Ep 2: Beyond Dogma: Religion, Cults & Consciousness

Unbound - A podcast by Georgia Vavasour

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In this provocative episode, Georgia and Hannah dive into the messy, fascinating space where organised religion collides with modern spirituality. They explore how traditions can offer wisdom and belonging—but also how dogma, patriarchy, cult dynamics, and even discrimination carried out in the name of religion can distort their essence.What you'll hear:Can religion and spirituality truly coexist?The danger of ego, exclusivity, and power dynamics in spiritual and religious spaces & how to reclaim discernmentHow interpretation, translation, and cultural overlays impact teachings including the role of patriarchyReincarnation: is it a thing and why it can be jarring in the WestRitual - empty performance vs the deeper mechanics, what we might be missing out onThe value of direct experience: The role of techniques and stress releaseNavigating spiritual teachers, gurus, and the importance of self-sufficiency and discernmentThe value of community (sangha) and finding your peopleGeorgia and Hannah share personal stories of spiritual searching, brushes with dogma, and how they found practices that lead to genuine freedom.This is a raw and honest exploration of faith, ritual, cults, community, and the courage it takes to follow your own inner resonance. At its core: spirituality was never meant to divide—it was always meant to unite.Book recommendations referenced in the show:“Many Lives, Many Masters” by Dr. Brian Weiss"Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon's Journey into the Afterlife", Eben Alexander. M.D. Thanks for listening to Unbound! If you enjoyed this episode or want to keep the conversation going support the show by hitting subscribe, giving a review & sharing this episode with anyone who may be asking the same questions.