We’ve used Spiral Dynamics. We’ve studied Robert Kegan. And we know how Ken Wilber has delineated states vs stages. But there is a model that gets into the fine print when it comes to the integration of spiritual experience with ego development.

This episode explores the STAGES model of human development, created by Terri O’Fallon, a uniquely integral approach to development that refines and expands what earlier maps revealed. It brings precision and beauty to the process of human becoming—not just through cognitive or social lenses, but through the integration of states and stages: the recognition that we can awaken beyond a concrete reality, a subtle reality, or a metaware reality.

For instance, STAGES shows that classic awakened masters were often awake to see through the concrete objects of their minds and culture (Red and Amber structures). More modern masters have awakened to see through the subtle objects of their minds (Orange, Green, even Teal structures). The bleeding edge of development, pioneered by the great Sri Aurobindo and researched by Terri O’Fallon, shows that awakening can continue beyond well beyond Teal, where stages and stages begin to collapse and one awakens to awakening itself.

We will also discuss:

• How Green and Teal are both an expression of a 4th person perspective (one early, one late)
• A more detailed account of transition points, especially between Amber and Orange that helps to explain much more in our collective cultural struggles
• A look at social preferences at each stage of development and the four major learning types, and why this matter.

Whether you’re a seasoned integralist or developmentally curious, this episode will reframe how you see growth, identity, and awakening. And it just might help you locate yourself more clearly on the map.

Join Keith Martin-Smith and Alexander Love, a STAGES coach, guide, and innovator. Drawing from over 14,000 hours with clients and grounded in both ancient traditions and modern insight, Alexander helps individuals and communities reclaim meaning, ignite compassion, and rediscover the blazing heart of what it means to be human.

About Integral Edge

Welcome to a world on the edge.

AI is rewriting the rules. Politics are more polarized than ever, with the far right and left in an endless clash. The metacrisis looms, late-stage capitalism is unraveling, DEI is evolving, and strongmen are rising once more.

But that’s just the beginning.

This podcast takes an integral look at the forces shaping our reality—from cutting-edge neuroscience and biohacking to cryptocurrency, global economics, and the ancient wisdom of awakening, mindfulness, and embodiment.

Keith Martin-Smith brings a deep, multi-perspective lens to the chaos, cutting through the noise to find what actually matters.

This isn’t just another commentary on the world. It’s a guide to seeing—and living—beyond the divide.