Programs 1, 2, & 3

SYNCHRONICITY (MEANINGFUL COINCIDENCES)
The famous psychologist, Dr. Carl Jung, believed synchronistic events contain insights and signs of destiny for people who knew how to read them. Do synchronistic events reveal a hidden order to seemingly random occurrences? Do they offer each of us a glimpse of our destiny, if we would only pay attention? The Inner Journey is going to spend the next 3 programs talking about synchronicity with Phil Cousineau, author of Soul Moments: Marvelous Stories of Synchronicity from a Seemingly Random World. Cousineau is also the author of The Hero's Journey: Joseph Campbell on His Life and Work. Some of the stories you will hear about are so extraordinary they will challenge your belief system. Gently challenging our belief systems - that's a big part of what the Inner Journey Program is all about. My wish for you the listener, as well as for myself, is that by listening to this series of conversations about synchronicity, you will wake up to the synchronistic events that have happened to you, and that the meaning it holds for you, on your own inner journey, becomes clear as a mountain stream, and guides you to an increasingly deeper and richer experience of being alive. By the way, do you think it's an accident you happen to be listening to the Inner Journey right now? I hope you enjoy the conversation. Part one, part two, and part three. (To purchase the 2 cassettes or CD’s - $17.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 4 & 5

THE ART OF HAPPINESS

As one of the world’s greatest spiritual leaders, a winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, and a man of great inner piece, the Dalai Lama is well respected as a spiritual guide to people worldwide. Dr. Howard Cutler, a western psychiatrist and my guest on the Inner Journey Program today, had the great fortune to meet the Dalai Lama and become friends. Dr. Cutler and the Dalai Lama decided to collaborate on a book titled The Art of Happiness. In The Art of Happiness, the Dalai Lama and Dr. Cutler identify and discuss the ways in which the Dalai Lama’s beliefs and practices related to living a happy life can be utilized by non-Buddhists.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama has a reputation for conveying a wonderful, calming and positive feeling to people who are in his presence, even for a brief time. My hope for you the listener, as well as for myself, is that this same wonderful, calming and positive feeling will come to you, as you listen to this conversation about the Dalai Lama’s beliefs and practices related to leading a happy life, and that you will indeed feel more happy in the days to come. I hope you enjoy the conversation. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 6 & 7

SPIRITUALITY IN ORGANIC HOG FARMING

Tom Frantzen owns and operates a farm near Alta Vista Iowa. One of his main farm activities is raising certified organic hogs. But Tom was not always an organic hog farmer using organic methods and practices. Before his conversion to a sustainable worldview, Tom’s farm grew corn the modern way - requiring lots of fertilizer and insecticide. In part one of this Inner Journey conversation, Tom shares a personal spiritual experience and several farming stories that are part of his journey towards sustainable, organic farming. In part two of this program, Tom talks about the marketing and business challenges he faces as an organic hog farmer. I found Tom to be candid and delightful, and very committed to his beliefs. I hope you enjoy the conversation. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 7 & 8

FROM SCIENCE TO GOD

Peter Russell earned degrees in theoretical physics, psychology, and computer Science at the University of Cambridge in England. He subsequently studied meditation and Eastern philosophy in India. Peter is the author of ten books, including The Global Brain, Waking Up In Time, and The Consciousness Revolution. In his latest book, From Science To God, Peter Russell shares his lifelong exploration in to the nature of consciousness. Blending physics, psychology, and philosophy, Peter leads us to a new worldview in which consciousness is as fundamental to the cosmos as space, time, and matter. I found Peter to be a gentle soul. With much wisdom and practicality, Peter shares his knowledge of science and spirit, offering ways to live peacefully in the present moment and contribute to the healing of the planet. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 9 & 10

ORIGINAL SELF

Thomas Moore is a writer and lecturer and lives in New England with his wife and two children. Thomas also is a practicing psychotherapist. He was a monk in a Catholic religious order for 12 years. A former professor of religion and psychology, he is the author of several books including Care of the Soul and SoulMates. In his most recent book, Original Self: Living with Paradox and Originality, Thomas Moore doesn’t offer easy answers to the riddles of existence. Rather, in a series of essays, he attempts to guide readers through rather than around the tragedies, failures, endings and depressions that eventually touch us all. He gently urges each of us to deeply enter our own unique life experience. And if we can learn to live this deep entering of our own life experience from a non-judgmental point of view, the gift to be received is to know your own soul. I hope you enjoy the conversation. Part one and part two (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 11 & 12

NONVIOLENT COMMUNICATION

Susan Skye is a trainer, consultant and speaker. An assistant Dean at UCLA in the early 70’s, Susan co-created and taught the Women’s Studies Program, the first major program of it’s kind at a university in the United States. A number of years ago, Susan became aware of a unique and powerful communication process called Nonviolent Communication. Nonviolent Communication is a way of speaking that facilitates the flow of communication needed to exchange information and resolve differences peacefully. This process has been used successfully to mediate hostile situations between different cultural groups around the world, and it is equally effective for improving communication leading to harmony in any personal relationship. The originator of this communication process is Marshall Rosenberg, an author and consultant, who has written a book about his insights titled Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Compassion. Susan Skye chose to invest the time to become a certified trainer in the Nonviolent Communication process. I invited Susan to be a guest on the Inner Journey to tell us more about the steps of this communication process and the principles behind it. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 13 & 14

