In this heartfelt episode, Sarah is joined by Toufic Hakim—scientist by training, spiritualist by choice, and Executive Director of the Foundation for Self Leadership. Together, they explore what it means to cultivate sustainable hope in uncertain times by tending to our inner worlds, our relationships, and our communities.
Toufic offers wisdom on how self-awareness, compassion, and connection can help us meet the world with clarity and heart. This conversation is a balm for the nervous system—and a deep invitation into presence, purpose, and possibility. The Foundation for Self Leadership is dedicated to fostering emotional, relational and societal healing and wellbeing. Its advocacy and research programs revolve around the IFS paradigm as a leading model among others.
Learn more about The Foundation for Self Leadership
Find Foundation IFS on Facebook & Youtube
Read their magazine Parts and SelfShow Notes:

• ​Nassim Nicholas Taleb, Black Swan

• Atlas of Emotions & Atlas of the Heart

• Inside Out

• 3 Spheres Diagram

• Book: "You are the one you've been waiting for" by Richard Schwartz

• Pre-register for Sustainable Hope (a free, virtual, interactive community conversation) cofacilitated Sarah & Toufic on September 17, 2025

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In this episode, new board president and founder of Relational Life Therapy (RLT), Terry Real, joins senior RLT practitioner and faculty member Anna Sterk, LMFT for a powerful conversation about one of the toughest relationship questions: Should I stay or should I go?
​Together, they unpack the concept of relational reckoning—weighing whether what we’re getting is enough to make grieving what we’re not getting worth it. They challenge the myth of unconditional adult love and explore the fine line between acceptance and self-abandonment. From resentment to “normal marital hatred,” this episode is full of clarity, compassion, and truth-telling. Whether you’re questioning a relationship or seeking deeper connection, this conversation offers a path forward.
Learn more about Terry Real
Learn more about Anna SterkDonate here: https://www.relationallifefoundation.org/donate.html

In this episode, host Sarah Melissa Oswald speaks with Laurie Lazar, founder and CEO of Realness Project, about her work in prisons, where she brings authentic relating practices to incarcerated individuals. Through deeply moving stories, they discuss the generational impact of incarceration, the resilience of the human spirit, and how connection can be a catalyst for change. Join us for a conversation that challenges assumptions and highlights the profound importance of empathy, healing, and community.​
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Learn more about Laurie at https://www.realnessproject.org/ / @realnessprojectnonprofit
Show Notes

Realness Project
Dr.  Stephen Porges
Colorado State Penitentiary
Caring for Denver
Dignity Humility Diagram
RLT Relationship Grid

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Neda DeMayo, president founder of Return to Freedom, on the powerful lessons horses teach us about relationships, community, and ourselves. Explore how the secret language of horses mirrors human communication, inspires healthier communities, and offers profound healing for trauma survivors. Learn how wild horse behavior influences leadership, land management, and our connection to nature. Whether you're a horse lover or simply curious about deepening your relationships, this episode offers fresh perspectives and actionable wisdom. Tune in and let the horses guide you toward a more balanced, connected life.Learn more about Neda at https://returntofreedom.org / @returntofreedom

This episode explores the profound transformations within parenthood, particularly motherhood, and the challenges our culture places on mothers. We’ll hear from motherhood coach Kendra Williams and discuss strategies for breaking free from perfectionism, processing identity shifts, and building confidence in parenting. Whether you’re a mother or simply curious about these concepts, this conversation will offer meaningful insights and support.

Welcome to the debut episode of Facets of Connection! In this introduction, host Sarah Melissa Oswald shares the inspiration behind the podcast and her lifelong fascination with relationships and their transformative power. She explores the growing epidemic of loneliness, the science behind human connection, and the role of Relational Life Therapy (RLT) in fostering deeper, more fulfilling relationships. Sarah also reflects on her personal journey, the concept of allurement, and the mission of Relational Life Foundation in building a more connected world.

Welcome to Facets of Connection, a podcast dedicated to transforming relationships in an ever-changing world. Brought to you by Relational Life Foundation and hosted by Sarah Melissa Oswald, this series delves into the essence of human connection—how we learn, love, and collaborate. Through conversations with leaders and visionaries, we explore the power of respectful relationships and their role in combating loneliness and fostering deeper connections with ourselves, our loved ones, and the environment.

Rooted in curiosity and growth, Facets of Connection introduces tools for building trust, fostering open communication, and balancing individuality with shared values. We’ll discuss concepts like ecological humility to inspire compassionate, sustainable relationships and uncover strategies to create mutual understanding and support. Join us on this journey to deepen your connections and build a more empathetic world. Follow Facets of Connection wherever you get your podcasts.