The Language Alchemy Podcast

156. The War in Gaza: How 2 Friends, an Arab American and an Israeli American Found Common Ground Despite Their Different Views Part 2

“The Jews aren’t going anywhere. The Palestinians aren’t going anywhere. They’re either going to live there side-by-side fighting forever, or they’re going to live side-by-side in peace somehow.”
 
In this episode, Alejandra Siroka continues her conversation with Kawthar Duncan and Noam Szoke—two friends whose backgrounds might suggest they’d be on opposite sides of the debate. How do you sustain a friendship when the world around you seems divided? Through open dialogue and genuine care, Kawthar and Noam share how they’ve navigated the emotional complexities of the ongoing conflict in Gaza while maintaining a strong connection.
 
What does it take to truly listen to someone with a different perspective? How can friendships thrive amid geopolitical tensions? Kawthar and Noam’s story shows us the power of empathy and mutual understanding, and reminds us that it’s possible to find common ground even in the most challenging circumstances.
 
Quotes
“We could process it together. And that’s really what we’ve been doing this year is when we get together, we basically share our grief with each other. No need for comparison or hierarchies. Grief is grief.” (09:46 | Noam Szoke)
“I feel a lot of grief for Gaza... I don’t feel that grief for just Palestinians. I feel it for the Israelis. I feel it for the Ukrainians... I don’t want to see it in our world. I don’t want my kids to have it in their lifetime.” (11:16 | Kawthar Duncan)
“The Jews aren’t going anywhere. The Palestinians aren’t going anywhere. They’re either going to live there side-by-side fighting forever, or they’re going to live side-by-side in peace somehow.” (22:23 | Noam Szoke)
“Listening to understand. It’s not listening to be understood. Going into any conversation with people of different backgrounds... it’s just listening to understand.” (23:28 | Kawthar Duncan)
 
Links
Organizations Noam mentioned:
Standing Together: https://www.standing-together.org/en
Combatants for Peace: https://cfpeace.org/
Bereaved Families Forum: https://www.progressiveisrael.org/the-bereaved-parents-circle-parents-circle-families-forum/
 
Choosing True Connection Online Course: https://www.languagealchemy.com/enroll
To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-language-alchemy-podcast/id1576461366
To leave a review on Spotify, click: https://open.spotify.com/show/5yTj9hSotq8EAjPCYg2jYw?si=aQNuoStRQomTNUKHGSD56A&nd=1&dlsi=064dcb42ba8d4706
To work with Alejandra, visit: www.languagealchemy.com/workwithme
To join the Language Alchemy mailing list, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com
To ask questions you'd like Alejandra to answer in the podcast, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/podcastquestion
To find out about 1:1 transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/oneonone
To find out about couple transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/couples
To schedule a reduced-rate coaching consultation with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/newclient
To follow Alejandra on instagram follow @languagealchemy
Podcast Music composed by Gary Lapow: open.spotify.com/artist/1HlMhcNfKIELxYil5mVqD
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

155. The War in Gaza: How 2 Friends, an Arab American and an Israeli American Found Common Ground Despite Their Different Views

“I wouldn’t go by Kawthar because I didn’t want people to know I was Arab American or I was different. I wanted to be as American as possible and felt like I always needed to say I was patriotic. It took almost a decade for me to get to a place where I was like, ‘No, I’m proud of my parents. I’m proud of what they did to bring me here,’” shares Kawthar Duncan, opening up about the internal struggle she faced growing up.
 
In this episode, Alejandra Siroka brings together Kawthar, an Arab American immigrant, and Noam Szoke, an Israeli American immigrant, to show how two people from different origins—and historically opposing backgrounds—found refuge in their friendship. 
 
What does it mean to connect with someone whose life experiences seem so different from your own? Kawthar and Noam share how they built a meaningful friendship through honesty, shared experiences of immigration, and the willingness to confront cultural stereotypes together. 
 
Their conversation reveals the discomfort of facing prejudice—whether Islamophobia or anti-Semitism—and the unexpected bond these discussions created. How do friendships like theirs offer hope in a divided world? As they reflect on their relationship, they offer a powerful example of how genuine dialogue can bridge even the deepest divides, and fosters understanding and connection across cultural barriers. 
 
This episode challenges us to consider the transformative power of friendship in overcoming differences and creating lasting empathy, even in the most challenging of circumstances.
 
