Edge of Mind Podcast

Edge of Mind

Andrew will be tapping into the many connections he has made around the world with spiritual teachers, scientists, scholars, and experts to offer you the latest from leaders in lucid dreaming and the study of mind.

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20 episodes
Updated Jul 9, 2025

Episodes20

Newest first

Jul 9, 2025 · 1 hr 32 min
Bridging Inner Worlds: Dick Schwartz on Internal Family Systems and Non-Dual Wisdom
Join Andrew Holecek for a conversation with Dr. Richard "Dick" Schwartz, the pioneering creator of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, in this Edge of Mind podcast episode. This deep dive explores the understanding that we all naturally contain multiple "parts" within ourselves - and that's not only normal, it's valuable. Dr. Schwartz reveals how IFS transforms our relationship with our inner landscape, showing that even our most challenging parts can become allies when approached with curiosity and compassion. The conversation illuminates the profound connection between IFS and non-dual wisdom traditions, particularly Tibetan Buddhism, demonstrating how ancient spiritual insights and modern therapeutic breakthroughs can mutually enhance each other. Discover how the essence of confidence, openness, and compassion - emerges naturally when our parts feel safe to relax. Learn about the practical applications of IFS in addressing everything from personal trauma to collective healing, including Dr. Schwartz's work with legacy burdens that affect entire cultures. This episode challenges common misconceptions about meditation and spirituality, exploring how some practitioners use spiritual practices to avoid rather than address their inner work. Andrew and Dick discuss the integration of embodied awareness, dream work, and somatic approaches within the IFS framework. Whether you're a seasoned meditator, therapist, or simply curious about the nature of consciousness and healing, this conversation offers insights into the multiplicity of mind and the path to authentic self-compassion.
Jun 12, 2025 · 58 min
The Impossible Made Possible: Jeffrey Kripal on Paranormal Reality and the Limits of Materialism
Join host Andrew Holecek in a thought-provoking conversation with Jeffrey Kripal, the J. Newton Rayzor Chair in Philosophy and Religious Thought at Rice University. In this engaging episode, Kripal shares insights from his book "How to Think Impossibly," offering a refreshing challenge to conventional materialistic worldviews that have dominated scientific discourse. With a blend of scholarly rigor and unexpected humor, Kripal explores how paranormal experiences and phenomena like UFOs deserve serious intellectual consideration rather than dismissal. His emphasis of "dual aspect monism" provides a fascinating framework for reconciling seemingly contradictory experiences of reality, suggesting that what we call "paranormal" only appears so within our limited materialistic paradigm. This conversation bridges philosophy, spirituality, and cutting-edge thinking about consciousness. Whether you're interested in the boundaries of human experience or simply enjoy questioning established frameworks, Kripal's perspective offers valuable insights into how we might expand our understanding of reality beyond current limitations. Listen in as two thoughtful minds explore the territory where science meets mystery, and where new possibilities for human understanding await.
Apr 8, 2025 · 1 hr 39 min
Exploring the Daimonic Realm: Patrick Harpur on Myth, Magic, and the Mysteries of Consciousness
In this profound conversation, Andrew Holecek interviews Patrick Harpur about "daimonic reality," exploring a rich, alternative understanding of existence beyond conventional rational thinking. Harpur describes daimons as liminal, shape-shifting entities that exist between physical and immaterial realms, present in cultures worldwide. These beings are characterized by their elusiveness, ambiguity, and ability to mediate between conscious and unconscious worlds, challenging the modern scientific worldview that has systematically banished such mythological understanding. The discussion delves into the differences between the path of soul and spirit, with Harpur arguing that soul embraces complexity and multiplicity, while spirit seeks ascension and unity. They explore how the unconscious mind was formed by repressed mythological entities, and how these beings continue to manifest in modern life through various phenomena like dreams, paranormal experiences, and collective movements. Harpur suggests that re-enchanting the world requires a more imaginative perception, one that sees beyond literal interpretations and recognizes the deeper mythological currents underlying human experience. Throughout the conversation, both Holecek and Harpur emphasize the importance of openness, peripheral awareness, and understanding the mythological principles that shape individual and collective consciousness. They discuss practices for cultivating relationship with these liminal entities, such as poetry, deep attention, and alternative modes of perception. The podcast ultimately presents a compelling argument for a more nuanced, imaginative approach to understanding reality, one that acknowledges the rich, mysterious dimensions of human experience beyond rational, materialistic frameworks.
