Duncan Trussell on: Being a Spiritual Omnivore, Whether Psychedelics Are a Bridge to the Divine, and How the Gates of Hell Are Locked From the Inside
Sep 18, 2023
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Guest Duncan Trussell, a comedian and actor, discusses topics such as depression, meditation, spirituality, psychedelics, and the creative process. He shares his unique perspective on the psychological states associated with Buddhist hell realms, the transcendent realm of the universe, and the connection between enlightenment and comedy. The discussion also explores the intersection of ambition and family, and the importance of enjoying one's ego while having a contemplative practice.
Personal connection to a transcendent realm doesn't depend on others' belief or understanding.
Contemplative practice can enhance comedic ability by creating self-awareness and spontaneity.
Love for the act of creating is key to staying grounded in the entertainment industry.
Deep dives
The Delight of Discovering the Transcendent Realm
Duncan Trussell discusses the concept of a transcendent realm in the universe and the personal connection he feels to it. He recognizes that this connection may not be quantifiable or provable in a scientific sense, but it is a subjective experience reported by countless people over thousands of years. He emphasizes that this connection is personal and doesn't depend on others believing or understanding it.
The Compatibility of Comedy and Contemplative Practice
Trussell addresses the misconception that engaging in contemplative practice, such as meditation, would hinder one's ability to be funny or judgmental. He highlights that comedy can stem from self-awareness and the ability to see one's own craziness. He asserts that having a different relationship with one's racing ego can actually enhance comedic ability and make one more spontaneous and available for improvisation.
The Role of Mindfulness in Thriving in the Entertainment Industry
Trussell shares insights on navigating the entertainment industry and managing anxieties within it. He emphasizes that love for the act of creating and making things is key to staying grounded and enjoying the process, regardless of external outcomes or successes. He also mentions the importance of not being too dependent on external achievements, highlighting the Buddhist concept of focusing on action while letting go of attachment to outcome.
The Potential of Human Evolution
The podcast explores the idea that all human progress is leading towards the emergence of a super organism connected through neural lace. This would allow us to perceive a new reality or understand aspects of reality that were previously invisible. The speaker emphasizes the personal experience of this potential evolution, describing it as a beautiful and exciting phenomenon.
Viewing Hell as a Psychological State
The podcast delves into the concept of hell as a psychological state rather than a physical place. Drawing from Buddhist teachings, the speaker describes hell as a state of complete disconnection from the world, absolute selfishness, and a constant pursuit of the causes of suffering. The speaker also highlights the power of love and the possibility for transcendence through love and surrender. Additionally, the podcast touches on the role of psychedelics as potential bridges to the divine and experiences of unity.
Duncan Trussell is an American actor and stand-up comic. And he doesn’t like being called a Buddhist comedian. It makes sense… that label unfairly pigeonholes him in two ways. First, because he’s a legit, successful, hilarious comedian, no matter what his spiritual leanings. Duncan has written and appeared in sketches for two seasons of Fuel TV's Stupidface, Showtime's La La Land, Comedy Central's Nick Swardson's Pretend Time, and both seasons of HBO's Funny or Die Presents. His television credits include MADtv and Curb Your Enthusiasm.
And when it comes to the spiritual stuff, he’s not just a Buddhist. This guy is spiritually omnivorous. And he knows his shit. He has practiced extensively. And on his podcast, The Duncan Trussell Family Hour, he interviews meditation teachers like Jack Kornfield and Sharon Salzberg. In fact, Netflix turned his pod into a cult favorite animated TV show, called The Midnight Gospel.
In this episode we talk about:
Depression, anxiety, death, and Duncan’s interpretation of God
How meditation helps him handle the insanity of Hollywood
The Buddhist hell realms as psychological states
Spirituality and psychedelics
If having a contemplative practice can hurt our job, form of expression, or ambition
Karmic and samsaric patterns – and enjoying your ego while you have one