Quotes
“I’ve been fortunate to not experience any kind of overt anti-Semitism in my life. Kawthar has experienced Islamophobia, as it’s called, in hers that had a big impact on me.” (08:42 | Noam Szoke)
“One of the things I remember very clearly my father told me that always impacted me was him saying, the Arabs are our cousins. And so, Kawthar and I started calling each other ‘cousin.’” (09:20 | Noam Szoke)
“Post-9/11, it was just very different to be an immigrant and to be a refugee and now to be an American citizen here in a place that is home. It is home for me, but others don’t see me as a person that belongs here, and that I’ve harmed this country, the generalization of it.” (11:39 | Kawthar Duncan)
“I wouldn’t go by Kawthar because I didn’t want people to know I was Arab American or I was different. I wanted to be as American as possible and felt like I always needed to say I was patriotic. It took almost a decade for me to get to a place where I was like, ‘No, I’m proud of my parents. I’m proud of what they did to bring me here.’” (13:08 | Kawthar Duncan)
 
Links
Choosing True Connection Online Course: https://www.languagealchemy.com/enroll
To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-language-alchemy-podcast/id1576461366
To leave a review on Spotify, click: https://open.spotify.com/show/5yTj9hSotq8EAjPCYg2jYw?si=aQNuoStRQomTNUKHGSD56A&nd=1&dlsi=064dcb42ba8d4706
To work with Alejandra, visit: www.languagealchemy.com/workwithme
To join the Language Alchemy mailing list, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com
To ask questions you'd like Alejandra to answer in the podcast, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/podcastquestion
To find out about 1:1 transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/oneonone
To find out about couple transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/couples
To schedule a reduced-rate coaching consultation with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/newclient
To follow Alejandra on instagram follow @languagealchemy
Podcast Music composed by Gary Lapow: open.spotify.com/artist/1HlMhcNfKIELxYil5mVqD
 
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

154. How to Talk to Your In-laws When They Think Differently From You

“Stop thinking about the differences. Try to find the similarities. Try to find the things you do feel similarly about. And don’t go trying to convince anybody else that your way is right. It’s obviously right for you. It may not even be right for them.” Dr. Ellen Siroka Robinson, a seasoned psychologist with decades of experience in family dynamics and Alejandra’s mother-in-law, gives heartfelt advice in this episode of The Language Alchemy. In a world where family gatherings often bring together different perspectives, beliefs, and cultures, Ellen and Alejandra offer a compassionate way to navigate those differences with grace.
 
Ellen shares her thoughts on building relationships with in-laws who come from different backgrounds or hold opposing views. How can we focus on what connects us instead of what divides us? By letting go of the need to prove your point, Ellen suggests, you open the door to mutual respect and understanding, which are both essential for creating harmony in family dynamics.
 
As Ellen and Alejandra vulnerably share how the two of them cultivated an adult loving relationship, they highlight the importance of intentional communication. Could it be that these differences, instead of being obstacles, are opportunities for deeper understanding? Their conversation is a reminder that when we listen and seek common ground, relationships have the potential to grow, even when beliefs or cultures don’t fully align.
 
Quotes
“I thought about all the mother-in-law jokes that we have in our culture, which are so negative and so disparaging. And why is it? Because we are afraid that whatever special relationship we have with our child is going to be disturbed in some way. We're not understanding that we have different kinds of love. We love our spouses in one way. We love our children in one way. We love our friends in one way.” (10:38 | Dr. Ellen Siroka Robinson)
“Our relationship has also been a great gift to me. Gift often implies that you don’t do anything to get it, but that’s really not the case. I think you’ve said very clearly that we had a lot of work to do. And what was the work? I mean, you came from a different culture. I had to learn about the culture. The difference is to respect it and not ever see it as something less than, or than the culture I was raised in.” (12:50 | Dr. Ellen Siroka Robinson)
“If somebody’s idea is, you think, in opposition to you, I think it’s more helpful just to think of it as a different idea, a very different idea, and not one that you’re probably going to talk them out of.” (23:05 | Dr. Ellen Siroka Robinson)
“Stop thinking about the differences. Try to find the similarities. Try to find the things you do feel similarly about. And don’t go trying to convince anybody else that your way is right. It’s obviously right for you. It may not even be right for them.” (32:49 | Dr. Ellen Siroka Robinson)
 