Dec 11, 2024 · 1 hr 36 min
Bridging Science, Spirituality, and the Modern Path: A Conversation with Cortland Dahl Ph.D.
Cortland Dahl, a leading expert in mindfulness meditation and contemplative science, joins Andrew to discuss his work bridging science and spirituality. He emphasizes the importance of cultural translation and the integration of scientific insights into meditation practices. Dahl highlights the Healthy Minds app, which uses data from 200+ practices to show that even short, active meditations can significantly improve well-being, with improvements of 20-30% in just a month and up to 50-60% with long-term use. He also discusses the need for modern adaptations of traditional practices, balancing comfort and discomfort, and the role of compassion and curiosity in navigating contemporary challenges. Cortland and Andrew delve into the role and significance of shamatha (stability) in Mahamudra and Dzogchen traditions, noting that while it is foundational, it is not the end goal. The conversation highlights the debate within these traditions about the necessity and extent of shamatha practice, with some arguing it is unnecessary. They emphasize the importance of nature of mind and bodhicitta, suggesting that these practices provide stability and should be prioritized over shamatha. They also discuss the potential pitfalls of meditative experiences (nyam) and the distinction between nirodha (cessation) and nirvana, concluding that the view one holds during practice is crucial.
Nov 5, 2024 · 1 hr 16 min
A Conversation with Debra Silverman on Astrology, Synchronicity, and the Human Experience
In this captivating conversation, renowned astrologer Debra Silverman and host Andrew Holecek explore the profound insights of astrology and its transformative potential. Deborah shares her personal journey into the world of astrology, beginning from a young age, and how it has shaped her understanding of the human condition. The discussion delves into the relationship between astrology and synchronicity, as well as the concept of non-duality and how it relates to aligning one's inner and outer worlds. Debra and Andrew also examine the differences between various astrological systems, such as Vedic and Western astrology, and how they can provide unique perspectives on personal growth and purpose. This thought-provoking dialogue offers listeners a deeper appreciation for the wisdom and complexity inherent in the study of the stars.
Sep 9, 2024 · 1 hr 30 min
Bridging East & West: Gregory Shaw Explores the Resonances Between Neoplatonism & Tantric Spirituality
Gregory Shaw joins Edge of Mind with a rare and insightful glimpse into the profound wisdom traditions of Western esotericism. Too often, spiritual seekers in the West feel they must look to the East to find depth and authenticity in their practices. However, this dialogue between Andrew and Gregory powerfully demonstrates the richness and relevance of the Neoplatonist and theurgic lineages that are foundational to the Western philosophical and mystical canon. Listeners will be captivated by the scholar's ability to draw parallels between these ancient Greek teachings and the transformative practices of Eastern tantra. Concepts like alignment, embodiment, and the role of the "daimon" or divine presence within the soul are explored with nuance and clarity. This cross-pollination of ideas not only expands one's understanding of both traditions, but also points the way towards an integrative spirituality that can help address the fragmentation and disconnection so pervasive in the modern world. Whether one is already steeped in Neoplatonism or new to this rich vein of Western esotericism, this podcast offers a rare opportunity to learn from two brilliant thinkers who are deeply immersed in these lineages. The discussion is sure to inspire listeners to delve deeper into the wisdom that has been present in their own cultural heritage all along, waiting to be rediscovered and brought to life.
Aug 8, 2024 · 50 min
Exploring the Transformative Power of Psychedelics: A Conversation with Anthony Bossis, PhD
Join Andrew in a fascinating conversation with Dr. Anthony Bossis, a clinical assistant professor of psychiatry at NYU School of Medicine, who is at the forefront of groundbreaking research exploring the therapeutic potential of psilocybin. Through FDA-approved clinical trials, he investigates the compound's efficacy in alleviating end-of-life distress and its implications for our understanding of consciousness, meaning, and spirituality. Bossis shares a personal journey that led him to this pioneering work, tracing his fascination with existential and spiritual questions from his early years to his involvement in psychedelic research. He delves into the remarkable outcomes of his studies, showcasing how psilocybin-assisted therapy can dramatically reduce depression, anxiety, and hopelessness in terminally ill patients, fostering profound feelings of acceptance and gratitude. Moreover, Bossis discusses the broader philosophical and scientific implications of his findings, challenging our conventional perspectives on consciousness and the human experience.
