Podcast
Miles Ahead: Strength for The Inner Life
Hosted by Dr. Miles Salisbury · EN
What does it actually mean to lead, provide, and heal in today’s world? Most of us are taught to "handle it all," but the cost is often burnout, emotional numbness, or a loss of drive. Miles Ahead is where mental health meets physical health to explore how we move from simply surviving to actually gaining ground.
Hosted by Dr. Miles Salisbury, we dive into the topics that define our modern experience: the "wall of gray" in depression, the smoldering exhaustion of burnout, and the complex path of the "wounded healer"—those who care for their families and communities while navigating their own
10episodes
Episodes
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Connor Beaton: Facing Pain-A Journey into Men's Work
Feb 1701:49:13Tap to summarizeCan we truly find strength in the parts of ourselves we’ve spent a lifetime trying to hide?Welcome back to the show. Today, I’m sitting down with someone who has become a mentor and a guide for many men—including myself. Connor Beaton is the founder of Man Talks and the author of the powerful book, Men’s Work: A Practical Guide to Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, and Find Freedom. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the "unspoken" side of the male experience. We explore why so many of us feel like we’re walking through life with cement blocks on our feet—carrying the weight of childhood hurt, career failures, and relational dysfunction—all while pretending we’ve got it under control. Key themes we discuss include:Alchemy of Suffering: How avoiding pain doesn't make you stronger; it makes you fragile. True strength comes from moving toward your suffering and learning to alchemize it into meaning.The Powerlessness Journey: Why a man who hasn't experienced a journey of powerlessness will often grow up to abuse power.Pseudo-Initiations: In the absence of traditional rites of passage, many modern men unconsciously "nuke" their lives—sabotaging jobs or marriages—just to see if they can survive the wreckage.The Shadow & The Ego: Understanding that your ego is simply a collection of predictable patterns. Changing your identity requires questioning these patterns and making the "unconscious conscious."We also tackle a question I get constantly from women: How do I help the man I love without mothering him? Connor offers a perspective that is "jet fuel" for men. Instead of offering ultimatums or diagnosis, he explains how women are often a "permission card holder."Finally, we discuss the transition from the Logos (rational, black-and-white thought) to the Direct felt experience. Most men live from the neck up, but true emotional sovereignty lives in the body. We talk about how to bridge that gap and why it’s essential for high-performance—whether you're a father or a Wall Street trader.Takeaways for the "Work":Confession is the first step: Admitting the dysfunction or pain you are carrying is the only way to stop it from directing your life.Weakness isn't the enemy: In war and in psychology, ignoring your weaknesses is a surefire way to get "flanked."Pattern Recognition: Your identity is just a mass of behavioral patterns. If they aren't serving you, you have the power to consciously choose new ones.YouTube ChannelCoaching and Counseling with MilesPodcast IGWork with Connor00:00 Introduction to Men's Work and Pain07:07 The Role of Pain in Masculinity10:55 Navigating Midlife Transitions19:40 The Importance of Confession and Vulnerability23:31Supporting Men in Their Journey30:29 Connecting Mind and Body Through Breath39:3 7 The Energy of Emotions42:06 The Impact of Touch on Boys44:57 Understanding Emotional Intensity in Boys49:56 Generational Trauma and Emotional Resilience52:58 The Tyler Durden Complex58:59 The Collapse of the Archetypal Father01:04:43 Navigating Modern Relationships01:10:00 Emotional Labor and Connection01:10:25 The Importance of Male Connection01:11:12 Navigating Relationships and Boundaries01:12:11 Embracing the Villain Archetype01:16:58 Facing Hidden Aspects of Self01:20:02 Understanding Grief and Moving Forward01:24:40 Rebuilding Trust After Trauma01:30:39 Choosing to Grieve01:33:09 Overcoming Negative Patterns as a Parent01:37:47 Managing Expectations and Disappointments
Transcribe →Phil Horning: How To Create a Code to Live By
