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Back from the Borderline — Health & Fitness
Back from the Borderline

Back From The Borderline is a podcast about depth psychology, symbolism, spirituality, consciousness, and the search for a more meaningful life.

I started this show years ago while trying to understand my own mind. Somewhere along the way, the questions became much bigger than me. They led into Carl Jung, mythology, Christian mysticism, dreams, tarot, philosophy, esotericism, religious history, artificial intelligence, and the symbolic patterns that quietly shape the way we see ourselves and the world around us.

The word borderline has taken on its own meaning over the years. It speaks to the edge almost all of us eventually reach. That place where our old explanations stop working and we’re asked to learn an entirely different way of seeing. That’s the space my work inhabits.

Some episodes are conversations with researchers, psychologists, philosophers, historians, and spiritual teachers. Others are long-form essays where I follow a question wherever it leads. Lately I’ve been especially interested in symbolic literacy, the way images, myths, dreams, and archetypes quietly organize human life, often long before we’re consciously aware of them.

I’m not very interested in being “certain” about anything. I care about learning to recognize patterns, hold complexity without rushing toward easy conclusions, and recover forms of wisdom that help us live with greater honesty, imagination, and responsibility.

If you’ve found yourself searching for Carl Jung, depth psychology, symbolism, archetypes, spirituality, mythology, Christian mysticism, tarot, dreams, consciousness, philosophy, or the Western esoteric tradition, I think you’ll feel at home here.

Alongside the public podcast, I also host House of Cards, an ongoing study of the Rider-Waite-Smith tarot through psychology, symbolism, mythology, and contemplative practice, as well as MOODS, an app I designed for dreamwork and deep inner inquiry. Both are extensions of the same project: learning to see more clearly.

You can explore everything, including new episodes, House of Cards, Patreon, and MOODS, at backfromtheborderline.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Copyright: © mollie adler

Latest Episodes:

spiritual emergency pt 2: a guide to recognizing the different types of transcendent crises Feb 13, 2024

Show notes

What if your deepest struggle was a gateway to total inner transformation? Explore the types of spiritual emergencies and their hidden meanings. Dive into Part 2 of this 3-part series, 'Spiritual Emergency,' and explore the intriguing concept of psychospiritual crises. Through the lens of the work of transpersonal psychiatrist Dr. Stanislav Grof, this series examines the fine line between profound spiritual awakening and overwhelming psychological breakdowns.

In today’s world, discussions around mental health often oscillate between rigid, biomedical interpretations and the sometimes evasive positivity of new age spirituality. This dichotomy leaves little room for the complex reality of spiritual emergence, a profound and transformative experience that defies simple categorization. Too often, mainstream mental health discourse excludes the spiritual dimension entirely, favoring a strictly clinical approach that may overlook the deeply personal and transcendent aspects of psychological crises. Part 2 delves into the various forms of spiritual crises identified by Dr. Grof and his wife, Christina. We discuss diverse experiences, ranging from Shamanic crises, in which individuals undergo profound transformative journeys, to Kundalini awakenings, marked by intense physical and emotional upheaval. We also cover episodes of unitive consciousness or peak experiences, a renewing psychological process through a return to one's inner center, and crises of psychic opening, where individuals encounter intense psychic phenomena.

Additionally, this episode unpacks past-life experiences, communication with spirit guides and the phenomena of "channeling," near-death experiences (NDEs), and close encounters with UFOs and alien abduction experiences. Finally, we explore possession states, where individuals feel overtaken by external entities, and the concept of alcoholism and drug addiction as forms of psychospiritual crisis. This comprehensive exploration aims to shed light on these varied and often misunderstood experiences, offering insights into their transformative potential and the challenges they pose. Join us in unraveling the complexities of these spiritual emergencies, as we navigate the mysterious intersection of psychology and spirituality.

Having mystical experiences dismissed as being purely ‘psychotic,’ ‘borderline,’ or ‘schizophrenic’ not only denies the spiritual validity of what we’re going through but also adds an unnecessary element of fear and terror to the experience. This fear and terror can be profoundly crippling and can make the whole experience much more difficult than it really needs to be. This episode is not just an academic exercise but a guide to recognizing and understanding the profound changes these crises can precipitate.

Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

spiritual emergency pt 1: mental breakdown or spiritual awakening? Feb 06, 2024

Show notes

Have you ever wondered if there’s more to your psychological struggles than meets the eye? Dive into Part 1 of our 3-part series, 'Spiritual Emergency,' and explore the intriguing concept of psychospiritual crises. Through the lens of the work of transpersonal psychiatrist Dr. Stanislav Grof, this series begins by examining the fine line between profound spiritual awakening and overwhelming psychological breakdowns.

