Michael Smith

C. Michael Smith is a clinical psychologist and medical anthropologist trained at the University of Chicago, the Chicago Theological Seminary, and the C.G. Jung Institute of Chicago. He has taught and lectured internationally on Jungian psychology, shamanism, and spiritual integration. Dr. Smith is founder and director of the Crows Nest Centers for Shamanic Studies in the USA, France, Belgium, and South Africa, and author of Jung and Shamanism in Dialogue and Psychotherapy and the Sacred.

In this conversation Michael explores the multifaceted nature of awakening, emphasizing that it is not a singular event but a continuous journey involving integration, discernment, and the embodiment of compassion. He discusses the importance of the heart as a guiding force, the necessity of facing darkness, and the role of creativity in expressing our true nature. He highlights the significance of daily practices in maintaining a connection to the divine and the ongoing effort required to actualize our spiritual potential.

00:00:00 Introduction

00:05:17 Awakening and the challenge of embodied realization

00:17:33 Integrating and embodying the divine

00:25:56 The heart is the knower

00:33:00 Digestion & integration: nervous system, shadow, sangha, daily practice

00:37:07 Discernment is essential

00:42:13 The felt sense as guidance, somatic integration and creativity

00:50:34 Using the mind in service to the soul callings

00:54:46 Jung, dreams and dropping into the depths

01:01:27 Navigating collective shadows and raw evil

01:18:18 Impermanence, practicing neutrality and compassion

01:23:26 Actualizing spiritual realization in daily life

01:31:03 Final thoughts

New Thinking Allowed Guest Host Leanne Whitney, PhD, is a depth psychologist and transformational coach based in Los Angeles, CA. She is the author of Consciousness in Jung and Patañjali and currently serves as Executive Director of Center for Transformation and Integration. Her website is https://leannewhitney.com

To learn about Leanne Whitney’s upcoming Transformational Coaching Certification Course with an emphasis in Somatic Integration Therapy, please visit: https://transformationandintegration.com/courses

Producer: Elena McNally

Editor: John Hartmann

(Recorded on February 13, 2026)

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Published on March 11, 2026