Guru Viking Podcast

by Guru Viking

NewEp388: Magus in the Media - Brandon LeeNovember 13, 2026 · 1 h 34 min

Episodes: 412
Released: weekly
Latest episode: Nov 13, 2026

About the podcast

The Guru Viking Podcast specialises in in-depth interviews with remarkable figures in the fields of meditation, spirituality, and religion.

Episodes 412

Ep388: Magus in the Media - Brandon Lee
November 13, 20261 h 34 min
In this episode I am joined by Brandon Lee, philosopher, martial artist, and host of the Magus in the Media Youtube channel. Brandon presents his view of art as magick, laments the loss of the sacred in modern …
Show notes
In this episode I am joined by Brandon Lee, philosopher, martial artist, and host of the Magus in the Media Youtube channel. Brandon presents his view of art as magick, laments the loss of the sacred in modern entertainment, and reveals what he believes to be an esoteric thread of sacred tradition that connects the epics of Homer to Frank Herbert’s Dune. Brandon explains why he considers Dune to be a sacred text, shares his belief that a spiritual feminine mystery underpins the Homeric tradition, and proposes an alchemical reading of Frank Herbert’s novels. Brandon also expresses his frustration with how comic book characters have been depicted in Hollywood movies, wrestles with the implications of changes in propaganda and messaging, and reflects on his own nostalgia for the popular entertainment of his childhood. … Also available on Youtube , iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:58 - Farming childhood in the Midwest 03:16 - Early book and TV influences 04:57 - Horror at Hollywood’s treatment of beloved comic book characters 06:38 - Critique of the Marvel Cinematic Universe 12:19 - Fictional characters as archetypes 12:55 - Characters are discovered, not created 15:20 - Bad art or wrong propaganda? 21:20 - Changing the story 24:14 - Source material and Game of Thrones 25:32 - Art as magick 28:39 - We have lost the magick 32:38 - Black magick storytelling 46:02 - Is Brandon just nostalgic for his childhood indoctrination? 49:43 - Culture is not your friend 52:49 - Should Brandon grow out of comic books 56:07 - Why insist on artistic standards in popular culture? 57:48 - Homer as a mystery school tradition 01:01:47 - The Golden Path of Dune 01:05:55 - Today’s creators shirk their duty as initiators into the sacred 01:07:06 - Linking Homer and Dune as belonging to the same sacred lineage 01:14:51 - The Divine Marriage of the masculine and feminine 01:18:53 - Why Dune can be seen as a sacred text 01:22:10 - Relating to fictional characters in magickal practice and ritual 01:27:32 - Avatar the Last Airbender 01:31:59 - Magus in the Media … Find out more about Brandon Lee: - https://www.youtube.com/@MagusintheMedia … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James If you value the podcast and would like to support its continued production, you can do so here: https://ko-fi.com/guruviking.
