What if becoming a better leader, coach, communicator, or decision-maker wasn't about learning another technique—but about learning to be fully present?In Episode 41 of Natural Passages, host Dan Portik sits down with internationally recognized executive coach, leadership consultant, and author Herb Stevenson to explore the transformational ideas behind his latest book, Bare Attention: Coaching at the Point of Contact.Drawing from decades of executive coaching and leadership development, Herb explains how mindfulness, Gestalt psychology, organizational development, Buddhist principles, Native American wisdom, and Toltec philosophy can help leaders become more effective by changing how they pay attention—not simply what they do.During this insightful conversation, you'll discover why most people stop truly listening after only a few seconds, how reacting limits leadership, and why Herb's principles of "Slow is Fast," "Less is More," and "Small is Big

Episode Overview:Most people don’t have a communication problem… they have a reaction problem.In this episode of the Natural Passages Podcast, host Herb Stevenson explores how the lack of presence creates unnecessary conflict, stress, and distorted communication. He introduces the concept of coherence—what it means, how it shows up in your life, and why it’s the key to better relationships, clearer thinking, and stronger leadership. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The difference between reacting vs. respondingWhat “coherence” really means and why it mattersHow reactivity creates distortion in communication and relationshipsThe role of presence in stabilizing conversations and outcomesHow to slow down your thinking and eliminate “autopilot” behaviorPractical ways to pause, reflect, and choose your responseHow awareness improves leadership, teamwork, and personal interactionsKey Concepts Discussed:Field Coherence: Your presence inf

In Episode 37 of the Natural Passages Podcast, Herb Stevenson delivers a timely, no-nonsense conversation about something most people get wrong—listening. As the holiday season brings emotional pressure, family tension, and uncertainty, Herb explains why we often think we’re listening when we’re actually reacting to old stories, assumptions, and past experiences.This full episode breaks down the four levels of listening, with a strong focus on generative listening, presence, and emotional awareness. Herb shares practical, real-world guidance on posture, eye contact, validation, and quieting internal reactions—tools that can immediately improve conversations at holiday gatherings and beyond. If you want fewer conflicts, deeper connection, and more meaningful moments, this episode sets the standard for how to truly show up for others.👉 Subscribe here for more conversations that change how you listen, connect, and show up—during the holidays and every day af

In this episode of Natural Passages, host Herb Stevenson breaks down one of the biggest myths in modern life: work-life balance doesn’t exist. Herb explains why the real key is work-life quality—how you define your life, how you make choices, and how intentionally you show up for the people who matter most.Herb shares decades of insight from executive leadership coaching, exploring why so many people feel disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck in achievement mode while losing sight of who they are. He discusses the power of self-leadership, conscious decision-making, investing in your inner life, managing your energy, and reconnecting with family through genuine presence. This episode invites you to rethink success, define what truly matters, and stop living on autopilot before time slips away.If you're ready to start living with clarity, purpose, and authenticity, this conversation will resonate deeply. For more transformational content subscribe here!#NaturalPassages #HerbSt

Show Notes:In this episode of the Natural Passages Podcast, host Herb Stevenson explores the power of attention and presence in a world overwhelmed by noise, stress, and distraction. Herb introduces the concept of the “wobble”—a frenetic, scattered state of mind that keeps us disconnected from ourselves and others. Through stories, practical examples, and timeless wisdom, he shows how shifting your focus can reduce anxiety, improve communication, and restore balance in both personal and professional life.Listeners will gain insight into:Why most of us only half-listen in conversations—and how to change it.How cultivating presence can strengthen relationships at home and at work.Why mindfulness and attention are not “woo-woo,” but practical tools for modern living.How practicing presence reduces stress, creates clarity, and opens the door to a richer, more meaningful life.Whether you’re a leader, a coach, or simply someone searching for more cal

Host: Herb StevensonSeries: The Doubt Series – Part 4 (Final)Podcast: Natural Passages – Revealing the Unmarked Doors of LifeEpisode Summary:In this powerful conclusion to the Doubt Series, Herb Stevenson explores how doubt shows up in leadership, not just as hesitation—but as subtle behaviors and cultural misalignments that derail success. Whether you're leading a company, managing a team, or navigating a complex project, this episode will challenge your assumptions and give you tools to recognize and address the root causes of organizational doubt.Herb draws from real-life stories, including multi-million dollar project rollouts, to show how burnout, fading leadership support, and unspoken cultural rules can sabotage even the best-laid plans.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How organizational culture and “unwritten rules” influence successThe difference between functional and personal conflictWhat fading leadership support really looks likeHow to

Hosted by Herb StevensonIn this powerful episode of the Natural Passages Podcast, Herb dives into the Four Ancient Laws of Change—a timeless guide for navigating personal transformation.Whether you're facing a major life transition or just feeling stuck, these four laws can help you move from frustration to lasting growth.🌱 The Four Laws of Change:Change must come from withinChange requires a compelling visionChange involves a great learningChange is sustained by community ("the healing forest")Herb shares stories, insights, and practical applications for each law—plus a deeper reflection on why doubt is the hidden saboteur of most change efforts.📌 Key Topics Covered:– Why excitement fades during personal change– What most people miss when trying to shift habits– How to create a vision that actually pulls you forward– The essential role of support in lasting transformation🔗 Learn more about Herb and the podcast at: www.natural-passages.c