Links
To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-language-alchemy-podcast/id1576461366
To leave a review on Spotify, click: https://open.spotify.com/show/5yTj9hSotq8EAjPCYg2jYw?si=aQNuoStRQomTNUKHGSD56A&nd=1&dlsi=064dcb42ba8d4706
To work with Alejandra, visit: www.languagealchemy.com/workwithme
To join the Language Alchemy mailing list, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com
To ask questions you'd like Alejandra to answer in the podcast, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/podcastquestion
To find out about 1:1 transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/oneonone
To find out about couple transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/couples
To schedule a reduced-rate coaching consultation with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/newclient
To follow Alejandra on instagram follow @languagealchemy
Podcast Music composed by Gary Lapow: open.spotify.com/artist/1HlMhcNfKIELxYil5mVqD
 
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

153. How to Respond to Compliments

“How can you respond to compliments skillfully? To respond skillfully, you need to be rooted in your own being,” Alejandra Siroka shares as she discusses the nature of receiving compliments. Many of us avoid or downplay praise because we feel uncomfortable. Why is that? While compliments are intended to express appreciation, they can sometimes feel like judgments, causing discomfort.
 
Alejandra points out that our uneasiness may stem from past experiences, societal expectations, or even the dynamic between the person giving and receiving the compliment. Have you ever found yourself quickly returning a compliment, brushing it off, or downplaying it with self-deprecating humor? These are all signs of discomfort, and Alejandra explains how recognizing these patterns is the first step toward responding with greater confidence and ease.
 
In this episode, Alejandra offers helpful advice on how to respond to compliments in a way that feels sincere and strengthens relationships. When we practice offering thoughtful responses, like expressing true gratitude or acknowledging the positive intent behind a compliment, it helps us become more comfortable accepting praise instead of avoiding it.
 
Quotes
“Compliments, praise, and even expressions of gratitude are usually positive remarks that communicate approval or admiration. When people say them out loud, they often hope the recipient will feel seen, valued, and good about themselves. However, even with the best of intentions, these remarks can sometimes elicit discomfort in the recipient for various reasons. If you feel uncomfortable receiving them and don’t know how to respond, you are not alone.” (04:04 | Alejandra Siroka)
“How can you respond to compliments skillfully? To respond skillfully, you need to be rooted in your own being. That means having a deep understanding of yourself—your strengths, your abilities—while also being aware of your capacity to grow. The key is to have self-awareness without feeling arrogant or superior, but rather with a sense of healthy humility.” (13:01 | Alejandra Siroka)
“If you notice that expressing or receiving gratitude or praise is something you struggle with, it can make it difficult to form a true sense of connection with the people with whom you want to have deep, close, or meaningful relationships.” (15:13 | Alejandra Siroka)
 
Links
To learn about Choosing True Connection Online Course, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/enroll
To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-language-alchemy-podcast/id1576461366
To leave a review on Spotify, click: https://open.spotify.com/show/5yTj9hSotq8EAjPCYg2jYw?si=aQNuoStRQomTNUKHGSD56A&nd=1&dlsi=064dcb42ba8d4706
To work with Alejandra, visit: www.languagealchemy.com/workwithme
To join the Language Alchemy mailing list, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com
To ask questions you'd like Alejandra to answer in the podcast, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/podcastquestion
To find out about 1:1 transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/oneonone
To find out about couple transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/couples
To schedule a reduced-rate coaching consultation with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/newclient
To follow Alejandra on instagram follow @languagealchemy
Podcast Music composed by Gary Lapow: open.spotify.com/artist/1HlMhcNfKIELxYil5mVqD
 
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

152. How Listeners Use the Podcast to Have Conscious Relationships

“I do these podcasts for you, and it is really you—along with my commitment to providing transformative communication tools for free—that keeps me going,” says Alejandra Siroka. As the Language Alchemy podcast celebrates its third anniversary, Alejandra invites listeners to reflect on the impact the podcast has had on their lives and relationships. How has conscious communication helped you grow? This episode dives into those personal stories, showcasing how listeners have connected deeply with the content, using it as a tool for personal transformation.
 