In today’s world, discussions around mental health often oscillate between rigid, biomedical interpretations and the sometimes evasive positivity of new age spirituality. This dichotomy leaves little room for the complex reality of spiritual emergence, a profound and transformative experience that defies simple categorization. Too often, mainstream mental health discourse excludes the spiritual dimension entirely, favoring a strictly clinical approach that may overlook the deeply personal and transcendent aspects of psychological crises. On the other end of the spectrum, certain strands of new age spirituality engage in 'spiritual bypassing', where the challenging, darker facets of spiritual growth are overshadowed by an emphasis on positivity and light. This series delves into the critical middle path, exploring the concept of 'Spiritual Emergency', a term that captures the tumultuous yet potentially enlightening journey of the psyche during profound moments of transformation. It's a journey that acknowledges the darkness and the light, offering a more holistic and integrated understanding of our mental and spiritual well-being. Having mystical experiences dismissed as being purely ‘psychotic,’ ‘borderline,’ or ‘schizophrenic’ not only denies the spiritual validity of what we’re going through but also adds an unnecessary element of fear and terror to the experience. This fear and terror can be profoundly crippling and can make the whole experience much more difficult than it really needs to be.

In this first episode (part 1 of 3), we unravel the essence of 'Spiritual Emergency' and 'Emergence,' terms that represent the transformational potential hidden within challenging psychological experiences. We delve into Dr. Grof's groundbreaking article, exploring the significance of these crises in the lives of shamans, religious founders, and spiritual seekers. This discussion sheds light on how what's often labeled psychotic in mainstream psychiatry could, in fact, be a critical phase of personal transformation and spiritual openness. Join me as we dissect the triggers of spiritual emergencies, from physical ordeals to profound emotional traumas, and how these crises can catalyze an inward journey of self-discovery. We also discuss how traditional psychiatric diagnoses often miss the mark in understanding and supporting these transformative states.

Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

down-to-earth awakening beyond the woo-woo and delulu (ft. christian bradley west) Jan 30, 2024

Show notes

Do you find yourself questioning the authenticity of watered-down mainstream spirituality and seeking a deeper truth? Join me for a candid chat with Christian Bradley West, a unique voice in the realm of intuitive arts and spiritual exploration. This conversation isn't your average spiritual dialogue; it's a raw and real journey through the complexities of new age beliefs and the quest for authentic spiritual awakening. Christian, an artist and intuitive, shares his own path from a sensitive child in the south who found himself mixing in mystical circles to a guiding light in the often murky waters of modern spirituality. We unravel the layers of his multifaceted journey, exploring how his diverse experiences shape his approach to life and spiritual seeking.

Together, we tackle the tricky terrain of "new age spiritual woo-woo," dissecting how to discern the genuine seekers from the often delusional, ego-blinded gurus and influencers. Christian's insights into the pitfalls of spiritual absolutism and the danger of one-size-fits-all paths offer a refreshing perspective in an area crowded with false prophets and empty promises.

Our conversation takes a turn towards the poetic, discussing the mystics who embraced the beauty of unknowing and the importance of recognizing the allegorical nature of most spiritual texts. We delve into finding magic in the mundane and humor in our darkest moments, offering a lifeline for those seeking meaning in a seemingly senseless world. This episode is more than an interview; it's a heart-to-heart between two friends unraveling the essence of a down-to-earth awakening process. It's a guide for those seeking to navigate the spiritual marketplace without getting lost in its illusions. Together, we’ll journey through the labyrinth of spirituality, guided by Christian's wisdom and experience. It's a conversation for anyone yearning to break free from the confines of mainstream spiritual narratives and embark on a truly personal journey of discovery and transformation.

Connect with Christian at https://www.christianbwest.com/

Follow Christian on Instagram @thecountryclairvoyant

Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

the hidden toll: carrying the mental load in relationships [preview] Jan 25, 2024

Show notes

In this exclusive Back from the Borderline episode preview, we dive deep into the often invisible yet overwhelming world of “mental load” within relationships. Listener Geneva opens up about her decade-long journey with a partner, sharing how she silently took on the role of managing everything—a common experience that reveals an often-unspoken burden in many relationships. But this isn’t simply about dividing household chores; it’s about the layers of emotional labor and the subtle mental toll that can quietly strain our relationships and self-worth.

Through Geneva’s story, we explore:

The Mental Load Trap: Why do some partners take on an unequal share of managing tasks and responsibilities? Geneva’s journey shows how this can lead to cycles of overextension, passive-aggressiveness, and resentment.
Unseen Emotional Labor: Beyond daily tasks, there’s a mental and emotional balancing act that often goes unnoticed. How does carrying this weight impact emotional well-being and relational stability, especially for those with intense emotions and abandonment fears?
Emotional Boundaries and Self-Worth: This episode delves into the reasons behind overextending ourselves, exploring how the mental load can become a mask that conceals deeper insecurities and a desire for validation.
Introducing the 'Fair Play' Method: We discuss this innovative approach to rebalancing emotional and physical labor in relationships, not just as a method of fairness but as a transformative tool for mutual respect and understanding.

