A Curious Couple

Episode 30 - Color Theory

In Episode 30 of A Curious Couple, we dive into the fascinating world of color theory, exploring how colors impact our perception, emotions, and everyday lives. We kick things off sharing how we each became interested in color theory, then check in on last week’s shadow work and reflect on integrating personal growth into our lives. It’s the perfect segue into a deep discussion on the historical and scientific aspects of color—from ancient
Greek theories tied to the four elements, to Isaac Newton's discovery of the color spectrum, and finally, modern understandings of how colors interact and impact us. We dig into the science behind color perception, explaining how light and wavelengths shape what we see. We break down the basics of color mixing and we even touch on colors beyond our vision, like UV and infrared, sparking curiosity about the colors we can’t see but other animals can, adding a unique twist to our understanding of color.
We connect color theory to the chakras, explaining how each chakra has a specific color linked to areas of our well-being. From red at the root for grounding, to violet at the crown for spiritual connection, we walk through ways to use color to find balance and healing.
We get into the psychology of color in storytelling and branding. Drawing on examples from Disney, fast food, and popular films, we explain how companies and filmmakers strategically use colors to evoke emotion and create memorable experiences. 
Episode 30 Challenge - Take a look around your favorite room and identify the color scheme. Reflect on why these colors feel comforting or appealing to you—what emotions do they evoke? Consider if they align with the mood or energy you wish to create in that space.

Episode 29 - Shadows

In this episode of A Curious Couple, we dive into the transformative practice of shadow work, a concept rooted in Carl Jung’s psychology. Together, we explore how integrating the darker, often suppressed parts of ourselves can lead to profound healing, personal growth, and self-awareness. From myths and culture to practical tools like journaling and meditation, we guide you through shadow work’s healing potential and encourage you to confront your hidden fears, anger, and unresolved trauma.
We begin by introducing the concept of shadow work, which was first introduced by Carl Jung. In essence, shadow work is about exploring and integrating the parts of ourselves that we typically repress or deny. Drawing on Jung’s works like The Archetypes and The Collective Unconscious, we explain the shadow as the “negative side of personality”—the unpleasant qualities we often hide but must come to understand for true personal growth.
We look at how mythology and cultural stories reflect this concept. These stories have long mirrored the darker aspects of human nature, which Jung believed we must acknowledge to live harmoniously. We emphasize his point: "Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life, and you will call it fate." This reinforces our key message: understanding and integrating our shadows is vital to avoid being unconsciously controlled by them.
We share different ways you can start working with your shadow, including journaling, meditation, and creative expression. We discuss the benefits we’ve experienced from shadow work, from becoming more self-aware and emotionally resilient to fostering healthier relationships. By recognizing and integrating our shadows, we reduce inner conflict, unlock creative potential, and live more authentically. We also talk about how shadow work helps us make better decisions and brings greater empowerment, as it allows us to reclaim the parts of ourselves that we’ve been hiding.
Episode 29 Challenge - simply start your own shadow work through an exercise that speaks to you. 

Episode 28 - Educated

In Episode 28 - Educated we go into the intricacies and history of education in America (and a couple of soap boxes). We start by tracing the roots of public schooling back to 1635 and explore the pivotal role of figures like Horace Mann, who championed free, compulsory education for all. As we navigate through the timeline, we discuss the influences of powerful entities like the Rockefeller Foundation, which shaped the landscape of higher education and medical schools, and how policies like the No Child Left Behind Act have impacted both the strengths and weaknesses of our current system.
We talk about the structure of the school day, the pros and cons of standardized testing, and the controversial aspects that include propaganda in education and the consequences of desegregation. We also examine alternative approaches like homeschooling, tutors and unschooling, highlighting how these methods provide a different path to education outside the conventional system. We also get into the limitations and criticisms of traditional education, especially in how it often stifles creativity, critical thinking, and individuality in favor of conformity and routine.
We share our personal decision to homeschool our children, discussing why we believe this approach better supports creativity and individual growth, free from the constraints of the traditional education system. Episode 28 Challenge - Reflect on your own educational experiences and consider how we can collectively work towards a more inclusive and effective future for education.

