The Ego Podcast: Recent Episodes

Wellness podcast by Dena Jackson

This is a podcast about striving to find balance in a world full of extremes. On it, Dena Jackson (Comedian, Writer and Meditation advocate) interviews comedians, actors, yogis, meditation leaders and other working professionals about what they do to find balance in their lives and manage their egos.

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On episode 49 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by producer, director and head of 383 Pictures, Steve Hoffner! We discuss the importance of building a foundation for yourself when working in the entertainment business, checking your ego and meditation tactics that work for Steve! Enjoy! For more info about Steve please visit https://www.383pictures.com/.

This episode was recorded in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing by Justin Ingraldi, music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 48 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by the Founder of Little Yogis, Michelle Faber! We discuss the program of Little Yogis, which incorporates yoga and mindfulness practices specifically for kids, teaching mindfulness to her own children and Michelle's own process with yoga. This was a wonderful episode that I'm delighted to share. For info on Michelle and Little Yogis, please visit: https://www.littleyogistoronto.com/

This episode was recorded in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 47 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by Mindfulness Teacher, Author and return guest, Jess Koffman! Jess is an extremely knowledgeable meditator and teacher who spends most of his time in the East studying and teaching mindfulness. On this continuation of our interview (on episode 40) Jess discusses how Mindfulness can help you achieve your goals, what's wrong with Spirituality today and the East vs Western teachings. This was a wonderful interview that I am delighted to share! For more info about Jess, his books and his upcoming classes (including his Mindfulness classes beginning in July and September 2019) please visit: http://jesskoffman.com/.

This episode was recorded in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 46 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by comedians John Mostyn and Leonard Chan. Apart from being two hilarious Canadian comedians, both John and Leonard have completed a ten day silent meditation retreat, also known as Vipassana. We discuss life in silence, what ten days in our own mind can do and the long term benefits of this practice. This was an extremely interesting episode that I highly recommend to anyone interested taking a leap with their practice. For more info about Leonard and John, you can follow them on social media @mostyncomedy and @theleonardchan.

This episode was recorded in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 45 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by Wellness Expert TEDx Speaker, Nutritionist and Nurse Practitioner, Cynthia Thurlow. We discuss the parasympathetic nervous system, defining wellness and showing love and kindness to our bodies. This was an extremely interesting episode that I am delighted to share. For more info about Cynthia, her podcast "Everyday Wellness" and her upcoming talks, please follow her @cht_wellness.

This episode was recorded via Skype and edited by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 44, Comedian and Youtuber Ernie Vicente joins us to discuss the Law of Attraction and how to manifest what you want in life. This episode coincides nicely with episode 35 on the Law of Attraction as Ernie provides evidence if his own manifestations as well as advice and books he recommends for listeners. Ernie also hosts a Youtube channel called "Ernspire" where he provides uplifting videos that mirror his positive experiences with the Law of Attraction. For more info on Ernie, his comedy and his upcoming projects you can follow him on social media @ernievicente.

This episode was recorded in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 43 of the Ego Podcast, Actor and Comedian Cody Crain joins us to discuss his journey with meditation and mindfulness and how these practices have helped him achieve balance as an artist. Cody also shares his experience while training to become a yoga instructor and how this has prepared him for various life challenges. For more info about Cody and his upcoming shows and projects, please follow him on social media @CoCrain. This episode was recorded in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 43 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by Nurse Practitioner and Family Therapist, Dawn Esther Allen-Fogarty. Dawn shares her own process with meditation as well as the work she does with Emotion Focused Family Therapy. This was an extremely interesting episode that looks at parent coaching and the various mental health practices used in this work (which include yoga, meditation and mindfulness). For more information about Dawn and this program, please visit: www.mentalhealthfoundations.ca/parent-coaching.

This episode was recorded in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On this episode of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by Entrepreneur and Speaker, Jacob Morris. Jacob is a mental health advocate who started a campaign entitled "Run to Wellness" where he ran across the country in support of it. We discuss the details of his campaign, the documentary shot surrounding it and Jacob's journey overcoming depression that he discussed in TEDx talk. This was a great interview that I'm happy to share. For more info about Jacob, you can follow him on social media @jacobmorris.

