Stories and Stanza

Abhra Pal
  • 5.0 (4)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Stories and Stanza delivers authentic storytelling through two distinct series: Between The Lines : Intimate conversations with writers revealing their craft, process, and struggles. Fail With Me: Transformative explorations of emotional intelligence, mental health, and resilience with wellness experts.

  1. Failure, Emotional Availability and Healing | Podcast with Doug Belkofer

    2D AGO

    Failure, Emotional Availability and Healing | Podcast with Doug Belkofer

    In this Stories in Stanza episode, host Abhra welcomes guest Doug Belkofer to discuss how childhood-formed beliefs like “I don’t matter” or “people always leave” become subconscious filters that shape perception, relationships, work, and repeated “failures.” Doug explains how these emotion-based beliefs can drive negative manifestation, emotional withdrawal, and lowered investment in relationships, and why self-improvement efforts can feel ineffective when filtered through the same core beliefs. He describes revisiting formative events in a calm, meditative process to create conflicting adult perspectives that lead to memory reconsolidation and new neural pathways. The conversation also explores men’s emotional unavailability, learned modeling from parents, and practical ways to practice emotional expression. Doug shares a poetic excerpt from his book-in-progress and previews his upcoming ebook Finding the Path back to You and a live course, The Pass Back to You, emphasizing that feeling stuck is normal. Doug Belkofer is a U.S. Army veteran, tech leader, and founder of Forging Truth, where he helps people uncover the hidden beliefs shaping how they experience life, relationships, and faith. His work is grounded in lived experience and shared to encourage others that hope and clarity are possible when we’re willing to face what’s real. Book link: https://intro.forgingtruth.com/the-phoenix-quest/finding-the-path-back-to-you-e-book-order Doug's Website: https://forgingtruth.com/  Email: dougbelkofer@forgingtruth.com  --------------------- Follow Us on Social Media:   Facebook https://www.facebook.com/storiesandstanza/    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/storiesandstanza/    YouTube @storiesandstanza    Join Our WhatsApp Channel  https://wa.openinapp.link/wjcwe    X https://x.com/storiesnstanza Follow Us on Audio Podcast: Listen on Spotify https://spotify.openinapp.co/storiesandstanza  Listen on Apple Podcast https://apple.openinapp.link/u3ui2 Read on Substack https://openinapp.link/ion0e -------------------- Want to grow on YouTube? Try vidIQ: https://vidiq.com/storiesandstanza  Want to edit your Podcasts in a breeze? try Descript: https://get.descript.com/stories-and-stanza  Buy me a coffee https://ko-fi.com/storiesandstanza ----------------

    52 min
  2. Inner Peace, Trauma & Forgiveness | Podcast ft. Somia Sadik

    6D AGO

    Inner Peace, Trauma & Forgiveness | Podcast ft. Somia Sadik

    In this Stories in Stanza conversation, host Abhra welcomes back Somia Sadik to explore how creativity is linked to healing, resilience, and inner peace. They discuss peace as balance, healing as reframing, and how trauma can erode trust and connection, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness. This insightful podcast offers valuable perspectives on self improvement and navigating life's challenges with curiosity. Drawing from Somia’s novel Gajrah, they unpack the protagonist Iman’s journey of meeting grief with curiosity, and connect this to reframing failure without tying it to human worth. The episode also examines intergenerational trauma and resilience, the teaching and perpetuation of hate, and the individual responsibility to choose compassionate responses. They close with lines from Sufi poet Baba Farid about seeking answers in the “ocean” rather than “small ponds.” #peace #trauma #forgiveness #resilience #podcast #motivationalpodcast #storiesandstanza #failwithme

    54 min
  3. 365 Days of Nervous System Care: Somatic Intelligence | Podcast with best selling writer Tracy Whitton

    MAR 2

    365 Days of Nervous System Care: Somatic Intelligence | Podcast with best selling writer Tracy Whitton

    In this episode of Stories and Stanza, host speaks with Tracy Whitton about her book 365 Days of Nervous System Care, a practical response to widespread post-COVID nervous system dysregulation and limited attention and time for long-form reading. Whitton shares her background in meditation, yoga, yoga therapeutics, retreats, and studio work, and reads from her “Nervous System Repair Model,” outlining four pillars—safety, surrender and compassion, uninterrupted pauses, and space—and six regulating qualities: dark, quiet, warm, slow, soft, and still. They discuss hyper- vs hypo-arousal, why brief daily check-ins matter, and how stress hormones cause inflammation, digestive issues, anxiety, and depression when not discharged. Whitton shares a personal story about guilt and hypervigilance after two daughters’ life-threatening illnesses and explains a three-step somatic approach: meet the state, build safety, and integrate.

