In this episode, I dive into a deep and nourishing conversation with Sarah Marshank author of Being Selfish and Selfistry: A Guide to Embodying Timeless Spiritual Wisdom. We talk about her own journey from escort to monk to spiritual guide, and what she discovered about what it takes to become an authentic, grounded, creative and integrated being in these challenging times. Join us as she reveals her path tol deep spirituality without the dogma, and discover how to "listen for the genius in the room” as we practice how to become wisely selfish so that we can cultivate the deep wisdom that always sits waiting for us in the depths of the darkness. "Studies estimate nearly 25% of the world’s population does not ascribe to any religion and roughly 25% of people in the US consider themselves “spiritual but not religious.” Many of these people are searching for a life of integrity amid an increasingly polarized global landscape filled with religious extremism, political turmoil, and environmental uncertainty. Disillusioned but seeking to contribute to the well-being of the planet, many are finding guidance in emergent integrative systems that develop all aspects of the modern human: physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, and social. “Selfistry” is one of those systems that offers a unique and simple approach. “Selfistry” offers a fresh take on embodying authentic spiritual principles. It is an innovative and integrative framework for self-reflection-an opportunity for the genuinely curious to reconsider their relationship with themselves and the cosmos.” Sarahs Marshank Bio Sarah Marshank is the founder of Selfistry, an integrative system for mastering the art of being human. She is the author of the award winning memoir Being Self-ish: My Journey from Escort to Monk to Grandmother, where she tells the story of her decade in spiritual retreat. She is also the author of Selfistry: A Guide to Embodying Timeless Spiritual Wisdom. Her teachings weave together spirituality, psychology, and neuroscience in an innovative way — integrating Eastern and Western philosophies with meditative and somatic practices. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Sarah teaches and speaks internationally, consults for organizations, and works one-on-one with individuals. When not sharing Selfistry, you might find her walking along the beach, shopping at the local farmer's market with her husband, or making art with her granddaughters. *The topics we cover in this episode: * 00:03 Introduction and Welcome 00:26 Guest Introduction: Sarah Marshank 02:57 Exploring the Power of Female Collaboration 03:27 The Importance of Partnership and Trust 04:17 Overcoming the Sisterhood Wound 04:32 The Power of Women in Partnership 04:45 The Art of Being Human 05:28 The Role of Women in Times of Crisis 06:59 The Emergence of Wise Elders 14:50 The Importance of Slowing Down 23:02 The Journey of Self Discovery 37:45 The Power of Emptiness and Fullness 41:16 The Artistry of Life 42:32 Embracing Your True Self 43:12 Breaking Free from Societal Expectations 43:28 Invitation to Join the Unbecoming Coaching Circle 44:09 Exploring the Fear of Self-Reflection 45:15 Understanding the Trance of Self-Doubt 45:38 The Power of Self-Inquiry 46:06 The Journey to Self-Understanding 46:54 The Importance of a Guide in Self-Discovery 48:07 The Artistry of Self-Realization 48:41 Embracing Simplicity and Connection 49:24 Reorienting Our Relationships and Conversations 49:46 The Power of Presence and Self-Consideration 51:24 The Witness: A Tool for Self-Understanding 51:44 The Role of Fear in Self-Discovery 55:03 The Power of Community in Self-Discovery 55:55 The Wisdom of Embracing Both Light and Darkness 01:06:08 The Role of Sisterhood in Scaling Self-Discovery 01:14:29 The Power of Storytelling in Self-Discovery 01:20:39 The Journey from Escort to Monk to Grandmother 01:21:53 Invitation to Join Selfistry Retreats 01:22:50 Conclusion and Invitation to Connect Special Guest: Sarah Marshank.