Jul 22, 2024 · 1 hr 42 min
David Germano and Michael Sheehy Discuss the History, Diversity and Modern Relevance of Dark Retreat
David Germano and Michael Sheehy join Andrew Holecek to discuss the history, diversity, and modern relevance of dark retreats in Tibetan Buddhism. The speakers discuss the two main streams of dark retreat practices - the Kalachakra tradition and the Dzogchen tradition - and how they differ in their approaches and interpretations. The conversation also explores the traditional secrecy surrounding these practices, the reasons for it, and the challenges of appropriately translating and adapting them for a modern, Western audience. The speakers emphasize the importance of understanding the cultural and environmental factors that shape these practices, as well as the need for caution and humility when engaging with them as outsiders. Finally, the speakers provide advice for those interested in exploring dark retreats, emphasizing the importance of sincerity, self-awareness, and gradually building up experience with darkness and contemplative practices. They also discuss the potential of dark retreats as a powerful tool for personal transformation and healing, particularly in addressing the challenges of the modern "dark age."
Jun 28, 2024 · 2 hr 2 min
Ken Wilber in an Insightful Discussion on Integrating Spirituality, Science, and Human Development
Join an insightful discussion between Andrew Holecek and Ken Wilber on integrating spirituality, science, and human development. They discussed Wilber's new book "Finding Radical Wholeness" and how it provides a comprehensive overview of waking up, growing up, opening up, cleaning up, and showing up as vectors of transformation. A major topic was distinguishing between waking up experiences and growing up stages, as well as clarifying the pre-trans fallacy around interpreting early fusion states as enlightenment. They also dialogued around expanding notions of matter and consciousness, with Wilber arguing that interiority exists at all scales from quarks to humans. Overall, the discussion provided valuable insights into integral theory, stages of human development, and how to apply these concepts through integral life practice to facilitate personal and social evolution.
May 28, 2024 · 2 hr 58 min
A Discussion on the Nature of Reality, Mind, and Death with Bernardo Kastrup
Join the esteemed philosopher and computer scientist Bernardo Kastrup in a wide-ranging exploration of the nature of mind and reality. The conversation begins with a look at the implications of idealism, the view that reality is essentially mental. If reality is like a dream, how do we accurately derive meaning from this collective dream and avoid the trap of projecting meaning onto it? Can we interpret disease in a meaningful way, and how do we read this form of sign language? Is there a connection to this world view with the Buddhist teaching on Mahamudra, or the tradition of the “Great Symbol”? Bernardo shares his innovative view of cancer and speaks about the compassion we should direct to our diseases. If disease is a form of dissociation, can we look at the meta-crises facing the world today as a meta-disease, and reduce the meta-crises to irreducibly simple principles? Does karmic theory have a place in the origin of phenomena? Dr. Kastrup shares his liberating view of death as the end of dissociation, not the end of consciousness. How do the contents of our mind contribute to “mind at large” when we die? What kind of “contribution” does someone like Hitler make? Intertwined with this discussion is the role of development, and the place of identity. What is our irreducible identity that is untouched even by death? The conversation turns to viewing the unconscious mind as the obfuscated or obscured mind. What is the main source of obfuscation, and where does dark retreat fit in? Is the light of meta-cognition a form of obfuscation? What about the relationship of light to mind, and to reality, altogether? Bernardo proclaims that philosophy must be lived if it is to be genuine. He shares two major ways his view of reality has positively affected his life, and two ways he has been challenged by his own views. What does Dr. Kastrup most want to know? See for yourself why Bernardo is a major figure in the world of philosophy, and a leading voice in the arena of nondual spirituality.
May 3, 2024 · 1 hr 28 min
Exploring Darkness Retreats: Scott Berman’s Perspective on Inner Work, Fear, and Spiritual Growth
