Spirituality for Skeptics

In this deeply moving episode, Nicole Spencer sits down with Cesar Cardona, a meditation guide and public speaker, to explore his extraordinary journey from a tumultuous childhood to finding peace through Buddhism. Cesar shares how his early life was marked by violence and isolation, leading him into a world of gangs and crime. Yet, through a series of transformative experiences, including a near-death encounter and a profound spiritual awakening, Cesar discovered the power of mindfulness and compassion. Join us as we delve into Cesar's story of resilience, redemption, and the pursuit of inner peace, offering listeners a powerful reminder of the potential for change and growth within us all.

 

Host: Nicole Spencer

 

Guest: Cesar Cardona

 

Executive Producers: 

Glenn Milley https://www.instagram.com/goforglenn 

and 

Bessie Fong https://www.instagram.com/bessiefong

 

New episodes air every Tuesday. Be sure to subscribe and leave a review!

 

Join us on this spiritual journey by staying connected: 

 

Watch all episodes on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@spirituality.for.skeptics

Follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/spirituality.for.skeptics 

and

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@spirituality.forskeptics 

 

Join Nicole’s Substack https://nicolerspencer.substack.com/

 

Who should Nicole interview next? Share your thoughts with us at  

[email protected]

 

ABOUT THE GUEST:

 

Cesar Cardona is a public speaker and mindfulness educator whose work centers on resilience, inclusion, and social unification. He grew up in a household marked by violence and abandonment, the child of a Spanish Republican father from New York and a Black Democrat mother from the South. Two worlds that rarely spoke the same language, yet shaped his understanding of difference, survival, and the power of perspective.

Now certified in mindfulness through Rice University and trained by Sri Lankan and Tibetan Buddhist monks, Cesar teaches a framework he developed called Growth Mindfulness: a blend of inner stillness and outer action that helps individuals and communities navigate change without losing their center.

 

His talks and workshops are built for people doing hard things, people who care deeply, carry a lot, and are looking for tools that are simple, usable, and grounded in lived experience. 

 

As a Buddhist, a former musician, and a bonus parent to a non-binary child , Cesar’s approach is as compassionate as it is practical. He works with nonprofits, educators, civic leaders, and creatives across the country to bring people together in spaces where difference is honored and collective wellbeing is the goal.

 

Check out Cesar’s podcast Beauty in the Break: https://linktr.ee/beautyinthebreak

 

http://www.cesarcardona.com/

https://www.instagram.com/_cesarcardona

www.youtube.com/@CesarCardonaSpeaker

ABOUT THE HOST:

Nicole Spencer is the host and curator of Spirituality for Skeptics, a show that explores the shift from doubt to belief through raw, transformative conversations. Raised without spirituality or religion, she never expected to find herself on this path. In her mid-30s, mentors and personal experiences opened her to curiosity about the unseen, inspiring her to create a space where others could explore freely without dogma or prescription.

Before launching the show, Nicole built and sold two coaching companies at different stages of her career. Most recently, she scaled a business coaching brand to 8-figures in six years, generating over $13 million in that time. The success was rewarding and she remains grateful for it, but even at the height of achievement she sensed there was something more. Stepping away, she turned her focus to the deeper pursuit of peace, fulfillment, and meaning.

Through unpolished, emotionally honest stories, Spirituality for Skeptics offers a rare space for those who doubt but long to believe.

We’ve got a secret. Can you keep it? Join us for an enlightening conversation with award-winning actress Lesley Fera, best known for her role as Veronica Hastings on "Pretty Little Liars." In this episode, Lesley opens up about her journey from a religious upbringing to embracing a more metaphysical perspective on spirituality. Discover how her experiences have shaped her artistic work and personal life, and explore the themes of trust, surrender, and the interconnectedness of all beings. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, this episode offers profound insights into the spiritual dimensions of art and life.

 

Host: Nicole Spencer

 

Guest: Lesley Fera

 

Executive Producers: 

Glenn Milley https://www.instagram.com/goforglenn 

and 

Bessie Fong https://www.instagram.com/bessiefong

 

New episodes air every Tuesday. Be sure to subscribe and leave a review!

 

Join us on this spiritual journey by staying connected: 

 

Watch all episodes on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@spirituality.for.skeptics

Follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/spirituality.for.skeptics 

and

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@spirituality.forskeptics 

 

Join Nicole’s Substack https://nicolerspencer.substack.com/

 

Who should Nicole interview next? Share your thoughts with us at  

[email protected]

ABOUT THE GUEST:

 

Lesley Fera is a Native Californian whose creative work spans several mediums,

including theatre, television, and film. Her passion for screenwriting blossomed

during her three-decade acting career, where she appeared in some of television’s

biggest hits—including PRETTY LITTLE LIARS, 24, and SOUTHLAND. A “Black List

Recommended” writer, Fera’s work centers on flawed, unimportant souls with huge,

wounded hearts at the edge of things. Her writing has been recognized by Script

Pipeline, Final Draft’s Big Break, Roadmap Writers, TrackingB, ScreenCraft, PAGE, and

Stowe Story Labs. Fera has advanced in two network fellowships: the NBC/Universal

Launch TV Writers Program (Semifinalist) and the Warner Bros. TV Workshop (Finalist).