    49 min
  4. Reimagining Relationships: Conscious Uncoupling & Somatic Healing with Eman Alves

    FEB 8

    Reimagining Relationships: Conscious Uncoupling & Somatic Healing with Eman Alves

    In this episode, we explore the nuances of healthy relationships, focusing on how embracing change in love can lead to profound personal growth. We discuss the importance of emotional intelligence in navigating dating and relationships, highlighting that the process of coupling and uncoupling can both be beautiful journeys. Tune into our podcast for insights on fostering a deeper understanding of love and connection. We dive deep into the transformative power of conscious uncoupling and somatic healing with coach and writer Eman Alves. Eman shares insights from her book 'Uncoupling Reimagined', which draws from her personal experiences of seven marriages and breakups. Discover how the process of being present and understanding our trauma can help us heal and prepare for new relationships. Explore the importance of emotional awareness, resilience, and practical steps to navigate through life's challenges. Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their journey of self-awareness and personal growth. Eman Alves is the author of Uncoupling Reimagined and a Love, Sex, and Relationship Coach. She works with men and people in male bodies after breakups or relational crises, helping them rebuild emotional presence, sexual integrity, and maturity so they do not repeat the same relationship again. Uncoupling Reimagined supports people going through breakups, divorce, or emotional collapse who want to choose a conscious uncoupling and find a grounded path back to stability, self trust, and wholeness. https://www.eman.coach/uncouplingreimagined ---------------------- Follow Us on Social Media:   Facebook https://www.facebook.com/storiesandstanza/    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/storiesandstanza/    YouTube @storiesandstanza    Join Our WhatsApp Channel  https://wa.openinapp.link/wjcwe    X https://x.com/storiesnstanza Follow Us on Audio Podcast: Listen on Spotify https://spotify.openinapp.co/storiesandstanza  Listen on Apple Podcast https://apple.openinapp.link/u3ui2 Read on Substack https://openinapp.link/ion0e

    43 min
  5. Navigating Narcissism and Self-Discovery with Tina Djuretic

    12/27/2025

    Navigating Narcissism and Self-Discovery with Tina Djuretic

    In this episode of Stories and Stanza, we explore the journey of healing from a "toxic relationship" and the profound impact of "narcissistic abuse." Discover the importance of "setting boundaries" for well-being and the path to cultivating "self-compassion." Tune in to learn how to foster "emotional resilience" and navigate life's challenges with greater strength. Tina shares her personal journey of healing from toxic relationships and narcissistic patterns, rooted in her childhood trauma. Her first book, 'Finding My Sovereignty,' is a memoir detailing this journey. With the onset of COVID-19, Tina found herself isolated but turned towards self-guided healing practices and took extensive notes, which eventually formed the basis of her practical workbook, 'Lost in the Overwhelm.' The conversation delves into generational trauma, the identification and healing of narcissistic relationships, the importance of setting boundaries, and the ongoing nature of healing. The host also shares personal anecdotes, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and self-compassion in the healing process. Both agree that healing is a continuous journey that requires self-awareness and willingness to change. ----more---- About Tina Djuretic: Tina Djuretic is a Canadian author living in Vancouver. She was raised by strict, religious parents who isolated her from the rest of the world. What followed were three toxic relationships that nearly destroyed her. While writing her memoir she was able to find forgiveness; for herself and her abusers. This taught her a lot about generational trauma, healing, and putting up healthy boundaries. It's Tina's goal to share her story with anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation, and to educate people on the subject of toxic relationships, healing, spirituality, and not just surviving...but CREATING. Author’s website  https://www.sovereignandsage.com/   Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tinadjuretic/  Follow Us on Social Media:   Facebook / https://www.facebook.com/storiesandstanza/     Instagram / https://www.instagram.com/storiesandstanza/     YouTube / https://youtube.com/@storiesandstanza     Join Our WhatsApp Channel /  https://wa.openinapp.link/wjcwe     X / https://x.com/storiesnstanza ----more----