Join Scott Berman, founder of the dark retreat center Sky Cave, for a look at this ancient practice that is finding its way into the modern world. How did Scott get into this unusual business, and what is dark retreat all about? Scott explores the many reasons why people are clamoring to get into dark retreat, the things you do when you’re in the dark, and what constitutes a successful retreat. We explore the indications and contraindications of dark practice, and the profiles of those who tend to thrive in the dark, and the profiles of those who struggle. “Spiritual types,” or those with long meditation histories, often have a harder time than those who enter with the “beginner’s mind.” Dark retreat is feminine in nature, and women tend to do better than mind. Why is that? And what actually constitutes a dark retreat? How long do you go in? Do you have emotional or spiritual support if you need it? How do you get your food? We discuss how to work with the challenges that tend to arise in the dark, especially anxiety and fear. Scott talks about dissociation, the importance of embodiment, and the role of body work before, during, and after retreat. How does one best prepare for the dark, and how does one integrate the experience into daily life? How important is proper motivation when going into dark retreat, and why is honesty towards your experience more important than positivity? What are some of Scott’s biggest surprises in guiding over 350 people through dark retreat? We talk about the new field of darkness therapy, and the overall therapeutic potential of dark retreat. With dark retreat, you may not always get what you want, but you tend to get what you need. How do you handle those “needs,” and the revelations that unfold in darkness? See for yourself why dark retreat is being touted by celebrities, ranging from famous authors, to athletes, to business executives, and if this unusual practice is right for you.
Apr 11, 2024 · 1 hr 53 min
Demystifying Pure Lands: A Conversation with Mark Unno
Join the esteemed author and scholar Mark Unno in a wide-ranging discussion of the Pure Lands, and how much they have to offer for our modern age. Professor Unno begins with a thorough look at the history and philosophy of the Pure Land schools, before turning to the main principles of this noble tradition. The core tenets of self-power and other-power are explored, the role of nembutsu (reciting the name of Amida Buddha), true entrusting, deep listening, the power of mantra, and how the Pure Land of Sukhavati is different from Heaven, and Amida is different from God. Dr. Unno shares personal stories of his experience with Pure Land tenets, and how the practice of bowing and surrender has transformed him. How real are the Pure Lands? Do we take them literally or symbolically? Is there a danger in psychologizing the Pure Lands? Why should we go there after we die? Mark talks about the difference between nirvana and parinirvana, the nondual light of oneness that Amida represents, and the principle of purity and purification altogether. The discussion turns to the notion of “spiritual photosynthesis,” the power of light and the mantra of light, before moving to the idea of “reverse karmic bond” and its relationship to the Reverse Meditations. Professor Unno clearly manifests a lifetime of study and practice in the Pure Land tradition and represents the depth and profundity of a tradition that is sometimes dismissed as “Buddhism Lite.” Mark has a unique gift of taking these teachings and bringing them immediately into life, translating Pure Land principles into practical terms. See for yourself why Dr. Unno is such a treasured representative of this often-misunderstood tradition.
Jan 12, 2024 · 1 hr 30 min
Sierra Campbell on Spiritual and Practical Preparation for Aging and Death.
Join the author, and end-of-life caregiver, Sierra Campbell in a rich conversation exploring the many aspects of spiritual and practical preparation for aging and death. She shares her own experience as a cancer survivor, and how she got involved in this work. Sierra talks about the importance of active listening, “saging” instead of aging, and the wisdom of “waking down” at the end of life. What is the profile of those who tend to transition gracefully vs those who do not? How does one work with the death of a child, and what are the best things to say, and not to say, to someone who is dying and to family members? How honest and open should you be? Sierra talks about the importance of using small deaths during life to help with the big death, and that most people aren’t afraid of death as much as they are of suffering. The conversation turns to medical aid in dying (MAID), how to understand the anger and fear that often arises around death, and the place of plant medicine (psychedelics) for helping people die, and for processing grief. Sierra talks about how the bardo teachings of Tibetan Buddhism have informed and transformed her own relationship to death, and her ability to help others. She shares her most effective meditations, like metta, the practice of Tara, the generation of merit, and breathwork in preparing for the end of life. It’s important not to try to fix things at the end of life, but to support the journey. See for yourself why Sierra is such a coveted speaker on some of the most challenging situations, and difficult decisions, anyone ever has to face.
Nov 3, 2023 · 1 hr 15 min