Ep387: The Metaphysical Supermarket - Dr. Johannes Niederhauser
November 6, 20261 h 39 min
In this episode I am joined by Dr Johannes Niederhauser, philosopher and Founder of Halkyon Philosophy Academy. Dr Niederhauser recalls his childhood pursuit of a classical education, early interest in ancient …
Show notes
In this episode I am joined by Dr Johannes Niederhauser, philosopher and Founder of Halkyon Philosophy Academy. Dr Niederhauser recalls his childhood pursuit of a classical education, early interest in ancient languages, and training as a philosopher at Kings College London and the University of Warwick. Dr Niederhauser considers the problems with religious conversion, reflects on the differences between heritage religious and convert religious attitudes, and considers whether meaning can be actively chosen. Dr Niederhauser also critiques Traditionalist writers Julius Evola (1898–1974) and René Guénon (1886–1951), comments on philosopher of history Oswald Spengler (1880-1936), and challenges popular misunderstandings about critical thinking. … Also available on Youtube , iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:49 - Childhood and classical education 04:34 - Folk Catholicism 05:15 - Johannes’ father 07:19 - Living in Jordan and Syria 12:08 - Fundamentalism seeks supremacy over history 14:59 - Johannes’ character as a boy 18:21 - Learning ancient languages to gain access to secret knowledge 21:17 - Laissez-faire parenting style 23:52 - Gap year in Canada 26:38 - Undergraduate study in philosophy, politics, and economics 29:00 - Masters degree at Kings College London 29:41 - PhD at Warwick, the UK centre for continental philosophy 34:21 - Did Johannes’ world view change? 35:29 - Steppenwolf 38:14 - Plato’s Cave and Edward Bernays 42:25 - Civil liberties as a simulation of freedom 44:08 - This is not critical thinking 46:09 - Is religious conversion to Buddhism possible? 47:19 - “Friends of the European spirit” 52:17 - Johannes on Julius Evola 53:15 - Problems with conversion to Catholicism 55:21 - Approaching Buddhism with humility 56:21 - The metaphysical supermarket 57:21 - Goethe’s transformative appropriation 58:26 - After the death of Christianity 01:00:18 - You cannot choose what is meaningful 01:02:52 - Nolan’s Odyssey 01:05:03 - In praise of alienation 01:05:55 -A contemplative reading exercise for Plato’s Cave 01:07:54 - Different types of conversion 01:09:24 - Contrived meaning-making 01:09:57 - Spengler and embracing the metaphysical supermarket 01:14:59 - Critique of Spengler 10:18:17 - The human spirit needs resistance 01:20:17 - The prescription 01:21:47 - Hegel’s freedom of spirit 01:23:18 - Spengler universalises his own position 01:23:42 - Collingwood and Guénon 01:24:34 - Two options for the world 01:25:59 - Darwinism and the selfish gene 01:28:04 - Contemplating Dōgen 01:30:07 - Mindfulness is slave morality 01:30:55 - Keep calm and carry on 01:33:46 - Faust is everything 01:36:46 - How to practice … Find out more about Dr. Johannes Niederhauser: - https://www.youtube.com/c/ClassicalPhilosophy - https://halkyonacademy.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James If you value the podcast and would like to support its continued production, you can do so here: https://ko-fi.com/guruviking.
Ep386: Celebrating 10 Years of Sky Press Publications - Christiana Polites 2 - BONUS EPISODE
November 3, 20261 h 7 min
In this episode I am once joined by Christiana Polites for a bonus episode to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of her independent publishing house, Sky Press Publications. Christiana recounts the origin of Sky …
Show notes
In this episode I am once joined by Christiana Polites for a bonus episode to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of her independent publishing house, Sky Press Publications. Christiana recounts the origin of Sky Press Publications, her ongoing collaboration with Dr Nida Chengatsang, and reveals why their venture has never had a coherent business plan. Christiana takes us through the entire catalogue with anecdotes and reflections about the publishing and reception of books such as “Karmamudra: The Yoga of Bliss” and “Foundations of Vajrayana Buddhism: A Guide to Yuthok's Healing Path”. Christiana also gives her advice for assembling and leading creative teams and reflects on the future of religious publishing. … Also available on Youtube , iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:51 - A love of books 03:40 - Founding Sky Press Books with Nida Chenagtsang 07:36 - No business plan 10:16 - Print on demand strategy 12:26 - Dual mission of Sky Press Books 14:53 - Moral aim of the karmamudra book 17:25 - Showing Karmamudra: The Yoga of Bliss 18:14 - Medical perspective gives context to Buddhist teaching 20:32 - Religion and culture 22:22 - Criticism of the karmamudra book 24:00 - “Mirror of Light” book tour anecdotes 25:41 - Weapon of Light: Introduction to Ati Yoga Meditation 26:28 - Nejang: Tibetan Self-Healing Yoga 30:19 - Surprisingly powerful practice 31:40 - Nejang vs tsa lung trulkhor movements 33:50 - Foundations of Sowa Rigpa: A Guide to the Root Tantra of Tibetan Medicine 36:18 - Working with Dr Ben Joffe 39:03 - Reflections on building a team 42:38 - Systems that support the vision 44:18 - Supporters and benefactors 47:17 - How does Sky Press fit into the dharma publishing scene? 