From clarifying the distinction between envy and jealousy to encouraging shifts in internal dialogue, listeners share their gratitude for the clarity and insights the podcast brings to emotionally complex topics. Alejandra’s sister Patricia reflects on how these teachings have helped her navigate difficult family dynamics by prompting her to examine emotions she once overlooked. Meanwhile, Shannon and Britt, past guests, describe how preparing for their episode strengthened their relationship, a testament to the podcast’s ability to foster deeper bonds.
 
Listeners like Maria and Amber share their experiences with episodes on maintaining long-term relationships and overcoming negative thought patterns. Their stories highlight how the podcast serves as an ongoing resource for both personal growth and enhanced communication skills. 
 
What’s especially powerful is the ripple effect—many listeners talk about how the communication tools they’ve learned extend beyond their own lives, improving their relationships with friends and family. The episode highlights how Alejandra’s work is building a community of conscious communicators who uplift and support each other through life’s challenges. It’s a touching reminder of the lasting influence conscious communication can have on our lives, encouraging us all to continue growing and deepening our connections.
 
Quotes
“The distinction you made in this most recent podcast between envy and jealousy really hit home. It has truly changed the language I’m using... It really left a deep impression. It’s already started to change my language… It’s such a great example of the skillful use of language that’s so much a part of the fabric of what you do with the podcast. It’s why I’m a frequent listener and, I guess, a second-time caller.” (08:04 | Dazza)
“Even as a queer person, I am always amazed at the level of—it’s beyond allyship—what you bring to the queer community and to the queer people in your life, Alejandra. That comes through on your podcast, and I don’t know if you even realize how important your contribution is. I hope others get to receive that because it’s really beautiful. It has meant a lot to us.” (13:05 | Shannon)
“What I appreciate about it is that you really give people the opportunity to figure out how to speak, so they’re not just caught in that common feeling of, ‘Oh, I just don’t know what to say,’ or, ‘I can’t say it right, so I won’t say anything at all.’ You offer the words that are needed. And for me, it gives me a chance to think about what’s really important. So it’s both an internal support and a relational support.” (16:27 | Amber)
 
Links
To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-language-alchemy-podcast/id1576461366
To leave a review on Spotify, click: https://open.spotify.com/show/5yTj9hSotq8EAjPCYg2jYw?si=aQNuoStRQomTNUKHGSD56A&nd=1&dlsi=064dcb42ba8d4706
To work with Alejandra, visit: www.languagealchemy.com/workwithme
To join the Language Alchemy mailing list, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com
To ask questions you'd like Alejandra to answer in the podcast, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/podcastquestion
To find out about 1:1 transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/oneonone
To find out about couple transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/couples
To schedule a reduced-rate coaching consultation with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/newclient
To follow Alejandra on instagram follow @languagealchemy
Podcast Music composed by Gary Lapow: open.spotify.com/artist/1HlMhcNfKIELxYil5mVqD
 
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

151. 10 Communication Tools to Use With Anxious People

“The first thing we’re going to do is to be more aware of what anxiety is and how it manifests in communication so that you can be better equipped with communication tools to connect with the wonderful people in your life who are going through anxiety,” says Alejandra Siroka. In this episode, Alejandra delves into how anxiety influences communication and relationships, especially in the aftermath of the global pandemic.
 
Have you ever noticed how anxiety often appears as excessive fear or worry, leading to strained interactions with loved ones? Alejandra offers ten communication tools to help navigate these challenges, from self-awareness practices to verbal communication strategies. Her insights are all about building empathy and understanding, transforming difficult conversations into opportunities for deeper connections. By the end of the episode, you’ll feel more prepared to support those dealing with anxiety, armed with both skill and compassion.
 
Quotes
“We now know that anxiety can start as the result of a difficult environment. And we are all living in a difficult environment at this moment in the world with so much conflict, wars, suffering, political uncertainty, divisiveness, natural disasters, climate change, you name it.” (02:23 | Alejandra Siroka)
“Language alchemy is about cultivating awareness. So, the first thing we’re going to do is to be more aware of what anxiety is and how it manifests in communication so that you can be better equipped with communication tools to connect with the wonderful people in your life who are going through anxiety.” (03:28 | Alejandra Siroka)
“Communication depends on the context, on the relationship, and the intention. So, as you explore these tools, be aware of the conditions of the present moment, of the kind of relationship you have with the other person, and of your specific intentions.” (10:52 | Alejandra Siroka)
 