    57 min
  6. Unveiling the Power in Your Voice: An Intimate Talk with Voice Coach Sam Malone

    11/30/2025

    Unveiling the Power in Your Voice: An Intimate Talk with Voice Coach Sam Malone

    In this episode of 'Stories and Stanza', host Abhra chats with Sam Malone, a distinguished spoken voice coach at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. Delving into the nuances of the power of the spoken voice, Sam shares stories about his work ranging from coaching West End actors to helping corporate leaders improve communication. The conversation explores how our voices are tied to our identities and discusses practical ways to overcome the fear of speaking. They also touch on Sam’s upcoming book, 'Why They Can't Hear You,' which aims to empower individuals to be heard and to find their natural power and presence. Tune in to learn how connecting with your voice can transform your personal and professional life. Follow Sam's Work here: https://www.elevatevoice.co.uk/ https://www.elevatevoice.co.uk/book

    53 min
  7. The Essence of Poetry: Moonlit Mess

    11/15/2025

    The Essence of Poetry: Moonlit Mess

    In this episode of Stories and Stanza, host Abhra speaks with poet Priyanzel, about her journey into writing and the emotional depth that poetry brings to life.  Priyanzel is a poet who writes from the quiet edges of becoming. Through her debut collection, Moonlit Mess: The Beautiful Ruins of Becoming, she explores the tender chaos of healing—where pain softens into light and silence learns to speak. Her words dwell in the in-between—shadow and self, ache and awakening—offering comfort to anyone learning to start again. They discuss the personal and therapeutic nature of poetry, the limitations of AI in capturing human emotion, and the challenges and rewards of being a writer. Priyanka shares her inspiration and the process behind her book 'Moonlit Mess,' emphasizing the importance of rawness, vulnerability, and inner light in creative expression. Tune in to explore the intimate world of poetry and creativity, and be inspired by Priyanka's heartfelt words and experiences. Book Link: Amazon

    30 min
  8. Embracing Self-Love and Healing with Denise Michelle

    11/01/2025

    Embracing Self-Love and Healing with Denise Michelle

    In this episode of Stories and Stanza, host Abhra talks with Denise Michelle, a self-love alchemist, coach, writer, and hypnotherapist. They discuss the journey of healing from borderline personality disorder, the power of self-love, and how failure can be a tool for growth. Denise shares her personal experiences and insights on various healing modalities, including yoga, hypnotherapy, and self-acceptance practices. Tune in to learn about the importance of intention in self-care, the transformative power of kind self-talk, and how to cultivate authenticity in your life. About Denise: Denise Michelle is The SelfLove Alchemist®, an Award-Winning Life Coach, Hypnotherapist, and Trainer with Tony Robbins. She empowers soulful leaders through SelfLove Mastery, drawing from her 25-year healing journey overcoming trauma and addiction. Denise believes living a vision-driven life is the ultimate expression of SelfLove, where transformation ignites.  Social Media Links:  BridgeTheLove.com www.Instagram.com/denisemichellexoxo www.facebook.com/denisemichellelove https://www.facebook.com/groups/theselflovetribebtl/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisemichellelove/ https://twitter.com/DeniseMxoxo https://www.pinterest.com/denisemichellelove/ https://www.youtube.com/c/DeniseMichelle https://www.tiktok.com/@denisemichellexoxo

    46 min
See All (100)

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Stories and Stanza delivers authentic storytelling through two distinct series: Between The Lines : Intimate conversations with writers revealing their craft, process, and struggles. Fail With Me: Transformative explorations of emotional intelligence, mental health, and resilience with wellness experts.

Information

  • Creator
    Abhra Pal
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Stories and Stanza