IF THE BUDDHA DATED

Charlotte Kasl has been a practicing psychotherapist, workshop leader, Quaker, and Reiki healer for 20 years. She is the author of several books, including Finding Joy, A Home For The Heart, and Women, Sex and Addiction. In her latest book, If The Buddha Dated: A Handbook For Finding Love on a Spiritual Path, Charlotte Kasl brings a spiritual focus to the dating process by drawing on her own background and the wisdom of Buddhist, Sufi and Quaker traditions. In this Inner Journey conversation, I explored with Charlotte how dating and relationships of all kinds can be an opportunity for spiritual awakening and self-knowledge. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 15 & 16

LAWS OF SUCCESS

Larry Peterson is a corporate executive with Edina Realty. I met Larry about 2 years ago. Larry is the brother of my advisor in my masters program. She had suggested that I meet her brother sometime, which we did. Over the past 2 years, I've had several enjoyable conversations with Larry. At one of our meetings, Larry shared some of his philosophy and ideas he had put together for a training class for real estate agents called "Laws of Success." I asked Larry if he would be willing to share some ideas from his "Laws of Success" training material on the Inner Journey. He said he would. We agreed that a subtitle for this Inner Journey conversation could be "Choosing to change." Because that's what Larry did with his own life. For the listener, I hope this conversation can be helpful in getting you over the top on something you desire to change in your life as you travel on your inner journey. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 17 & 18

SIMPLE LOVING

Janet Luhrs is the founder, editor and publisher of Simple Living, the journal of voluntary simplicity. She is the author of the best selling The Simple Living Guide and has hosted her own radio show on public radio. Janet Luhrs has studied fine art, photography and has degrees in journalism and law. In her most recent book, Simple Loving, Janet explores using the principles of simplicity to create deeper connections and more satisfying relationships with our intimate partners and all those closest to us. Janet calls simple loving “the art of remembering and focusing on what really matters.” Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 19 & 20

MAKING A LIFE, MAKING A LIVING

Mark Albion had earned an appointment as professor of marketing at Harvard Business School; he ran a highly successful consulting practice, and had accumulated personal wealth. Oh, and one other thing: Mark was miserable. He felt trapped in the rat race. And the trouble with the rat race, Lily Tomlin once observed, is that even if you win, you’re still a rat. Mark found his own way to stop being a rat. He is the founder of You & Company, a career management firm. Mark also publishes a newsletter, “Making a Life,” which is read by more than 25 million business executives in 87 countries. And he is the author of Making a Life, Making a Living, which tells the personal stories of 12 businesspeople and their pursuit of happiness. In my Inner Journey conversation with Mark, we explore ideas about transforming work into a pursuit that feeds the spirit and the pocketbook while benefiting society as well. I hope you enjoy part one of this conversation. Part one and part two (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 21, 22, & 23

A GUIDE TO LIBERATING YOUR SOUL

Richard Barrett is a Fellow of the World Business Academy and an internationally acclaimed author, consultant and a keynote speaker on personal and corporate transformation. Barrett is the former Values Coordinator at the World Bank. He founded The World Bank’s Spiritual Unfoldment Society. Barrett left the World Bank in 1997 to form a Leadership and Management Consulting firm that would focus on bringing spiritual values into the work place. He is the author of two books, A Guide to Liberating Your Soul and Liberating the Corporate Soul.

I learned of Richard Barrett’s books in conversations with several different people. When something is brought to my attention several times, I pay attention. I invited Richard to be a guest on the Inner Journey. Our Inner Journey conversation focused mostly on his book A Guide to Liberating Your Soul. I found Richard to be a delightful man - a man truly glad to be experiencing aliveness. He was candid about his own personal transformational experiences. I enjoyed talking to him very much. I hope you enjoy the conversation as well. Part one, two, and three. (To purchase the 2 cassettes or CD's - $17.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 24 & 25

REAL POWER (BUSINESS LESSONS FROM THE TAO TE CHING)

