Josh Schrei, mythologist and host of The Emerald podcast, discusses how myths and stories can guide ethical tech development by reminding us what it is to be human. The podcast explores the motivations behind AI development, the entwined relationship between AI and cultural myths, and the religious aspects of the AI discussion. It also highlights the power of stories in shaping beliefs, the importance of embodying ethics and navigating relationships, and the responsibilities and consequences in the race to build AGI.

Josh Schrei, a writer and teacher deeply versed in Indian mythologies, dives into a fascinating dialogue exploring the interplay between Tantra and animism. He reveals the role of guardian deities in spiritual protection and the transformative power of mantra nyasa. Schrei also critiques how social media affects mental health among youth, advocating for a cautious approach to sensory experiences. Additionally, he shares personal encounters in rural India, highlighting authentic spiritual practices that connect individuals to the divine.

Josh Schrei and the host delve into the interplay between psychology and spirituality, exploring topics like archetypes, Carl Jung, and the living mystery beyond psychological concepts. They discuss the transformative power of art, bardic storytelling, animating spirituality in a postmodern world, spiritual separation, depth psychology, alchemical transformation through ritual practices, and Greek philosophy and religious practices in ancient Greece.