Pathways to Heart

Pathways to Heart is a series that explores emerging issues in the frontiers of consciousness, social justice, and the environment, bringing together voices from around the planet to advance human potential. This podcast is brought ...more

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About the Show

Pathways to Heart is a series that explores emerging issues in the frontiers of consciousness, social justice, and the environment, bringing together voices from around the planet to advance human potential. This podcast is brought to you by Sofia University's Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning.

Meet our Hosts

John Elfers, Ph.D.

John Elfers, Ph.D.

Dr. Elfers serves as the Director of the Center of Innovation in Teaching and Learning and Director of the Dissertation Office at Sofia University. He is an alumnus of Sofia (formerly known as The Institute of Transpersonal Psychology), earning his doctorate in transpersonal psychology in 2009.

Tara Pipia

Tara Pipia

Tara Pipia is a doctoral student in transpersonal psychology at Sofia University. Her research is on the potential of Spartan Obstacle Racing to serve as a substance use disorder recovery tool. She served in the New York Army National Guard for 10 years and resigned at the rank of Captain. Tara served as a logistics officer and Army Master Fitness Trainer for officer candidates. She is a certified Spartan group training coach, Spartan obstacle specialist, Spartan Edge resiliency trainer, and currently enrolled in Spartan’s new DEKA certification program. She also has certifications in sports nutrition, TRX suspension, and Cross Fit, among others. She placed first in her age group at the 2021 Spartan North American world championship and finished 3rd in the National Series. She has completed 109 races and still counting. Her goal is to win her age group in the North American championship race as well as the Spartan trifecta world championship, which includes three events. She hopes to inspire others through movement and to help those recovering from substance use disorders lead happier, healthier lives through exercise and the sport of Spartan.

Adam Neal, M.A.

Adam Neal, M.A.

Adam Neal, M.A. is an alumnus of Sofia University and graduated with his M.A. in Counseling Psychology in 2018. He is currently an adjunct faculty member for Sofia University's Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology.

Sofia University

Sofia University

Welcome to this podcast series presented by the Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning at Sofia University. Sofia University is located in California and offers students a unique educational experience, rooted in transformative, transpersonal education. The Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning supports transformative education by creating engaged leaders and learners through resources, training, and events.