She has had development meetings with notable companies, including Thunder

Road Pictures, Eat the Cat, Weed Road Pictures, Echo Lake Entertainment, MarVista,

and FOX Entertainment. A proud member of SAG/AFTRA and ACTORS’ EQUITY

ASSOCIATION, she has a BA from CSU, Fullerton, and an MFA from Florida State

University Asolo Conservatory. Fera is repped by Jeff Portnoy at Bellevue.

 

Learn more about Lesley’s upcoming film GRACE here:

https://www.cinematographyforactors.com/fiscally-sponsored-projects/grace

 

https://www.instagram.com/mslesleyfera

 

ABOUT THE HOST:

Nicole Spencer is the host and curator of Spirituality for Skeptics, a show that explores the shift from doubt to belief through raw, transformative conversations. Raised without spirituality or religion, she never expected to find herself on this path. In her mid-30s, mentors and personal experiences opened her to curiosity about the unseen, inspiring her to create a space where others could explore freely without dogma or prescription.

Before launching the show, Nicole built and sold two coaching companies at different stages of her career. Most recently, she scaled a business coaching brand to 8-figures in six years, generating over $13 million in that time. The success was rewarding and she remains grateful for it, but even at the height of achievement she sensed there was something more. Stepping away, she turned her focus to the deeper pursuit of peace, fulfillment, and meaning.

Through unpolished, emotionally honest stories, Spirituality for Skeptics offers a rare space for those who doubt but long to believe.

Join us for an inspiring journey with Dani Reardon, a former world-class bodybuilder turned spiritual guide. In this episode, Dani shares her transformative path from the competitive world of bodybuilding to embracing spirituality through plant medicine and sound healing. Discover how her experiences in Peru and her connection with the land have shaped her understanding of prayer and personal growth. Dani's story is a testament to the power of trust, surrender, and the pursuit of authenticity. Tune in to explore the convergence of science and spirituality, and learn how Dani's unique journey can inspire your own path to self-discovery.

 

Host: Nicole Spencer

 

Guest: Dani Reardon

 

Executive Producers: 

Glenn Milley https://www.instagram.com/goforglenn 

and 

Bessie Fong https://www.instagram.com/bessiefong

 

New episodes air every Tuesday. Be sure to subscribe and leave a review!

 

Join us on this spiritual journey by staying connected: 

 

Watch all episodes on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@spirituality.for.skeptics

Follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/spirituality.for.skeptics 

and

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@spirituality.forskeptics 

 

Join Nicole’s Substack https://nicolerspencer.substack.com/

 

Who should Nicole interview next? Share your thoughts with us at  

[email protected]

 

ABOUT THE GUEST:  

 

Dani Reardon is a sound practitioner, yoga teacher, and ceremony facilitator from Cape Cod. What she loves is holding space, and creating meaningful engaging experiences for people to unfold and learn more about themselves in. What she loves even more, is getting to connect with so many amazing people as she gets to do what she loves. Dani has been studying these modalities consistently for over 6 years, and frequently travels to Peru and Arizona to work with her teachers, the medicines, sound, and people she gets to take on retreat. Dani is also part of an organization called the Huachuma Foundation, where they are dedicated to educating, preserving, and cultivating the sacred Huachuma cactus. They have an annual retreat to the Sacred Valley and Huachuma sanctuary, a Plant More Worry Less Podcast, Huachuma Foundation swag, and a growing community of supportive cactus families to share this vision and special ceremony moments with. 

 

Dani is also very passionate about the work she gets to do with sound. Being able to serve the medicine of sound while hosting various kinds of events and ceremonies to many different populations, but especially for the elderly, really lights her up so much these days. Above all else, and first, you can view Dani as a sister, a friend.

 

https://www.instagram.com/dani.reardon

 

https://www.instagram.com/huachumafoundation

 

www.huachumafoundation.org

 

ABOUT THE HOST:

Nicole Spencer is the host and curator of Spirituality for Skeptics, a show that explores the shift from doubt to belief through raw, transformative conversations. Raised without spirituality or religion, she never expected to find herself on this path. In her mid-30s, mentors and personal experiences opened her to curiosity about the unseen, inspiring her to create a space where others could explore freely without dogma or prescription.

