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 | 25 | Founded | 6 months ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | Health & FitnessTrue CrimeMental Health | |||
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Latest Episodes
We love stories about bank robbers. The masks. The getaway cars. The thrill of the chase. Popular culture often turns them into anti‑heroes—rebels who live outside the rules.
But what happens when the robbery isn’t really about the money?
In this e... more
We often imagine hate as something obvious—loud, ignorant, easy to recognize. But radicalization rarely begins that way. It begins with belonging. With anger that feels like purpose. With identity built around opposition.
In this episode of The Shad... more
We’re taught to see law enforcement as strength—authority, control, protection. But what does it cost to live in danger every day?
In this episode of The Shadow Sessions, Hiba Balfaqih speaks with Jennifer, a former Virginia State Trooper who worked... more
Violence doesn’t always end a life. Sometimes it changes it completely.
In this episode of The Shadow Sessions, Hiba Balfaqih speaks with Wesley, whose life split into before and after a single moment of violence left him paralyzed with a spinal cor... 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 Kingdom3 months ago - Be better.
Enjoy the topics, however the interview inserts herself way to much.
Apple Podcasts3ZombiesNeedLuv2
United States4 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 States4 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 States4 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 States4 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 |  Australia/Health & Fitness/Mental Health |
Apple Podcasts | #56 |  Belgium/Health & Fitness/Mental Health |
Apple Podcasts | #128 | Belgium/Health & Fitness |
Apple Podcasts | #138 |  Denmark/Health & Fitness/Mental Health |
Apple Podcasts | #173 |  India/Health & Fitness/Mental Health |
Apple Podcasts | #191 |  Ireland/Health & Fitness/Mental Health |
Talking Points
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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. Betrayal Weekly
2. Unheard: True Crime in Their Own Words
3. Nobody Should Believe Me
4. This Is Actually Happening
5. WHEN DATING HURTS
How many episodes of The Shadow Sessions are there?
The Shadow Sessions launched 6 months ago and published 25 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. Arno Michaelis
2. Jennifer Eskew
3. Wesley Hamilton
4. Christopher Spry
5. Tracey Wilson-Heisler
6. Jazmine Clark
7. Ian Manuel
8. Lurata Lyon
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.