James Autry is the former CEO of Meredith Corporation’s Magazine Group, a 500 million-dollar operation with over 900 employees. He is the author of 4 books, a poet, and a consultant whose work has had a significant influence on leadership thinking. James’s previous books include Love and Profit: The Art of Caring Leadership; Confessions of An Accidental Businessman; and Life and Work: A Manager’s Search for Meaning. James co-authored Real Power: Business Lessons from the Tao Te Ching with Stephen Mitchell, a best selling translator. Their objective in writing Real Power was to bring the wisdom of the Tao Te Ching - which is considered to be a book of ancient wisdom and the world’s oldest leadership manual- and apply it to the business and work issues that face all of us today. To start the Inner Journey conversation, I asked Jim to say more about a comment he made to me in which he said, “spirituality is the biggest topic in business today:” Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Program 26
EXPLORING WELLNESS IN OUR LIVES
All of us are naturally concerned about our own well being. We live in a time where ideas about how to achieve and sustain a high level of well - being are becoming more and more diverse - sometimes even in opposition to one another. On today's Inner Journey, we are joined by Dr. Justin O'Brien, teacher, consultant, and pioneer in the exploration of wellness. Dr. O'Brien is the author of several books including The Wellness Tree, A Meeting of Mystic Paths, and Running and Breathing. We talked about wellness and well being with Dr. O'Brien. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $6.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 27 & 28
SOUL IN THE WORKPLACE
John Cowan is an organizational development consultant, speaker, and an Episcopal Priest. He is the author of two books, The Common Table and Small Decencies. Recently I talked at length with John about the concept of soul and how it relates to our lives--particularly our work lives. As I reflected on our talk, I wondered if we were talking about losing our souls or finding our souls. I suspect it was both. John might say we were talking about what it means to be human. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Program 29
SPIRITUAL GIFTS FROM AN ILLNESS
Ellen Swanson is a nurse and a wellness practitioner who teaches effective breathing to individuals. When cancer was discovered in Ellen's uterine cells, she chose to use a variety of healing techniques to help her deal with the cancer. What she got back were some spiritual gifts. Listen to Ellen's story. Maybe there is a gift for you, too. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $6.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 30 & 31
FACING THE TRUTH IN OUR LIVES
Kit Reynolds is a spiritual coach, Episcopal Priest, and a Human Relations business consultant. My conversation with Kit was about "facing the truth in our lives" -- how many of us have made "messes" at on time or another, and have gotten stuck trying to clean it up. Sometimes facing the truth of a situation is not the first option we want to consider. My desire for the listener, as well as for myself, is that whatever truth you are ready to face in your own life is sparked into your consciousness as you listen to this Inner Journey conversation. Walk on the journey with us, and may the truth set you free. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 32 & 33
WORKING AND LIVING AS IF LIFE MATTERED
Margaret Lulic describes herself as a consultant, author, and explorer. She is the author of two books, Who We Could Be At Work and Working As If Life Mattered. She says writing the books helped her find a new sense of purpose - to help create a high quality world through the transformation of individuals and organizations. She describes her work as supporting a purpose...beyond the bottom line. I hope you enjoy the Inner Journey Program visit with Margaret. And wouldn't it be wonderful if, as you listen to this program, some speck of magic sound dust landed gently on your shoulder, and whispered into your heart: "It's time for you to start acting on the purpose that your inner journey has prepared you for...." Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 33 & 35
MID LIFE CORRECTION
Andy Marks is a regular guy. And an investment sales person. In terms of making money, a very successful sales person. At one point in his life, Andy described himself as all work and nothing else. And then he began to ask himself "What's wrong with this picture?" As he began to change, a consequence he had to face was giving up his high-powered, time demanding job. And the reward was he began to discover and delight in who he really is. For our listeners, I hope you hear what you need to hear in today's Inner Journey conversation. And may we all remember, as Andy says in the show, "You can't bring a U-haul to the pearly gates." Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 36 & 37
TYRANNY OF THE BOTTOM LINE
Dave Culver runs a consulting business called Evergreene Associates. His work involves helping client organizations develop improvement strategies related to Total Quality Management. I met Dave through a mutual friend who told me about a guest homily Dave gave at the church we both attend. It was about the rise and fall of the Twin City Rapid Transit Company - a streetcar company. He titled the talk "Tyranny of the bottom line." As you listen to the Inner Journey conversation about the "tyranny of the bottom line," I hope you will discover an Inner Journey connection to your own life - and free yourself from any bottom line that may be holding you hostage in your soul. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 38 & 39
PARENTING AS AN INNER JOURNEY
Jean Illsley Clark is an accomplished workshop leader and nationally certified parent educator. She is the author or co-author of several books including Self-Esteem: A Family Affair, Growing Up Again, and The Help! Series For Parents. Jean is a mother and a grand mother. Carole Gesme is a licensed family life educator, and adjunct professor at St. Mary's University. Carole has created several therapeutic games and tools, and has authored a series of Help for Kids books. She has co-authored Affirmation Ovals and Help for Parents and Kids about Drugs with Jean Illsley Clark. Carole is a mother and a grandmother. In this Inner Journey conversation, we talk with Jean and Carole about effective parenting, growing up issues and self-esteem. For the listener, promise yourself to implement one idea you get from this Inner Journey conversation. Do it right now, I guarantee your retention will go up 100 %. And when you most need this idea in your life, it will be there for you. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 40 & 41
TRANSPERSONAL BODY THERAPY
Janet Marinelli is a transpersonal body therapist. She is also an assistant professor in the Masters of Human Development program at St. Mary's University. Janet describes the heart of her work as a transpersonal body therapist as "bringing what is unconscious to consciousness through the body." As I reflected on my conversation with Janet, I thought of how most everyone loves to hear a good story. Well, the story of our lives is residing in our body. And our body would love to tell it, if we would only listen. Have you listened to your body lately? I hope you enjoy the Inner Journey conversation with Janet about transpersonal body therapy. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 42 & 43
THE NATURAL STEP SEMINAR
Terry Gips is an economist, ecologist, author, and President of Sustainability Associates, and environmental consulting firm. His past experience includes service as a White House and Congressional aide, Cargill economist, President of the International Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture and Aveda Corporation Director of Ecological Affairs. Terry is also an instructor for The Natural Step seminar. The Natural Step Seminar was developed by leading scientists in Sweden and explores ideas that unify ecological sustainability and economic viability. The Inner Journey conversation I had with Terry Gips explores the concepts and ideas behind The Natural Step seminar. We go into depth about some of the severe ecological problems we face on the planet earth right now. And I mean severe. Downright depressing. But hold on. By the end of the conversation, I bet you'll feel hopeful about our future because, as Terry points out, we can create new jobs, restore our environment and promote social stability. The solutions are creative, practical and profitable. So what do we need to do to make it happen? Well, the first thing is to experience a change of mind, and the Natural Step Seminar can help us do that. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 44 & 45
MY NEAR DEATH EXPERIENCE - A HEALING JOURNEY
Sharon Mork called me one day. We did not know each other. She said a mutual friend from church suggested that she call me, because I might be able to help her tell her story, which involved a near death experience. I recalled in my mind that somewhere I had read that 8 million Americans have had near death experiences. That's no small number. I decided to meet Sharon for a cup of coffee or tea. After our conversation, I felt Sharon was honest and sincere, and she was telling her truth. She had something to say. I invited her to be a guest on the Inner Journey Program. In a few moments, you'll hear Sharon's near death experience story. But first, a few words about near death experiences.... Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 46 & 47
THE HEALING JOURNEY THROUGH LOSS AND GRIEF
Death touches all of us at some time. And it's something we all will experience ourselves, we just don't know when. Yet the whole subject is often shunned in our society. Is it worthwhile to talk in depth about such a painful experience? What can we learn from each other about the experience of having a loved one die? Can it help each of us come to terms with our own inevitable dying--can it help us be more fully awake while we are alive? On today's Inner Journey, we are joined by Lynn Jensen, a mom and elementary school teacher. Lynn is completing a master's program at St. Mary's University, studying the grieving process. She has written several articles on death and dying related to children. We will be listening to Lynn's journey through the experience when her daughter, Karen, died of brain cancer, at age 2, nearly 5 years ago. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $6.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 48 & 49

