I talk with writer, author, and esoteric health practitioner ARE THORESEN.The language of inevitability is upon us, and it is a cruel language, one that allows no discussion of freedom or our ability to direct things. The future - a terrible future - is filled with AI, the effects of climate crisis, fascisms, and wars. And our present - a terrible present - is only going to get worse.In other words, we're given a unified picture of where we're going and what's happening and how to feel about all of it.Of course, the language of inevitability can only show us relatively little. A narrow look at presumed (or manipulated) outcomes.The future is as wide open as ever.Difference and mutability is closer to the truth: whatever happens will happen differently, to different places, and to each and every one of us.Why? Because material laws and spiritual laws flourish differently in each person's life. We all have our own levels and areas of understanding, aptitude, capacity, and education. We all express differing variations on one theme, but that theme is the cosmos.This is the starting point for my conversation with occultist, veterinarian, and author, ARE THORSEN. Are has been on the show many times, most recently on AEWCH 243, when we talked about illness, health, and the end of materialism. Also on AEWCH 205 on Ragnarok, and AEWCH 116 on demonology & nothingness. His most recent books, The Four Doors and Fading and Merging are available via Amazon. Other recent books (which you can order via independent bookstore through the links here) include Meeting Michael: Further Communications from Spirit Worlds and Travels on the Northern Path of Initiation: Vidar and Baldur, the Three Elemental Realms and the Inner and Outer Etheric Worlds.On this episode, we discuss the technique of connecting with the spiritual world, and more specifically why meditation isn't enough... we need to walk into the spiritual world. And how?

My guest this episode is writer, scholar, teacher, and astrologer, RONNIE PONTIAC. I've been impressed and informed by Ronnie's esoteric work for awhile now, and finally, we got to have our first conversation. And it's a profound one...We talk about the need for a spiritual path in our moment, and how the alternative is... well, quite grim. We talk about how spirituality can lead us into a path of hatred and personal gain. We talk about my suspicion about astrology, how I think it works, how I think it does’t work, why so much of it is wrong (and why Ronnie is so often right!). And there's so much more on this episode (Including my extended intro on the esoteric aim of being a Friend To Humanity.)Ronnie was a key figure at the Philosophical Research Society founded in 1934 by Manly Palmer Hall. The PRS is still around, and promotes, teaches, and offers research opportunities into the esoteric & philosophical of all societies; with the values of freedom, community, objective study, and inclusiveness at its core. He's the author most recently of American Metaphysical Religion: Esoteric and Mystical Traditions of the New World. His forthcoming book, which can preorder now, is The Rosicrucian Counterculture: The Origins and Influence of the Invisible Society.

I talk with spiritual teacher and author Lisa Romero about the challenges that are facing us today and an unlikely key to progressing through them: the esoteric mysteries of Ireland.

In this engaging discussion, author Alexander Chee delves into the nourishing power of reading in uncertain times. He emphasizes how literature enriches our experiences and offers comfort amidst chaos. Chee also explores the art of authentic storytelling, encouraging deeper narratives over superficiality. The conversation takes a unique turn with tarot readings, linking them to personal empowerment and identity. Throughout, themes of transformation in literature and the dark allure of horror are examined, making for a thought-provoking dive into how we navigate our lives through stories.

Cheyney Ryan, a leading voice in peace activism and founder of the Institute for Ethics, Law, and Armed Conflict at Oxford, discusses the urgent need for a proactive peace vocabulary. He critiques how history shapes our perceptions of war and advocates for nonviolence as a powerful societal change tool. The conversation highlights the disconnect between modern warfare narratives and pacifist views, emphasizing youth advocacy's role in reshaping political landscapes. Cheyney also encourages spiritual connection and inner work as essential to nurturing peace.

Caitlin Doughty, bestselling author and host of the Ask A Mortician YouTube channel, delves into profound themes of mortality and grief. She discusses how facing our fears about death can lead to personal growth and resilience. The importance of navigating grief, including complex familial relationships, is explored, alongside practical exercises like creating a 'loss list.' Doughty emphasizes that engaging with death not only heals but also enriches our appreciation of life, encouraging listeners to embrace mortality as a path to deeper emotional connections.

Dean Spade, an organizer, activist, and writer, discusses the transformative power of connection in combating societal disconnection. He emphasizes how genuine relationships can foster mutual aid and resilience, especially in times of crisis. Spade introduces ideas from his book, 'Love in a F*cked-Up World,' advocating for relationships grounded in desire and community support. The conversation also touches on the importance of navigating grief together, building consent, and redefining masculinity to create a more inclusive society.

Bastiaan Baan, a teacher, author, and former Christian Community priest, delves into impactful themes surrounding prayer and spirituality. He discusses the transformative power of prayer, exploring its ability to purify and connect individuals to their divine spark. Listeners hear poignant stories of resilience through suffering and the healing that prayer can bring. Baan emphasizes personalized morning prayers and the importance of creating sacred spaces, helping individuals navigate uncertainty with intention and hope.

Rob Hopkins, author of "From What Is to What If" and founder of the Transition Network, joins to discuss envisioning a hopeful future. They explore the transformative power of imagination in fostering community engagement and tackling environmental issues. Topics include the importance of reframing societal challenges, grassroots activism, and innovative solutions for local food systems. Hopkins emphasizes creativity and diverse voices as essential to driving positive change, urging listeners to engage actively in shaping their futures.

The task ahead is daunting: We must totally recreate economy, politics, and culture. How can we move forward with help from the three gifts of the magi: gold, frankincense, and myrrh?