When God Becomes the Inner Critic: Healing the Wounds of Faith with Dr. Shadow Mike

What if the fear you feel when following your truth isn’t really yours? In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Dr. Michael “Shadow Mike” Simmons—a former pastor turned shadow work coach—to explore how religious conditioning impacts our ability to live fully, freely, and authentically. Many of us have rejected the religious teachings we were raised with… yet find ourselves stuck in patterns of shame, fear, and self-denial. Mike breaks down why that is—and how the unconscious “God image” we inherited in childhood continues to shape our decisions, relationships, and even our sense of worth. Together, we unpack: Why children must be allowed to create their own reality—and how religion often thwarts that How our parents become our “first God image” and why that’s crucial to understand The double bind of religious trauma: you're not allowed to seek help outside the system How shadow work helps you access feelings (like anger or desire) that religion told you were sinful Why breaking free isn’t just a mental process—it’s emotional, spiritual, and somatic What healing actually looks like when your soul still flinches at your own liberation We also share deeply personal stories of religious deconstruction—from Brittney’s experience growing up a pastor’s kid in a household of contradictions, to Lisset’s journey of finding God through personal exploration, to Mike’s transformation from zealous young Christian to guide of the shadows. ✨ Feeling the pull to reclaim your authentic self? Connect with Dr. Simmons at shadowmike.com for a free 30-minute discovery call and begin your own shadow work journey. 🌕 And if you’re ready to expand your relationship with the Divine in a new way... Join Lisset King for her upcoming Intro to Huna class, happening June 21–22, 2025. This immersive weekend experience introduces you to Huna, an ancient Hawaiian energy and wisdom tradition, and offers powerful tools to realign with your truth. Spots are limited—reach out to Lisset at @lissetkingofficial  or visit lissetking.com/huna to register. Honest Feedback was created by Brittney King and Lisset King. Note: Honest Feedback Podcast aims to provide insights and provoke thoughtful reflection. The opinions expressed in this episode are for informational purposes only and should not replace professional advice. Please send us your questions by leaving a voicemail at 971-895-4111, DM us on instagram @honestfeedbackpodcast or email us at thekings@honestfeedbackpodcast.com Keep up with the podcast by following us @HonestFeedbackPodcast on YouTube