Lighthouse Within
Welcome to the Lighthouse Within Podcast. I’m Raina Rose, a coach and psychology nerd passionate about creating a space where you can come as you are and find connection through reflection. Through solo episodes and meaningful shared conversations, we’ll dive into the beauty of self-exploration, the power of authentic connection, and the courage it takes to show up, expand, and embrace our truest selves. Most of all, we’ll remind each other that we’re never alone in this beautiful, messy human experience and there is always an opportunity to come home to ourselves. Each episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and deepen the connection we have to our unique inner light. So let’s get cozy - and shine together.
Lighthouse Within
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 a warm invitation to reflect on your own ego journey and consider how embracing fluidity can open the door to greater authenticity and fulfillment.
Dr. Cole’s Psychology Today profile: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/les-cole-marietta-ga/811509