Jan 2701:40:37Summary readyThe Grounded Warrior is back! Miles and Phil Horning explore the significance of living by a personal code, emphasizing the importance of values, presence, and vulnerability in building meaningful connections. They discuss the concept of containerization and how it can hinder emotional expression, as well as the necessity of healthy boundaries to protect one's sovereignty. The dialogue also delves into the journey of finding purpose and values, the role of discipline in creating rituals, and the importance of walking a path with vision for personal growth. In this conversation, Miles and Phil explore the themes of materialism, gratitude, community, vulnerability, and the importance of deepening connections in relationships. They discuss the challenges men face in expressing vulnerability and the need for authentic connections. The conversation also delves into the significance of service and responsibility in building community, as well as the transformative power of rituals in processing grief and deepening the soul.00:00 Living by a Personal Code02:41 The Importance of Contact and Presence09:36 Establishing Healthy Boundaries16:07 Sovereignty and Self-Leadership28:01 Courage from Integrity30:38 Establishing Personal Codes and Boundaries33:04 Discipline and Ritual in Daily Life42:03 Walking a Path with Vision58:09 Serving from Responsibility01:06:13 Deepening the Soul01:08:10 Exploring the Concept of Soul01:11:07 Navigating Grief and Darkness01:13:25 Finding Gifts in Grief01:19:05 Rituals of Grief and Transformation01:20:18 The Minnesota Men's Conference Experience01:28:45 The Power of Community and Connection01:34:34 Embracing Rituals in Modern LifeYouTube ChannelCoaching and Counseling with MilesPodcast IGWork with Phil: thegroundedwarrior.comTenets: thegroundedwarrior.com/tenetsYouTube: youtube.com/@groundedwarriorpodcastInstagram: instagram.com/the_grounded_warrior
SummaryNavigating ADHD & Neurodiversity: A Journey with Roxanne Turner
Dec 2301:43:48Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Miles Ahead Podcast, host Miles speaks with Roxanne Turner, a neurodiversity specialist and equine coach. They explore Roxanne's journey from professional equestrian to coaching, the therapeutic benefits of working with horses, and the complexities of ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions. The conversation delves into the impact of technology on mental health, the challenges of parenting in the digital age, and the importance of patience and understanding in both coaching and personal development. Roxanne shares insights on how equine therapy can build confidence and emotional regulation, making it a powerful tool for individuals with neurodivergent diagnoses. In this conversation, Miles and Roxanne Turner explore the complexities of ADHD and neurodiversity, discussing emotional regulation, coping strategies, and the importance of self-compassion. They delve into the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, particularly in educational settings, and emphasize the need for supportive environments. The discussion also highlights the significance of recognizing triggers, managing procrastination, and fostering curiosity as essential components of personal growth and development. YouTube ChannelWork with RoxannePodcast IGMiles’s IGCoaching and Counseling with Miles00:00 Introduction to Roxanne Turner and Her Journey02:52 Transitioning from Equestrian to Coaching05:51 Understanding Neurodiversity and ADHD08:57 The Intersection of ADHD and Anxiety11:56 Coaching Strategies for Different Age Groups14:57 The Impact of Technology on Mental Health17:55 Parenting in the Digital Age20:55 The Therapeutic Benefits of Working with Horses26:11 Meeting People Where They Are27:33 Normalizing Fear and Building Confidence30:34 The Dance of Coaching and Therapy33:13 The Power of Patience and Presence35:15 Experiential Learning with Horses38:48 Healing Through Connection with Horses42:11 The Journey of Learning and Growth44:43 Communication Styles in Relationships49:11 Trusting the Process of Growth50:48 Building Confidence in Neurodivergent Individuals52:25 Understanding Projection Sensitivity and Feedback53:5Coping Strategies for Emotional Reactions56:29 Recognizing Triggers and Building Awareness59:00 The Spectrum of Sensitivity in Neurodivergence01:01:17 The Role of Environment in ADHD Management01:03:15 Transitioning from School to Home Life01:05:06 The Importance of Unstructured Play01:07:16 Organizational Strategies for ADHD01:10:03 Creating Supportive Living Environments01:14:44 Navigating Working Memory Challenges01:18:15 Harnessing Strengths in Neurodivergent Individuals01:19:14 Understanding Student Motivation and Learning Styles01:25:32 Procrastination and Overwhelm in Neurodivergent Minds01:39:52 Self-Compassion and Support in ADHD Journeys