This episode was recorded at Eggplant Picture and Sound Studios in Toronto, Ontario. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On this episode of the Ego Podcast I am joined by Mindfulness teacher, author and meditator, Jess Koffman. Jess shares his process with mindfulness, becoming a teacher and moving from Canada to Northern Thailand where he became a practising monk. I have learned so much from Jess as a student in his mindfulness classes and they have changed my entire approach to meditation and life overall. This was an extremely interesting interview that I am delighted to share. For more info about Jess, his classes and his work, please visit: http://jesskoffman.com/.

This episode was recorded in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 39 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by Reiki Specialist and Mindfulness Instructor, Salima Pirani! Salima is gifted in so many ways and I'm delighted to share this episode where we discuss her process coming into practising and teaching mindfulness, manifesting, tapping into psychic awareness and more. This was a wonderful discussion that I know you will enjoy! For more info about Salima and her work, please visit: http://www.salimapirani.com/.

This episode was recorded in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 38 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by entrepreneur, life coach and speaker, Lavender Morantz! We discuss Lavender's work in speaking and coaching what it means to trust the Universe, and when to listen to life's subtle messages. This was a great interview that I'm very excited to share. For more info about Lavender and her work, please visit: lavendermorantz.com or follow her on social media @lavendermorantz.

This episode was recorded in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 37 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by the Director of Talent and Festival Planning at Just for Laughs, Zoe Rabnett! We discuss Zoe's process of finding meditation as a way to achieve balance, the highs and lows of working in the entertainment industry, learning to meditate at the airport and more! This was a very fun and inspiring episode that I'm excited to share. For more information about Zoe and the Just for Laugh's Comedy Festival, please visit: https://www.hahaha.com/en This episode was recorded at Eggplant Picture and Sound Studios in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 36 of the Ego Podcast we are joined by Homeless Youth Advocate, Author and Keynote Speaker, Marnie Grundman. Marnie shares her childhood story, growing up living on the streets and the work that she does to renegotiate what it means to be homeless through speaking and her book, Missing, which provides a deeper dive into her work. This was an amazing interview that I am very excited to share. For more info about Marnie and her upcoming events and speaking engagements, please visit: https://www.marniegrundman.com/.

This episode was recorded at Eggplant Picture and Sound in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 35 of the Ego Podcast, comedians Courtney Gilmour and Jhanelle Dennis return to discuss the Law of Attraction. This episode was recorded right after a conference the three of us attended with author, speaker and Loaw of Attraction expert, Esther Hicks. We discusses the process of manifesting, the importance of meditation and what the Law of Attraction is all about. For more information about Courtney and Jhanelle and their shows, you can follow them on social media @courtgilmour and @jhanelledennis. This episode was recorded at Eggplant Picture and Sound Studios in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 34 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by author, medical professional and trauma specialist, Dr. Teresa Marsh. This was a very moving conversation where Dr. Marsh shares her experience working in Indigenous communities with individuals who suffer from trauma. We discuss her book, Enlightenment is Letting Go, her upcoming projects and her work in healing. For more information about Dr. Marsh, please visit: Traumahealingguru.com This episode was recorded at Eggplant Picture and Sound Studios in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor, music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 33 of the Ego Podcast, we close off our three part interview series at GreeneStone Muskoka. This interview features Trauma Associate, Jim Hall who provides an in depth discussion of what trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are and how they can be treated. We look at where trauma lives in the body, identifying this experience as well as beneficial recovery tactics. This was a very interesting interview that provides a great deal of insight. For more information about Jim and GreeneStone Muskoka, please visit: https://greenestone.net/

This episode was recorded at GreeneStone Treatment Facility in Muskoka, Ontario. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldon.

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On this second part of our three part series, I am joined by Clinical Therapist Amy Plomp and Program Director, Siobbhan Boyer from GreeneStone Muskoka, an addiction recovery centre that incorporates meditation, mindfulness and yoga into their recovery program. We discuss grounding techniques, connecting with nature and other interesting approaches to treatment. For more information about GreeneStone please visit: https://greenestone.net/

This episode was recorded at GreeneStone Muskoka. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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We begin Season two of the Ego Podcast with a special three part series recorded at GreeneStone Muskoka - an addiction rehabilitation facility located in Muskoka, Canada. This episode features an interview with Dr. David Marsh who shares his insight into the spiritual, mental, physical, social and psychological approach to treatment used at GreeneStone. He also notes how mindfulness, meditation and yoga are all used as healing practices for individuals in recovery. This was a wonderful interview that provides a lens into what treatment looks like, how issues such as trauma play a large role and GreeneStone's approach. For more information about Dr. Marsh and GreeneStone Muskoka you can visit: https://greenestone.net/