BUSINESS AS A LIVING SYSTEM

I've gotten to know Margaret Thorpe through the Small Business Development Center at the University of St. Thomas. We've had a number of enjoyable conversations over several months. I invited Margaret and her business colleague, Cliff Havener, to be guests on the Inner Journey Program because they bring a unique perspective to looking at the world of work. Margaret and Cliff offer a clarity and an ability to dissect business - or commerce - down to its bare essentials. We use and build on this understanding in the Inner Journey conversation to talk about what "business" really is, and the connections between commerce, being truly alive, and finding meaning in our work. We explored why so many people feel a sense of alienation about the modern day work world, and what choices can we make to feel connected again. You're going to hear a lot about living systems. I hope you like what you hear about living systems, because you are one. And the world needs your vitality-your aliveness- to come forth. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 50 & 51

LISTENING TO THE VOICE INSIDE

Echo Bodine is a Spiritual healer, Psychic, teacher and author of two books, Hands That Heal, and Passion to Heal. Echo's passion is teaching a variety of classes and workshops that help people find and listen to their own voice inside. In this Inner Journey Program we explore what it means to be psychic, and the power and place for intuition in our lives. Listen to the conversation, and may you be blessed with learning something new about your own voice inside. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 52 & 53

COMMUNICATING WITH ANIMALS

Teri Lapsey has been talking with the animals all her life and has developed AnimalSpeak to promote understanding between humans and animals. AnimalSpeak is a unique form of communication with animals using their own language, which is both visual and emotional. It's been quite a journey for Teri to "come out" so to speak, and claim her ability to communicate with animals as a gift. For the listener, I hope you hear something that gives you added courage to "come out" and claim some gifted part of yourself that has been hidden in your life, for whatever reason. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 54 & 55

EXPLORING QI GONG

Like thousands or maybe millions of other people in today's world, I had some health concerns that were not being remedied using standard western medical practices. If I wanted to get better, I had to be active and go exploring on my own healing journey. That healing journey continues to this day for me. About two years ago, one of my healing journey explorations led me to Chun-Yi Lin, and a class he was teaching called Qi Gong--the ancient Chinese art of healing. Chun-Yi Lin is an international Qi Gong master. I learned a lot in his class. For the listener, I hope you pick up something valuable from this Inner Journey conversation with Chun-Yi Lin about the ancient Chinese healing art of Qi Gong. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 55 & 56

YOU CAN BE HAPPY NO MATTER WHAT

Dr. Richard Carlson is a stress management consultant and author of You Can Be Happy No Matter What. He is also the author of the New York Times best seller Don't Sweat The Small Stuff. Because of that best-selling book, Dr. Carlson almost did not pass the Inner Journey "not so famous" requirement for being a guest on this program. But I decided to let him sneak in, anyway. I found him to be a very pleasant guy. In my long distance phone conversation with Dr. Carlson, we discussed the five principles he believes strongly influence our happiness - and he points out it has nothing to do with forces beyond our control. It's all inside each of us. Inside each of us. That's definitely an inner journey kind of discussion. The five principles are Thought, Moods, Separate Realities, Feelings, and the Present Moment. Perhaps these five principles can be a set of navigational tools that gently guide each of us through life challenges, and restores the joy of living along the way. Listen to the conversation, and see what you think. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 57 & 58

GETTING WELL

One day a few months ago, a woman named Rachael called me on the phone and said: "I just caught your program in the car, and I have a person I'd like to recommend to be a guest on the Inner Journey. Her name is Dee Brigham, and she runs a behavioral medicine program in Orlando Florida. I followed up on Rachael's suggestion and decided to invite Dee Brigham to be a guest on the Inner Journey. Dee is a medical psychotherapist, speaker, and author of Imagery For Getting Well: Clinical Applications of Behavioral Medicine. Dee is also the founder and director of Getting Well, an intensive, multimodal mind body health program for individuals with life challenging conditions. Another way of saying that is Getting Well is about hope and caring, about loving and forgiving oneself and others, about discovering inner wisdom, and about choosing to become deeply involved in the joy of life. My intention for you the listener, as well as for myself, is that something in this conversation touches you - in a deep and personal way - and helps you "Get Well," whatever that may mean for you on your inner journey. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 59 & 60

SEVEN STEPS OF SPIRITUAL JOURNEYING

Earnie Larsen is a nationally know author and lecturer in the field of Recovery. Earnie is well known for his ability to touch the hearts of people who have accepted the challenge of creating change in their lives. Many people today are working to deepen their spirituality. Earnie says people can only experience their spirituality, live their truth. The journey is unique to each of us. But there are markers, there are guidelines. In our Inner Journey conversation, we explore these guidelines as Earnie shares his view of spiritual journeying, and the seven steps most of us go through on the journey. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 61 & 62

