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Original Being is a podcast that delves into the timeless wisdom of ancient practices and ways of living. From holistic health and wellness to survival techniques, homesteading, and primitive skills, this show explores the knowledge our ancestors used to thrive. Hosted by Jillian Erice, a functional Physician Associate and homesteading mother of three, each episode offers insights, experiences, and conversations with experts and everyday people who embrace a hands-on, self-sufficient lifestyle.
Episodes

Tuesday Jun 10, 2025
Tuesday Jun 10, 2025
In this conversation, Jillian Erice speaks with Kerry Kott, a barefoot medicine woman and physician of Chinese medicine, about her unique approach to healing through nudity and nature. Kerry shares her journey of discovering the healing power of being naked in nature, the importance of creating sacred spaces for women, and how shedding clothing can lead to profound self-love and acceptance. They discuss the challenges women face regarding body image, the significance of non-sexualized nudity, and the transformative experiences participants have during Kerry’s retreats. The conversation emphasizes the connection to nature, the role of vulnerability, and the healing potential of embracing one's true self. They discuss the importance of reclaiming personal space, integrating retreat experiences into daily life, and the impact of these experiences on relationships. The conversation also delves into the connection with nature and the energetics of Chinese medicine, emphasizing the significance of self-discovery and the healing potential of nudity.
Kerry’s Website: https://kerrykott.com/
Kerry’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natureisalwaysnude
The Naked Human Podcast: https://kerrykott.com/the-naked-human-podcast
Original Being Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/originalbeingpodcast
Watch Full Video Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@OriginalBeing
Intro/Outro Music by Sam V. Perry: http://www.instagram.com/sam_v_perry

Tuesday May 27, 2025
Tuesday May 27, 2025
In this conversation, Jillian Erice speaks with Emma Markowitz, an instructor at Owl Eyes Wilderness Survival and assistant director of Timber Nook Middlesex County. They discuss Emma's journey into nature education, the unique child-led approach of Timber Nook, and the importance of outdoor play for children, especially those who are neurodiverse. Emma emphasizes the need for children to have unstructured playtime in nature, the benefits of trusting children to explore, and the impact of outdoor experiences on behavior and learning. They also touch on the differences between homeschooled and public-schooled children, and how outdoor education can help children with ADHD thrive. In this conversation, Emma and Jillian discuss the benefits and challenges of homeschooling versus public schooling, emphasizing the importance of tailored education and the impact of nutrition and environment on children's learning. They explore the effects of screens on children's attention and the necessity of finding balance in modern parenting. The conversation highlights the significance of community support in raising children, the benefits of outdoor play, and the importance of allowing children to get dirty for their health. They also address the challenges of encouraging outdoor activities during winter. In this conversation, Emma and Jillian discuss the importance of preparing kids for outdoor activities in winter, the transition of teaching skills from children to adults, the empowerment of women in craft and survival skills, and the significance of community gatherings in fostering connections and learning. They emphasize the need for good gear, the value of teaching autonomy to children, and the importance of creating safe spaces for women to learn and grow in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Emma’s Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/spooks.n.spoons
Owl Eyes Wilderness: https://www.owleyeswilderness.com/
Owl Eyes Wilderness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/owleyeswilderness
TimberNook: https://timbernook.com/
Moose Ridge Wilderness School: https://www.mooseridgewild.com/
Original Being Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/originalbeingpodcast
Watch Full Video Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@OriginalBeing
Intro/Outro Music by Sam V. Perry: http://www.instagram.com/sam_v_perry

Tuesday May 13, 2025
Tuesday May 13, 2025
In this conversation, Dustin Matthews shares his transformative journey from a troubled athlete to a dedicated practitioner of Transcendental Meditation (TM). He discusses the profound impact meditation has had on his life, particularly in overcoming addiction and fostering personal growth. The dialogue explores the nuances of TM, the importance of having a teacher, and the role of ego in meditation. Dustin also delves into the connection between meditation and emotional healing, the challenges of integrating mindfulness into daily life, and the significance of addressing generational trauma. The conversation concludes with insights into Dustin's future projects and the ongoing journey of self-discovery through meditation.
Dustin Matthews attended Plymouth State University and got a bachelor's degree in physical education, a master's degree in education and played and coached football during his time there. Dustin also has a master's degree in Maharishi's Vedic Science from Maharishi International University in Fairfield, Iowa where Dustin now resides as a professor. In his free time Dustin enjoys meditating, working out, writing songs, books and screenplays and has an interest in acting.
Dustin’s website: https://www.dustinmatthewsmedia.com
Dustin’s Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/dustinmatthewslife
Original Being Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/originalbeingpodcast
Intro/Outro Music by Sam V. Perry: http://www.instagram.com/sam_v_perry
Watch Full Video Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@OriginalBeing

Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
In this conversation, Jillian Erice interviews Cheeny Plante, a former USAF SERE Specialist and wilderness survival instructor. Cheeny shares her journey from joining the Air Force to becoming a SERE instructor, detailing the rigorous training and selection process. She discusses the challenges of survival training in various biomes, particularly the tropics, and shares valuable fire-starting techniques for wet conditions.
Cheeny recounts her unexpected journey to appearing on the reality show Naked and Afraid, including the casting process and her preparation for the show. In this conversation, Cheeny shares her transformative experiences on the reality show Naked and Afraid, discussing the profound impact of reconnecting with nature, the challenges of solitude, and the importance of community and shared experiences in survival situations.
Cheeny discusses the dynamics of teamwork in survival situations, emphasizing the importance of mental toughness and a positive mindset. Cheeny also reflects on the significance of doing hard things to build character and resilience, and how she incorporates survival skills into her daily life. The discussion concludes with insights on the impact of social media on mental health and the importance of maintaining personal connections.
Cheeny’s Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/cheeny_no_pants
Original Being Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/originalbeingpodcast
Intro/Outro Music by Sam V. Perry: http://www.instagram.com/sam_v_perry
Watch Full Video Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@OriginalBeing

Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
In this episode of Original Being, Jillian Erice interviews Ashley Elenbaas, a clinical herbalist with a rich background in herbal medicine and eco-spirituality. Ashley shares her personal journey from childhood health struggles to discovering the healing power of plants and naturopathy. The conversation explores the importance of gut health, the role of yoga in her life, and the significance of being a registered herbalist. They also delve into ancestral connections and the cultural heritage that shapes their understanding of herbalism. They discuss how family influences shape personal identities and practices, particularly in relation to Sicilian heritage. The dialogue delves into the vitalist approach to herbalism, emphasizing the importance of connecting with nature and understanding the energetic qualities of plants. Additionally, they highlight the integration of astrology into herbal practices, showcasing how celestial movements can guide personal health and well-being. Ashley also discusses some nourishing Spring herbal tea recipes.
Ashley’s Website: http://www.skyhouseherbs.com
Ashley’s Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/skyhouseherbs
Ashley’s YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/@skyhouseherbs
Original Being Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/originalbeingpodcast
Intro/Outro Music by Sam V. Perry: http://www.instagram.com/sam_v_perry
Watch Full Video Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@OriginalBeing

Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
In this conversation, Jillian Erice interviews Grace Douglas, an herbalist and metal worker, about her journey into herbalism, the impact of clinical training on her practice, and her experiences with clients. Grace shares insights on the importance of nutrition in herbalism, the differences between acute and chronic conditions, and her approach to creating custom herbal formulations. The discussion also covers her experiences in homesteading, including raising rabbits and growing herbs, as well as her thoughts on underrated herbs that can benefit people's health. In this conversation, Grace Douglas shares her experiences with raising rabbits for meat, the challenges she faced, and the emotional complexities involved in taking animal lives for sustenance. She discusses her participation in the Wild Biome Project, where she will only consume local wild foods for a set period, emphasizing the importance of self-sufficiency and connection to nature. Additionally, Grace delves into her passion for blacksmithing, detailing her journey in metalwork and her aspirations to teach and promote inclusivity in the craft.
Grakka Metal Works & Wild Vitality Herbal: https://www.grakkaworks.com/
Wild Vitality Herbal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildvitalityherbal
Grakka Metal Works Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grakkametalworks
Wild Biome Project: http://www.instagram.com/wildbiomeproject
Original Being Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/originalbeingpodcast
Intro/Outro Music by Sam V. Perry: http://www.instagram.com/sam_v_perry
Watch Full Video Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@OriginalBeing

Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
In this conversation, Coleen Butler shares her journey from suburban life to becoming a hide tanner and advocate for sustainable living. She discusses her passion for hide tanning, the differences between commercial and natural tanning methods, and the importance of understanding the health implications of what we wear. Coleen emphasizes the ethical considerations of hunting and animal use, the challenges women face in the hunting community, and her commitment to an animal-based lifestyle that honors the animals and the environment. In this conversation, Coleen Butler shares her journey towards hormonal balance through dietary changes, emphasizing the importance of meat and fat in her diet. She discusses the positive impact of these changes on her mental health and overall vitality. The conversation also explores the connection between foraging, hunting, and seasonal living, highlighting the importance of adapting to nature's rhythms.
Coleen's Website: https://www.closetotheskin.com/
Coleen's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/close.to.the.skin
Find Original Being on
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/originalbeingpodcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpyCOt6JBQ_Q0Nl8v8EYPPQ
Music Intro/outro by Sam V. Perry: https://www.instagram.com/sam_v_perry

Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
In this conversation, Jillian Erice interviews her brother, Sam V. Perry, an ambient music composer who shares his journey with Crohn's disease, including his diagnosis, struggles, and the holistic approaches he adopted to manage his health. They discuss the importance of dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, and the role of cannabis in his healing process. Sam emphasizes the significance of being in tune with one's body and the impact of environment on health. The conversation also touches on the challenges of pursuing a career in the arts, particularly in a city like New York, and the importance of finding inspiration in less conventional settings. They discuss the loss of childhood creativity, the importance of parental support in pursuing artistic passions, and the journey of discovering one's true calling in music. Sam shares his experiences as a musician, the meditative qualities of music, and the influence of ancestral heritage on his work.
Sam’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sam_v_perry
Sam’s Bandcamp: https://samvperry.bandcamp.com/
Cloudbelly’s Website: https://www.cloudbellytheband.com
Cloudbelly’s Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/cloudbellytheband
Cloudbelly on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4uyF1bHrKHhkfefiT34aU0
Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA): https://massmoca.org/
Find Original Being on
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/originalbeingpodcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpyCOt6JBQ_Q0Nl8v8EYPPQ