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 | 31 | Founded | 8 months ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | True CrimeHealth & FitnessMental Health | |||
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Latest Episodes
Some conversations don't end when the cameras stop rolling—they deserve to be unpacked.
In this episode of The Notebook, Hiba Balfaqih reflects on her conversation with Jazmine and explores the psychological patterns that emerged throughout the inte... more
How do you respond when your life changes in a matter of seconds?
In this episode of The Shadow Sessions, Hiba Balfaqih speaks with Allison Smith, whose ordinary trip to a convenience store became a fight for survival when an armed woman hijacked he... more
Some conversations don't end when the cameras stop rolling—they deserve to be unpacked.
In this episode of The Notebook, Hiba Balfaqih reflects on her conversation with Jena-Lisa Jones, a survivor of Jeffrey Epstein, and explores the psychological p... more
What happens when the beliefs you're raised with become the source of your deepest wounds?
In this episode of The Shadow Sessions, Hiba Balfaqih speaks with Veronica Monet, who was born into a religious cult where isolation, control, and abuse were ... 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 Kingdom4 months ago - Be better.
Enjoy the topics, however the interview inserts herself way to much.
Apple Podcasts3ZombiesNeedLuv2
United States5 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 States6 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 States6 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 States6 months ago
Listeners Say
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Chart Rankings
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Apple Podcasts | #228 |  Canada/Health & Fitness/Mental Health |
Apple Podcasts | #138 |  Australia/Health & Fitness/Mental Health |
Apple Podcasts | #105 |  China/Health & Fitness/Mental Health |
Apple Podcasts | #133 |  Russia/Health & Fitness/Mental Health |
Apple Podcasts | #250 |  Saudi Arabia/Health & Fitness/Mental Health |
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?
The show centers on deeply personal trauma, resilience, and identity, often through the lens of survivors and people who have confronted extreme circumstances. Across episodes, conversations weave through abuse, cults, crime, radicalization, and recovery, with a trauma-informed host guiding guests toward meaning, healing, and accountability. The format tends to mix intimate storytelling with actionable insights and resources, making it especially compelling for listeners who value empathy, realism, and mindful probing of difficult life experiences. A standout trait is consistently prioritizing survivor voices and transformative journeys, sometimes accompanied by candid reflections on healing modalities, justice, and advocacy. This makes it ... more
Where can I find podcast stats for The Shadow Sessions?
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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?
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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. Betrayal Weekly
3. Something Was Wrong
4. Nobody Should Believe Me
5. Love Trapped
How many episodes of The Shadow Sessions are there?
The Shadow Sessions launched 8 months ago and published 31 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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What guests have appeared on The Shadow Sessions?
Recent guests on The Shadow Sessions include:
1. Allison Smith
2. Veronica Monet
3. Anna LeBaron
4. David Garlock
5. Alex Harper
6. Arno Michaelis
7. Jennifer Eskew
8. Wesley Hamilton
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.