In this engaging episode of the iSōma podcast, we welcome our first guest, Asher Packman, to delve into the profound impact of storytelling and ritual in navigating life's most challenging moments. Reflecting on personal experiences including deep loss, encounters with death, and the transformative power of grief, Asher discusses how stories serve as ancient medicine, helping us connect to our souls and ancestral wisdom. The conversation spans a variety of topics from the evolution of human storytelling, the role of rituals in community healing, the difference between sorrow and grief, and the necessity of conscious participation in our own soul’s journey. With insights drawn from depth psychology, mythology, and personal experience, this episode offers a deeply reflective exploration of how we can integrate these practices into our lives for personal and communal transformation.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

02:38 The Power of Storytelling

16:46 The Role of Grief in Men's Work

26:42 Rituals and Conscious Participation

38:23 Navigating the Underworld

52:52 Embracing the Mystery of Death

53:33 The Role of Ego in Facing Mortality

54:39 Personal Tragedy and Transformation

56:19 Rediscovering Childhood Passions

57:28 Understanding and Honoring the Past

01:05:45 The Power of Storytelling

01:13:33 Navigating Life's Challenges

01:19:08 The Importance of Listening to Your Soul

01:30:28 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

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