Lighthouse Within
Welcome to the Lighthouse Within Podcast - I’m your host Raina Rose. I believe we all bring something unique to this world, and that becoming who we’re meant to be is really about coming home to who we’ve always been.
My passion is sharing - sharing thoughts, conversations, and our stories. When we open up, we remember we’re never doing this alone.
Whether it’s me sharing solo or sitting down with a guest, this podcast is all about self-exploration, connection, and the courage it takes to expand, so we can show up just as we are.
With roots in psychology and spirituality, I’m here to reflect, offer different perspectives, and to teach from my experience - not with the answers, but with the hope that what I continue to learn (and unlearn) might help light the way for someone else.
Every episode is a chance to pause and tune into your inner light.
So let’s get cozy - and shine together.
Lighthouse Within
#13 Unmasking the Ego: From Rigidity to Freedom | with Dr. Les Cole
In today’s illuminating conversation, I’m joined by the one and only Dr. Les Cole, a psychotherapist with over 45 years of experience in mental health, spirituality, and trauma work. Les brings a rare blend of wisdom, warmth, and wit to help us understand the evolving nature of the ego. Together, we explore the fascinating journey of ego development - how our ego forms, how trauma can shape it into rigid patterns, and how we can soften and transform it to uncover ‘the more of who we are’.
Les shares his wisdom on how the ego evolves from defensiveness to fluidity and uses rich metaphors, like The Wizard of Oz, to illustrate these concepts in a way that feels relatable and human. We discuss what trauma is, how it impacts our sense of self, and how understanding these processes can lead to deeper self-awareness and freedom.
This episode is an invitation to look within, meet yourself with curiosity, and remember: your ego isn’t the enemy - it’s a part of your story that’s ready to evolve.
Explore Dr. Cole’s work: Psychology Today profile
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