49:30 - Let Meditation Be Thy Medicine: The Timeless Healing Wisdom of Tibet 50:50 - Foundations of Vajrayana Buddhism: A Guide to Yuthok's Healing Path 52:44 - Translations into foreign languages 53:48 - Using books for home retreat 55:30 - A Guide to Kunye and the External Therapies of Sowa Rigpa 56:40 - The Flight of the Garuda 58:02 - The Sowa Rigpa Journal, including Steve’s article 59:16 - Thoughts about book collecting 01:00:30 - Advice for those who wish to self publish 01:01:40 - The next decade of Sky Press Publications 01:04:47 - Audiobooks, music, and the arts 01:05:34 - Preserving Tibetan teachings … Previous episodes with Christiana Polites: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=polites Find out more about Christiana Polites: - https://skypresspublications.com/ - https://www.yangchenma.org/christiana - https://purelandfarms.com/teachers … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James If you value the podcast and would like to support its continued production, you can do so here: https://ko-fi.com/guruviking.
Ep385: The Independent Disciple - Christiana Polites
October 30, 20261 h 58 min
In this episode I am joined by Christiana Polites, practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism, long time collaborator of Tibetan spiritual teacher Nida Chenagtsang, and founder of Sky Press Books, Pure Land Farms, the …
Show notes
In this episode I am joined by Christiana Polites, practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism, long time collaborator of Tibetan spiritual teacher Nida Chenagtsang, and founder of Sky Press Books, Pure Land Farms, the Sowa Rigpa Institute, and more. Christiana recalls her privileged upbringing in Manhattan, New York; her education in comparative religions at Harvard University; and her deep involvement in the 90s New York yoga scene. Christiana talks about her discipleship under and collaborations with Nida Chenagtsang, reflects on the tantric guru-disciple relationship, and considers the trend of asking one’s guru for advice about life choices. Christiana shares her own journey to personal empowerment and self-direction, why working closely with a guru requires adaptability, and gives a potted history of the many religious and cultural organisations she has founded. … Also available on Youtube , iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 02:42 - Upbringing in Manhattan 05:54 - Beginnings of spiritual questioning 06:50 - History of religions class 09:08 - New York yoga in the 90s 10:55 - Spiritual side of yoga in the 90s 13:00 - Body bliss 16:37 - Quitting yoga overnight 22:05 - Studying comparative religions at Harvard 25:55 - Influential professors and deciding against academia 28:43 - Areas of study 30:18 - Life-changing 3 months in Bodhgaya 32:46 - A survey of the 3 yanas 35:02 - Connecting with Tibetan Buddhism 37:52 - Gradual vs sudden awakening 39:42 - Constitutional type vs karma 41:03 - Pros and cons of kapha/bad kan constitution 42:38 - Character change vs peak experiences 44:49 - Fruits of the path 45:47 - Adaptability and working with Dr Nida 47:52 - Dr Nida’s spontaneous creativity 49:28 - Life after Harvard, further study of Tibetan Buddhism, and Chinese medicine studies 52:14 - Gurus in Colorado 53:22 - Decision not to study @ Naropa 53:42 - When did Christiana become a Buddhist? 55:25 - Plant medicines and meeting Dr Nida 01:01:26 - Taoist medicine studies in China 01:05:33 - Asking Dr Nida for advice and founding Yanchenma Healing Arts 01:10:47 - Culture of asking the guru for life advice 01:13:37 - Becoming personally empowered and the burden of logistics 01:20:40 - Healthy separation 01:22:48 - Having a dharma centre 01:24:13 - Reflections on the guru-disciple relationship with Dr Nida 01:30:43 - What motivates Christiana’s practice? 01:34:48 - Basic teachings vs advanced practices 01:40:03 - Founding Sky Press Publications 01:48:02 - Founding the Sowa Rigpa Institute 01:50:17 - Founding Yangchenma Arts and Music with Simone Giuliani 01:52:51 - An auspicious year 01:54:55 - An unusual sangha … Find out more about Christiana Polites: - https://skypresspublications.com/ - https://www.yangchenma.org/christiana - https://purelandfarms.com/teachers … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James If you value the podcast and would like to support its continued production, you can do so here: https://ko-fi.com/guruviking.
