Living Mirrors with Dr. James Cooke

Ask questions for the next AMA via patreon or the channel membership community (click the "join" button above): Topics (in order addressed): The ocean of suffering, meditation advice, environmental triggers for conceptual thinking, alcohol, psychedelics for OCD & psychedelic integration Credits: Animations by Janko Pješivac

Ask questions for the next AMA: Topics (in order addressed): the origins of collective trauma, panpsychism, the ayahuasca experience, the therapeutic potential of different psychedelics Credits: Animations by Janko Pješivac

Philip Goff, a philosopher and consciousness researcher at Durham University, dives deep into panpsychism, the idea that consciousness is fundamental to the universe. He discusses how consciousness intertwines with thought and self-awareness, and challenges conventional views on its measurement in science. Goff advocates for integrating the qualitative aspects of consciousness, exploring philosophical ramifications beyond Galileo's ideas. The conversation touches on the nature of consciousness across entities, and what it might mean for personal identity and life after death.

Topics (in order addressed): Changing the political system, connecting with nature, the neuroscience of dreaming, paranoia & cannabis, trip sitting advice

Peter Sjöstedt-Hughes, a philosopher of mind known for his work on panpsychism and altered states, joins the discussion to explore the fascinating intersection of psychedelics and philosophy. He delves into how psychedelics challenge our perceptions of reality and question traditional notions of morality through the lens of neo-nihilism. The conversation highlights the complexity of consciousness, drawing from historical thinkers like Whitehead and Kant. Peter also teases insights from his upcoming book, encouraging a deeper understanding of the transformative power of psychedelic experiences.

On today's episode I share some thoughts on individual and societal suffering and their basis in the denial of disorder.

Chris Timmermann, a neuroscientist at Imperial College London’s Centre for Psychedelic Research, delves into the fascinating world of DMT. He highlights the rich cultural context of DMT and ayahuasca, discussing their profound effects on perception and personal narratives. The conversation explores the challenges of studying DMT scientifically while valuing subjective experiences. Timmermann sheds light on the intense sensations, geometric patterns, and deep self-perception changes users report, advocating for a mindful approach to these transformative journeys.

Ask questions for the next AMA via patreon or the YouTube channel membership community: Topics (in order addressed): Depression, podcast recommendations, ayahuasca, understanding our motivations, self care & helping others.

In this engaging discussion, Sarah Rose Siskind, a psychedelic comedian and former lead writer for StarTalk, shares her unique insights into the blend of humor, psychedelics, and science. She highlights the importance of harm reduction in drug education and explores Portugal's progressive drug policies. The conversation dives into how comedy can shift cultural perceptions of psychedelics, emphasizing emotional healing and cognitive liberty. Additionally, they touch on self-love generated through psychedelic experiences and innovative ways to communicate STEM topics effectively.

Darren Le Baron is an organic horticulturist, food enterprise tutor, educator, and event organizer based in the UK. He is a keen mushroom cultivator and has been growing gourmet and medicinal mushrooms for over a decade.  He teaches an online Shroomshop Master class where he teaches the art of mushroom cultivation and he is the mycologist in residence at London’s Somerset House.  Darren is also a qualified Permaculture teacher and facilitator and supports businesses and communities in creating sustainable working systems and environments.  He is a member of London’s Psychedelic Society where he presents regularly, and is also a chair and committee member for the psychedelic conference Breaking Convention.  Today we talk about psilocybin mushrooms and what humans can learn from mushrooms in general.