On this episode of The Ripple Effect Podcast, Dr. Stephanie Romero is joined by Lawrence Schuessler (he/him) for a deeply human conversation about mindfulness, embodiment, and the search for ease. Lawrence shares his path to meditation through early instability, sobriety, yoga, and community, and reflects on how learning to be present in the body became an act of healing. Together, they explore Nature Dharma—the practice of mindfulness in relationship with the natural world—and how “outside” can be as simple and accessible as a window, a plant, or a few grounded minutes in fresh air. The conversation weaves through themes of trauma, identity, safety, and liberation, as Lawrence speaks candidly about being a trans person in this moment and why compassion, deep listening, and presence are inseparable from social action. The episode closes with a reminder that our identities evolve, permission matters, and wherever we are on the path, we are already enough.

Learn More at www.awakenpittsburgh.org

Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com)

Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting.

Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support

Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.