Erik Ireland is known online as “your queer mountain grandpa,” where he shares stories and mindfulness practices for folks who want a little more peace and purpose.

I got to sit down with him to talk about his new book, Awaken Your Myth, where he moves beneath surface-level self-improvement into identity, shadow, and the deeper forces shaping what we create.

In this conversation, you’ll hear about his journey as a content creator sharing his voice publicly, the inner work he has done to really own his story, and why self-compassion is the secret weapon for doing anything brave.

WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady

TOPICS FROM THIS EPISODE:

• How shadow work reveals both your wounds and your gifts
• Navigating criticism while sharing your story publicly
• Self-compassion as a creative and leadership practice

CONNECT WITH ERIK IRELAND:

• Buy Awaken Your Myth: https://awakenyourmyth.com/book/
• Follow Erik: https://www.instagram.com/listentosleep/

CONNECT WITH HEATHER:

• Follow Heather on IG: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/
• Access Full Show Notes Here: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog/166