In this episode, we sit down with cognitive scientist Daniel Meling to explore the fascinating intersection of psychedelics and meditation. Daniel shares insights from his research on DMT and non-dual states, discussing the potential of psychedelics for treating depression and the synergies between these substances and meditative practices.

In this episode, we welcome Sam Berrin Shonkoff, Assistant Professor of Jewish Studies at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley. Sam's expertise in Jewish religious thought provides a unique lens through which we explore contemporary spiritual practices. Our discussion ventures into the use of psychedelics within Judaism, examining their potential to enhance spiritual experiences and religious practices. We also explore the Zen concept of Child Mind or Beginner Mind, uncovering its parallels and applications within Jewish traditions. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that bridges ancient wisdom and modern spirituality.

In this episode, we welcome philosopher André van der Braak to explore the deeper spiritual and philosophical dimensions of ayahuasca, particularly the concept of ayahuasca as "liquid divinity."

In this episode, our hosts, Mark Miller and guests John Vervaeke and Shawn Coyne, delve into the transformative project "Mentoring the Machines." This innovative work bridges the gap between scientific inquiry and narrative storytelling to grapple with the existential challenges posed by artificial general intelligence (AGI).

Can ultrasound enhance meditation?

Today’s guest brings his fascinating line of research to reveal the concept, potential, ethics and mitigations for using ultrasound to stimulate the brain during meditation - we welcome Jay Sanguinetti, from the University of Arizona.

Developed with the close collaboration of Shinzen Young, Jay’s research dives into the phenomenological reports and brain imaging of everybody from complete beginners to master meditators like Young himself.

Alongside a dissection of the logistics and results of his experiments, Jay shares his philosophy for implementing it safely - avoiding on-demand peak state generation and rather empowering patients to change in directions that are healthy for them.

Strap in - this is a good one!

We need to start prepping our minds for death.

Welcome to a train-your-brain special, diving into new research plans from our very own Dr Mark Miller.

Mark outlines exactly why uncertainty and danger are incredibly beneficial for the predictive mind - training us to be better-equipped when we encounter sickness, injury and death itself.

Because if you want to be really good at reducing uncertainty over a long time - surrounding yourself with short-term uncertainty is exactly the way to do it!

Sharing anecdotes on horror movies, pandemics, public speaking and the common cold, Mark unveils the contemplative paths to embracing uncertainty and shares the preface for exciting, pioneering research on our inner complexities.

What happens when people start speaking in tongues?

Joining Jamie for a dive into his research is Josh Brahinsky, researcher at UC Berkeley Social Interaction Laboratory.

Josh is fascinated with the phenomenology and neuroscience of what goes on when people speak in tongues - revealing anecdotes from interviews that focus particularly on evangelicals.

Detailing a short history of pentecostalism and comparing similarities of such experiences to psychedelic experiences, our discussion touches on God, awe, de-centring, imagination and the work of colleague and previous guest Dr Michael Lifshitz.

What are the principles of neurotheology?

Who better to answer than Andrew Newberg, acclaimed neuroscientist, professor and author.

In his books, Andrew has laid out pioneering research on the relationship of the brain and spirituality - revealing the inner complexities of how the brain operates when we are spiritual.

Whether that’s using brain imaging to study Franciscan nuns and Buddhist monks in prayer, or observing brain ‘resonance’ when two individuals apply his co-penned Compassionate Communication framework - he is fascinated with the role of spirituality in our lives.

Join us for an illuminating discussion - one that encourages an open mind for whatever the ‘truth’ may be!

How do we deal with grief? And how can we better prepare ourselves?

Enter Dr Rachel Taylor, neuropsychologist and founder of UnBroken.

An expert on the cognitive mechanics of grief and loss, Rachel shares her thoughts on how we interface with these difficult experiences - and what we can all do to develop our perception of death.

Touching on mirror neurons and the effects of our environment, the relationship of alcohol with the brain, and the potential upside of planning for death - our candid discussion reveals itself as a lesson for better educating our brains.

Welcome to a deep dive into ‘self’, karma and moral psychology.

Our guide: Kevin Berryman, Buddhist monk and doctoral student at Monash University.

Kevin outlines some topics explored in his research - that aims to get to the bottom of what makes us who we are and how time on the mat influences the way we interact with the world.

Citing Ram Dass, Malcom Gladwell and Robert Sapolsky, our discussion reveals a message of encouragement - to balance internal exploration with a positive, meaningful contribution to the world.