This conversation is more than a guide to reducing resentment; it’s a pathway to greater self-awareness, emotional alchemy, and healing in relationships. If you’ve ever felt the weight of “doing it all,” this episode offers insights and strategies to find balance, deepen connection, and redefine what it means to truly share life with someone. Join me for a transformative journey into the heart of relationship dynamics and self-discovery.

RESOURCES:

✧ Fair Play by Eve Rodsky

✧ Time Out: A Fair Play Podcast

Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

sacrificing our mental health at the altar of social media (ft. thanasi dilos) Jan 23, 2024

Show notes

Are we sacrificing our mental well-being at the altar of social media and Big Tech? In this episode, I sit down with 21-year-old Thanasi Dilos, a pioneering voice for his generation's mental health and digital safety. Forgoing college to advocate for change, Thanasi shares his powerful journey, shedding light on the toll that tech companies’ profit-driven models take on millennials, Gen-Z, and Gen Alpha. Through his work with the youth-led organization Design It For Us, backed by influential supporters like Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, Thanasi is mobilizing change to confront the unchecked influence of social media on our psychological health.

In this episode, we explore:

The Mental Health Toll of Social Media: How Big Tech’s business models exacerbate mental health struggles in young people and the urgent need for change.
A Generation’s Call for Digital Safety: Thanasi’s efforts to mobilize young people, creating initiatives that prioritize ethical data practices and user well-being.
Building Empowered Digital Experiences: Strategies for empowering youth to take control of their digital lives and protect their mental health.
The Rise of Youth-Led Advocacy: Insights into how Thanasi’s organization, Design It For Us, is shaping the conversation on online safety and advocating for ethical reforms in tech.

This episode is more than just an interview—it’s a powerful call to action for a safer, more conscientious digital landscape. Whether you’re navigating the effects of social media yourself, a parent concerned for your child’s well-being, or simply interested in the future of mental health in the digital age, this conversation offers crucial insights into the transformative steps needed to protect the next generation.

RESOURCES:

✧ Connect with Thanasi at www.thanasidilos.com

✧ Share your story or take action at https://designitforus.org/

✧ Read more about “Wait Until 8th” at https://www.waituntil8th.org/

Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

show me your scars and i’ll show you how deep you are (ft. laurence hillman) Jan 16, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, I sit down with Laurence Hillman, a leading voice in archetypal astrology and depth psychology. As the son of the legendary James Hillman, Laurence has developed a profound yet accessible approach to astrology and psychology that helps uncover deep-seated truths within us. Together, we explore how understanding and working with archetypes can be transformative for those navigating emotional challenges, trauma, or simply searching for a greater sense of purpose.

Laurence shares insights on:

The Power of Archetypes in Healing: How recognizing and integrating archetypes can support emotional and psychological healing, guiding us through life's difficult moments.
Astrology Beyond the Surface: Demystifying astrology’s deeper wisdom beyond horoscopes, and uncovering how it serves as a tool for authentic self-exploration.
Shadow Work for Transformation: Exploring the vital role of shadow work in personal growth, learning to embrace and integrate our darker aspects for a fuller, more authentic self.
Awakening Consciousness: Laurence’s approach to “awakening consciousness” and the essential roles that depth psychology and archetypes play in this transformative journey.

If you’ve ever felt lost, stuck, or on the verge of a personal breakthrough, Laurence offers practical advice to begin your path toward self-awareness, healing, and self-realization. This episode serves as both an exploration and a guide to using archetypal astrology as a tool for navigating the inner landscapes of our lives.

CONNECT WITH LAURENCE: https://laurencehillman.com/

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

✧ https://www.astrologyuniversity.com/

✧ https://archetypesatwork.com/

Craving more? Become a Premium Submarine. Join an exclusive community and unlock hundreds of hours of members-only content: full-length episodes, deep-dive series, guided meditations, and more—all for the cost of a couple of coffees a month. Start exploring at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

the radical therapist: silent screams from the asylum [preview] Jan 11, 2024

Show notes

In this exclusive preview of the fourth episode of our eye-opening multi-part series exploring the book "The Radical Therapist," we dive into an intimate and revealing letter from an anonymous person who refers to themselves as "C.B.", who recounts their harrowing experiences in various mental hospitals during the 1960s and 70s. This episode is an unflinching look at the impact of institutionalization on mental health and personal autonomy.

