The Sober Shaman

The Sober Shaman
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The Sober Shaman Podcast explores ways to make the spiritual practical. Through solo-casts and conversations with experienced guests, we apply this information to the recovery from addiction and trauma. And in an ongoing pursuit of optimal health, the show provides clear, actionable steps for daily living and spiritual practice.

  1. 1H AGO

    Addiction Recovery using Tai Chi, Mastery & Cannolis

    The latest surge in all-things-Chinese-health-related, gives me both hope and disappointment. Because I know that this medicine is exactly what's needed right now and the surge will introduce its wonders to many. And at the same time, I know that the appeal will quickly fade once people realize there's no hack, short-cut or quick-fix anywhere to be found. It's a path of skill, dedication and mastery. And it doesn't have to be mastery in Tai Chi or anything obviously health related. It could be...cannolis ; ) See how & let me know your thoughts. Blessings! Randal Takeaways: The practice of Tai Chi serves as a profound method for cultivating self-discipline and mastery in one's life.Achieving mastery in any discipline requires unwavering dedication and the willingness to engage in repetitive practice over an extended period.The disparity between internal worth and external validation significantly contributes to the challenges encountered in the realm of addiction.Mastery enables individuals to establish meaningful connections with others through the sharing of acquired skills and knowledge.The journey of mastery is analogous to the adage of 'chop wood, carry water,' emphasizing the importance of consistent effort in all endeavors.In the pursuit of mastery, one learns that the process of continuous improvement is intrinsically valuable in itself. Chapters: 00:00 - The Surge of Interest in Tai Chi01:01 - The Journey into Tai Chi05:07 - The Journey of Mastery07:01 - Exploring Internal vs External Validation11:23 - The Path to Mastery12:38 - Exploring Paths of Mastery Companies mentioned in this episode: Wall Street JournalInstagramChinese Life Force Institutehttps://www.randallyons.com/

    14 min

  2. FEB 21

    We've been here 1,000 times before...

    "I've been here 1,000 times before." "We've been here 1,000 times before." "What do you say? Ready to try something different?" For those of us who've battled addiction, or loved someone with an addiction, or are a professional medical or mental healthcare provider helping someone with addiction... "We've been here 1,000 times before." Principle #2 of The Alchemist Recovery Program states, "Addiction is a Cycle," and while that may not seem revelatory, there are a few things we recognize differently. Because addiction is a cycle, and because we've been here 1,000 times before, we know with certainty what comes next. The Cycle is repetitive, unoriginal and quite boring, actually! So, when we shine the light of truth onto the situation and provide a clear off-ramp to the person struggling, why don't they take it? Because they know if they do, it will never be the same. Something will change forever and something will die. That "something" can be called denial, the ego, the Pericardium, the spirit of addiction, or the devil himself. Whatever "It" is, "It" knows it will die. And when something knows death is nye, there is the most violent of thrashings for survival. That's what we're up against. And that's what we're talking about in this episode. Links referenced in this episode: randallyons.comthesobershaman.comemail: spirit@randallyons.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Alchemist RecoveryDeepak ChopraRevolverJason Statham

    27 min

  3. FEB 1

    The Formula & Requirements for Success in Sobriety

    Success. What does this look like? And specifically, what does it look like in sobriety? I’ve got a simple 3-part formula to begin the conversation. When you hear it, it may very well land with you as simplistic, which for me is awesome, but it also demands that we apply two kinds of medicine. The first is a ruthless honesty of awareness And the second is a generous heart of compassion. Holding these two together, simultaneously, is the way we can accurately assess the ingredients that go into real, lasting success. That’s what we dive into in this episode of The Sober Shaman Podcast. Join us in the next Live Session of the Lesson of the Week - where it’s always completely anonymous - and guaranteed to introduce you to a few new ways of viewing some old problems. Links referenced in this episode: randallyons.com

    34 min

  4. JAN 24

    Addiction Recovery & How it Takes a New Experience to Change the Old Belief

    On The Sober Shaman Podcast this week, we take a fresh look at the work the we perform within Lesson #4: Definitions: Medicine - Part 2. We start with an online back-and-forth between myself and an MD about the basics: what medicine is and what medicine is not. For me, medicine absolutely is something that encompasses approaches beyond what he proposed as outside agents, such as pills, and procedures, such as surgery. Specifically, this Lesson shows how awareness, experience, connection and practice are four examples of this - and how each directly applies to a particular aspect of the whole person. Next, I provide two client cases of how the medicine of experience is applied in addiction treatment. I have a saying… It takes a new experience to change an old belief In these examples, we show how a conscious, connecting, new experience that is put into practice, is the exact medicine to transform the old, outdated limiting core beliefs that lie at the core of an addiction. Links referenced in this episode: randallyons.com

