S02E03 Self-Initiation, Feminine Magic & Inner Authority with Sarah Hollins

What if the Amazons, the wild women of Europe, weren't simply a myth? And what else might we have misunderstood about women in the ancient world? What if matriarcy were not an excuse to dominate men, but rather an opportunity to centre the mother in society? What would that look like? Tahnee speaks with feminist scholar, author and Motherpeace Tarot co-creator Vicki Noble about Amazons, female shamanism and spirituality, Goddess cultures, and the radical act of looking at the archaeological record through a matriarchal lens. Drawing on decades of research, and the work of Marija Gimbutas and other feminist archaeologists who dared to read the evidence differently, Vicki explores what has been overlooked, dismissed or interpreted through a male lens - and what these older images of female sovereignty and spirituality might offer women now. Tahnee and Vicki also wander into the story of the Motherpeace tarot, women's spirituality and creative expression beyond child-bearing, women sharing power, and the much bigger question underneath it all: what becomes possible when women claim the innate power of our biology and recover a history in which we were never peripheral? Whatever your perspective on matriarchal cultures and feminist discourse, this is a powerful conversation exploring Vicki's decades of work, and her legacy in shaping how we understand and imagine the feminine in 2026. Vicki's free webinar on the Amazons: https://www.wisewomenoftheworld.com/the-amazons-women-warriors-and-shaman-priestesses? Vicki's website: https://www.vickinoble.com/ Vicki's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vickinobleone/

What if the changing ebb and flow nature of female desire isn't a problem to solve, but part of its intelligence? What could our erotic lives look like if we embraced the archetypes of Maiden, Mother, Virgin and Crone, and allowed ourselves to actually mature through the different seasons, thresholds, and identities of a woman's life? Tahnee speaks with sexological bodyworker, birth doula, and author Kimberly Ann Johnson about her upcoming book Erotic Seasons, and the shifting landscapes of female sexuality across a lifetime. Together they explore what happens when we stop expecting desire to be consistent, predictable or endlessly available, and begin paying attention to the body itself - its seasons, nervous system, stories and changing needs. They speak about erotic maturation, menopause, nervous system literacy, agency and consent, and the complicated work of reckoning with our sexual histories without reducing ourselves to either victim or perpetrator. They also explore something largely missing from contemporary conversations about sexuality: the communal erotic. Kimberly shares stories from her sexuality salons, years of pelvic bodywork and embodied practice, asking what we lose when sexuality becomes private, performative or confined to sex itself - and what becomes possible when women are able to witness and learn from one another again. At the heart of the conversation is a different proposition: that maturation is not a downgrade. That our sexuality is supposed to change. And that the female body, rather than something to optimise back toward youth, might itself be a spiritual path. Whatever your relationship to sexuality, desire or the language of the erotic, this is a rich and at times provocative conversation about inhabiting the female body on its own terms - and allowing our understanding of sexuality to become more nuanced, embodied, communal and alive. Previous interview with Kimberly Pre-Order Erotic Seasons: https://kimberlyannjohnson.com/erotic-seasons-2/ Kimberly's website: https://www.instagram.com/kimberly.ann.johnson/ Kimberly's Instagram: https://kimberlyannjohnson.com

Welcome back to Season 2 of the Body of Wisdom podcast with Tahnee Taylor. I can't wait to share these conversations with you! Tahnee's website: www.tahneetaylor.com Tahnee's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tahnee.taylor/

