In this profound episode of "How I Made It Through," hosts Kristin Taylor and Ray Catania welcome Matthew Kessi, a travel writer, nature photographer, and practical mystic. Matthew shares his transformative journey from the corporate world to a deeper connection with nature's intelligence. Through his story, listeners will discover the art of grounding, the neuroscience of metaphysics, and the power of liminal spaces in facilitating healing, wellness, and spiritual awakening. Join us as we delve into the practices that can expand consciousness and help us navigate our spiritual existence within the human experience.

**[0:00] Introduction to Season 5 and Guest Matthew Kessi**
- Kristin Taylor introduces the new season and co-host Ray Catania.
- Matthew Kessi's background as a travel writer, nature photographer, and practical mystic is highlighted.

**[3:00] Matthew's Early Connection with Nature**
- Matthew reflects on his childhood bond with nature and how it provided strength during challenging times.

**[6:00] Transition from Corporate Life to Shamanic Practice**
- The shift from a corporate career to seeking shamanic guidance and the importance of grounding and intuition.

**[9:00] Reconnecting with Nature Post-Corporate Life**
- Matthew discusses the pivotal moment post-layoff and the decision to chart his own path aligned with nature.

**[12:00] The Role of a Shamanic Practitioner**
- Clarification of the difference between a shaman and a shamanic practitioner and their roles in personal development.

**[15:00] Awakening and the Practical Mystic**
- Definition of a practical mystic and how awakening is experienced through nature.

**[18:00] The Liminal Space and Nature's Intelligence**
- Exploring the concept of liminal spaces and how they contribute to a sense of belonging and resilience.

**[21:00] Matthew's Work and Spiritually Transformative Experiences**
- How Matthew facilitates others' connection to nature and their intuition through retreats and personalized experiences.

**[24:00] Six Questions to Deepen Nature Connection**
- Matthew introduces a framework of six questions to help individuals engage more deeply with nature.

**[27:00] Spiritually Transformative Experiences and Ancestral Connections**
- Personal anecdotes and observations of spiritual awakenings and healing facilitated by nature and ancestral spirits.

**[30:00] The Retreat Experience and Practical Application**
- Details on the structure of the retreats, the importance of disruption for growth, and how participants are transformed.

**[33:00] Learning More About Matthew Kessi and His Work**
- Ways to connect with Matthew Kessi, follow his journey, and learn from his insights on nature and spirituality.

- Matthew Kessi's Website: www.kessiworld.com
- Instagram: kessiworld_

Are you ready to awaken your intuition and connect with nature's healing power? Visit Matthew Kessi's website and follow him on social media for inspiring content and updates on his retreats. Don't forget to sign up for his newsletter to receive exclusive insights and tips on cultivating your relationship with the natural world. Join us on this journey to awakening and let nature's intelligence guide you to a more fulfilling life.

Don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this episode if it resonated with you. @HowIMadeItThroughPodcast

Learn more about Ray Catania at www.RayCatania.com and Kristin Taylor at www.KristinTaylorConsulting.com.

Have questions or topics you'd like us to explore? Leave us a comment or email socialmedia@eiqmediallc.com. Remember, we're here to support you on your journey of spiritual growth and personal development. Thank you for listening, and we look forward to having you with us in the next episode of How I Made It Through.

Produced & Distributed by EIQ Media Group, LLC.

### Episode Title:
**Breaking the Trance: A Journey into Spiritual Awakening with Ray Catani – Season 5 Premiere**

### Episode Description:
Welcome to the premiere of Season 5 of "How I Made It Through," hosted by Kristin Taylor. In this groundbreaking episode, we're thrilled to introduce Ray Catani, an esteemed author, metaphysical teacher, and coach, as my cohost. Together, we delve into the profound realms of spirituality, human experience, and the neuroscience behind metaphysics. This episode is not just a conversation; it's an invitation to expand your consciousness, embrace healing, and forge a deep connection with love. Join us as we discuss topics such as life after death, the essence of the 'I', and how to transcend the limitations imposed by fear. Get ready to unlock a new level of freedom, peace, and spiritual connection.