THE HEALING POWER OF TOUCH

Sister Rosalind has been a massage therapist for over 24 years, and is the founder of several professional massage centers and a school of professional massage. In my Inner Journey conversation with her, I soon realized she is a woman of enormous strength, courage, and faith. She is truly a healer. My intention for you the listener, is that as you listen to this Inner Journey conversation, let Sister Rosalind’s words give you a verbal massage, and let her tone of voice and her story melt away some of the stress you face in your life, right now. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 63 & 64

SPIRITUAL NOTES TO MYSELF

The New York Times has called Hugh Prather "an American Kahlil Gibran." He is a well-known minister, lecturer, and counselor, whose best-selling books include Notes to Myself, I Touch the Earth, The Earth Touches Me, and Notes on Love and Courage. The Inner Journey conversation with Hugh Prather focuses on his new book titled Spiritual Notes to Myself. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 65 & 66

JOURNAL WRITING AS A SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE

Carl Koch is a writer and editor of books on prayer and spirituality for St. Mary’s Press. Carl also serves as an adjunct university professor of English and Human Development at St. Mary’s University in Winona, MN. I took a class from Carl called Journaling: Life’s companion. The class was about discovering journal writing as a tool to become more aware and clear about our beliefs - our values, and the choices we make in our lives. Often, I discovered, we are prisoners of our perceptions. And only through conscious awareness of beliefs and values comes the realization that we can change our perceptions. And then we have the power to make changes. This is where true personal freedom lies. Carl started the class by having us discuss a quote. The quote was this: “Spirituality is the lived experience of our beliefs.” To start the Inner Journey conversation, I asked Carl to say more on how this quote applies to journal writing as a spiritual discipline. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 67 & 68

FAITH AND HEALING IN MEDICINE

Dr. Ken Bakken is a Seattle physician who specializes in preventative medicine and pain treatment, and is a teacher of international health at John Hopkins University School of Hygiene and Public Health. He is also a Lutheran minister ordained in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America. In my Inner Journey conversation with Dr. Bakken - and Pastor Bakken - we talked about “diseases of lifestyle” that are affecting people today. And we explored how Western medicine got separated from the concepts of healing and spirit, and the necessity to bring them back together for the best that medicine can offer. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Program 69

MOLECULES OF EMOTION

Dr. Candace Pert is a leading neuroscientist who conducts AIDS research at Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, D.C. as an adjunct professor in the Department of Physiology and Biophysics. In her book, Molecules of Emotion, Candace shares her personal and professional journey as she searched for the biochemical links between consciousness, mind, and body. In my Inner Journey conversation with Candace, I found her to be a delightful guest. My experience of her was that she is as much an artist by nature as she is a leading neuroscientist. I truly believe that the best discoveries of deeper truths that modern science hopes to offer us will only happen when more scientists embrace the characteristics of art and creativity as essential tools for any scientific inquiry. I hope you enjoy the conversation. (No cassette is available for purchase of this program - on air use only.)

Programs 70 & 71

MEDITATION AS A SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE

Have you ever wondered if practicing meditation on a regular basis was right for you? Have you wondered what type of meditation practice to try out? Maybe some of you are like me. I’ve tried to incorporate meditation as a spiritual practice in my own life-several times, in fact. But I’ve never stuck with it. And I’ve wondered why. So many people have said the benefits can be terrific. On today’s Inner Journey we visit with Alan Pritz, author of Pocket Guide to Meditation. Alan teaches martial arts, yoga and meditation. In this conversation with Alan, we delve into the history, philosophy and steps of meditation. I hope you enjoy the conversation. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 72 & 73

BECOMING A PEACE ACTIVIST: ONE MAN’S STORY

Eric Skoglund called me one day. He said he enjoyed listening to the Inner Journey Program. Eric asked if I would consider social activism as a topic for the Inner Journey. Eric felt that there are a lot of inner benefits that people can receive through social activism, and he had a couple of people in mind to suggest as possible guests. I listened to Eric talk about his reasons for being active in the peace movement and his decision to leave a staff position at a bank because it did not fit who he really was. Eric also shared his journey of recovery from depression. I asked Eric if he would like to be a guest on the Inner Journey. He accepted. I enjoyed meeting and talking with Eric. I hope you do to. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 74 & 75

LIVE WELL

Dianne Hansen is a registered nurse with a master’s degree, Ph.D. course work, and 2 decades of nursing experience. Dianne has learned that “we all have the potential to be either very healthy or very ill and there are things we can do to tip the scale toward wellness.” Through her wellness practice, called LiveWell, Dianne works with clients to release pain - emotional or physical - and create comfort in their daily lives. She blends old and new, Eastern and Western techniques, to help people live healthier, happier, and more productive lives. Listen to Dianne’s story and experience. My wish for you the listener is that you hear something to help you “LiveWell” - whatever that may mean for you in your life. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 76 & 77

FACING DEATH WITH FAITH, COURAGE AND PEACE

Mary Ann Smart is my cousin. Her mother and my mother are sisters. When I learned that Mary Ann had cancer, I called her to offer support and prayers for her recovery. That began a year’s worth of regular phone calls between Mary Ann and myself. The calls were very enjoyable, and Mary Ann and I both shared what was happening in our lives. One day, Mary Ann called me and said the cancer had gone into her brain. She was preparing to die. We said our good-bye’s, and that we appreciated and loved each other. Mary Ann had a strong presence of peacefulness in facing her own death. I felt many of us could benefit from listening to Mary Ann talk about her faith and experience as she approached the end of her life on earth. A few days later, I called and asked Mary Ann if she would like to share her story of faith about life and death on the Inner Journey. She said she would like that. She asked if she could talk about Jesus. My reply was absolutely; it’s your story. Mary Ann died about a month after we had this conversation. This is Mary Ann’s story of faith, courage, and peace as she approached the end of her life. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 78 & 79