Hi everyone! The Body of Wisdom podcast is back, this time for a very special episode! In this episode, I'm opening up about a journey that's personal, raw, and life-affirming—our recent pain-free, pleasurable freebirth experience and the profound insights that came with it. Joined by my husband Mason, we're diving into what it's been like navigating (for the third time) pregnancy, birth, and the early days of postpartum, exploring not only the practical stuff but the deeper emotional and spiritual layers of birth, partnership, and parenthood. This episode is filled with reflections on love, growth, and the incredible capacities of the human body, oour true "body of wisdom," especially in those intense, transformative moments of birthing and nurturing life. I went into this birth with the quiet intention to experience a pain-free (possibly even pleasurable birth) and I got exactly that. It was the most beautiful, meditative, embodied experience. We also share about the conception, pregnancy and freebirth/pain-free birth prep process. Whether you're preparing for your own birth, curious about the process of birth, or simply here for a heartwarming story, I hope this episode resonates with and supports you on your journey to fully embody your wisdom. In this episode we discuss: The Power of Inner Preparation and Birth as a Transformative Experience - Mason and I reflect on the mental, emotional, and spiritual preparation involved in birth. From introspection and letting go of preconceived notions, to reaching a state of calm and clarity, we explore how intentional preparation helped transform the birth experience into one of pleasure and immanence. Surrendering to the Process of Birth and Embracing Vulnerability - Both of us share moments of self-doubt and vulnerability, discussing how accepting fears and relinquishing control opened up space for an empowering, peaceful, pleasant birth experience. We talk about letting go of the "need to conquer" whether it's fear, or birth itself, and the process of finding ease in self-inquiry, trust, gratitude, communication, and presence. Understanding and Respecting the Partner's Role in the Birth Space - We discuss how Mason found his role as a supportive presence—often without "doing" anything—and the delicate balance between stepping in and intruding in the 'birth magic' and holding space and bearing witness. The need for genuine, quiet presence over active assistance is highlighted as a way to honour the mother's autonomy and experience. Birth as a Sacred Dance with Nature and Spirituality - Drawing from Taoist and yogic perspectives, we discuss the visceral, almost spiritual connection experienced in birth. The physical, emotional, and cosmic aspects intertwined, creating a unique experience akin to a spiritual awakening—one that's grounding, powerful, and humbling. Healing, Recovery, and Early Postpartum Reflections - We share about the postpartum journey and adapting to a new family dynamic. Empowering Birth Choices and Recognising Inner Strength - This episode emphasises the strength in choosing a path that resonates personally—whether that's freebirth, midwifery support, or hospital care. By examining our own narratives around birth, we share insights on rewriting limiting beliefs and finding empowerment in personal choices. Navigating the Integration of Family and Spiritual Growth - We close with reflections on how birth and parenting deepen spiritual growth and connection. The conversation touches on the unique spiritual and practical union of parenthood, especially in guiding each child through life with gentleness, respect, and resilience. I am so excited to share this with you, and hope our story has given you a glimpse into the beauty, messy magic of birth and parenting young kids. Whether it sparked a new perspective, a shared laugh, or a moment of self-reflection, I'm grateful to have shared this space with you. If you have any questions or just want to connect, do

In this captivating episode of the Body of Wisdom podcast, I'm joined by the incredible Emmie Rae from The Daily Rest. Emmie is a passionate advocate for rest practices like restorative and yin yoga, and she runs the popular The Daily Rest Studio where she shares these practices along with workshops on topics like Human Design and Soft Business. Emmie also facilitates retreats and live events in Japan, where she has been living full-time since the start of 2024. During our conversation, Emmie opens up about her recent move to Tokyo, the challenges of establishing her business in a new country, and her journey of integrating rest into her daily life. We dive into her vast experiences with yoga, wellness and Japanese culture, the unique elements she incorporates into her retreats, and the importance of balancing work and rest. We also explore Emmie's approach to business through the lens of Human Design and how she helps others create sustainable, heart-centered businesses. Emmie's honesty about the struggles and triumphs of her path provides invaluable insights for anyone looking to bring more intention into their lives and work. Join us for an inspiring and heartwarming conversation with one of the most genuine voices in the wellness community. Whether you're a yoga enthusiast, a business owner, or simply seeking more rest in your life, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice. In this episode we discuss: Emmie's journey from a school girl in NSW's Far South Coast to entrepreneurial life in Tokyo, Japan Navigating perfectionism (especially within the Yoga and wellness industries) and Emmie's catalyst moment for embracing her humanity The liberation found in Yin and Restorative Yoga for people who are high-achievers or anxious girlies Letting go of the idea of becoming perfectly regulated (and how Emmie deals with earthquakes!) Emmie's long-term love affair with Japan and her adventures setting up her business in a foreign country Human Design and how it serves creatives and the self-employed The evolution of Emmie's Soft Business approach and how she integrates Human Design What's next for Emmie and The Daily Rest Where to Find Emmie: The Daily Rest Studio Emmie's Website Instagram: @thedailyrest Substack: Emmie's Substack