Lama Palden Drolma on the Transplantation of Buddhism to the West
Join the author, and spiritual director of the Sukhasiddhi Foundation, Lama Palden Drolma, in a rich conversation about the transplantation of Buddhism to the West. What is the “state of the union” concerning Buddhism in America, and the core challenges in cultural translation? How does one find an authentic teacher, and what are the warning signs to look for to avoid corrupt teachers? The conversation turns to the role of psychotherapy on the path, the danger of blind spots, the lingering problem of patriarchy, power abuse, and other common traps that frequently snare teachers. What is “spiritual counseling,” and how does it differ from therapy? What constitutes outer and inner obstacles on the path, and how can we avoid spiritual bypassing? Lama Palden is an expert in yidam practice, or deity yoga, especially the female Buddha Tara. Is Tara inside of us, outside of us, or both? What role does Tara play in the modern world? Is the West even ready for the advanced spiritual technologies of tantra? The conversation turns to the role of the imaginal, and the importance of visualization and “feelingization.” Do modern meditative technologies, like brain entrainment, have an authentic place on the path? What about psychedelics? Lama Palden talks about “idiot devotion,” and the promise and peril of surrendering on the path. She offers valuable advice specifically for female practitioners, and things to look out for when working with a teacher. Where do you go to engage in genuine, and safe, spiritual practice? See for yourself why Lama Palden is such a respected teacher, and a real protector of the dharma in this challenging age.
Sep 16, 2023 · 1 hr 37 min
Dr. Christopher Timmermann on Psychedelics and Their Role on the Spiritual Path
Join the neuroscientist Christopher Timmermann in a wide-ranging discussion about psychedelics and their role on the spiritual path, as well as in preparing for the end of life. How can these agents be used to remove the fear of death, and how do they relate to near-death experiences? Is it true to say that death is a psychedelic journey? Chris shows us how we can find death in life’s experiences, and how the psychedelic trip and death are both processes of radical deconstruction. If someone is afraid of death, what’s the best way to use these agents? Is duality and the sense of self a construct, and is this what falls apart in reports of ego dissolution with psychedelics? Do these drugs also construct experiences, and are the experiences merely comforting delusions? How do we know the experiences are true? Dr. Timmermann talks about the “entropic brain,” and the heightened connectivity that takes place with psychedelics. Are psychedelic experiences due to a reduction in brain activity (the “reducing valve”), or an enhancement of brain activity? Chris talks about the importance of “set and setting,” how these substances can be used to explore the nature of mind and reality, and the promise and peril of the psychedelic renaissance. What are the contra-indications for using these medicines, and where do “false memories” fit in? The conversation turns to the importance of preparation and integration, and how to avoid becoming a “state junkie.” How does one transform states into traits? What is “psychedelic-assisted meditation practice,” and how valuable is psychedelic apprenticeship? Chris discusses the clinical and therapeutic implications of his research, and why he is so excited about the future of this field. See why Dr. Timmermann is one of the brightest voices in this cutting-edge field of scientific research.
Jun 14, 2023 · 1 hr 43 min
A Vast Journey into the Underworld of Dreams with Robert Moss.
Join Andrew and the esteemed dream scholar and prolific author Robert Moss in a vast journey into the underworld of dreams. The conversation begins with a State of the Union address concerning the world of dreams, and a look at how Robert’s relationship to dreams has changed over decades of work. “Dreaming is traveling,” he says, and we can bridge inner and outer realities with our journeys, bringing gifts from the dream world back to waking life. What is “Kairomancy,” and how we can we learn to read the sign language of reality by paying attention to synchronicities? Can you navigate through life with this form of divination, and when does the derivation of meaning cross the line into the imputation of meaning, as typified in paranoia? Where do lucid dreams fit in for Robert, and why is “conscious dreaming” a better term? Is it dangerous to try to control our dreams, and what are some of the shadow sides of lucid dreaming? Robert discusses the importance of daimons in our lives, the place of meditation in the world of dreaming, and why shamans are essentially dreamers. What about the place of imagination, the power of the unconscious mind, and the phenomenon of anamnesis? How can we use dreams to awaken to the dreamlike nature of reality? Robert and I share a number of personal reflections about our dream lives, and how our views have evolved over the years. See for yourself why Robert is one of the