Before launching the show, Nicole built and sold two coaching companies at different stages of her career. Most recently, she scaled a business coaching brand to 8-figures in six years, generating over $13 million in that time. The success was rewarding and she remains grateful for it, but even at the height of achievement she sensed there was something more. Stepping away, she turned her focus to the deeper pursuit of peace, fulfillment, and meaning.

Through unpolished, emotionally honest stories, Spirituality for Skeptics offers a rare space for those who doubt but long to believe.

Discover the secret to true health with Dr. Christian Gonzalez as he reveals how reconnecting with your body and soul can transform your wellbeing. In this episode, explore the profound link between embodiment and spiritual purpose, and learn how societal pressures and childhood patterns disconnect us from our true selves. Dr. Gonzalez shares practical tools for reclaiming resilience through somatic awareness and daily practices like nature walks and creative expression. Perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed or disconnected, this episode guides you to break free from mental chaos and live authentically. Join us to unlock your body's innate healing power and embrace a more grounded, joyful existence.

 

Host: Nicole Spencer

 

Guest: Dr. Christian Gonzalez 

 

Executive Producers: 

Glenn Milley https://www.instagram.com/goforglenn 

and 

Bessie Fong https://www.instagram.com/bessiefong

 

New episodes air every Tuesday. Be sure to subscribe and leave a review!

 

Join us on this spiritual journey by staying connected: 

 

Watch all episodes on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@spirituality.for.skeptics

Follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/spirituality.for.skeptics 

and

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@spirituality.forskeptics 

 

Join Nicole’s Substack https://nicolerspencer.substack.com/

 

Who should Nicole interview next? Share your thoughts with us at  

[email protected]

ABOUT THE GUEST:  

“Dr. G” blends naturopathic medicine with holistic education, helping others uncover the root causes of illness while teaching practical steps for sustainable health. His approach emphasizes lifestyle medicine, natural therapies, and empowering individuals to take charge of their wellness.

https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gonzalez

 

ABOUT THE HOST:

Nicole Spencer is the host and curator of Spirituality for Skeptics, a show that explores the shift from doubt to belief through raw, transformative conversations. Raised without spirituality or religion, she never expected to find herself on this path. In her mid-30s, mentors and personal experiences opened her to curiosity about the unseen, inspiring her to create a space where others could explore freely without dogma or prescription.

Before launching the show, Nicole built and sold two coaching companies at different stages of her career. Most recently, she scaled a business coaching brand to 8-figures in six years, generating over $13 million in that time. The success was rewarding and she remains grateful for it, but even at the height of achievement she sensed there was something more. Stepping away, she turned her focus to the deeper pursuit of peace, fulfillment, and meaning.

Through unpolished, emotionally honest stories, Spirituality for Skeptics offers a rare space for those who doubt but long to believe.

Unlock a new perspective on reality with Dana Kippel as we explore the mysterious science and spirituality of plasma. Discover how plasma, more than just a fourth state of matter, acts as a living, multi-dimensional ether that shapes consciousness and reality. Dana shares her journey from meditative downloads to theories about plasma as an intelligent field that collaborates with consciousness, reflecting our subconscious and influencing our spiritual evolution. This episode is perfect for anyone questioning reality, seeking deeper connections with the unseen, or eager to explore where science and spirituality merge. Don't miss this chance to shift your worldview and unlock your human potential…it may be just the thing you have been looking for. 

 

Host: Nicole Spencer

 

Guest: Dana Kippel

 

Executive Producers: 

Glenn Milley https://www.instagram.com/goforglenn 

and 

Bessie Fong https://www.instagram.com/bessiefong

 

New episodes air every Tuesday. Be sure to subscribe and leave a review!

 

Join us on this spiritual journey by staying connected: 

 

Watch all episodes on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@spirituality.for.skeptics

Follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/spirituality.for.skeptics 

and

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@spirituality.forskeptics 

 

Join Nicole’s Substack https://nicolerspencer.substack.com/

 

Who should Nicole interview next? Share your thoughts with us at  

[email protected]

ABOUT THE GUEST:  

 

Dana Kippel is an author, speaker, filmmaker, and futurist pioneering the study of plasma intelligence and consciousness. Her best selling book is A New Force: Plasma, Consciousness, and the New Human Potential.

 

Her work bridges science, spirituality, and mental health, inspiring millions through her writing, speaking, and social media presence. Her mission is to empower people, to remind them they are never alone, and to re-spark their curiosity in the magic of life. 

 

She is the founder Metaphysical Mysterium, a series of live workshops & groups fusing the science of higher consciousness, human magic, and mental health. 

 

Check out Dana's Podcast HEART SNACKS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heart-snacks-candy-for-your-soul/id1844927834 

 

http://danakippel.com

https://www.instagram.com/dana.thealien

https://www.tiktok.com/@danakippel

https://www.youtube.com/@plasmaintelligence