This episode was recorded onsite at GreeneStone Treatment facility in Muskoka, Ontario. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 30 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by author, teacher and researcher, Olesya Kolisnyk! We discuss Olesya's work in the non profit sector, working with immigrant women in business, her book on this topic and her involvement in bringing Ted X to Toronto communities. We also discuss Olesya's individual yoga practice and how yoga has helped her manage both her physical and mental health and how she is an advocate for these practices. This was a great interview and I loved interviewing Olesya. For more information about Olesya and her upcoming TedX event, please visit: http://tedxtrinitybellwoods.com/

This episode was recorded at Eggplant Picture and Sound Studios in Toronto. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 29 of the Ego Podcast, lawyer and mindfulness teacher, Nicolle Kopping-Pavars returns to share some more knowledge about mindfulness and how it can improve your current situation and shift your perception about life overall. We discuss the concept of happiness and how it can often be misinterpreted, guidelines for being mindful and Nicolle's new mindfulness business, Lotus-Law! This was a wonderful conversation that I'm very excited to share. For more information about Nicolle and Lotus-Law, please visit http://lotus-law.com/.

This episode was recorded at Eggplant Picture and Sound in Toronto. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 28 of the Ego Podcast I am joined by sound healer, Darren Austin Hall. Darren uses music and sound for healing purposes, which he shares in great detail on this interview. We discuss some of the history behind crystal singing bowls and Darren's work with them in yoga, meditation and healing circles. We also talk about music and how various sounds can be used to heal in many ways. I loved this interview and I'm very excited to share with listeners. For more information about Darren and his work you can visit https://www.darrenaustinhall.com/ or follow @darrendruid on social media.

This episode was recorded in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Darren Austin Hall.

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On episode 27 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by award winning Voice actor and meditation advocate, Ron Rubin! Ron and I had a lovely discussion about his work in entertainment, how he found meditation and how these practices have helped him find and maintain balance while working in an industry that has many ups and downs. For more information about Ron and his work, you can visit his website at: https://www.ronrubinvoice.com/

This episode was made possible by Comedy Records. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On this episode of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by returning guest, yoga and meditation instructor and reiki healer, Caitlan Carver! We dive into an in depth discussion about useful shake-off meditations that are helpful first thing in the morning, where yoga and meditation are headed and the connection between these two practices. I love having Caitlan as a guest and I'm delighted she has returned with more knowledge to share. For more info about Caitlan and her upcoming retreats and events, please visit anandayogaretreats.com or you can follow her @anandayogaretreats.

This episode was made possible by Comedy Records. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 25 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by Actor and Yoga Instructor, Michael Eisner! We discuss Michael's experiences with ego in both the yoga/meditation and entertainment worlds. He also discusses some unique styles of meditation that he practices and how they have impacted his life in a major way. Michael also shares his experience with the health condition, Ankylosing Spondilitis and you can listen to his podcast which touches on this subject deeper; "Ankylosing Spondilitis Natural Health" on iTunes and Shoutengine.

This episode was recorded at the Laughing Vikings Studio in Toronto. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On this episode of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by Psychotherapist, writer, performer and mindfulness advocate, Elaine Smookler. During this interview we discussed Elaine's work with mindfulness and how she teaches it to others in very creative ways. Elaine shares her perspective on the benefits of mindfulness practices and the importance of being present. I loved recording this interview with Elaine. Enjoy! For more info about Elaine and her work, please visit http://www.elainesmookler.com/.

This episode was made possible by Comedy Records. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 23 of the Ego Podcast I am joined by yoga and meditation instructor and breath work facilitator, Serah Ruth Goldberg! We discuss Serah's work with breath and how she uses yoga as a platform to relay her teachings with others. We also discuss Serah's love for ego and finding ways to work with your ego rather than fighting it or having it drive the ship. This was a wonderful conversation and I learned so much from Serah and her perspective. For more information about Serah please visit seersway.ca or follow her on social media @serahruth. If you are in Toronto, you can also attend one of her classes at: YYoga Studio, Good Space and Kula Annex, where she runs breath work events. This recording was made possible by Comedy Records. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 22 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by Meditation Advocate and former Vice President of Ryerson University, Janice Winton! Janice is also the person who taught me how to meditate and my mom. We discuss her meditation process, teaching myself and others how to practice, incorporating meditation into the school systems and more! This was a really fun episode to record and I learned a lot about Janice's personal understanding of meditation and mindfulness practices and how that was passed along in my family. For more information about Janice and the Ryerson University Wellness Centre, please visit: https://www.ryerson.ca/healthandwellness/