leading statesmen for dreams in the world today. About Robert Moss: Robert has been a dream traveler since doctors pronounced him clinically dead in a hospital in Hobart, Tasmania, when he was three years old. From his experiences in many worlds, he created his School of Active Dreaming, his original synthesis of modern dreamwork and ancient shamanic and mystical practices for journeying to realms beyond the physical and growing creative imagination. He has led popular workshops all over the world, including a three-year training for teachers of Active Dreaming and online courses for the Shift Network. A former lecturer in ancient history at the Australian National University, he is a New York Times bestselling novelist, poet, journalist, and independent scholar. His many books on dreaming, shamanism, and imagination include Conscious Dreaming, The Secret History of Dreaming, Dreaming the Soul Back Home, The Boy Who Died and Came Back, Sidewalk Oracles, and Mysterious Realities. His latest book, Growing Big Dreams: Manifesting Your Heart's Desires through 12 Secrets of the Imagination is a passionate and practical call to step through the gates of dreams and imagination to survive hard times, travel without leaving home, and grow the vision of a more abundant life so rich and strong that it wants to take root in the world. He has lived in upstate New York since he received a message from a red-tailed hawk under an old white oak. His website is mossdreams.com
May 16, 2023 · 1 hr 34 min
Frank White on the Overview Effect, and all its Implications for Inner and Outer Evolution
Join the author Frank White in a rich exploration of the Overview Effect, and all its implications for inner and outer evolution. The conversation begins with Frank’s entry into his study of this transformative effect, before turning to why it is that not everybody who has the Overview is affected by it. What is the common denominator behind the effect, and can you have it on earth? We discuss the role of the “space principle,” both inner and outer, as a transformational tool, and how evolution is largely about increasing perspectives, which are brought about with more openness, and hence more space to perceive. What about the “underview effect,” and the change in perspective brought out from within? How does all this relate to Right View in Buddhism, and why did Frank turn to Zen Buddhism? Where does meditation, as “habituation to openness,” fit in? The conversation turns to how expansion and openness is central to evolution, as embodied, for one example, in human development from homocentric to ethnocentric to cosmocentric world views. What about the “Cosma Hypthosis,” and “space philosophy”? Where do vantage points come into play, and how about the place of virtual reality in opening the aperture of our awareness? When brought to earth, the real issue is not what we see, but how we see it. Terranauts, psychonauts, and oneirnauts can see just as much as astronauts – you just need to introduce more space into your mind and heart to see. The Overview Effect is needed more than ever to help people here on earth, and the earth itself.
May 2, 2023 · 2 hr 6 min
Bruce Tift on the Interface Between Psychology and Spirituality
Join the esteemed author Bruce Tift in a cross-pollinating discussion about the interface between psychology and spirituality, the developmental and fruitional paths, or the paths of Growing Up and Waking Up respectively. Bruce discusses the importance of holding opposing, and even contradictory, views simultaneously, without any hope or desire for closure and resolution. We’re all a collection of limitations, so how can we best work with these limits? What constitutes a real obstacle in this view, and how can we work with obstacles? What about the difference between “recovery practices” and “achievement practices”? The conversation turns to the distraction value of our problems, and how ego, as an arrested form of development, is invested in maintaining struggle as a way to maintain itself. Bruce then talks about anxiety and fear, and the importance of an integral approach in relating to both. Not all fear and anxiety is problematic. On the spiritual path, anxiety can lead to real growth, and fear can be a sign that you’re doing something right. How about the place of shadow work, and why doesn’t Bruce favor that term? How do we best work with blind spots? The practice of relationship is explored, and how we unwittingly “hire” partners, over and over, to play out unconscious processes and avoidant tendencies. How does he sustain his enthusiasm for providing therapy after decades of clinical practice? Does Buddhism need therapy – in both senses of that phrase? Is his view exhilarating or intimidating? Bruce’s wide-ranging approach gives you permission to be human, and to delight in this wonderful and terrible thing we call life. See for yourself why he is one of the most sought-after therapists in the spiritual community.
Apr 4, 2023 · 2 hr 31 min
Federico Faggin Explores the Relationship Between Science and Spirituality