Episode 27 - Kitsch

In Episode 27 we look into the world of kitsch art and its controversial place in the creative landscape. We explore the definition of kitsch, highlighting famous examples and the cultural implications of labeling something as "kitsch." Reflecting on Angies own experience of failing art school much like Pam from "The Office," share how it was humiliating when a beloved artist's work was dismissed as kitsch, questioning what qualifies as art. We also discuss the commercialization of kitsch by big companies like Disney, especially with their recent offerings at D23, and how this trend affects the art world.
As artists, there’s an inherent longing to create something meaningful, yet so often, this creative drive is stifled by what is cheaper and easier to produce on a mass scale. Let's keep the spirit of true artistry alive by championing those who dare to create from the heart.
Episode 27 Challenge: Go support a local artist, restaurant or business. Support those around you that create. 

Episode 26 - 7 Layers (The Last Supper and Dionysus)

In this thought-provoking episode of A Curious Couple, we delve into the intricate layers of symbolism and controversy surrounding the 2024 Summer Olympics tableau that reimagines Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper with a drag twist. We explore why this artistic interpretation has sparked debate, unpack the historical and symbolic significance of The Last Supper, and discuss the fascinating connections between Christ and Dionysus as sun figures and savior archetypes.
We begin by addressing the 2024 Summer Olympics tableau, a bold reimagining of The Last Supper in drag, which has ignited discussions on artistic freedom and cultural sensitivity. The conversation then transitions into an analysis of Leonardo da Vinci’s original masterpiece, examining the symbology embedded within the painting and its enduring impact on Western art and culture.
We explore the depiction of Christ as a Sun(Son) figure, shedding light on the solar symbolism often associated with Him and its roots in ancient mythologies. This naturally leads us to the mythos of Dionysus, the Greek God of Wine and Ecstasy, who shares striking parallels with the Christ figure in terms of his association with death, rebirth, and spiritual transcendence.
By drawing connections between these two figures, we highlight the shared themes of sacrifice, redemption, and divine ecstasy, offering listeners a deeper understanding of how ancient myths continue to influence modern interpretations of religious iconography.
Episode 26 Challenge - take a look or try something that in the past may have left you uncomfortable and see if you can find new understanding.

Episode 25 - The Moon

In this celestial episode of "A Curious Couple," we (Aaron and Angie) take you on a lunar journey to uncover the mysteries and significance of the Moon. From scientific facts and its effects on Earth to ancient mythologies and the profound symbolism in the Tarot, we delve into the many facets of our nearest celestial neighbor. What would happen if we didn't have the moon? How would that change our day to day lives? Where did the moon come from? Why does the moon have such a pull on our lives? We even touch on the moon landing, the Goddess and Cult of Isis AND of course random pop culture references of THE MOOOOOON (in Gru's voice from Despicable Me) Get ready to embrace the night, explore the deeper truths, and discover what the Moon can teach us about ourselves and the universe.
Episode 25 Challenge - where is the moon influencing your life? Look up to the night sky and really feel her presence. 

Episode 24 - Part of Your World

In this whimsical and enchanting episode of "A Curious Couple," we "dive" into the mysterious and captivating world of mermaids. From ancient legends and spiritual symbolism to modern cultural obsessions, they explore why these mythical creatures continue to fascinate us. 
Join us as we uncover the rich tapestry of mermaid lore, discuss famous historical sightings, and delve into the spiritual and psychological representations of mermaids. Episode 24 Challenge - think of what influences mermaids have hadin your life and journal about it. See what subconsciously thismysterious symbol is tying to tell you.

