In this episode, Andres we delve into the groundbreaking work of Qualia Research Institute (Andres’ core project), uncovering its ambitious principles and goals aimed at understanding the very core of consciousness and suffering. From the quest to grasp the conditions for meaningful existence to the pursuit of reducing extreme suffering and enhancing positive conscious experiences. We talk about the computational properties of the mind and the nature of joy and suffering. Through the symmetry theory of valence, we decode the underlying patterns that shape our experiences of bliss and suffering. Gain insights into how understanding the texture of experience and fostering pro-social emotions like loving-kindness can lead to profound shifts in well-being.Whether you're a seasoned explorer of consciousness or a curious newcomer, this episode offers a thought-provoking exploration of the frontiers of human experience. Prepare to expand your understanding of consciousness and uncover the secrets of bliss and suffering with Andres Gomez and the Qualia Research Institute. Get full access to Becoming Conscious at becomeconscious.substack.com/subscribe

In this thought-provoking discussion, political philosopher and metamodern thinker Daniel Görtz offers a radical new lens for making sense of our conflicting modern era. As a leader of "the Nordic school" and co-author of the influential "Hanzi Freinacht" book series, Daniel argues that both traditional and progressive worldviews are ultimately flawed and self-undermining.He posits that metamodernism can coordinate the legitimate perspectives of traditionalists, mainstream modernity, and the postmodern critics - without simply defaulting to absolutist stances that inevitably alienate and silence others. Daniel unpacks how metamodernism's "sincere irony" and "serious playfulness" allow for the creative leaps needed to transcend modernism's limitations and postmodernism's self-defeating deconstructions.Drawing from developmental theory and integral thought, he envisions an evolved societal framework that is nevertheless uncompromising in including and negotiating multiple value systems. By taking a "metamodern" approach grounded in nuanced coordination of conflicting perspectives, Daniel offers a timely third way for healing our culture wars and evolving beyond the modern/postmodern deadlock. Get full access to Becoming Conscious at becomeconscious.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode we speak on utilizing strategy in service of deepening our capacity to love, be in relationship, develop virtue and ethical capacities, increase cognitive complexity and increase emotional intelligence. As well as:* Strategy serves as a defense against the white noise of the digital age, clarifying our purpose in each waking moment.* It applies to personal facets of life such as emotional, spiritual, and relationship development, rather than just career progression.* Confronting the smallest fears can lead to a cascade of courage, unlocking doors we once thought impenetrable. Get full access to Becoming Conscious at becomeconscious.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode I speak on how humanity is still enslaved. We’re all selling our souls to a system that none of us can stop. It started before we were born and now the only way to survive in today’s world is to commit your life-force to this machine. What are the implications of this? How does it show up in our lives? What can we do about it? These are all questions I ask in this episode. Get full access to Becoming Conscious at becomeconscious.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode I speak with Danial Garner from the OG Rose duo, and we speak on embodying virtues and engaging in existential preparation is essential for personal growth, effective decision-making, and creating a better world.Timestamps* 00:00 Prioritizing the Internal Life* 11:18 The Conflation of Virtue and Morality* 25:03 Existential Anxiety & Discernment in Virtue Development* 33:16 Virtue Training Improves Mental health* 47:51 Writing and Internal Challenges as Existential Prep* 56:18 Standing Strong in Face of Criticism* 01:04:32 Virtue Training As Antidote to Close-Mindedness* 01:14:34 Truth, Goodness and Beauty Get full access to Becoming Conscious at becomeconscious.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode I speak with Vince Horn about how multiplayer meditation, incorporating AI systems and interpersonal practices, can deepen human connection and create meaningful impact in the world.Linkshttps://meditatewith.ai/vincehorn.spaceTimestamps* 00:00 Multiplayer Meditation* 15:19 Interpersonal Practices* 33:41 AI Meditation* 43:09 Social and Spiritual Impact Through Business* 55:09 Honoring Spiritual, Social, and Cultural Capital* 01:10:22 Building Ethical Organizations within Capitalism* 01:22:38 Meditation through an App Get full access to Becoming Conscious at becomeconscious.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode I speak with Artem Zen and we explore Zen communities of practice, balancing intellect and wisdom, pursuing Truth as our life path, circling practice, shedding attachments, different schools of Buddhism, and deepening into the profundity of the mundane.Links to Artem’s ProjectsArtem’s Youtube ChannelHis WebsiteElevating Consciousness Podcast on SpotifyElevating Consciousness on Apple PodcastsTimestamps00:00 Zen practice, Monastic Academy12:14 Psychedelics, Meditation, Awakening19:20 Radical Experimentation and Finding Buddhist Practice That Works for You36:23 Daily Meditation, Concentration and Insight Practices, Emotional Layers of Practice52:23 The Pursuit of Truth01:04:11 Start with Transformation, Attachment Work, Dropping Stories01:12:33 Embracing the Unknown, Emptiness, Profundity in the Mundane Get full access to Becoming Conscious at becomeconscious.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode I sit down with Cory Katuna and we talk about how to uncover hidden motives, the choice-point where realize we realize our identity is chosen, how positive feelings relate to higher degrees of truth, and how manipulation is everywhere and what it takes to become conscious of it in ourselves so we can change our behavior and much much more. Cory on Instagram: @corykatuna Get full access to Becoming Conscious at becomeconscious.substack.com/subscribe

Dan Schmidt is a meditation teacher and has created multiple highly acclaimed documentaries on the topics of Samadhi, Awakening and understanding the world religions. We speak on the topics of what it takes to release our attachments to self and the stories that we hold, why environments of no escape are so important, psychedelic use to support awakening practice and much more. Links to Dan’s WorkAwaken the WorldSamadhi Part 1Samadhi Part 2Samadhi Part 3Inner Worlds Outer Worlds Get full access to Becoming Conscious at becomeconscious.substack.com/subscribe

Daniel Ingram, meditation teacher and author, discusses impermanence, insight practices, and the nature of sensations. They explore shifting desires, distinguish mental and physical sensations, and reflect on cascades of cause and effect. The speakers also delve into the human experience, the value of concentration, and express gratitude for wisdom shared by others.