What if the obstacle isn't blocking your path — but revealing it?
In this deeply nourishing and soul-expanding conversation, Joni sits down with award-winning author, coach, singer, and teacher Marisa Handler to explore what it means to become your own sanctuary in times of uncertainty.
Together, they unpack the relationship between trauma, creativity, nervous system healing, purpose, and personal transformation — and why the very things that break us open may actually be initiating us into who we came here to become.
Marisa shares her powerful personal story of navigating a profound Dark Night of the Soul after what looked like external success, and how that unraveling became a doorway into deeper compassion, spiritual trust, and authentic power.
You'll also hear an honest and grounded conversation about collective awakening, energetic sensitivity, nervous system regulation, creativity as a birthright, and how to move through life's upheavals without losing yourself.
If you've been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or quietly sensing that something deeper is calling you forward — this episode is for you.
In this episode, we explore:
✨ The Dark Night of the Soul — personally and collectively
✨ How trauma impacts creativity and purpose
✨ Why safety in the nervous system matters
✨ The hidden medicine inside resistance and obstacles
✨ Creativity as a spiritual practice and birthright
✨ Purpose, passion, heartbreak, and finding your genius
✨ How to stay grounded in uncertain times
✨ Sanctuary, healing, and collective awakening
✨ Supporting highly sensitive and empathic people
Guest: Marisa Handler
Award-winning author, coach, teacher, singer, and creator of Live Your Creative Genius.
Connect with Marisa:
MarisaHandler.com
Connect with Joni:
WakeUpWithJoni.com
Interested in retreats?
ParadiseRanchRetreat.com
Grab Joni's book:
Stop. Look. Choose: Your Journey to Peace and Freedom