The Shadow Sessions
Hiba BalfaqihThe Shadow Sessions is hosted by Hiba Balfaqih, an unconventional psychologist and trauma alchemist. We explore the stories that most people bury—particularly those tied to shame, trauma, and identity. Our goal is to shed light on the hidden corners of human experience, allowing listeners to hear stories that challenge societal norms and spark deep,introspective conversations.
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 19 | Founded | 5 months ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | Health & FitnessMental HealthTrue Crime | |||
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Latest Episodes
We grow up with a core belief: a mother is safety, protection, and home. But what happens when that foundation breaks?
In this episode of The Shadow Sessions, Hiba Balfaqih speaks with Jazmine, who survived profound abuse within her own home—where h... more
What kind of system gives a child a life sentence?
In this episode of The Shadow Sessions, Hiba Balfaqih speaks with Ian, who at just thirteen years old was tried as an adult for a non‑homicide offense and sentenced to life in prison.
This conversa... more
We often talk about war in terms of soldiers, politics, and strategy. But conflict creates another reality—one where systems collapse, laws disappear, and exploitation thrives in the chaos.
In this episode of The Shadow Sessions, Hiba Balfaqih speak... more
What creates a terrorist? Not the headline, the attack, or the manifesto. Before violence, there is always a story.
In this episode of The Shadow Sessions, Hiba Balfaqih speaks with Mubin Sheikh, a former Islamist extremist who later became a counte... more
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Reviews
- Interesting and insightful podcast, something I think everyone should listen to!
From the start of this podcast being released, I have been gripped every week by the interesting stories of people’s lived experiences. The person running the podcast asks great questions, and allows her guests to talk freely and openly without judgement. This is a great podcast to really understand the psyche of other people and what they have been through. Definitely my favourite podcast to date! Thank you!
Apple Podcasts5A_Fltch
United Kingdoma month ago - Be better.
Enjoy the topics, however the interview inserts herself way to much.
Apple Podcasts3ZombiesNeedLuv2
United States3 months ago - Amazing & Insightful
This is wonderfully presented podcast that puts a light on many things no one is even aware of in this world. I love the hope this podcast can give so many ❤️
Apple Podcasts5mrsmivoryUnited States3 months ago - Love but…
Love the stories that come through here, but host - please stop talking over your guests, rewording their statements after they say things, and the affirmative listening mmm’s. It gets muddy, distracting, and feels like you’re putting words into their mouths, and making it about you. Gripping stories though. Looking forward to my next listen, which hopefully has less interruptions of these often harrowing tales.
Apple Podcasts3An Actual Young WomanUnited States3 months ago - Unfathomable
Just finished listening to The Secret She Carried for Decades. How the guest survived and is now thriving is a miracle. I want to read her book. I did get frustrated when the interviewer would often talk over her and almost put words in her mouth. I think more questions and active listening vs trying to insert herself would have made for a better interview.
Apple Podcasts4Beetles mimiUnited States3 months ago
Listeners Say
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Chart Rankings
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Apple Podcasts | #86 | United States/Health & Fitness/Mental Health |
Apple Podcasts | #43 |  Canada/Health & Fitness/Mental Health |
Apple Podcasts | #136 | Canada/Health & Fitness |
Apple Podcasts | #136 | United Kingdom/Health & Fitness/Mental Health |
Apple Podcasts | #50 |  Australia/Health & Fitness/Mental Health |
Apple Podcasts | #157 | Australia/Health & Fitness |
Talking Points
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Audience Metrics
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Shadow Sessions
What is The Shadow Sessions about and what kind of topics does it cover?
Stories that explore trauma, resilience, and identity through candid conversations with survivors, advocates, and healthcare professionals. The show frequently centers human-rights issues, trafficking, domestic violence, and recovery, with a strong emphasis on empathy, accountability, and practical takeaways for listeners. Notable strengths include its courageous guest roster and the host's deep curiosity, which can yield powerful, actionable narratives for audiences interested in mental health, social justice, and personal transformation. A potential standout for sponsors or guests is the show's consistent focus on healing journeys and systemic context, which can engage listeners who value authentic storytelling and advocacy.
Where can I find podcast stats for The Shadow Sessions?
Rephonic provides a wide range of podcast stats for The Shadow Sessions. We scanned the web and collated all of the information that we could find in our comprehensive podcast database. See how many people listen to The Shadow Sessions and access YouTube viewership numbers, download stats, audience demographics, chart rankings, ratings, reviews and more.
How many listeners does The Shadow Sessions get?
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What are the audience demographics for The Shadow Sessions?
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How many subscribers and views does The Shadow Sessions have?
To see how many followers or subscribers The Shadow Sessions has on Spotify and other platforms such as Castbox and Podcast Addict, simply upgrade your account. You'll also find viewership figures for their YouTube channel if they have one.
Which podcasts are similar to The Shadow Sessions?
These podcasts share a similar audience with The Shadow Sessions:
1. Unheard: True Crime in Their Own Words
2. UNMARKED: A True Crime Podcast
3. What I survived
4. Betrayal Season 5
5. Project Mind Control
How many episodes of The Shadow Sessions are there?
The Shadow Sessions launched 5 months ago and published 19 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
How do I contact The Shadow Sessions?
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Where can I see ratings and reviews for The Shadow Sessions?
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How do I access podcast episode transcripts for The Shadow Sessions?
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What guests have appeared on The Shadow Sessions?
Recent guests on The Shadow Sessions include:
1. Jazmine Clark
2. Ian Manuel
3. Lurata Lyon
4. Mubin Sheikh
5. Jamie Hull
6. Jena-Lisa Jones
7. Joe DiMeo
8. Nina Aouilk
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.