Join the physicist, and inventor of the microprocessor and touchpad, Federico Faggin, in a wide-ranging exploration of the relationship between science and spirituality. Federico starts with a colorful rendering of the four phases of his life, and his transition from a hard-core materialist into a deep student of consciousness. He shares how a single experience, lasting less than a minute, changed his life forever. Federico then relates a number of eye-popping experiences, all of which proclaimed that consciousness, not matter, is the foundation of reality – and that that foundation is expressed as love. What triggered this opening, and what did he do to cultivate his experiences? How did the nondual traditions, and other forms of transpersonal work, help him understand his experiences? Dr. Faggin then turns to his quantum information-based view of panpsychism, whether this theory can be tested or not, and its remarkable implications for both science and spirituality. What does “quantum” mean in this context? “Science and spirituality are both right, and both wrong,” he says, but what does that mean? Is mathematics the supreme language of communication these days, or just the best way to talk to the “high priests” of science? What is the relationship between artificial intelligence and artificial sentience, or consciousness? Can a computer ever be conscious? His theory completely overthrows materialism, and offers an entirely new direction for science. Can this theory, based on his experiences, lead others to those experiences – is it psychoactive and prescriptive? What does it mean to say that matter is merely a symbol? What role does light have to play in all this? Federico talks about “consciousness units,” the place of free will, what happens after death, and why spiritual practitioners might be interested in his work. He then discusses his path of practice, and why he doesn’t adhere to any single tradition or teacher. What does he see as blinds spots in the wisdom traditions? Behind his amazing life is the deep quest to know; to understand the nature of reality and consciousness – and to help the world.
Mar 22, 2023 · 2 hr 3 min
Sean Esbjörn-Hargens on How Exo Studies Leads to Endo (inner) Discoveries.
Note: This is the second of two conversations Andrew had with Sean Esbjörn-Hargens on Exo Studies. Join the polymath Sean Esbjörn-Hargens in a rich exploration of how Exo Studies – the study of what is outside our normal sense of reality – leads to Endo (inner) discoveries. What is the relationship between inside and outside, and just how psychoactive is the Exo view? Sean talks about being constantly defeated by larger views of reality, and the importance of Right View in opening ourselves to seeing so much more of the world. We are highly contracted beings, afflicted by all manner of centricities, held under the rubric of ego-centricity. Exo studies is integral to the path of Opening Up, and expanding our horizons and potentials into dazzling new dimensions. What is the role of the subtle body, and how many subtle bodies do we have? Are these subtle bodies inside the gross body, outside of it, or both? The relationship of the subtle body to the unconscious mind is explored, and how things like mantra and visualization work to transform the subtle body. How about shadow work in relationship to these subtle bodies? Where does Bardo Yoga fit into Exo studies, and how about the central role of emptiness? Is it dangerous to explore these inner dimensions and states of consciousness; where does protection come into play? Sean talks about the trikaya (“three-body”) principle of Buddhism, and the “interstate commerce” that we can open between all three bodies: gross, subtle, and causal. All this study and practice is about establishing intimacy with reality, and creating a “united states” of consciousness. The conversation turns to the psychedelic renaissance taking place, and how we can use these agents for healing and wholing. Growth occurs through differentiation and integration, and opening the aperture of our awareness to encompass this Wild Kosmos. We live in a multidimensional multiverse, full of magic and wonder. Exo studies shows us how can we become a meta-person, or super-experiencer, and open to these wonders. This is real Edge of Mind material, sure to leave stretch marks on your mind. About Sean Esbjörn-Hargens PhD (from metaintegral.com) Sean is a global leader in the application of integrative thinking to leader development, organizational design, and mixed-methods design. In 2011 he founded MetaIntegral a social impact network that supports change leaders around the world in applying integrative principles. Sean’s passion lies at the intersection of design, integral theory, and embodiment. He has published and edited numerous articles, chapters, and books. His most recent book is Metatheory for the Twenty-first Century. The MA/PhD Program Sean runs which includes a concentration in Anomalous Studies for interested students - The School of Integral Noetic Sciences: https://www.cihs.edu/school-of-integral-noetic-sciences Sean's websites: www.metaintegral.com www.exostudies.org www.whatsupwithufos.com