    36 min

  5. JAN 10

    Understanding the Void: It's the Pull at the Core of Addiction

    Have you ever felt a deep sense of "not enough" or an "insatiable pull from somewhere inside" that you just couldn't quite name? A feeling that something essential is missing, driving you to seek comfort or escape? Introducing "The Void": Today, we're diving into a core concept from Alchemist Recovery's definition of addiction: "The Void." In plain English, "The Void" is that profound internal emptiness that addiction desperately tries to fill. It's a central piece of the puzzle in understanding why addiction takes hold and what drives the "patterned use" we discussed in previous lessons. Takeaways: The profound internal emptiness, referred to as the void, is a central concept in understanding addiction.This void is often expressed as an insatiable craving to be filled, stemming from trauma and loss.The metaphor of a meteor crashing into the earth illustrates how trauma impacts the soul, creating a deep emotional crater.Addiction arises as a misguided attempt to fill the void, driven by core beliefs of inadequacy and brokenness. Links referenced in this episode: randallyons.comthesobershaman.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Alchemist RecoveryThe Sober ShamanRandalLyons.comthesobershaman.com

    28 min

  6. JAN 2

    Addiction to Identity: Who I Am & Who I Am Not

    The primary focus of this podcast episode is the exploration of identity in the context of recovery from addiction, particularly as we embark upon the new year of 2026. We delve into the significance of defining key terms such as "alcoholic" and "addict," examining their implications both personally and within broader societal frameworks. As we reflect on the cyclical nature of time and personal growth, we emphasize the importance of approaching recovery with a mindset that embraces ongoing introspection and transformation. Through this lens, we encourage listeners to confront their beliefs and attachments to their identities, which may hinder their progress in recovery. Ultimately, this episode serves as a foundational lesson that invites a deeper understanding of oneself, paving the way for a more meaningful journey toward sobriety. Takeaways: The commencement of the year serves as a pivotal moment for introspection and self-improvement.In recovery, understanding the definitions of addiction and identity is paramount for personal growth.Holistic perspectives in recovery emphasize the cyclical nature of personal development and transformation.It is essential to differentiate between individual identity and addiction, recognizing the nuances involved.The exercise of defining oneself can either empower or disempower individuals in their recovery journey.Embracing the universality of addiction fosters connection and facilitates meaningful dialogues among individuals. Links referenced in this episode: randallyons.comthesobershaman.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Dr. Dana Lee LyonsSubstackPerfect HungerSober Shamanwww.randallions.comsobershaman.com

    28 min

  7. 11/08/2025

    Is Addiction a Form of Possession?

    This week’s episode of The Sober Shaman Podcast dives into a big one — possession — and how it connects to the experience of addiction. We explore how this is not the Hollywood version with demons and exorcisms… but rather the more insidious and self-perpetuated kind. The kind that happens when our own addictive thoughts, beliefs and feelings grab hold of the wheel and take over the driving. Looking back, we wonder exactly when it was we handed over the keys. In this episode, we'll go into: What possession really means in shamanic and recovery termsHow thought forms — energetic creations born from focused intention and strong emotions — can take on a life of their ownWhy addiction is predictable and cyclical, and what it means when we lose choiceHow to dissolve these patterns and begin feeding the helping & compassionate spirits of healing, gratitude, and recovery It’s a subject that causes reflexive reactions and that's exactly why I'm diving in. This is a conversation about reclaiming power through awareness and by taking responsibility earlier in the process of manifestation. We go into exactly where these parasites of possession begin their attachment to our thoughts, beliefs, and feelings, and explore how we can disentangle ourselves from them and their destructive outcomes.Links referenced in this episode: randallyons.comspirit@randallyons.com

    57 min

  8. 10/25/2025

    Possessing Beauty: Courting, Competition & Mastery

    A Call for Mastery and Men's Ability to Court When we grow into adulthood without a guide that can lead us to mastery of a skill that enhances our community, speaks to our hearts, and promotes the healthiest aspects of our culture... We feel the Void this leaves behind. Then, how do we respond to the pull of this Void? In this episode of The Sober Shaman Podcast, we take a look at exactly what happens here, the damage that is caused as a result - and what we can do about it. ___________________ This is a big subject - and one that can be approached from many directions. So today, we enter into it from our current culture's relationship to beauty, courting, and the dance of Yin Yang and male female. As always, please hit the Like & Subscribe buttons, and send me any comments or questions you have. With blessings, Randal ------------------------ Takeaways: The Sober Shaman Podcast delves into the intersection of spirituality and practical recovery methods for addiction. Understanding the societal and cultural roots of addiction can help illuminate personal struggles and pathways to healing. Mastery and the ability to create beauty are essential components that can fill the existential void in individuals, particularly men. The lack of guidance and mentorship in young men's lives contributes significantly to their feelings of emptiness and subsequent addiction issues. A clear transition from adolescence into adulthood, facilitated by mentorship, is crucial for developing skills necessary for mastery and personal fulfillment. The podcast emphasizes the importance of expressing and appreciating beauty as a fundamental human experience essential for recovery and growth. Links referenced in this episode: randallyons.com

    28 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

The Sober Shaman Podcast explores ways to make the spiritual practical. Through solo-casts and conversations with experienced guests, we apply this information to the recovery from addiction and trauma. And in an ongoing pursuit of optimal health, the show provides clear, actionable steps for daily living and spiritual practice.

Information

  • Creator
    The Sober Shaman
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    50
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Randal Lyons
  • Show Website
    The Sober Shaman