This powerful narrative explores:

The profound loss of purpose and meaning leading to mental health disintegration.
The destructive cycle of dependency fostered by psychiatric facilities, stripping patients of autonomy and motivation.
The paradoxical rewards for 'sickness' in the hospital setting, promoting acting out for attention and care.
The dehumanizing experiences of psychiatric treatment, including invasive searches, withheld information, and forced labor.
The alarming use of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) without proper consent or understanding of its consequences.
The deep stigma attached to mental illness, complicating reintegration into society and magnifying feelings of isolation.
The often condescending and defensive nature of interactions with psychiatrists, leading to further alienation and frustration.

C.B.'s account sheds light on the profound challenges faced within mental health institutions and the urgent need for compassionate, patient-centered approaches.

This episode invites us to reflect on the historical treatment of mental illness and question how far we have come in understanding and addressing these complex issues.

Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

consciousness-expansion and deeper healing through the power of myth Jan 09, 2024

Show notes

In this captivating episode, we explore the profound insights of Paul Rebillot, a Gestalt therapist and former actor, who harmoniously blends the art of storytelling with the transformative process of therapy. His article, "The Power of Story and Myth – The Genesis of an Approach to Healing," takes us on a journey through the time-honored tradition of myth and its pivotal role in shaping human consciousness.

In this episode, you'll discover how:

★Stories and myths have been the vessels of wisdom across various cultures, from the Lakota Sioux to ancient Greece.

★The therapeutic potential of myth can lead to personal transformation and a deeper understanding of our own 'madness.'

★Rebillot's own workshops harness the Hero's Journey archetype, facilitating profound personal change.

Reference: https://www.adventurelife.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Rebillot-The-power-of-story-and-myth.pdf

Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

the radical therapist: unmasking the systemic stagnation of psychiatric training [preview] Jan 04, 2024

Show notes

Join me for a preview of this Premium Submarine exclusive multi-part series exploring the 1971 book "The Radical Therapist." In part three, we'll take a critical look at the training of psychiatrists and its far-reaching implications on the practice of therapy and systemic change within the field.

In this episode, you'll learn about:

The deeply entrenched 'master and apprentice' model in psychiatric education and its effect on trainee therapists.
The cycle of mystification in psychiatric training, leading to a perplexing and often unchallengeable professional aura.
How the medical model in psychiatry not only shapes therapists but also impacts the patients under their care.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the nuances and complexities of psychiatric training and its role in shaping the mental health landscape. The full discussion delves deeper into these themes, challenging conventional norms and sparking a conversation on necessary reforms.

ABOUT THE BOOK: The Radical Therapist, an alternative mental health journal from the early 1970s, emerged as a critique of traditional psychiatry and a proponent of social change as the primary treatment for mental illness. Published from 1970 to 1972, it was part of the anti-psychiatry movement challenging established psychiatric principles. The journal originated in Minot, North Dakota, where a group of psychiatrists and activists founded The Radical Therapist Collective, emphasizing therapy for social, political, and personal change. The Collective aimed to establish a forum for those critical of traditional therapy, advocating for a new psychology and therapy programs under client control. The journal was highly critical of the societal "Establishment," supporting women's liberation, gay liberation, and opposing the Vietnam War, racism, and consumerist greed. It attracted contributing editors and authors who shared these views.

Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

trauma worlds: embodied healing beyond shame’s shadow [part 3] Jan 02, 2024

Show notes

This third and final installment of our "Trauma Worlds" series marks a turning point from darkness to light, focusing on the transformative process of healing. In this episode, we continue to unravel the complex layers of trauma, including the role of shame, as we forge a path toward recovery and self-renewal.

Here's what we'll cover:

✧ How confronting and understanding shame paves the way for profound healing.

✧ Methods for liberating ourselves from the chains of trauma and redefining our narrative.

✧ Marion Woodman's insights into the necessity of embracing our body's wisdom and lived experiences.

✧ The significance of nurturing connections and self-empathy in our healing journey.

This conversation is not just about identifying the sources of our struggles—it's about actively seeking the light at the end of the tunnel and the steps we can take to reach it.

Reference: Sieff, D. F. (2017). Trauma-worlds and the wisdom of Marion Woodman. Psychological Perspectives, 60(2), 170-185.

UNLOCK THE FULL EPISODE:

Enjoyed this episode? Explore more as a Premium Submarine. Dive deep into hundreds of hours of ad-free exclusive content and full-length episodes on Patreon, including my original BPD recovery series, guided meditations, and much more. Click here to preview the premium collections you’ll unlock access to for as little as a couple of cups of coffee a month. Learn more and join at backfromtheborderline.com.

The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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