🎧 Episode 25: The Practice of Right Relations with Herb StevensonIn this powerful 25th episode of the Natural Passages Podcast, Herb Stevenson dives deep into the foundational principles of right relations—a way of living rooted in presence, integrity, and conscious connection.Whether in personal relationships or professional settings, this episode delivers timeless insights on how to communicate with clarity, replace judgment with compassion, and create lasting, authentic bonds.🧠 What You’ll Learn in Episode 25:✅ How to shift from gossip to honest dialogue✅ Why presence is more powerful than being “right”✅ Tools for building trust and emotional safety✅ Strategies for resolving conflict with compassion✅ The inner work of self-awareness and connectionThis is one of the most impactful episodes yet—don’t miss the wisdom that could reshape how you show up in every relationship.🔔 Subscribe now and join Herb on the journey to deeper connection and mindf

In this special solo episode of Natural Passages: Revealing the Unmarked Doors of Life, Herb Stevenson speaks directly to you—answering powerful questions from listeners around the world who are seeking clarity and calm in the midst of uncertainty.You’ll hear personal reflections, grounded practices, and powerful insights on how to navigate stress, fear, and overwhelm—while reconnecting with your true self.🌍 In this episode, you’ll explore:How to stay centered in the chaos of modern lifeWhy global tension reflects a deeper energetic shiftThe power of simple daily rituals like journaling and mindful stillnessWhat it means to consciously respond instead of reactHow to release fear-based programming and reclaim your life🌀 Whether you're facing internal restlessness or external stress, this episode offers practical steps you can start using today to regain your sense of balance and presence.✨ Want to go deeper? Explore Herb’s offerings:🌿 natural-passages.co

Join host Herb Stevenson and special guest Ken Chapin as they explore the Drama Triangle, a psychological model that reveals how the roles of victim, rescuer, and persecutor shape our interactions and relationships. Discover how shifting to conscious awareness can break negative patterns and lead to more empowered ways of living and leading.✅ Understanding the unconscious vs. conscious expressions of the Drama Triangle✅ Transforming victim to creator, rescuer to coach, and persecutor to challenger✅ How fear, anxiety, and power struggles drive dysfunctional behaviors✅ The impact of self-perception on leadership and personal relationships✅ Strategies to identify and step out of toxic cycles for healthier interactions🎧 In this episode, Herb and Ken share real-world applications of these concepts in leadership, organizational dynamics, and family relationships. Learn how self-awareness and presence can help you break free from reactive behaviors and step into empowered decision-making.🔔

In Episode 20 (Part 1) of the Natural Passages Podcast, host Herb Stevenson and guest Ken Chapin dive into a profound discussion about intimacy, vulnerability, and human connection.They explore:✔️ The true meaning of intimacy beyond traditional views✔️ How presence and vulnerability shape relationships✔️ The unique challenges men face in expressing intimacy✔️ The impact of being truly seen and heard in personal and professional life✔️ Eye contact, emotional awareness, and the importance of deep connectionHerb and Ken share personal stories and insights that shed light on how we build relationships, the unspoken struggles of male intimacy, and the transformative power of being present with others.💡 Enjoying the podcast?🔔 Subscribe, rate, and review on your favorite podcast platform!📩 Share this episode with someone who would appreciate these insights.🔗 Follow Natural Passages here for more:#NaturalPassages #Podcast #Intimacy #Vulnerability #MensGrowth #EmotionalIntelligence #HumanCo

In this episode of Natural Passages, Herb Stevenson and Lisa Kayser explore the transformative power of felt sense, presence, and emotional awareness. They discuss how stored energy in the body influences emotional reactions and offer practical steps to develop conscious awareness. Tune in for powerful insights on breaking free from reactive patterns and creating a deeper connection with yourself and others. 🌟 Episode Highlights: What is “felt sense,” and how does it connect to presence and emotions? Techniques to catch yourself during emotional reactions. A touching story of how releasing stored energy helped one woman rediscover her voice and joy. Join us as we uncover the hidden pathways to emotional awareness and healing. 📢 Don’t forget to: Like, subscribe, and share with others who might find this episode helpful! Follow us for more insightful discussions on presence and personal growth.#NaturalPassagesPodcast #FeltSense #EmotionalAwareness #Mindfuln