Links
To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-language-alchemy-podcast/id1576461366
To leave a review on Spotify, click: https://open.spotify.com/show/5yTj9hSotq8EAjPCYg2jYw?si=aQNuoStRQomTNUKHGSD56A&nd=1&dlsi=064dcb42ba8d4706
To work with Alejandra, visit: www.languagealchemy.com/workwithme
To join the Language Alchemy mailing list, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com
To ask questions you'd like Alejandra to answer in the podcast, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/podcastquestion
To find out about 1:1 transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/oneonone
To find out about couple transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/couples
To schedule a reduced-rate coaching consultation with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/newclient
To follow Alejandra on instagram follow @languagealchemy
Podcast Music composed by Gary Lapow: open.spotify.com/artist/1HlMhcNfKIELxYil5mVqD
 
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

150. How to Answer Uncomfortable Questions

“Remember, you are safe. And when you remember that, that’s when you connect your choice to answer or not answer the question,” says Alejandra Siroka, as she guides us through addressing uncomfortable questions, a common challenge in communication—in this milestone episode of the Language Alchemy Podcast. Alejandra defines uncomfortable questions as those that cause discomfort due to their personal, intrusive, or judgmental nature. She categorizes these questions into four groups: those that feel too personal, those from close relations that carry judgment, socially biased questions, and everyday questions that may trigger discomfort based on the recipient’s current state.
 
Alejandra emphasizes the importance of recognizing that you always have a choice in whether to answer these uncomfortable questions. She advises listeners to first ensure they feel safe and grounded before deciding how to respond. She offers practical strategies: acknowledging the question without answering it, responding with another question to understand the asker’s intent, or providing a sincere answer that reflects one’s true feelings and circumstances. Through these methods, Alejandra aims to empower listeners to respond to uncomfortable questions with authenticity, confidence, clarity, and compassion. 
 
As Alejandra celebrates three years of dedication to providing listeners with tools for conscious communication—enhancing personal growth and relationships—and the podcast’s 150th episode, she invites listeners to join her in marking this milestone with a free, one-hour online party on August 23rd. Join Alejandra as she celebrates this achievement, offering attendees the chance to win various giveaways, including one-on-one coaching sessions and spots in her exclusive programs. To sign up, go to: languagealchemy.com/podcastparty
 
Quotes
“When you receive these questions, remember that you have a choice. Yes, you have the choice to answer or not answer these questions. You’re an adult, and you get to decide. It’s important to remind yourself of this in the moment, especially when you feel uncomfortable, cornered, or pressured. Check your surroundings—why? Because you’re safe. The question may feel uncomfortable and elicit a sense of insecurity, but it will not harm you.” (09:12 | Alejandra Siroka)
“Remember, you are safe. And when you remember that, that’s when you connect your choice to answer or not answer the question. Now, how do you know if you want to answer the question or not? To know whether you want to give a response or none at all, the most important thing you can do is to connect yourself and tune into what you are feeling.” (10:08 | Alejandra Siroka)
“Something else you can do when you receive questions that feel uncomfortable is to give a sincere answer. To do this, you need to know the kind of relationship you have and want to have with the person asking the question. You also need to be aware of your internal state—your feelings, your emotions. Be mindful of your intention for answering the question and, finally, the context in which this interaction is happening. Being aware of all these factors is crucial; otherwise, your answer may be reactive, defensive, habitual, or unconscious—in other words, unhelpful.” (14:28 | Alejandra Siroka)
 
Links
To sign up for the free podcast party, go to: languagealchemy.com/podcastparty
To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-language-alchemy-podcast/id1576461366
To leave a review on Spotify, click: https://open.spotify.com/show/5yTj9hSotq8EAjPCYg2jYw?si=aQNuoStRQomTNUKHGSD56A&nd=1&dlsi=064dcb42ba8d4706
To work with Alejandra, visit: www.languagealchemy.com/workwithme
To join the Language Alchemy mailing list, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com
To ask questions you'd like Alejandra to answer in the podcast, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/podcastquestion
To find out about 1:1 transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/oneonone
To find out about couple transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/couples
To schedule a reduced-rate coaching consultation with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/newclient
To follow Alejandra on instagram follow @languagealchemy
Podcast Music composed by Gary Lapow: open.spotify.com/artist/1HlMhcNfKIELxYil5mVqD
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

149. The Language of Healing: Interview with Scott Blossom (Part 2)

Understanding and practicing conscious communication can transform personal relationships and foster holistic healing across physical, emotional, and social dimensions. In this episode, Alejandra Siroka continues her conversation with Scott Blossom, building on the insights shared in episode 148 to delve deeper into the language of healing.
 