Transcribe →Josh and Dave go to Israel and Palestine
Nov 1101:34:49Tap to summarizeJosh is back on the podcast again, and we bring on our friend, Dave Smith, who is a well traveled and well read historian, and all around renaissance man. These two decided it would be fun to go against the state department's travel advisory and go into an active war zone. For Josh, this isn't new, except this time he had to pay for it vs being paid. For Dave, this also wasn't his first rodeo.We get into what they both saw firsthand prior to the recent cease fire deal, and what is different than the news outlets report vs what they experienced. What they thought of the culture, and the nuance upon nuance of a very complicated history, and the things that surprised them and left them in awe. Dave and josh also give their two cents on what could be done going forward to help peace last. We also get into the existential psychology of the human condition and other fascinating topics. Enjoy!YouTube ChannelMiles’s IGCoaching and Counseling with MilesPodcast IGWork with JoshJosh’s IGDave's contact: dwsmithtx@gmail.com
Transcribe →Unlocking the Mind: Healing Through Psilocybin. A New Approach to Therapy
Oct 2101:25:41Tap to summarizeIn this conversation, my guest, Mike Ljubsa, shares his transformative journey from Canada to Jamaica, where he now runs Mycomeditations, a psilocybin-assisted therapy retreat. He discusses the profound impact of psychedelics on mental health, emphasizing the importance of integration and the therapeutic use of psilocybin. Mike also highlights the significance of men's work in creating safe spaces for vulnerability and healing. The conversation delves into the science behind psychedelics, their potential for neuroplasticity, and the future of psychedelic therapy as a means of fostering personal growth and balance.YouTube Channelmike@mycomeditations.comMycoMeditations@mikeljubsa@milesaheadpodWork with Miles (Psychotherapy and Coaching)00:00 Introduction to Mike Ljubsa and His Journey02:56 The Impact of Upbringing on Mental Health05:43 Discovering Psychedelics: A Personal Journey08:56 The Duality of Psychedelic Experiences11:44 Understanding Trauma and Healing15:01 The Role of Psychedelics in Therapy17:50 Navigating OCD and Personal Struggles20:57 Exploring Therapeutic Psychedelic Sessions28:53 Conversational MDMA Therapy32:38 Revisiting Grief and Loss35:28 The Power of Feeling to Heal39:18 Exploring Different Psychedelics43:38 Comparing Psychedelic Experiences49:26 Inner Child Work and Healing54:16 Neuroscience of Psychedelics and Healing56:46 The Power of Psychedelics in Performance58:53 Psychedelics and Problem Solving01:00:50 Healing Trauma and Personal Growth01:05:47 Psychedelic Therapy Retreats: A New Approach01:11:50 Integration and Therapeutic Practices01:17:45 Safety and Screening in Psychedelic Use01:19:54 Men's Work and Vulnerability
Transcribe →Traver Boehm: Exploring the Depths of Darkness
Sep 901:32:54Tap to summarizeIn this conversation, Traver Boehm discusses the importance of creating dedicated spaces for men to engage in open conversations about their experiences and challenges. He shares insights from his own journey through darkness retreats with a discussion on what occurs in this type of retreat, emphasizing the profound personal growth that can occur when one confronts their ego and past traumas. The discussion highlights the significance of community support, the integration of experiences, and the role of humor in coping with grief and pain. Ultimately, Traver encourages men to embrace vulnerability as a strength and to find meaning in their struggles. In this conversation, Traver and Miles explore the profound themes of caregiving, presence, self-betrayal, and the heroic effort required to live authentically. They discuss the importance of being present with those who are suffering, the necessity of breaking the cycle of self-betrayal, and the courage it takes to surrender to life's challenges. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of building a relationship with oneself and the power of conscious self-dialogue in fostering personal growth and emotional intelligence.Traver Boehm’s IG28 Days in Darkness bookManUncivilized bookManUncivilized Podcast ManUncivilized.comYouTube ChannelCoaching and Counseling with MilesMiles’s IGPodcast IG00:00 Introduction and Context of the Conversation02:58 The Importance of Men's Spaces05:41 Darkness Retreats: The Journey Begins08:55 The Challenges of Extended Darkness Retreats11:41 Experiences and Insights from the Darkness14:58 The Role of Ego and Surrender17:44 Integration and Post-Retreat Reflections37:28 Transforming Pain into Purpose39:09 Exploring the Depths of the Soul41:51 The Struggles of Men and the Path to Healing45:30 Finding Meaning in Rock Bottom47:58 The Absurdity of Life's Challenges50:32 Grief, Humor, and the Human Experience52:40 Lessons from Hospice Care55:48 The Heroic Effort of Self-Discovery01:05:43 The Price of Entry for Transformation01:09:14 Finding Authenticity in the Dark01:11:44 The Courage to Surrender01:13:51 Dialoguing with Darkness01:17:09 Returning to Self01:20:23 Building a Relationship with Yourself01:23:52 Creating a Supportive Environment