In this enlightening episode of Natural Passages, Herb Stevenson joins Denny Pavane to explore the transformative power of forgiveness. Together, they unravel the concept of "frozen moments in time" and how they shape our lives. Discover how trauma can be processed, resentment released, and personal growth achieved through mindfulness, energy, and intention. Herb shares actionable insights and real-life examples that shed light on how to let go of past pains, embrace the present, and live a more fulfilled life. Whether you’re dealing with everyday challenges or deep emotional scars, this episode offers valuable perspectives to help you move forward. Key Discussion Points: What are "frozen moments in time," and how do they impact us? Practical strategies to shift from victimhood to growth How mindfulness and presence aid in overcoming trauma The role of energy and intention in healing and self-discovery The connection between forgiveness and personal free

Episode Summary:In this thought-provoking episode of the Natural Passages Podcast, host Herb Stevenson and guest Lisa Kayser into the heart of what makes an apology truly meaningful. They explore the concept of presence, the role of vulnerability, and the four essential steps to crafting a genuine apology. Herb shares insights on how conscious awareness and sincere intentions foster healing, connection, and forgiveness in relationships. Whether it’s personal or professional, understanding these dynamics can make all the difference in repairing and strengthening our most valuable connections. Key Takeaways: The Real Anatomy of an Apology: Discover why a true apology goes beyond saying "I'm sorry" and includes acknowledging the impact of one's actions. The Importance of Presence: Learn how being fully present creates an energetic connection that helps the other person feel seen, heard, and understood. Vulnerability as a Bridge: Understand how genuine vulnerability al

In this episode: Join us for Episode 12 of the Natural Passages Podcast as we dive deep into the world of leadership development and personal growth with Herb Stevenson and Sahadeo Ramharrack. Although Herb’s appearance is presented as an image due to technical difficulties, we felt it was crucial to release this episode because the information shared is invaluable. Herb and Sahadeo explore the key aspects of authentic leadership, including the power of emotional intelligence and self-reflection. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just beginning your personal growth journey, this conversation is filled with actionable insights to help you lead with authenticity and purpose. Key takeaways from this episode: The importance of emotional intelligence in leadership How self-reflection can shape effective leaders Practical strategies for developing authenticity in personal and professional life About our guests: Herb Stevenson: Leadership coach and expert in authentic l

Presence and the Art of Listening In this episode of Natural Passages, host Herb Stevenson is joined by Lisa Kaiser. Together, they delve into the profound topic of presence and the critical role it plays in our relationships and everyday interactions. Understanding Presence: Herb opens the conversation by exploring how presence manifests in our lives and how being fully present can deepen our connections with others. The Five Types of Listening: Not Listening: A common issue where multitasking leads to a lack of attention, creating disconnects in relationships. Reactionary Listening: The tendency to focus on formulating a response rather than truly hearing the other person, leading to miscommunication. Observational Listening: Listening for details and connections, enhancing mutual understanding and validation. Empathic (Engaged) Listening: Creating an energetic connection that fosters a deeper, more meaningful exchange. Coherent (Generative) Listening: Achieving a pro

Episode Summary: Welcome to Episode 8 of the Natural Passages Podcast! 🌟 In this episode, Herb and Sahadev dive into the transformative topic of Internal vs. External Authority. Discover how to break free from societal norms and embrace your true self. 🚀 Key Discussion Points: The struggle between external rules and internal truth. Real-life examples of finding and following your internal voice. The journey to self-determination and authentic living. Stories of rebellion and success against societal pressures. Highlights: Defining Authority: Understanding the difference between internal and external authority and how they shape our behaviors. Personal Experiences: Herb and Sahadev share their journeys of overcoming external pressures to find their true selves. Balancing Act: The importance of balancing respect for external authority while nurturing self-determination. Cultural and Societal Norms: How cultural upbringing and societal expectations impact personal gro

Welcome to another episode of "Natural Passages" where we explore the profound topics of presence and self-awareness. In this episode, we delve into the concept of embodied presence and healing presence, understanding their nuances and how they can transform our lives. 🌿 Episode Highlights: Embodied Presence: Learn what it means to be fully present in your body and how this awareness can change the way you perceive and interact with the world. Healing Presence: Discover the transformative power of healing presence that allows individuals to feel safe and promote personal growth and healing. Practical Tips: Gain actionable advice on how to cultivate presence in everyday life, from boardrooms to personal relationships. Herb breaks down complex ideas into relatable insights, offering listeners a chance to understand and apply these concepts in their personal and professional lives. Whether you're looking to improve your mindfulness practices or find effective ways to engage

About This Episode: Dive into the depths of human experience in Episode 2 of the Natural Passages podcast. We take you on a journey through life's natural passages, examining the significant moments from birth to death that shape our existence. Explore the diverse cultural rites of passage, from bar mitzvahs to Native American vision quests, and how they guide the transition from childhood to adulthood. Discussion Highlights: Cultural Insights: Uncover the importance of rites of passage across different societies. Wisdom Fusion: See how indigenous knowledge blends with modern psychological theories to shed light on personal and societal evolution. Gender Paths: Explore the distinct journeys of men and women, discussing masculinity, femininity, and the intricacies of growth and relationships. Life Stages: Delve into the developmental milestones for individuals and communities. Transformational Midlife: Understand the pivotal role of midlife correction in personal development.