Leaning in to Better Lives with Alia & Hayden (Season 5 | Episode 218) [TESSA] In this compelling episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, we delve deep into personal transformation, intergenerational healing, and the evolving dynamics of relationships in adulthood with guests Alia Stewart-Silver and Hayden. Both are navigating their unique journeys while pursuing a vision centered around eco-cultural regeneration and personal development. The discussion emphasizes the concept of “open nesting,” a mindset that cherishes the numerous possibilities that come with this dynamic life stage, rather than viewing it through the lens of emptiness. Alia shares her experiences, calling in from Lake Atitlan, Guatemala, where she is building her practice as a licensed psychotherapist. She reflects on her upbringing in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, describing a nurturing environment fostered by her parents, who consciously shielded her family from societal norms and media influence. This intentional upbringing allowed her to cultivate a deep sense of connection and love within her family, shaping her understanding of life, relationships, and ultimately, her vocation as a healer. Alia also candidly discusses the emotional turmoil that arose during her parents’ separation, illustrating how such endings can also give rise to profound insights and intergenerational healing. EPISODE TIME CODE 2:00 Meeting Alia and Hayden 12:51 Confronting Identity and Performance 18:28 Navigating Parental Relationships 25:04 The Impact of Generational Differences 36:51 Commitment to Individual Paths 39:08 Future Plans and Collaborative Projects Hayden is an experienced circle-holder and ceremonial guide. He is trained as a nature-based soul guide and permaculturalist. He is self-taught in ontological design processes, philosophy, primal movement, and evolutionary astrology. Hayden integrates these versatile modalities into his work as an evolutionary catalyst, striving to help root visionary ideas into tangible forms in service to the wellbeing of life and consciousness now and into the future. Alia tends the fertile intersection of individual healing, cultural development, and ecological stewardship. She weaves together the diverse threads of her background as a licensed therapist, restorative justice and anti-oppression cultural facilitator, permaculturalist, rites-of-passage guide, and poet. Alia has applied this breadth of experience to founding a thriving holistic therapy practice. Learn more about Alia’s work at Join the Seeds. And at Soul Rooted Healing Arts. Hayden shares his contrasting background in a more traditional American suburban setting. He recounts his upbringing in a conservative Christian home and the challenges he faced following his parents’ divorce at a young age. Through honesty and vulnerability, he discusses the pressures of adhering to societal expectations, particularly in sports, and the mental health struggles that emerged as he sought to carve his own identity amid these narratives. Both he and Alia discuss the importance of recognizing and feeling all emotions, including grief and anger, as essential components of personal growth. As the conversation unfolds, Alia and Hayden reveal how their paths converged during a ceremonial Vision Quest, a transformative experience that deepened their connection while allowing them to explore their personal journeys and collective vision for the future. Their partnership is rooted in mutual respect for each other’s individuality and a commitment to shared growth, focusing heavily on agreed-upon principles that prioritize personal sovereignty over enmeshment. Listeners gain insights into how they can foster healthier relationships with their own families and navigate the complexities of adulthood. Alia and Hayden emphasize the value of communication, mutual support, and recognizing the unique challenges faced by different generations. They encourage open dialogues around emotions and the importance of creating supportive spaces for one another to thrive. In the latter part of the episode, the couple shares their aspirations for the future, rooted in the establishment of educational centers focused on eco-cultural regeneration, where individuals can learn to live in harmony with the earth and each other. They provide listeners with resources and platforms to explore these concepts further, inviting the audience to become part of a transformative journey towards personal and collective healing. About Tessa Tessa Krone is the engine behind and the face of The Open Nesters. Tessa holds an MA in Consciousness Studies and is a speaker, coach, program, and journey facilitator & leader, author, and, of course, Podcaster. Her offerings are based on her mission to help people open to their most self-expressed, loving selves. Tessa’s specialties include embodiment from all the senses and elements of our inner and outer lives, ranging from mindfulness, dance, play, and sensory exploration in nature. If she had one superpower, it would be to help people, especially as they age, to live more open-hearted lives. Please email Tessa to make a connection. And visit her page here on the Open Nesters Website. If you like, please answer the question: What do you need to OPEN your NEST? In your LIFE. In your BODY. In your SPIRIT. Do you need MORE… Adventure Freedom of Expression Exploration and Fun Body Movement New circles of friends Deep love relationships