Transcribe →Frank Grun: US Air Force Medic, Rescue Operator and Weapons Specialist
Aug 2801:49:31Tap to summarizeMiles, Josh, and Frank discuss the complexities of military life, focusing on the challenges of burnout, mental health, and the transition to civilian life. They explore the importance of community and support systems for veterans, the impact of deployment lengths, and the need for effective transition programs. The discussion also highlights the role of chaplains and the significance of open conversations about mental health within the military culture. In this conversation, veterans share their experiences transitioning to civilian life, the importance of community, and the healing power of storytelling. They discuss the challenges of navigating relationships and mental health after service, emphasizing the need for safe spaces where veterans can share their stories without judgment. The discussion also highlights the role of humor and camaraderie in coping with the struggles of post-military life, as well as the connections formed through shared experiences in jiu-jitsu and other activities.Frank’s IGFrank’s Coffee CompanyVet Speak PodcastYouTube ChannelMiles’s IGCoaching and Counseling with MilesPodcast IGWork with JoshJosh’s IG00:00 Introduction to Military Experiences02:51 Burnout and Deployment Challenges06:00 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life08:52 Training and Tactical Instruction11:54 Current Career and Technology Sales14:50 Deployment Schedules and Historical Lessons24:24 The Impact of Deployment on Families31:31 Mental Health Challenges in the Military38:38 The Importance of Community and Support45:12 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life54:45 Creating Safe Spaces for Veterans57:31 The Importance of Sharing Stories01:00:42 Navigating Relationships Post-Military01:04:4 1The Alien Experience of Veterans01:09:46 Finding Community in Jiu-Jitsu01:20:17 The Balance of Peace and Violence01:20:51 The Duality of Violence and Peace01:23:15 Evolution of Military Training and Selection01:27:49 The Journey of Becoming a Pararescue Jumper01:30:48 Reflections on Military Service and Personal Growth01:36:17 The Importance of Sharing Stories01:40:07 Building Community and Connection Among Veterans
Transcribe →Karden Rabin: Author of The Secret Language of the Body
Aug 2201:27:54Tap to summarizeIn this conversation, Miles and Karden explore the intricate relationship between the body, nervous system, and emotional health, awareness and agency in managing one's autonomic nervous system, the impact of childhood experiences on adult behavior, and the necessity of emotional tools for navigating discomfort. The dialogue emphasizes the allostatic load and its effects on health, the significance of inner child work, and the intersection of psychology and body awareness in achieving holistic wellness. In this conversation, Karden and Miles explore the themes of masculinity, inner child work, and the importance of men's initiation. They discuss the significance of vulnerability and the healing power of brotherhood, emphasizing the need for men to connect with their inner selves and seek mentorship. The dialogue also touches on the midlife transition, the challenges of self-discovery, and the role of trust in relationships. Through personal anecdotes and insights, they highlight the journey of embracing one's true self and the value of community in this process.YouTube ChannelThe Secret Language of The Body BookWork with KardenKarden’s IGCoaching and Counseling with MilesMiles’s IGPodcast IGChapters00:00 Introduction to Body Awareness and Nervous System02:54 The Importance of Balance in Autonomic Regulation06:10 Agency Over the Autonomic Nervous System08:42 Understanding Male Responses to Threat11:36 Childhood Wounds and Adult Reactions14:37 The Allostatic Load and Nervous System Paradox17:21 Training the Nervous System for Peace20:05 Reintegration Challenges for Veterans28:57 Reclaiming Personal Power29:56 The Journey of Self-Discovery31:55 The Challenge of Healing33:43 Understanding Emotional Responses36:39 Navigating Depression and Overwhelm39:36 The Dorsal Vagal Response41:03 The Role of Perception in Healing42:38 Inner Child Work and Emotional Healing45:12 The Power of Community and Brotherhood48:20 Experiencing the Men's Initiation54:41 The Importance of Trust and Rest56:24 The Value of Trust Over Control57:48 The Transformative Power of Jiu-Jitsu59:55 Embracing the Beginner's Mind01:02:37 The Importance of Humility in Learning01:05:42 Navigating Midlife Transitions01:09:30 The Role of Mentorship in Men's Work01:17:38 Finding Authenticity Beyond Ego