### Show Notes:

**[00:00] Introduction**
- Welcome to Season 5 of "How I Made It Through"
- Introduction of cohost Ray Catani

**[03:00] The Spiritual Being in a Human Experience**
- Understanding what it means to be spiritual beings
- The intersection of spirituality and daily life

**[06:00] Neuroscience of Metaphysics**
- Discussing how neuroscience explains metaphysical experiences
- Practical applications for expanding consciousness

**[09:00] Practices for Healing and Growth**
- Techniques to increase healing and personal development
- The role of meditation and mindfulness in spiritual practices

**[12:00] Life After Death and the 'I'**
- Exploring concepts of life after death
- The philosophical and spiritual significance of the 'I'

**[15:00] Overcoming Fear and Embracing Freedom**
- Strategies to break free from fear
- The journey towards achieving peace and freedom

**[18:00] Conclusion and Final Thoughts**
- Recap of the episode's key takeaways
- Closing remarks and what to expect in upcoming episodes

### Resources:
- Ray Catani's latest book: [Insert Book Title and Link]
- Recommended meditation apps for daily practice
- "How I Made It Through" official website for additional content and resources

### Call-to-Action:
Thank you for tuning into "How I Made It Through." If you found this episode enlightening, please subscribe, rate, and review our podcast. Share this episode with friends and family who might benefit from our discussions on spirituality and personal growth. For more inspiring content and exclusive updates, visit our website and sign up for our newsletter. Don't forget to follow us on social media @HowIMadeItThrough for the latest news and episodes. Join us next time as we continue to explore life's deepest questions and the power of the human spirit.

In this profound episode of "How I Made It Through," hosts Kristin Taylor and Ray Catania sit down with Brian D. Smith, a certified grief educator and purpose coach, to discuss the journey through grief and the search for meaning after loss. Brian shares his personal story of transformation following the passing of his daughter, Shayna, and how it propelled him to help others navigate life's most challenging moments. The hosts delve into the intersection of science and spirituality, the concept of being 'planted, not buried,' and the importance of remembering our true nature. This conversation promises to offer comfort, insights, and a path forward for those seeking to understand the purpose behind their pain.

**Introduction**
- Kristin Taylor introduces the podcast and co-host Ray Catania.
- The hosts welcome Brian D. Smith to the show.

**Chapter 1: [0:00-3:00] Understanding Grief and Purpose**
- Brian discusses his mission to help people rediscover who they are and why they're here.
- The concept of grief as a pathway to growth and understanding life's purpose is explored.

**Chapter 2: [3:01-6:00] The Intersection of Science and Spirituality**
- Brian talks about his engineering background and how he reconciles it with metaphysical concepts.
- The hosts discuss the scientific backing for phenomena such as mediumship and afterlife experiences.

**Chapter 3: [6:01-9:00] Signs from Beyond**
- Brian shares personal anecdotes of receiving signs from his late daughter and the importance of being open to different forms of communication from loved ones who have passed.

**Chapter 4: [9:01-12:00] Navigating Personal Beliefs in the Afterlife**
- The conversation turns to how personal beliefs affect experiences of the afterlife.
- The hosts and Brian discuss the varied near-death experiences and what they might mean.

**Chapter 5: [12:01-15:00] Dealing with the Loss of a Child**
- Kristin shares her fears as a parent and asks Brian how he managed to find purpose after such a profound loss.
- Brian explains the role of his daughter's passing in his life's work and the concept of being 'planted, not buried.'

**Chapter 6: [15:01-18:00] Honoring Grief and Moving Forward**
- Brian offers advice to those in the depths of grief, emphasizing the importance of honoring rather than overcoming grief.
- The hosts reflect on the idea of grief as a form of nostalgia and the temporary nature of separation.

**Conclusion**
- Final thoughts and takeaways from the conversation with Brian D. Smith.

- Grief2Growth Website
- Grief2Growth Podcast
- Grief2Growth YouTube Channel
- Join the FREE Grief2Growth community circle

If you're inspired by Brian's story and want to learn more about navigating grief and finding purpose, be sure to check out his resources mentioned above. Don't forget to subscribe to "How I Made It Through" for more enlightening conversations, and please consider leaving us a review if this episode resonated with you.