Episode 23 - Be Still

In the 23rd episode of "A Curious Couple," hosts Angie and Aaron delve into the transformative practice of meditation. This episode unpacks the ancient and modern wisdom surrounding meditation, its historical roots, scientific benefits, and practical techniques to incorporate it into daily life.
Drawing on insights from experts like Robert Wright and Joe Dispenza, they explain how meditation enhances mental clarity, emotional stability, and physical health. Meditation can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, lower blood pressure, improve immune function, and even promote neuroplasticity.
Despite its benefits, meditation can present challenges such as a wandering mind, physical discomfort, and impatience. The hosts offer practical advice on overcoming these barriers, recommending starting with small, manageable sessions, creating a routine, and employing techniques like mindfulness meditation, mantra repetition, and guided sessions.
The episode concludes with a practical guide on how to meditate, encouraging listeners to begin their journey with short, daily practices and gradually increase their duration. Angie and Aaron stress the importance of kindness and patience with oneself, acknowledging that the path to mastering meditation is a personal and evolving journey.
Episode 23 Challenge - start a simple meditation practice that works for you. 
References 
Why Buddhism is True - By: Robert Wright https://amzn.to/3zDAzPn 
You are the Placebo -Dr. Joe Dispenza https://amzn.to/4f2yuMX
Becoming Supernatural: How Common People Are Doing the Uncommon - By: Dr Joe Dispenza https://amzn.to/3zCkUQd 
Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself - By: Joe Dispenza https://amzn.to/3xRewUQ 
The Gateway Experience https://www.cia.gov/readingroom/docs/CIA-RDP96-00788R001700210016-5.pdf
 
 

Episode 22 - Trouble Sleeping

In this episode, we explore the world of sleep (or lack of), discussing why it’s crucial, what happens when we sleep, and tools to help improve sleep quality. Sleep isn't just about resting; it's a vital process that impacts our overall health, from brain function to immune system performance. 
We explain how balancing chakras can enhance sleep quality. Practices like yoga, meditation, aromatherapy, and visualization can help unblock and harmonize chakras, promoting a more peaceful and restorative sleep experience. We identify signs of imbalanced chakras that can affect sleep, such as restlessness, vivid dreams, and emotional instability (diving into Angie's deep fear of Gollum in her nightmares). Recognizing these signs can help address and improve sleep disturbances. Episode 22 Challenge: Begin a bedtime balancing routine. Start small with practices like bedtime yoga or a short meditation, or dream journaling, and gradually build a consistent routine.

Episode 21 - The Fool

In this episode of “A Curious Couple,” hosts Aaron and Angie delve into the fascinating world of Tarot by exploring the first card in the deck: The Fool. Aaron and Angie start by introducing the concept of tarot, describing it as a deck of archetypes. They explore the card's connections to numerology, astrology (with Uranus as its planet), the element of Air, and its links to the Hebrew letter Aleph.
The Fool is depicted as an innocent adventurer about to embark on a significant journey, full of hope and idealism but blissfully ignorant of the risks ahead. This card represents new beginnings, risk-taking, and instinctual drives. The Fool's journey through the tarot sequence is a metaphor for personal growth, starting as a zero with unlimited potential and eventually transitioning to The Magician, who has gained knowledge and tools for success. 
Deep dive with us and learn more about how the lessons from The Fool can make us better individuals. 
Episode 21 Challenge - Take a risk. No matter how small, take a risk, dare to do something new. Embody the Fools energy. 
Show Notes 
Helluva Boss - Apology Tour https://youtu.be/tLD-OUkYtk4?si=4AIgjeIZelNngdyZ
The Fool Tarot - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Fool_(tarot_card)
Tarot in the Tree of Life https://labyrinthos.co/blogs/learn-tarot-with-labyrinthos-academy/the-tarot-and-the-tree-of-life-correspondences?epik=dj0yJnU9ak8xdnVILWJuSTNmWWJxRUFrZnVpaUdqTXlJQVVzSjgmcD0wJm49aXRONy1TU0lsNWZMdjlzTWdLVEd3ZyZ0PUFBQUFBR1o4YldF&utm_source=pinterest&utm_medium=social