Guru Viking Podcast

Ray Russell, founder of Tartarus Press and author of 'T. Lobsang Rampa And Other Characters of Questionable Faith,' delves into the enigmatic life of T. Lobsang Rampa. Once Cyril Henry Hoskin, Rampa claimed to channel a Tibetan Lama, stirring debates on authenticity and cultural impact. Russell explores the psychological allure of faith and the motivations behind fictional narratives. They discuss Rampa’s legacy in popularizing Tibetan Buddhism and the ongoing fascination with myth and belief, questioning how hoaxes shape our understanding of spirituality.

Victor Shiryaev, a teacher of Buddhist and modern meditation, shares his fascinating journey from a Soviet childhood to spiritual awakening. He reflects on the influence of New Age concepts and his studies in Advaita Vedanta. Highlighting a meeting with mindfulness teacher Shinzen Young, Victor discusses their contrasting views on the path to awakening. He also critiques the Pragmatic Dharma's mapping of spiritual experiences, emphasizing personal insights and the significance of mindfulness in navigating life's challenges.

Lama Glenn Mullin, a Tibetan Buddhism scholar, joins Oded Rahav, CEO of Dead Sea Guardians, to discuss the enchanting allure of the Dead Sea. Oded shares his passion for this mystical body of water and its sacred nature, while Glenn delves into the powerful energies of sacred places and their historical significance. Together, they explore the Dead Sea's environmental decline, its potential to foster peace in the region, and the impact of storytelling in raising awareness about its preservation. Their dialogue weaves together spirituality, conservation, and advocacy.

Alex W is a long-term practitioner of Zen, Pragmatic Dharma, and Western Occultism, sharing his fascinating journey from an elite upbringing to spiritual insights. He discusses his mentorship under renowned figures and the powerful Abramelin Ritual for kundalini awakening. Alex recounts his profound encounters with spiritual beings like Kālī Mā and Hecate, delving into the intricate balance between Zen practices and Western occultism. He reflects on the transformative blend of chaos and divine connection in his spiritual exploration.

Delve into an inspiring spiritual journey where personal experiences shape understanding. Discover the fusion of mindfulness and movement through the Movement Koan Method. Explore how solitude and wilderness survival enrich personal insights. Engage with the transformative power of challenging experiences on everyday life. Learn practical advice on integrating movement into meditation, and hear reflections on questioning beliefs from diverse backgrounds. This conversation blends humor with deep philosophical insights, offering a unique take on personal growth.

Lama Justin von Bujdoss, an American Buddhist teacher and dark retreat yogi, joins Dr. Caroline van Damme, a psychiatrist specializing in chronic psychotic disorders. They delve into the risks of psychosis linked to extreme spiritual practices like dark retreats. The duo shares personal anecdotes, stressing the importance of readiness and a strong mental foundation before undertaking intense spiritual journeys. Additionally, they discuss the delicate balance between spiritual ambition and mental health, advocating for better psychological support in spiritual communities.

Ani Pema, an American nun in Tibetan Buddhism and former Siddha Yoga swami, shares her captivating spiritual journey. From her fashion career at Vogue to seeking deeper meaning, she discusses transformative experiences with renowned gurus like Swami Muktananda and the 16th Karmapa. Pema explores the powerful phenomenon of shaktipat, sharing insights on its implications and the challenges of spirituality. She offers heartfelt advice for seekers on navigating their paths and finding the right guru for their spiritual growth.

In this engaging discussion, Mary Shutan, an author and spiritual teacher, dives into the world of modern spirit work. She clarifies the distinction between spirit pacts and contracts, warning of potential pitfalls in dealing with unknown entities. Mary critiques the use of 'shaman' and reflects on the complexities of modern shamanism, urging a deeper connection to animism instead. Her personal journeys, including a challenging encounter with the Abramelin ritual, highlight the psychological impacts of magickal practices on individual well-being. A thought-provoking exploration!

Johan Hausen, a Taoist teacher and founder of Purple Cloud Press, shares his transformative journey from competitive Taekwondo to Wu Dang's ancient teachings. He discusses the nuances of learning Classical versus Spoken Chinese and the challenges of translating complex texts. Johan dives into the Taoist quest for immortality, the intriguing concept of dantian, and his research on the mineral cinnabar. He also reflects on the intricate balance of traditional alchemical beliefs and modern science, offering a unique perspective on spiritual cultivation and cultural integration.

Dr. Tawni Tidwell, a biocultural anthropologist and Tibetan medicine expert, explores the intriguing yogic death practice of Tukdam and its scientific investigation. Dr. Michael Sheehy discusses how these practices challenge current neuroscience models of the body. Dr. Julian Schott reflects on the clash between Buddhist and Cartesian views of consciousness. The trio dives into the significance of clear light awareness and the transformative nature of tantra, revealing how ancient practices can reshape modern understandings of life, consciousness, and death.