Dr. John Churchill, co-founder of Planetary Dharma, integrates Western developmental psychology with Eastern contemplative traditions to create comprehensive frameworks for human growth and healing. With decades of experience studying both psychodynamic theory and meditation practices, Dr. Churchill offers a unique perspective on how early childhood experiences shape our relationship with ourselves, others, and spirituality.

Key Topics:

• Why feeling “unseen” might be more than just a personal wound – discover the surprising connection to multi-generational trauma
• The three foundational layers of human development that shape everything from self-trust to spiritual connection
• How your nervous system inherited patterns from your ancestors (and what to do about it)
• The overlooked connection between childhood attachment and adult spiritual experiences
• Why therapy alone might not be enough – and the missing piece in modern psychological healing
• The revolutionary practice that can help you internalize positive experiences (hint: it’s not meditation)
• What AI and technological advancement might mean for collective trauma healing
• The surprising truth about “victim consciousness” and its relationship to developmental stages
• How understanding human development could transform democracy and leadership
• Why the “spiritual bypass” might be keeping you from true awakening

This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in understanding the deeper mechanics of human suffering and transformation. Dr. Churchill presents a groundbreaking framework that bridges ancient wisdom with modern psychology, offering practical insights for personal healing while illuminating larger patterns in social and cultural evolution. Whether you’re a therapist, spiritual seeker, or simply someone wanting to understand yourself better, this conversation provides crucial context for navigating your own development and contributing to collective healing during these transformative times.

Tools/resources mentioned in this episode:

Planetary Dharma – 4-year training program integrating Eastern and Western psychology
Ken Wilber’s developmental frameworks
Attunement exercises
Somatic experiencing techniques
Psychodynamic healing approaches

Connect with John:

Website: https://www.planetarydharma.com/
Instagram:@PlanetaryDharma
Email:hello@planetarydharma.com

Connect with Raj:

Newsletter – Sign up here: https://www.rajjana.com/staygrounded/
Website: https://www.rajjana.com/
Instagram: @raj_jana
iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/rs/podcast/stay-grounded-with-raj-jana/id1318038490
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/22Hrw6VWfnUSI45lw8LJBP
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@raj_jana

Legal Disclaimer: The information and opinions discussed in this podcast are for educational and entertainment purposes only. The host and guests are not medical or mental health professionals, and their advice should not be a substitute for seeking professional help. Any action taken based on the information presented is strictly at your own risk. The podcast host and their guests shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss, damage, or injury caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by information shared in this podcast. Consult your physician before making any changes to your mental health treatment or lifestyle.