This episode explores the power of a shared language within families, revealing how open and honest communication can be a cornerstone of healing. Scott shares a 5-step communication process he uses with his family. This process involves identifying and expressing feelings, taking responsibility for beliefs, and making actionable requests. It fosters a safe and respectful environment, crucial for deep and meaningful conversations, especially during emotionally charged situations.
 
Join Alejandra and Scott to discover how embracing this communication process can enhance your interactions, leading to enlivened relationships, profound healing, and growth.
 
Quotes
“When language is spoken in a way that is relational, it has a different quality and often a more poetic quality. The etymology of the word ‘wisdom’ reveals two primary qualities: guidance and lyricalness. There’s something about wisdom that comes with a quality that enlivens, something from that more poetic side.” (04:50 | Dr. Scott Blossom)
“The core piece of the skill is a communication pattern that involves taking responsibility for your role in a conversation about something, especially if there are strong feelings. It has five steps. Before I explain it, I want to mention that the founders took it from other models, of course, but they provide a beautiful educational talk about why they use this approach with kids and why it’s so important for families to learn to have this as a shared language.” (15:07 | Dr. Scott Blossom)
“Everything is workable, even if it’s terrible or really hard, and even when there are a lot of big feelings involved. We have a structure that signals to each other, ‘I’m going to follow this because I love you and I want you to feel safe enough to engage with this material that might be super charged from one side or both sides.’” (17:25 | Dr. Scott Blossom)
 
Links
Connect with Scott Blossom:
https://www.doctorblossom.com/
 
Connect with Scott Blossom on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/docblossom
 
To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-language-alchemy-podcast/id1576461366
 
To leave a review on Spotify, click: https://open.spotify.com/show/5yTj9hSotq8EAjPCYg2jYw?si=aQNuoStRQomTNUKHGSD56A&nd=1&dlsi
=064dcb42ba8d4706
 
To work with Alejandra, visit: www.languagealchemy.com/workwithme
 
To join the Language Alchemy mailing list, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com
 
To ask questions you'd like Alejandra to answer in the podcast, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/podcastquestion
 
To find out about 1:1 transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/oneonone
 
To find out about couple transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/couples
 
To schedule a reduced-rate coaching consultation with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/newclient
 
To follow Alejandra on instagram follow @languagealchemy
 
Podcast Music composed by Gary Lapow: open.spotify.com/artist/1HlMhcNfKIELxYil5mVqD
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

148. The Language of Healing: Interview with Dr. Blossom. Part 1

“We’re multidimensional beings. You can’t separate the physical body from the language you happen to think in, or the way that spiritual practices change identity,” explains Dr. Scott Blossom, a respected healer with expertise in traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, yoga somatics, and nutrition. Alejandra Siroka credits Dr. Blossom for profoundly influencing her holistic health journey.
 
In this episode, Alejandra and Dr. Blossom explore the integral role of conscious communication in well-being and collective healing. They discuss how language and self-talk affect physical health through emotional patterns and belief systems, and delve into Ayurvedic principles, particularly the doshas—vata, kapha, and pitta—highlighting how these impact communication styles and emotional tendencies.
 
Dr. Blossom shares personal anecdotes, emphasizing self-awareness and compassionate communication in relationships. He also reflects on his social awakening after George Floyd’s murder and his involvement in White Men for Racial Justice, stressing the need for commitment to social justice and equity.
 
This episode of The Language Alchemy Podcast underscores the transformative power of language in fostering a just and connected society, advocating for understanding historical and social contexts to promote ongoing personal and collective awakening.
 
