Episode 05: Shame with Neelam Patel

Join Alyson and her guest, Neelam Patel, an author, performance artist, and poet, as they embark on a journey through the complex landscape of shame. The conversation explores how this powerful emotion shapes personal and collective experiences, especially during times of great change. Neelam shares insights from her debut novel, "Burning it Down Dancing in the Rubble," unraveling traditional notions of shame. The dialogue invites listeners to consider the spiritual and astrological aspects of shame, highlighting the healing potential of Chiron and Saturn in personal growth journeys.

Navigating the challenging waters of shame and self-acceptance, Neelam opens up about personal encounters with this emotion. She discusses the transformative power of making space for shame to authentically celebrate oneself, weaving in personal anecdotes and poetry. The dialogue sheds light on the importance of creating safe spaces for processing shame and cautions against dismissive reassurances that can inadvertently amplify feelings of inadequacy. By acknowledging the nuanced challenges and growth that come from confronting shame, they seek to understand the delicate balance between vulnerability and self-compassion.

Embrace the intricate relationship between shame, self-acceptance, and personal agency in this latest discussion. They emphasize the necessity of sharing shame in supportive spaces. Through a poignant poem, Neelam illustrates the significance of allowing these feelings to coexist without immediate dismissal. This episode challenges the narrative of shame resolution and encourages shame acceptance as a pathway to authentic existence and healing.