Episode 6-Season 3 | February 18th, 2026Hello, hello, Soulful Seekers! Welcome back to Soulreign.

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In the latest episode of the Soulreign podcast, Amanda M Dodd sits down with the multifaceted Shawn Kostiuk, a hypnotherapist, educator, and public speaker. Shawn shares his fascinating journey into the world of hypnosis, shedding light on how his upbringing and experiences shaped his career. This blog post explores the key insights from their conversation, offering readers a glimpse into the life of a man who wears many hats and the intriguing world of hypnotherapy.
The Start of a Unique Journey
Shawn’s story begins in rural Saskatchewan, where growing up in a quiet area left him with ample time to explore his interests. With limited distractions outside of his small town, he found solace in the imaginative realm of science fiction. His exposure to the Sci-Fi channel sparked a curiosity about hypnosis, which he initially viewed through the lens of mind control portrayed in various media. "If I could do that, I could control the world," he mused, highlighting a common misconception about hypnosis.
Education and Discovery
Shawn’s true understanding of hypnosis began during his time at the University of Saskatchewan. He discovered a wealth of knowledge in the library, transitioning his perception of hypnosis from a fantastical concept to a legitimate practice. "In university, I found real information and realized this is pretty cool," he recalls. This pivotal moment ignited his passion for learning more about the art and science of hypnosis.
The Role of Education in Hypnotherapy
As an educator, Shawn emphasizes that traditional education methods are evolving. He explains that not all students thrive in conventional academic settings, and alternate pathways should be available. His experiences resonate with Amanda, who recounts a teacher who encouraged her to pursue her passions outside of the traditional educational framework. Shawn’s journey reflects a growing awareness in the educational system about the diverse needs of students.
Connecting with Students
It's clear that Sean's dual role as a hypnotherapist and educator enriches his interactions with students. "Once they find out that I'm a hypnotist, they all scream, ‘hypnotize me!’" he laughs. This curiosity leads to discussions that challenge their perceptions of consciousness and awareness. Shawn cleverly engages his students by asking them when they think they fall asleep, prompting a deeper reflection on their understanding of their own minds.
A Foundation in Clinical Hypnosis
Shawn began his career focusing on clinical hypnotherapy, driven by a desire to understand the craft thoroughly. "Reading all the books is one thing, but you need to double-check that you actually know your stuff," he explains. His commitment to mastering the practice led him to seek out certifications and courses that would enhance his skills, setting a strong foundation for his future endeavors in both clinical and stage hypnosis.
The Evolution of Learning
In a world where technology is rapidly changing education, Shawn advocates for micro-learning and democratized access to knowledge. He discusses new AI tools that facilitate personalized learning experiences, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards in a digital age. This insight is especially relevant for educators seeking to adapt to the evolving landscape of learning.
Sponsored By
This podcast is brought to you by Healing Beyond Trauma — Hypnotherapy & Trauma-Informed Coaching. Each episode is made possible through work dedicated to nervous system regulation, subconscious integration, and soul-aligned healing.
​www.HealingBeyondTrauma.com