The Higherside Chats

Chris Knowles | XF-ULTRA, Conspiracy Culture, & Anne Heche

Sep 28, 2025
Chris Knowles, an author and cultural analyst renowned for his insights on conspiracy culture and The X-Files, takes listeners on a captivating journey through his new book, XF-ULTRA. He discusses deep connections between the show and real-world conspiracies, including the mysterious death of Anne Heche. Knowles reveals how hallucinogens play a critical role in X-Files narratives and examines unsettling patterns surrounding Heche's death. With links to cultural zeitgeist events and synchronicities, this conversation unveils layers of intrigue in both pop culture and covert operations.
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INSIGHT

X‑Files As Cultural Mirror

  • The X-Files wove mainstream conspiratorial themes into 90s prime time and shaped cultural skepticism.
  • Chris Knowles argues the show contains many hidden layers beyond simple alien narratives.
INSIGHT

Aliens And Hallucinogens Intertwined

  • Chris Knowles links the show's alien stories with recurrent mushroom and psychedelic motifs.
  • He argues many X‑Files episodes parallel hallucinogen experiences rather than literal extraterrestrial contact.
INSIGHT

Top‑Down Funding Of Ufology

  • Wealthy backers like Lawrence Rockefeller funded UFO and New Age institutions, blending belief and influence.
  • Knowles sees top-down support as part of a broader cultural and organizational push in ufology.
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