S2 E24: Death, the Great Mystery: A Shamanic Perspective on What Happens After We Die

LightSong School of 21st-Century Shamanism and Energy Medicine Talking Stick Podcast

Death, the Great Mystery: A Shamanic Perspective on What Happens After We Die

Death is one of life's greatest mysteries—and one of its most universal experiences. In this profound and deeply personal conversation, Micah Schwader and Jan Engels-Smith explore death through the lens of shamanism, spirituality, personal experience, and the wisdom gained from working with those who have crossed over.

Together, they discuss the shamanic view that death is not an ending but a transformation—a process of shapeshifting from one form of existence into another. Jan shares teachings about the soul's journey after death, the role of belief systems in shaping our transition, and why many indigenous traditions placed such importance on preparing for a "good death."

Micah reflects on near-death experiences, encounters with discarnate spirits through compassionate spirit release work, and the profound lessons learned from the deaths of both parents. The conversation explores life reviews, soul journeys, the concept of the Inner Akasha, unexpected deaths, spirit communication, and the healing that can occur when we release our fear of the unknown.

Along the way, Jan recounts remarkable stories of assisting souls during their transition, witnessing life reviews, and discovering that the spirit world appears far more compassionate and accepting than many religious traditions suggest. The discussion challenges conventional ideas of heaven, hell, judgment, and reincarnation, inviting listeners into a broader exploration of consciousness, purpose, and the soul's eternal nature.

Both hosts share deeply personal stories — including Jan's experience guiding her own father's soul through a life review, and Micah's encounter with past-life memories on the sacred Scottish island of Iona — that point to the same truth: death is far more expansive, compassionate, and mysterious than most of us are taught to believe.