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The Shadow Sessions

Hiba Balfaqih
Mental Health
Identity
Honor Killings
Childhood Trauma
Violence
Child Abuse
Resilience
Survivor Advocacy
Gender-Based Violence
Child Marriage
Incest
Survival
Prison System
Grief
Hacking
Bankruptcy
Abuse
Mixed Martial Arts
Anger
Cybersecurity

The 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.

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes9Founded3 months ago
Number of ListenersCategories
True CrimeHealth & FitnessMental Health

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Artwork for The Shadow Sessions

Latest Episodes

We all carry anger. Some swallow it. Some hide it behind success, silence, or survival. But what happens when it erupts? When pain becomes pressure, and pressure becomes action?

In this episode of The Shadow Sessions, Hiba Balfaqih speaks with Jonat... more

We’re taught to fight for what we want—to toughen up and push through. But what happens when fighting is all you’ve ever known? When childhood teaches you that pain is love, violence is normal, and power equals survival?

In this episode of The Shado... more

What if your biggest sin is being born a girl? What happens when violence is justified as tradition and silence is enforced as honor?

In this episode of The Shadow Sessions, Hiba Balfaqih speaks with Nina Aouilk, a survivor of honor‑based violence w... more

Not all shadows look like darkness. Some look like ambition. Some look like discipline, perseverance, and the pressure to hold everything together while quietly falling apart.

In this episode of The Shadow Sessions, Hiba Balfaqih speaks with Amber D... more

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Recent Guests

Nina Aouilk
A survivor of honor-based violence, life coach, and global advocate against honor killings.
End Honor Killings
Episode: The Sin Of Being a Girl: Surviving Honor-Based Violence
James Linton
Former hacker known for impersonating high-profile figures and initiating discussions on identity and psychology.
Episode: Hacker & Identity James Linton
Aziza Kibibi
Survivor, author, and advocate for truth regarding abuse.
Episode: The Secret She Carried for Decades: Her Father Was the Father of Her Children

Host

Hiba Balfaqih
Host of The Shadow Sessions, Hiba Balfaqih is an unconventional psychologist and trauma alchemist who focuses on exploring narratives tied to shame, trauma, and identity. Through her work, she seeks to shed light on hidden aspects of human experience and foster deep, introspective conversations.

Chart Rankings

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

When Anger Explodes: The Hidden Psychology Behind Losing Control
Q: If you could say something today to your victim, what would you like to say to them?
I would say I'm sorry for what I did, and I hope my victim can forgive me.
From Prison to MMA Legend: The Making of Frank Shamrock
Q: If there was a kid listening to this and they're being physically abused right now, what is any piece of advice you'd like to tell them?
Tell somebody, talk to somebody you trust, coach, mentor, teacher, all those people are in a position to help.
The Sin Of Being a Girl: Surviving Honor-Based Violence
Q: What would you tell little Nina if she was here today?
There's a reason behind everything. You're going to be all right.
Hacker & Identity James Linton
Q: If we go back to James right before he sent out that first prank email, what would you tell him?
Go for it.
Hacker & Identity James Linton
Q: Do you feel there are two parts of you during your hacking days?
Yeah, definitely. There's the naughty trickster wanting to explore and the cautious part scared of consequences.

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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?

Exploring the unspoken narratives of trauma, identity, and shame, the content showcases compelling stories that most people shy away from discussing. Listeners are taken on a journey through profound and often challenging life experiences, with topics ranging from financial crises and personal empowerment to the psychology of hacking and the complexities of familial relationships. Each episode often features emotional storytelling paired with insightful commentary, aiming to elevate conversations around mental health and societal taboos. This unique approach not only fosters understanding but also promotes healing and transformation by allowing vulnerable discussions to surface in a supportive environment.

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?

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. Mind Games
2. The Psychology of Relationships
3. UNMARKED: A True Crime Podcast
4. Strange Health
5. I Rest My Case

How many episodes of The Shadow Sessions are there?

The Shadow Sessions launched 3 months ago and published 9 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. Nina Aouilk
2. James Linton
3. Aziza Kibibi

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.

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