In a deeply engaging and thought-provoking episode, Angell Deer unfolds a captivating conversation with the acclaimed podcaster, mythteller, and educator, Josh Schrei. Titled for his profound connection to myth, poetry, and an animated vision of life, Schrei shares insightful reflections on the modern relevance of ancient tales, articulating a bridge between the primordial and the contemporary. As the mind behind The Emerald Podcast, Schrei weaves a tapestry of discussion topics ranging from personal transformation and the integration of myth into modern living, to the broader global impacts these narratives can have on our collective consciousness.
Topics Covered:
Introduction to Myth and Poetry: Josh shares his early introduction to the world of myth and poetry, deeply influenced by his upbringing in a Zen Buddhist household rich with storytelling and animated imagination. His journey further expands with vivid experiences in India, which significantly shaped his mythic perspective.
Interplay of Myth in Daily Life: Exploring the struggle and eventual integration of mythic vision into everyday existence, Josh discusses the relevant challenges faced by individuals seeking to align their inner imaginative world with the external realities of modern life.
Influence of Indian Mythology and Other Cultural Tales: Delving into his fascination with Indian mythology and other global myths, Josh emphasizes the rich tapestry of characters and settings that fueled his creative imagination, drawing parallels with the works of Tolkien and other storied landscapes.
Role of Mythology in Shaping Societal Constructs: The conversation navigates through the significance of mythology in shaping cultures, communities, and personal identities. Josh posits that underlying mythic narratives influence societal norms and personal belief systems more than commonly acknowledged.
The Contemporary Relevance of Ancient Wisdom: Josh and Angell discuss the urgent necessity of revisiting and integrating ancient wisdom and mythological perspectives to address modern-day crises, highlighting the disconnect between current societal directions and the innate human need for connection and meaning.
Navigating Hope, Despair, and Activism: Addressing themes of hope, despair, and the pressing issues faced by humanity today, Josh reflects on the role of Stories, rituals, and the collective longing for a balanced interconnectedness amongst individuals, communities, and the natural world.
Personal Transformation and Parenthood: With insights into his evolution as a father, Josh reveals how parenthood has deepened his commitment to fostering a world imbued with mythic consciousness, aiming to leave a legacy of love, connection, and a healthier planetary consciousness for future generations.
Upcoming Projects and Ways to Engage: The podcast wraps up with information on how listeners can further engage with Josh Schrei's work, including details about his in-depth courses and the Emerald Podcast's community-focused initiatives.
Guest Biography Addendum:
Joshua Michael Schrei is a podcaster, mythteller, teacher, and a lifelong student of the cosmologies and mythologies of the world — in particular the Indian subcontinent. Throughout a lifetime of teaching, study, meditation and yogic practice, wilderness immersion, art, music, and public speaking, Josh has sought to navigate the living, animate space of the imagination and advocate for a world that prioritizes imaginative vision. Josh has taught intensive courses in mythology and somatic disciplines for over 20 years. He is the founder of The Emerald Podcast, which combines evocative narrative, soul-stirring music, and interviews with award-winning authors and luminaries to explore the human experience through a vibrant lens of myth, story, and imagination.
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