Ep384: Edgy Gurus & Rude Dharma - Samuel Bercholz
October 23, 20261 h 36 min
In this episode I am once again joined by Samuel Bercholz, a senior teacher in the Nyingma and Kagyu lineages of Tibetan Buddhism, founder of Shambala publications, and author of “Rude Awakenings:An …
Show notes
In this episode I am once again joined by Samuel Bercholz, a senior teacher in the Nyingma and Kagyu lineages of Tibetan Buddhism, founder of Shambala publications, and author of “Rude Awakenings:An Unconventional Guide to the Buddhist Path”. Sam reflects on the controversial behaviour of his guru, Tibetan Buddhist teacher Chogyam Trungpa; explores the uneasy relationship between enlightenment and morality; and reports Thinley Norbu Rinpoche’s enthusiasm for cleaning and toilet hygiene. Sam explains why he believes that the ground of meditation is hopelessness, shares his own past skepticism about Buddhist doctrines of awakening, and discusses the pros and cons of publicising one’s spiritual attainments. Sam also recounts times when his gurus demonstrated omniscience and other siddhi powers, muses about a special sense of humour that comes with spiritual realisation, and reveals the centrality of working with spirits and other beings in Indo-Tibetan Tantra. … Also available on Youtube , iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:11 - High octane gurus 02:33 - Guru trends, edgy vs nice 04:07 - Dzogchen madness 05:45 - Things happen 07:43 - How lies become truth 10:04 - Claiming enlightenment 13:41 - Why meditate? 18:29 - Meditation and hopelessness 20:20 - Skepticism about the path 24:08 - Realising hopelessness 25:23 - From depression to liberation 26:18 - The middle way 29:09 - No problem amidst problems 32:29 - No more working hard 35:27 - Guru relationship vs personal practice 38:09 - Chod practice 39:46 - Ngondro, the preliminary practices 40:45 - Is more practice better? 44:13 - The mind of the 16th Karmapa 45:02 - Enlightened humour 47:46 - The cosmic joke 49:32 - Concepts about enlightenment 51:56 - Thiney Norbu Rinpoche’s fanaticism about cleaning and toilet practice 53:38 - Enlightenment vs moral development 55:20 - The ālaya, all-ground 55:59 - Wrathful and peaceful deities 59:04 - Spiritual bliss 01:00:32 - Esoteric and drop the scientific method 01:01:11 - Morality and gurus 01:03:30 - Vinaya is based on human error 01:05:00 - Vajrayana morality 01:06:06 - Why people hate Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche 01:09:02 - The Merwin incident 01:09:35 - Trungpa slept with his students 01:11:59 - Does Trungpa’s bad reputation bother Sam? 01:14:20 - Why Sam wrote Rude Awakenings 01:15:38 - Building an enlightened society 01:16:39 - Why Trungpa’s enlightened society crumbled 01:17:36 - Guided Tour of Hell 01:18:54 - Guru omniscience and psychic powers 01:23:06 - Thinley Norbu Rinpoche’s omniscience 01:25:53 - ESP and entity contact in Tantra 01:28:37 - Why Buddhist Tantra is failing 01:29:36 - Working with spirits 01:32:09 - Emphasising the Indo-Tibetan link 01:33:16 - Narpoa, Tilopa, and Padmasambhava To purchase “Rude Awakenings: vist: - https://www.shambhala.com/rude-awakenings.html For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James If you value the podcast and would like to support its continued production, you can do so here: https://ko-fi.com/guruviking.
