The Great Unlearn Unlearning the Man I Thought I Was: Cal as Guest on Liquid Life
Dec 8, 2025
Cal Callahan, founder of Unlearn Ventures and host of The Great Unlearn podcast, shares his powerful journey of unlearning societal conditioning. He dives deep into exploring spirituality, the transformative effects of psychedelics, and the challenges of fatherhood. Cal highlights the importance of compassion and presence in relationships, especially with his parents. He discusses the interplay between surrender and personal growth, all while bridging alternative practices to mainstream audiences in an effort to inspire deeper connections.
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Near-Death Moment Sparked A Radical Reset
- Cal described being at the 2017 Las Vegas mass shooting and how it triggered an 18-month existential inquiry into purpose.
- That moment shifted him from chasing external success to exploring meditation, plant medicine, breathwork, and spiritual practices.
Show Up And Ask For Help
- Show up regularly to whatever practice grounds you and ask for help instead of insisting you must do it alone.
- Build discernment slowly and welcome partners who hold you with grace during the messy transition.
Prayer Came Late But Opened Doors
- Cal shared that he didn't pray until age 53 and felt disenfranchised with Christianity before rediscovering selective spiritual practice.
- Visiting a church in Austin gave him usable lessons while allowing him to leave what didn't fit.