STOP BEING MEAN TO YOURSELF (EXPLORING SELF-LOVE & GRATITUDE)

Melody Beattie is the author of several best selling books, including Codependent No More, Beyond Codependency, The Language of Letting Go, Codependent’s Guide to the Twelve Steps, and Journey to the Heart. Her most recent book is called Stop Being Mean To Yourself. My Inner Journey conversation with Melody focussed on material she covered in Stop Being Mean To Yourself and Codependent No More. We explored topics of self-love, gratitude, purpose, and living through our fears. We talked of “inner pushes,” and the “soul DNA code.” I really enjoyed talking with Melody. I found her to be candid, and open to letting the conversation go wherever it needed to. My wish for you the listener as well as for myself is that self-love and gratitude will grow in each of us, everyday, for the rest of our lives. I hope you enjoy the conversation. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 79 & 80

RACE, PEACE & POVERTY ISSUES: A LIFE’S CALLING

For over 25 years, Joe Selvaggio was the founder and executive director of Pride for Project in Living, a non-profit organization that helps poor and seemingly unemployable people get housing, training, jobs, and a foothold in life. Currently Joe is executive director of the 1% Club where people of means choose to give 1% or more of their net worth annually to charitable causes. Joe Selvaggio was named Minnesota Monthly’s man of the year in 1995. They described Joe as a man who dedicates his life to helping the poor get a hand up, not a hand out. I talked with Joe about his life’s calling, which is to work on race, peace and poverty issues. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Program 81

RASING CAIN: PROTECTING THE EMOTIONAL LIFE OF BOYS

Dr. Michael Thompson is a consultant, author and child and family psychologist practicing in Cambridge, Massachusetts. For the last seven years, Michael Thompson has been a member of the faulty of the New Heads Institute run by the National Association of Independent Schools. His co-author, Dr. Dan Kindlon, is a clinical and research psychologist specializing in the behavioral problems of children and adolescents. Dr. Kindlon has a private clinical practice and teaches at Harvard Medical School.

The thesis of their book, Raising Cain, is that boys suffer deeply as a result of the destructive emotional training and narrow definition of masculinity our society imposes upon them, often leaving boys emotionally resourceless as men. In this Inner Journey conversation, I explore this theme with co-author Michael Thompson. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $6.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 82 & 83

AWAKENING TO THE SACRED

Lama Surya Das, the most highly trained American lama in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, is a poet, translator, and full-time spiritual teacher who lectures and leads meditation retreats worldwide. Born Jeffrey Miller, he was raised in Valley Stream on New York’s Long Island, where he celebrated his bar mitzvah and earned letters in basketball, baseball, and soccer at Valley Stream Central High School, class of 1968. While a student at the State University of New York at Buffalo, he attended antiwar protests, marched on Washington, and attended Woodstock. After graduating with honors from college, he traveled throughout Europe and the East, and he has spent nearly thirty years studying Zen, yoga, and Tibetan Buddhism with the great old masters of Asia. Surya Das is the author of Awakening the Buddha Within: Eight Steps to Enlightenment. My inner journey conversation with Lama Surya Das focussed on his latest book, Awakening To The Sacred: Creating a Spiritual Life from Scratch. We discussed a variety of ways for anyone, regardless of their religious or cultural backgrounds, to develop a personal spiritual program, and incorporate inner peace, joy, truth and mindfulness into their everyday lives. I found Lama Surya Das to be funny, knowledgeable, and down to earth. I hope you enjoy the conversation. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 84 & 85

RECOVERING FROM A BRAIN TUMOR: TURNING LIABILITIES INTO ASSETS

After nearly 10 years with a major corporation, Steven Haas had followed his entrepreneurial dreams and purchased a series of restaurants in the ski areas of Colorado. Life was great for Steven and his family. Then in 1991, Steven’s life changed dramatically. Steven was diagnosed with a severe brain tumor and given two weeks to live. If he would agree to high risk and highly invasive brain surgery, he might prolong his life up to one year. Life was now not so good. Steven did live, and this Inner Journey conversation is Steven’s story about the lessons he learned during his physical and emotional recovery from this traumatic experience. Steven’s recovery started from the depths of despair and inch by inch he came to realize that there is good in every situation. Everything that happens to us can be our teacher. Our liabilities can become our assets if we are willing to look at our lives in a new way. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 86 & 87

PERSONAL CLARITY

Russ Sinkler is President and founder of Clarity 4U, a consulting firm dedicated to facilitating growth, clarity and alignment for organizations and individuals to improve performance, enhance relationships and realize success. In my Inner Journey conversation with Russ, we talked a lot about the difference between choice and decision - that choice comes from the heart; decision comes from the mind. That intention drives results. And how valuable personal clarity can be to the pursuit of the happiness we all desire. Ultimately, this Inner Journey conversation is Russ Sinkler’s own life story and his efforts to live by choice and design rather than by chance and circumstance. I hope you enjoy the conversation. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 89, 90, & 91

THE GLOBAL BRAIN AWAKENS / WAKING UP IN TIME

Peter Russell earned a first class honors degree in theoretical physics and experimental psychology, and a master’s degree in computer Science at the University of Cambridge, England. Russell subsequently studied meditation and Eastern philosophy in India, and on his return to England, conducted research into the psychology of meditation at the University of Bristol. This Inner Journey interview with Peter Russell focuses on his two most recent books: The Global Brain Awakens and Waking Up In Time. I asked Peter to share with us his insights and discoveries about personal transformation, global change, and human evolution.