Transcribe →Zac Miller: Transformative Healing with Ibogaine
Jul 2901:01:15Tap to summarizeIn this conversation, Miles and Zac Miller delve into the transformative experience of Ibogaine treatment, exploring its potential benefits for mental health, particularly for veterans and first responders. Zac shares his personal journey of surrender, the importance of medical supervision, and the holistic approaches taken during the treatment. They discuss the neuroplasticity effects of Ibogaine, the significance of setting intentions, and the challenges of coping with life changes. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community support and the ongoing process of healing and integration, as well as Zac's insights on coaching and helping others navigate their own journeys.Work with ZacWork with Zacmanuncivilized.com/coachingbeondibogaine.combeondibogaine.com/beond-serviceYouTube ChannelWork with Mileshttps://www.instagram.com/milesaheadpodhttps://www.instagram.com/miles.graham.salisburyphd/00:00 Introduction to Ibogaine Treatment02:50 The Journey of Surrender06:08 Medical Supervision and Holistic Approaches08:58 The Experience of Ibogaine12:00 Neuroplasticity and Integration14:56 The Role of Intentions17:39 Coping with Life Changes20:44 The Importance of Community23:36 Reflections on Healing and Growth26:24 Coaching and Supporting Others29:31 Final Thoughts and Future Directions
Transcribe →Duey Freeman: Healing Through Connection
Jul 2201:42:58Tap to summarizeThe legend himself joins me this episode to talk about some of the body of his works. I talk about being MIA and going through a difficult time.In this episode, Miles and Duey Freeman explore the complexities of personal challenges, attachment theory, and the importance of male figures in healing. They discuss the impact of fragmentation in relationships, the role of addiction in emotional struggles, and the therapeutic benefits of working with horses. The conversation emphasizes the fluid nature of healing and the significance of connection and contact in fostering emotional well-being. In this conversation, Miles and Duey explore the intricate dynamics of animal interaction, particularly with horses, and how these principles can be applied to human relationships and therapy. They discuss the importance of building trust through incremental steps, the unique communication methods of horses, and the challenges men face in the therapy world. The conversation also delves into the impact of patriarchy on mental health and the growing epidemic of male loneliness, emphasizing the need for authentic connections and the integration of various therapeutic modalities.00:00 Introduction and Personal Struggles03:03 The Impact of Loss and Grief05:53 Father Wounds and Male Mentorship08:44 Attachment Theory and Its Evolution11:48 Fragmented vs. Integrated Attachment14:16 Addiction and the Need for Contact16:57 The Role of Food, Touch, and Movement20:03 Fluidity in Attachment and Relationships35:47 The Importance of Relational Contact38:07 Addiction and Predictability in Relationships39:38 Contingent Eye Contact and Attachment43:04 Connecting with Horses: A Therapeutic Approach45:12 Understanding Horse Behavior and Communication55:04 The Art of Therapy and Personal Growth01:05:26 Integrating Dance and Self-Expression01:06:44 The Concept of Wholeness and Health01:08:08 Authenticity in Relationships01:10:10 Masculinity and Therapy01:13:15 Celebrating Differences in Gender01:14:00 The Crisis of Male Therapists01:16:26 The Nice Guy Archetype and Male Vulnerability01:19:31 Patriarchy and Objectification01:23:00 Isolation and Mental Health in Men01:25:50 Healthy Masculinity and ConnectionIn Memoriam to MartyGrief is Only Lovehttps://www.dueyfreeman.orgDuey Freeman’s IGDuey Freeman’s FBThe Elder Councilhttps://www.manuncivilized.comhttps://mantalks.comYouTube Channelhttps://www.instagram.com/milesaheadpodhttps://milessalisburylpc.com
Transcribe →