This episode was made possible by Comedy Records. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 21 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by comedian, writer and fellow yoga instructor, Kristy LaPointe! I had so much fun interviewing Kristy and during this interview we talk about life in the comedy and yoga worlds, removing ego as an instructor, applying yoga principles when performing and more! It was so nice to chat with another comedian/yogi and Kristy's perspective is both refreshing and hilarious. Enjoy! For more information about Kristy and her upcoming projects please visit: Kristylapointe.com or you can follow her on social media @kristylapointe and @planebasedkristy. She also has a new comedy/yoga web series available on CBC Comedy available here: http://www.cbc.ca/comedy/yoga-101-1.4578999

This recording was made possible by Comedy Records. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 20 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by comedian Jay Wells L'Ecuyer! Jay is a Canadian sketch comedian and award winning filmmaker who is one half of the comedy duo Jay & Eytan! Now making his home in New York City, Jay was in town visiting which gave us a chance to sit down and discuss some his opinions on ego, spirituality and meditation! We also chat about Jay's process coming into mindfulness, spiritual awakenings and more! I really enjoyed recording this episode with Jay and I'm excited to share his perspective with listeners. Enjoy! For more information about Jay and his upcoming shows you can visit: www.jayandeytan.com or follow him on social media @jaywellslec and @jaywellscomedy.

This episode was made possible by Comedy Records. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 19 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by holistic healers, meditation leaders and owners of Action Compassion Wellness In Vancouver, Larry Li and Teo Supu. Fate brought us together while I was visiting Vancouver in a very neat way here. During these 45 minutes we discuss Larry and Teo's approach to healing and energy work, growing awareness of ego and how meditation has changed both their personal and professional lives drastically. This was a truly special interview that I am very grateful I got to be a part of. For more info about Teo and Larry and what they do, you can visit: http://www.actioncompassion.com/ and www.vamf.ca or follow them on social media @meditationswerve.

This episode was made possible by Comedy Records. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 18 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by Yoga and Meditation Instructor, Omkar Gotkhindikar. Omkar is one of my teachers who I studied under at Kashish Yoga School in Goa, India while completing my teacher training. Omkar is a wealth of knowledge and thanks to the strong Skype connection, we were able to chat across the globe (Canada and India) for this interview. We discuss the philosophy of yoga, philanthropy, building community and more! I have learned so much from Omkar and I am so happy that listeners have the opportunity to hear some of the knowledge he shares here. For more info about Omkar, Aayana Yoga and Kashish Yoga where Omkar teaches, you can visit: https://www.facebook.com/omkar.gotkhindikar and @omkaryogablr on Instagram. https://www.facebook.com/aayanayoga/ and https://kashishyoga.com/.

This episode was made possible by Comedy Records. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 17 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by comedian and head of Comedy Records, Barry Taylor. We chat about how Barry began practicing meditation and yoga and the major improvements he has experienced in his life since. Barry shares his experience working in the entertainment industry and how he tries to identify his ego in various situations. This was a very insightful interview that I thoroughly enjoyed recording. Enjoy! For more information about Barry and Comedy Records you can visit: www.comedyrecords.ca and on social media @comedyrecords.

This episode was made possible by Comedy Records. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 16 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by yoga, meditation and community outreach worker, Jesse Buck. We chat about how Jesse uses yoga and meditation in his outreach programs and how he began using tibetan and crystal singing bowls as a way to heal himself and others. We also chat about meditation practices and how they shape the way we think and feel and Jesse shares some of his own process, outlining benefits he has experienced from meditating regularly. I really enjoyed this episode with Jesse and learned a lot from him during this interview. Enjoy! For more info about Jesse, you can visit his website at: jessebuck.ca or on social media @j_buckasana.

This episode was recorded in Toronto and made possible by Comedy Records. Sound editing was completed by Barry Taylor and Justin Ingraldi. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 15 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by the hilarious touring comedian, Bryan O'Gorman. This interview was recorded in both Toronto and Vancouver (thank you Skype) and we discuss ideologies around fame, how to keep balanced while working on the road and Bryan's experience with TM meditation. I really enjoyed this interview with Bryan and I'm happy he shared his perspective with listeners. For more information about Bryan and his comedy and tour dates, you can follow him on social media @b.o.g and @BOG_416.