Peter Russell thinks that humanity may be facing its evolutionary moment of truth. We face a crisis of consciousness, and the next step of evolution is an inner one - not an outer one. I came away from this opportunity to speak in depth with Peter feeling hopeful. See what you think. I hope you enjoy the conversation. Part one, two and three. (To purchase the 2 cassettes or CD's - $17.95 + tax & shipping)

Programs 92 & 93

THE TAO OF ABUNDANCE

Lawrence Boldt is a writer and career consultant with nearly two decades of experience helping people shape their dreams into practical realities. He is the author of two books: Zen and the Art of Making a Living and his most recent book, The Tao of Abundance. Lawrence describes himself as a life long student of Taoist and other Eastern Philosophies. In this Inner Journey conversation, I ask Lawrence to share some of the principles and practices of abundance from his most recent book, The Tao of Abundance. I hope you enjoy the conversation. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 94 & 95

VITAL ENERGY

Dr. David Simon is a clinical faculty member of the University of California at San Diego Department of Neuroscience’s. David is also medical director of the Deepak Chopra Center for Well Being. David is dedicated to catalyzing the evolution of the prevailing health care system to a “healing system.” In his most recent book, Vital Energy: The 7 Keys to Invigorate Body, Mind and Soul, David writes about reclaiming our natural energy by combining the best of conventional western health practices with the principles of Ayurveda, the ancient healing system that originated in India. I hope you enjoy the conversation. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 96 & 97

A GENERAL THEORY OF LOVE

Dr. Tom Lewis is an assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of California at San Francisco, School of Medicine. Dr. Lewis is co-author of A General Theory of Love along with fellow psychiatrists Dr. Fari Amini and Dr. Richard Lannon. Together, these 3 psychiatrists from the University of California at San Francisco, School of Medicine spent 10 years studying the emotional connections between human minds. Dr. Lewis and his fellow authors contend that love stems from the limbic brain. Our nervous systems are not self-contained and our brains link together with those who are close to us. So who we are and who we become depends, in part, on whom we love. Feeling connected and attached are powerful forces for healthy loving and happy living. . Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 98 & 99

A PLACE TO SHINE

Daniel Hanson is a professor of communications at Augsburg College in Minneapolis, MN. Dan is also the author of three books, a speaker and consultant on building and sustaining healthy human relationships in the workplace. For 25 years, Dan held key executive positions with four Fortune 500 companies. He is a former president of the Fluid Dairy Division of Land O’ Lakes Corporation.

A life changing experience with cancer profoundly influenced Dan’s life. His encounter with cancer became a source of wisdom that led him to write his book titled A Place to Shine: Emerging From the Shadows at Work. In this book, Dan shares his experience of cancer and how it influenced his views on the tremendous power to be found in building and sustaining caring relationships in the workplace.

In my time together with Dan, I found him to be a gentle man. He is a leader in every positive sense of the word. I would have felt honored to call him “boss.” I hope you enjoy the conversation. Part one and part two (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 100 & 101

SYSTEMIC CONSTELLATION WORK: “Acknowledging What Is”

Heinz Stark is a body and family therapist in private practice in Germany. He has been an educator and workshop leader since 1972. His practice incorporates Art, Bio-energetics, Gestalt Therapy, Postural-Integration and Shamanic practices. In 1989, Heinz became aware of a form of therapy developed by German therapist Bert Hellinger. Hellinger’s systemic, inter-generational therapy work profoundly influenced Heinz. Since that time, Heinz has adapted his therapy work- called Systemic Constellation Work - to follow in the tradition of Bert Hellinger.

Systemic Constellation Work is a method of working with individuals and their family systems that can be used to reveal hidden - and often destructive - family dynamics. What one generation leaves unresolved, the next generation innocently and unconsciously tries to solve, becoming entangled in issues that are not truly its responsibility. Systemic Constellation Work offers the opportunity to identify and untangle ones self from these unconscious connections, and bring healing to many of life’s serious issues.

Before we begin our conversation with Heinz Stark discussing Systemic Constellation Work, I want to set the “tone” by reading a statement made by the pioneering American psychologist, William James:

“Our normal waking consciousness, rational consciousness as we call it, is but one special type of consciousness, whilst all about it, parted from it by the filmiest of screens, there lie potential forms of consciousness entirely different. We may go through life without suspecting their existence; but apply the requisite stimulus, and at a touch they are there in all their completeness, definite types of mentality which probably somewhere have their field of application and adaptation. No account of the universe in its totality can be final which leaves these other forms of consciousness quite disregarded.”

I hope you enjoy the conversation. Part one and part two (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 102 & 103

COMMUNION WITH GOD

In February 1992 Neale Donald Walsch had a mystical experience that sent his life on an extraordinary new path. At age 49, Walsch found his career as a nationally syndicated radio talk show host failing, as was his relationship and his health. In a fit of despair, he sat down early one morning to write an angry letter to God, asking tough questions such as, “What does it take to make life work? And “What have I done to deserve a life of such continuing struggle?” To his amazement, Neale began receiving answers. So profound were these inspirations that Neale, finding a legal pad near him, wrote them down. Neale’s legal pad writings noting God’s answers continued for many weeks and propelled him to become the author of the 3 book series titled Conversations With God, a staple on the New York Times non-fiction bestseller list. He and his wife, Nancy, have formed ReCreation, a nonprofit foundation for personal growth and spiritual understanding, with the goal of giving people back to themselves. In his latest book, Communion With God, Neale Donald Walsch discusses The 10 Illusions of Humans - the destructive misconceptions about God, ourselves, and our world that generate division, misery, and self-blindness, and how to overcome them. I hope you enjoy the conversation. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 104 & 105