Quotes
“We’re multidimensional beings. You can’t separate the physical body from the language you think in, or the way that spiritual practices change identity.” (09:35 | Dr. Scott Blossom)
“The narrative that you get when you understand what your primary orientation is around the doshas really helps you to anticipate what your particular genius is, what your particular form of balance will look like, and what most likely your forms of imbalance will look like. So, if everything’s balanced out, then just go with the flow, trust. You can really lean into that, but if things are out of balance, you have to actually attenuate. You have to work against the stream that’s carrying you into imbalance. And that narrative sets up a very important story.” (20:28 | Dr. Scott Blossom)
“It’s a world that negates the power of history, my ancestry, and the intergenerational forces, which we now know from trauma research has so much power on us. And I love that that’s kind of coming around, like studies around trauma are helping us to see that we’re not just people that landed here. And it’s about us taking what we need and want to make our lives great as if that was the plan because traditional viewpoints are never centered on the individual. They always center the community and in that community they’re centering relationships.” (31:05  | Dr. Scott Blossom)
 
Links
Connect with Dr. Scott Blossom:
https://www.doctorblossom.com/
 
Connect with Dr. Blossom on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/docblossom
To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-language-alchemy-podcast/id1576461366
To leave a review on Spotify, click: https://open.spotify.com/show/5yTj9hSotq8EAjPCYg2jYw?si=aQNuoStRQomTNUKHGSD56A&nd=1&dlsi
=064dcb42ba8d4706
To work with Alejandra, visit: www.languagealchemy.com/workwithme
To join the Language Alchemy mailing list, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com
To ask questions you'd like Alejandra to answer in the podcast, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/podcastquestion
To find out about 1:1 transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/oneonone
To find out about couple transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/couples
To schedule a reduced-rate coaching consultation with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/newclient
To follow Alejandra on instagram follow @languagealchemy
Podcast Music composed by Gary Lapow: open.spotify.com/artist/1HlMhcNfKIELxYil5mVqD
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

147. Irresistible Asks: How to Get a Yes When You Make Requests

“What if there was a way to ask for what you wanted that also considered others? What if you could make requests that others would say yes to out of joy and not out of obligation or manipulation? What if you could express how meaningful it would be for you to get a yes to a wonderful ask?” wonders Alejandra Siroka. In this episode, Alejandra discusses the transformative power of making irresistible asks through conscious and respectful requests.
 
Alejandra addresses the fear of offending others, often leading to avoided confrontations. She suggests framing requests with choice and autonomy, using phrases like “Are you willing?” Drawing from her mentor, Marshall Rosenberg, she shares six key components for effective requests: being clear and specific, making requests doable, being value explicit, making the request time-bound, expressing consideration for the other, and giving choice. These elements of a conscious, irresistible ask can help  avoid getting resistance or pushback.
 
Alejandra emphasizes the importance of clear communication, realistic expectations, and understanding the recipient’s perspective. She encourages listeners to apply these principles to foster clearer, more respectful, and successful interactions, ultimately building stronger, more fulfilling relationships.
 
Quotes
“Part of communicating skillfully has to do with learning to set the conditions to reach your goals and objectives. However, when you use specific language as a means to an end only, especially if that particular end is to benefit you and only you, then we run the risk of disregarding the values and needs of others, which I know is not your intention.” (02:03 | Alejandra Siroka)
“When I talk about communication, I like you to go back to its etymology, which is to find a common place, a point of union. For what? Collaboration. When you ask someone for something, I’d love for you to think about how every time you do that, what you are asking for is an opportunity for you and the other person to collaborate, to join forces, to contribute to something that first and foremost is clear and specific.” (03:27 | Alejandra Siroka)
“Let the other person know that your request is not a demand, but that it’s actually an ask that gives them choice. And it also communicates that you respect their needs, their values, their lives, their schedules, their autonomy.” (19:38 | Alejandra Siroka)
 
Links
To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-language-alchemy-podcast/id1576461366
To leave a review on Spotify, click: https://open.spotify.com/show/5yTj9hSotq8EAjPCYg2jYw?si=aQNuoStRQomTNUKHGSD56A&nd=1&dlsi=064dcb42ba8d4706
To work with Alejandra, visit: www.languagealchemy.com/workwithme
To join the Language Alchemy mailing list, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com
To ask questions you'd like Alejandra to answer in the podcast, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/podcastquestion
To find out about 1:1 transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/oneonone
To find out about couple transformative communication coaching with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/couples
To schedule a reduced-rate coaching consultation with Alejandra, visit: https://www.languagealchemy.com/newclient
To follow Alejandra on instagram follow @languagealchemy
Podcast Music composed by Gary Lapow: open.spotify.com/artist/1HlMhcNfKIELxYil5mVqD
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm