amanbir

    In this episode of LaidOPEN Podcast, I open up about my own deepening journey with Kundalini Yoga and sit with one of the teachers who has guided so much of that unfolding. Amanbir is a Kundalini Yoga teacher and trainer who has spent more than two years empowering and training thousands of students across the planet. His teaching blends traditional Kundalini lineage, Chinese medicine, astrology, and nervous system intelligence in a way that cuts through noise and brings you right into the truth of your own experience. We explore what Kundalini practice actually feels like inside a real human body and why it has the power to open your heart in ways that are both tender and undeniable. We talk about how mantra, breath, mudra and repetitive movement shift emotional patterns and help move trauma, especially the inherited stories that live in our cells. We get into the beauty and intensity of transformation, the importance of community and consistent practice, and the courage it takes to let yourself soften and expand at the same time. Amanbir also shares a simple breath practice you can use whenever you feel overwhelmed, disconnected or pulled into old habits. His presence is steady and deeply compassionate, and this conversation offers a grounded entry point into a practice that can change the way you meet yourself. If you have ever wondered what Kundalini can open in you, this episode brings you right to the heart of it. Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to LaidOPEN Podcast 00:18 Meet Amanbir: Kundalini Yoga Teacher and Trainer 03:20 Amanbir's Journey into Kundalini Yoga 06:31 The Power and Benefits of Mantra 09:22 Personal Experiences with Mantra and Healing 14:51 Understanding Mudras and Repetitive Movements 16:58 Intense Experiences and Kundalini Yoga 23:11 Processing Ancestral Trauma through Practice 25:35 Navigating Workplace Dynamics with Mindfulness 26:54 The Power of Personal Practice 30:05 Community and Teacher Training 32:09 Astrology and Historical Patterns 35:19 Pluto's Influence and Personal Transformation 43:34 Breath Practice for Inner Calm 47:22 Final Thoughts and Resources

    50 min

  6. 11/18/2025

    Ep. 111 The Body Keeps the Score but the Church Keeps the Secrets with Margaret Bronson

    Join host Charna Cassell for a raw and eye opening conversation with Margaret Bronson, founder of Deconstruction Doulas. Margaret grew up inside a high control Christian cult and survived domestic violence, child abuse, excommunication, and the long psychological fallout of authoritarian religion. Now she guides others through the same dismantling of belief systems that once owned them. In this episode, Margaret unpacks how she and her husband developed somatic practices to help survivors heal the trauma stored in the body after years of purity culture, spiritual coercion, and obedience enforced through shame and fear. She breaks down what truly happens inside high control religious communities and why so many people leaving them feel like they're stepping out of a parallel universe. This conversation also dives into the political reality many of us are waking up to. Margaret explains how the same ideology that shaped her childhood is now embedded in Project 2025, Christian Reconstructionism, and the growing Trad Wife movement. She outlines the playbook of modern theocrats and shows how personal trauma and national policy are intertwined when religion is weaponized. If you're feeling a visceral reaction to Project 2025, this episode will help you understand why. Margaret offers grounding tools, embodied healing practices, and a clear-eyed look at what we're facing as the country edges closer to an openly theocratic agenda. Tune in for a fierce, validating, and deeply necessary conversation for anyone untangling from religious trauma or trying to make sense of this political moment. Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction and Content Warning 01:20 Meet Margaret Bronson: A Journey of Healing 03:17 Life in a Cult: Margaret's Early Years 04:03 Excommunication and Its Aftermath 06:07 Deconstruction Doulas: Birth of a Support System 06:30 Parental Vulnerability and Cult Recruitment 08:24 The Impact of Cult Ideology 13:43 Breaking Free: Personal and Collective Healing 18:02 Somatic Practices and Reclaiming the Body 19:31 Navigating Sexual Trauma and Rediscovery 25:42 Resources and Support for Survivors 26:35 Generational Trauma and Abuse 27:55 Challenges in Seeking Help 29:49 The Trad Wife Movement 33:17 Christian Reconstructionism and Theocracy 39:21 Embodied Freedom and Healing 46:25 Practical Exercises for Grounding 49:09 Conclusion and Resources

    51 min

  7. 11/04/2025

    Ep. 110 How to Raise Kids Without Losing Your Mind (or Yourself) with Dr. Chelsey Hauge-Zaveleta

    In this episode of LaidOPEN Podcast, Charna talks with Dr. Chelsey Hague-Zavaleta, an expert in applied educational neuroscience and social–emotional learning. Together, they explore what it really means to raise calm, connected kids — and how to do it without losing your mind (or yourself) in the process. They unpack the science of co-regulation, discuss the difference between gentle and authoritative parenting, and share practical tools for managing stress behaviors and creating family balance. Dr. Chelsey offers compassionate insights for parents, teachers, and caregivers looking to build calmer, more cooperative relationships with children, and with themselves. Charna also introduces her upcoming group program designed to help parents and individuals deepen their self-regulation and embodiment practices. "When we learn to regulate ourselves, our children learn safety through us." — Dr. Chelsey Hague-Zavaleta Show Notes:  00:00 Introduction and Personal Wish for Parenting 00:53 Introducing Dr. Chelsey and Her Expertise 02:41 Chelsey's Journey and Parenting Course 05:13 Parenting Challenges and Co-Regulation 07:45 Gentle Parenting vs. Authoritative Approach 15:54 Tone and Nonverbal Communication in Parenting 20:54 Handling Parental Preferences and Boundaries 30:17 The Ineffectiveness of Negative Commands 30:51 Positive Framing in Parenting 32:38 Intervening Before Explosions 34:04 Handling Stress Behaviors 35:21 Challenges of Co-Parenting and Transitions 37:57 Adoptive and Foster Parenting 45:09 Embodiment and Raising Self-Aware Children 53:22 The Power of Praise and Positive Reinforcement 56:11 Conclusion and Resources ✨ Subscribe to LaidOPEN for more conversations about intimacy, self-regulation, and the science of connection.

    58 min

  8. 10/21/2025

    Ep. 109 The Unstoppable Ann Randolph: Presence, Play, and the Power to Transform

    In this episode of LaidOPEN Podcast, host Charna Cassell sits down with award-winning playwright, performer, and teacher Ann Randolph, whose autobiographical solo shows blend comedy, storytelling, and profound transformation. Together they explore their long-held desire to collaborate — a journey guided by synchronicity, presence, and creative courage. Ann shares how her early days working the graveyard shift at a homeless shelter evolved into a celebrated career sharing the stage with icons like Mel Brooks and Alanis Morissette. She opens up about using comedy to approach trauma, the healing power of daily writing, and the importance of embodying your story rather than just telling it. Charna and Ann dive deep into the somatic roots of storytelling, the interplay between vulnerability and creative freedom, and the spiritual practices that sustain both art and healing. Whether you're a writer, performer, or simply someone seeking personal transformation, this conversation invites you to embrace failure, presence, and play as pathways to authentic expression and connection. Show Notes 00:00 – Introduction and Guest Introduction 02:11 – Charna's Journey to Meeting Ann 03:39 – The Power of Daily Writing 04:18 – Writing for Transformation 05:02 – Ann's Solo Shows and Comedy 09:18 – Victim, Hero, and Perpetrator Dynamics 12:22 – Somatic Practices in Storytelling 18:19 – Collaborations with Alanis Morissette 23:10 – Working with Mel Brooks 27:42 – Support and Validation 28:15 – Mentorship and High Stakes 29:16 – Opening in New York and Personal Loss 31:27 – Turning Grief into Art 41:26 – The Healing Power of Storytelling 45:29 – Spiritual Practices and Personal Growth 47:42 – Current Projects and Offerings 51:53 – Conclusion and Farewell

    53 min
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5
out of 5
31 Ratings

About

Welcome to the LaidOPEN Podcast hosted by Charna Cassell. Charna is a Trauma-Trained Psychotherapist and Sexuality Coach with over 20 years of experience. Every day, Charna helps clients heal from trauma and access more bodily joy, emotional regulation, vitality, and hope. Now she's bringing her expertise to podcasting with interviews from post-trauma thrivers who share creative resources to support living an authentic, passionate, mindful existence. Together they explore how to have a more pleasure-filled, peaceful life while reducing self-sabotaging behaviors and gaining control over reactive behaviors. Charna's mission is to help people like you understand the impact of trauma on their nervous system and therefore their relationships with an emphasis on ways to heal. In every episode, Charna explores how to build our physical and emotional capacity to be with all that moves through us and around us to ultimately feel more liberated on the other side. Join our community as we embark on this transformative journey by reaccessing our connection to aliveness.

Information

  • Creator
    Charna Cassell
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    116
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    ©2024 Charna Cassell
  • Show Website
    LaidOPEN Podcast

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