This episode was made possible by Comedy Records. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 14 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by Canadian Actor and Artistic Director, Patrick McFadden. Adding to his work in the entertainment world, Patrick is a big advocate for meditation and yoga and attributes these practices as having major positive influences in his life. On this episode we talk about purposes around of money and fame, trusting the universe and Patrick's experience with practicing yoga and meditation. I really enjoyed recording this episode with Patrick and I'm happy to share here with you. Please enjoy! For more information about Patrick and his work in the film industry, you can visit: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm4013848/ and you can follow him on social media @trickmcfadden.

This episode was recorded at the Laughing Vikings Studio in Toronto, Canada. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 13 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by the lovely and kind award winning comedian, writer, and speaker, Giulia Rozzi. I spent some time in New York last month and while I was there, I sat down with Giulia at her home in Brooklyn where we had a great discussion about the entertainment industry, ego, social media and Giulia's approach to meditation. I learned so much from this bright and insightful woman during this episode. Please enjoy!

This episode was recorded in New York, NY. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 12 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by the lovely stand up comedian, writer actress and rapper, Jhanelle Dennis. We discuss the world of spirituality, meditating before performing stand up comedy and all of the crystals Jhanelle has in her purse at the moment. Jhanelle is such a warm energy and bright light to be around and I loved recording this episode with her. For more information regarding Jhanelle and the Runnin at the Mouth rap comedy group she is a part of, you can follow her on social media at @jhanelledennis and @ratmcomedy.

This episode was recorded at the Laughing Vikings Studio in Toronto. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode 11 of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by the very talented and lovely comedy improv duo, Coko and Daphney (Coko Galore and Daphney Joseph)!

We discuss comedy, improv, the entertainment world and Coko and Daphney's unique approaches to meditation. While Daphney practices a more traditional form of seated meditations, Coko practices active mindfulness and each guest explains how these areas help both themselves an each other. This was such a wonderful interview and our first duo-interview on the podcast that I'm very excited to share with listeners. For more info about Coko and Daphney, you can visit their social media @cokoanddaphney and on Coko's website: http://cokogalore.com/.

This episode was recorded at the Laughing Vikings studio in Toronto. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode ten of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by yoga and meditation instructor, Amanda Stokes. We discuss Amanda's process coming into meditation and mindfulness as well as becoming an instructor. We also chat about the philosophies of yoga and Amanda's style of teaching, which includes her focus around the chakras and how to be mindful of these areas during meditation.

This episode was recorded at the Laughing Vikings studio in Toronto. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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In episode nine of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by award winning stand up comedian, writer and actress, Sandra Battaglini. Sandra shares her experience with meditation and kundalini yoga and explains how she uses these practices in unison with all of her creative projects. I really enjoyed recording this episode with Sandra and learned a great deal about her in the process. We talk ego, fame and how meditation can help us manage these topics. Enjoy!

This episode was recorded at the Laughing Vikings Studio in Toronto. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode eight of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by family lawyer and mindfulness teacher, Nicolle Kopping-Pavars. We discuss Nicolle's experience coming into mindfulness and meditation, teaching mindfulness to lawyers and a life altering experience Nicolle had that changed her life forever. I found this episode very moving and I had goosebumps throughout. I am so grateful to Nicolle for sharing her story and insight with listeners here. For more information about Nicolle's mindfulness practices and teachings, you can find related articles on her website at: https://lotus-law.com/

This episode was recorded at the Laughing Vikings studio in Toronto. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode seven of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by the very talented comedian, rapper and meditation supporter, Marito Lopez. On this episode, we have a very candid discussion about the ego, the entertainment industry, God and Marito's positive experience with meditation. I really enjoyed recording this episode and learned a lot from this extremely wise and thoughtful person!

For more information about Marito and his comedy you can follow him on social media @FmaritoL and @nochampagnpapi. For more information on Marito's rap comedy group Runnin' at the Mouth, you can find them online @ratmcomedy.

This episode was recorded at the Laughing Vikings Studio in Toronto. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode six of the Ego Podcast I am joined by yoga and meditation instructor and ayurvedic science advocate, Franziska Marty. Franziska is originally from Switzerland and now making her home in India. This episode was recorded during my time studying at Kashish Yoga School in Goa and on it we discuss the benefits of meditation, spending time in nature, the details behind ayurvedic medicine and more. I really enjoyed recording this episode with Franziska and I'm excited for listeners to hear her story and the positive impact meditation has had on her.