Edge of Mind Podcast

Bridging Inner Worlds: Dick Schwartz on Internal Family Systems and Non-Dual Wisdom

The Impossible Made Possible: Jeffrey Kripal on Paranormal Reality and the Limits of Materialism

Exploring the Daimonic Realm: Patrick Harpur on Myth, Magic, and the Mysteries of Consciousness

Bridging Science, Spirituality, and the Modern Path: A Conversation with Cortland Dahl Ph.D.

A Conversation with Debra Silverman on Astrology, Synchronicity, and the Human Experience

Bridging East & West: Gregory Shaw Explores the Resonances Between Neoplatonism & Tantric Spirituality

Exploring the Transformative Power of Psychedelics: A Conversation with Anthony Bossis, PhD

David Germano and Michael Sheehy Discuss the History, Diversity and Modern Relevance of Dark Retreat

Ken Wilber in an Insightful Discussion on Integrating Spirituality, Science, and Human Development

A Discussion on the Nature of Reality, Mind, and Death with Bernardo Kastrup

Exploring Darkness Retreats: Scott Berman’s Perspective on Inner Work, Fear, and Spiritual Growth

Demystifying Pure Lands: A Conversation with Mark Unno

Sierra Campbell on Spiritual and Practical Preparation for Aging and Death.

Lama Palden Drolma on the Transplantation of Buddhism to the West

Dr. Christopher Timmermann on Psychedelics and Their Role on the Spiritual Path

A Vast Journey into the Underworld of Dreams with Robert Moss.

Frank White on the Overview Effect, and all its Implications for Inner and Outer Evolution

Bruce Tift on the Interface Between Psychology and Spirituality

Federico Faggin Explores the Relationship Between Science and Spirituality

Sean Esbjörn-Hargens on How Exo Studies Leads to Endo (inner) Discoveries.