BUDDHIST MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

Vipassana meditation, also know as mindfulness meditation, comes from the Buddhist tradition. Mindfulness meditation has been used for over 2,500 years to quiet the mind, to open the heart, and to see clearly our true nature. This meditation teaches people how to live fully in the present moment, how to open more gracefully to the ups and downs of life, and how to meet ourselves and others with more acceptance and love. Those are powerful words offering wonderful qualities we all want in our lives. To explore in more depth the promise behind those words, I invited Wes Nisker, founder and co-editor of The International Vipassana Journal titled “Inquiring Mind,” to be my guest on the Inner Journey. Wes Nisker has practiced Buddhist Vipassana - or mindfulness meditation for 30 years with various teachers in Asia and the West, and leads classes and workshops in Buddhist meditation around the globe. Wes is the author of Buddha’s Nature: A Practical Guide to Discovering Your Place in the Cosmos. Using his book Buddha’s Nature as our guide, I asked Wes to give us a deeper feeling for Buddhist mindfulness meditation. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 105 & 106

A SPIRITUAL ODYSSEY OF HEALING

One of my good friends and an acquaintance of mine, independent of each other, suggested that Frank Brandon would be a good guest for an Inner Journey conversation. I wrote the name down for future consideration and basically forgot about it. A few months later, I was visiting my friend Bill at the radio station in Ely, MN. Bill did not know the friend and acquaintance I just mentioned. In passing conversation, Bill suggested I interview Frank Brandon - he would make for an interesting guest on the Inner Journey. I wrote the name down and didn’t think much about it. A few days later, it dawned on me that three people, independent of each other and at different times were telling me to interview the same person - Frank Brandon. That was enough of a nudge from the universe for me. I asked Frank Brandon to be a guest on the Inner Journey and he agreed. Frank is a computer consultant by profession. He has a background in ranching, logging and teaching gifted and talented students in several schools in Northern Minnesota. Frank taught karate for several years and holds a 2^nd degree black belt. He was married for 20 years, and divorced in 1990. Frank and former wife raised 3 daughters. In this Inner Journey conversation, Frank shares two personal and powerful healing experiences. In part one of this conversation, Frank shares the healing experiences revolving around the death of his daughter, Cassie, age 17, in a car accident. In part two, Frank shares some more healing experiences about Cassie, and then discusses his experience revolving around the rising of spiritual energy his life known as Kundalini. Frank shares sadness and joy, mixed together, from the depth of his soul. I found comfort and healing in witnessing his story, and thank him for his willingness to share. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 107 & 108

SENSUOUS LIVING / LIVING LIFE MORE FULLY

Nancy Conger is an author, speaker, columnist, and a professionally trained life coach. As a life coach, Nancy helps people create the lives of their dreams through individual coaching and workshops. She is the author of Sensuous Living: Expand Your Sensory Awareness. In the book Nancy guides readers to tune in to what you see, hear, smell, taste and touch everyday, and learn to treasure what you may have been taking for granted. In part one of this Inner Journey conversation, I ask Nancy to help us explore and learn about our sensory awareness. In part two, I ask Nancy to help us understand what life coaching is all about, and how a person might benefit from it, or know if it’s right for them. I enjoyed meeting and talking with Nancy. She has a sense of aliveness about her that I found delightful. I hope you find her delightful too. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 109 & 110

LIVING THE LONG, SWEET LIFE

Dr. Zorba Paster is a clinical professor at the University of Wisconsin Medical School and has practiced family medicine for over 20 years. Dr. Paster hosts a public radio program, Zorba Paster On Your Health, and is the editor of TopHealth, a national medical newsletter. He is married with four children. Zorba is also the author of The Longevity Code: Your Personal Prescription for a Longer, Sweeter Life. In the book, Zorba discusses five “spheres of wellness” that encompass all aspects of life: the physical, mental, kinship/social, spiritual and material. Zorba contends that each of us must attend to and balance all five spheres to achieve optimal longevity-and the greatest enjoyment of that longevity. In our conversation we discussed longevity boosters and busters. We talked about taking baby steps towards wellness. We looked at how taking a baby step to improve personal wellness in one sphere often has a positive influence on the four other sphere’s of wellness in our lives. Once again, the message is everything is connected. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)  

Programs 111 & 112

IF THE BUDDHA MARRIED

Charlotte Kasl has 25 years of experience as a practicing psychotherapist, workshop leader, Quaker, and Reiki healer. She has done extensive research in the fields of women’s psychology and relationships. Charlotte is a certified Addiction Specialist in the areas of chemical dependency and sexuality, and earned a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Ohio University. She has had a longtime involvement with Eastern spiritual practices and alternative healing, bringing an empowering holistic approach to all her work. She is the author of several books, including Women, Sex and Addiction and Many Roads, One Journey. In her latest book, If The Buddha Married, Charlotte’s central message is the health and success of lasting relationships depends on self-awareness, commitment, openness, acceptance, shared values, and the ability to embrace differences and handle conflict. Charlotte and I used the central theme of her book to guide our Inner Journey conversation. I hope you enjoy the program. Part one and part two. (To purchase a cassette or CD - $10.95 + tax & shipping.)

Programs 113 & 114

LIFE IS A CELEBRATION

Carole Gesme and Russ Osnes are co-authors of the book Life Is A Celebration. In their book, which draws extensively from Transactional Analysis theory, Carole and Russ write about people with four philosophies of life: those who Celebrate, those who Just Get Along, either Optimistic or Pessimistic, and those who hold on to Suffering. Their goal in writing the book is to help people analyze where they are and provide options and motivation to move to Celebration. Carole