This episode was recorded at Kashish Yoga School in Goa, India. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode five of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by yoga and meditation instructor and co-owner of Kashish Yoga School, Akhilesh K.R. I was fortunate enough to complete my yoga teacher training in Goa, India and Akhilesh was my lead instructor.

This episode was recorded during my time studying at Kashish Yoga School and on it we discuss the philosophies behind yoga, incorporating meditation into your routine, the ego in relation to the chakras and more! There is also a bonus meditation provided with this podcast that was led by Akhilesh that you are welcome to download.

For more information about Akhilesh and Kashish Yoga School please visit: https://kashishyoga.com/. You can also follow them on social media @kashishyoga

This episode was recorded at Kashish Yoga School in Goa, India. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode four of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by yoga and meditation instructor and founder of Ananda Yoga Retreats, Caitlan Carver. Caitlan has international teaching experience and numerous certifications under her belt as a yoga instructor, sound therapy and reiki healer.

On this episode we discuss her shift from working in public relations to teaching yoga and meditation. Caitlan gives an amazing explanation about what sound therapy has done for her and what her hope is in working with it for her students. This was such an interesting interview with such a brilliant woman and teacher. For more information about Caitlan, her classes and upcoming retreats please visit: http://yogacait.com/ and http://puryogatoronto.com/. You can follow Caitlan on social media @anandayogaretreats and @yogacait.

This episode was recorded at the Laughing Vikings Studio in Toronto. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode three of the Ego Podcast I am joined by stand up and sketch comedian, writer and actor, Carol Zoccoli. In addition to winning numerous awards in both Canada and Brazil for her comedy and appearing on major television network shows such as Saturday Night Live, Brazil and Canadian comedy festivals such as the Halifax Comedy Festival, Carol is a major advocate for meditation. She sat down with me in the studio and shared how her experience with mindfulness and meditation has changed her life for the better. Carol is by far on of the most interesting people I have ever met and I am very grateful for this interview. For more info about Carol and her shows please visit: http://www.carolzoccoli.com/ and you can follow Carol on social media @carolzoccoli (@zoccolicarol on Instagram)

This episode was recorded at the Laughing Vikings studio in Toronto. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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On episode two of the Ego Podcast, I am joined by award winning stand up comedian, writer and actress, Courtney Gilmour. Courtney and I discuss her experience at the Just for Laughs comedy festival, what it means to manifest our desires and Courtney's positive experience with meditation. Courtney is such a bright light and it was a pleasure to do this interview with her. For more info about Courtney and her comedy please visit: www.courtneygilmour.com and you can follow her on social media @courtgilmour.

This episode was recorded at the Laughing Vikings studio in Toronto. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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Please enjoy this guided meditation presented by Akhilesh K.R, head Instructor at Kashish Yoga in Goa, India. For more information on Akhilesh and Kashish Yoga, please visit https://kashishyoga.com/.

This episode was recorded at Kashish Yoga School in Goa, India. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor.

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Please enjoy this five minute guided meditation, presented by Dena Jackson, host of the Ego Podcast.

This episode was recorded at Kashish Yoga School in Goa, India. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor.

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On Episode one of the Ego Podcast I am joined by the very funny, award winning comedian, Dave Merheje. We discuss ego in the entertainment industry and Dave's experience with striving to find balance in his life while dealing with anxiety. Dave is an amazing performer and a fascinating person and I thoroughly enjoyed recording this interview. For more info about Dave and his upcoming tour dates, please visit: https://www.davemerheje.com/. You can also follow Dave on social media @davemerheje.

This episode was recorded at the Laughing Vikings Studio in Toronto. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.

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Welcome to the Ego Podcast! My name is Dena Jackson and I'm a comedian, writer and meditation advocate from Toronto, Canada. On this podcast I interview comedians, actors, artists, yogis, meditation leaders and working professionals about what they do to manage their ego and find balance in their lives. I ask each of my guests to join me in a guided meditation prior to recording and I've also included some free meditations for you to try. I've found these discussions hilarious, thought provoking and extremely helpful and my hope is that you will too. -Dena

This episode was recorded at the Laughing Vikings Studio in Toronto. Sound editing was completed by Justin Ingraldi and Barry Taylor. Music by Nick Reynoldson.