In this episode, recorded in December 2022, Amy talks with her frequent collaborator and friend Keri Mangis, author of Embodying Soul: A Return to Wholeness. Both women believe that writing is essential for their well-being and soul's purpose. In a gentle reminder for right now, they discuss how creativity shows up in all our lives to connect to ourselves.
From Amy:
When Keri and I recorded this episode in late 2022, I was still editing my second memoir for publication and she was drafting a book that's also now nearing publication. The podcast never got produced at that time, but I happened onto the recording this past winter and it caught my attention. Keri and I are still writing today. I'm starting new books and she's preparing to deliver a TED-x Talk this summer.
And this conversation feels like a divinely timed gift from our former selves, and a personal invitation to you if you want it.
Because yes, I absolutely am writing for my life. I know Keri still agrees.
I had a stage one cancer diagnosis this past month. That's all I care to say about that right now, because this gets to be my story first. For now, I want you to know that I have emerged on the other side, and am currently cancer free with a heightened sense of awareness:
One reason I need to survive IS FOR MY WRITING. I need to write this story for me. And I will share it someday.
I have wisdom I am still gaining, and knowledge that people will need.
I don't need to justify that impulse nor ask permission.
I don't need to know now how it turns out.
I am healing. I will be creating.
I live into my passions.
How about you?
Keri Mangis is more than just an author and speaker—she’s a guide for those seeking deeper meaning and transformation in a chaotic world. With over 20 years of experience as a wholeness advocate and spiritual teacher, Keri understands the frustration of feeling stuck and disconnected. Through her writing and teachings, Keri helps people break free from limiting beliefs to rediscover their true essence and align with their core values. Her spiritual and personal growth studies and certifications have run the gamut over the years from yoga, Ayurveda, energy work, and meditation. Most recently, she has taken on studying Alchemy, Jungian Psychology, archetypes, and rites of passage. She has completed several courses with Sharon Blackie, Michael Meade, and the Center of Applied Jungian Studies. Her writing has appeared in Spirituality and Health Magazine, Star Tribune, Elephant Journal, and others. Her first book, *Embodying Soul: A Return to Wholeness*, received multiple awards, including the 2020 IPA award for Mind, Body & Spirit and the 2020 Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal in Non-Fiction Spiritual and Supernatural. She is currently working on her second book, an illuminating exploration of personal and collective transformation that will empower readers to evolve their consciousness for an uncertain future.
Keri's Links: