Oprah's Super Soul Super Soul Special: Ram Dass: The Life of a Spiritual Teacher
4 snips
Oct 16, 2025 
In this enlightening discussion, spiritual teacher Ram Dass—formerly Richard Alpert—opens up about his extraordinary journey from Harvard professor to renowned guru. He reflects on the profound emptiness he felt despite his early successes and reveals how psychedelics led him to mystical experiences. Ram Dass shares the transformative impact of meeting his guru, Maharaji, in India, and discusses his mission to introduce Eastern spiritual concepts to the West. He also provides insights on love, faith, and the joys of aging, emphasizing that true happiness comes from being present.
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Mind vs. Heart Recognition
- Ram Dass said Harvard intellects 'knew up here' but lacked heart and deeper feeling.
- Psychedelics exposed him to a dimension beyond academic boxes and opened his inner life.
Psychedelics Sparked Spiritual Awakening
- Ram Dass recounted experimenting with psychedelics at Harvard alongside Timothy Leary, which produced his 'first whiff' of God.
- He later regretted promoting drugs as positive for others despite their role in his awakening.
Moment That Changed His Life
- Ram Dass described meeting Maharaji in Nepal and being stunned when the guru revealed personal details only he knew.
- That moment convinced him Maharaji saw his true self and inspired his life change.