Ep383: Am I a False Prophet? - Alan Chapman
October 16, 20261 h 34 min
In this episode I am once again joined by Alan Chapman, British writer, occultist, and spiritual teacher. In episode 370, Alan shared a prophecy and predicted that a major disaster would occur in New York on …
Show notes
In this episode I am once again joined by Alan Chapman, British writer, occultist, and spiritual teacher. In episode 370, Alan shared a prophecy and predicted that a major disaster would occur in New York on the 11th of September 2026. No such disaster occurred. In this episode, Alan wrestles with the implications of his failed prediction; confronts the possible suffering he may have caused others; and shares his experiences before, during, and after the predicted day Alan explores the concept of the false prophet, considers whether or not he is one, and describes Satanism as a force of accusation against God. Alan also reflects on conscious reputation destruction for spiritual growth, compares Crowley with Christ, and warns about the danger of using prophecy for personal gain. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:01 - Alan’s failed prediction 02:17 - Passing on the curse 03:36 - Despite best intentions 06:09 - Accusing God 07:28 - Is Alan a false prophet? 10:01 - A deeper sin 11:01 - Using prophecy for personal gain 13:16 - Satan and the Satanic 15:41 - Catastrophes and the nature of God 22:48 - What is justice? 25:44 - New Atheism, rejecting God, and subverting trust in God 27:06 - Why did Alan share his prediction when he knew better? 32:46 - Giving advice and the absence of God 34:32 - Taking full responsibility 37:56 - Peoples’ reactions to Alan’s failed prediction 39:21 - Personal gain and false prophets 40:36 - What if the prediction had come true? 42:50 - Alan’s experience before, during, and after the predicted day 47:07 - Consciously destroying one’s reputation 50:04 - Death of possibilities 51:01 - Puncturing idealisation of Alan 52:21 - Is death of reputation liberating? 56:44 - Pythagoras and the way of blame 59:22 - Crowley’s reputation destruction 01:04:44 - Christ as the archetype of reputation destruction 01:07:46 - Crowley’s character traits 01:12:54 - Christ vs Crowley 01:17:03 - Growth of the Soul 01:17:13 - Alan sums up what he thinks happened to him 01:19:52 - Prophecy vs prediction 01:21:44 - 4D chess 01:25:24 - Negative consequences of Alan’s failed prediction 01:26:46 - For what Alan takes responsibility 01:29:23 - Alan’s distress 01:31:01 - Demonstrating the nature of Satan 01:32:40 - Alan’s courses … Previous episodes with Alan Chapman: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=chapman To find our more about Alan Chapman visit: - https://barbarouswords.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep382: A Life of Magick - Jessica Messenger
October 9, 20261 h 24 min
In this episode I am joined by Jessica Messenger psychic, occultist and founder of a new occult bookshop, CraftHaus, in the city of Derby, England. Jessica recalls her idyllic childhood in the Midlands of …
Show notes
In this episode I am joined by Jessica Messenger psychic, occultist and founder of a new occult bookshop, CraftHaus, in the city of Derby, England. Jessica recalls her idyllic childhood in the Midlands of England, her early affinity for the weird and metaphysical, and how a life changing experience at age 17 drove her to a lifelong study of the occult. Jessica discusses psychic gifts, mediumship, tarot, ritual, and descries how she used chaos magic to radically change her financial situation. Jessica also talks about the inspiration behind starting her occult bookshop, reflects on the importance of community, and shares stories of entity encounters and visitations. … Also available on Youtube , iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:53 - Opening an occult bookstore 03:47 - Downloading ideas from spirit 05:29 - Jessica’s idyllic childhood 07:25 - An affinity for the weird and metaphysical 08:01 - Early experiments with potions and magick 09:33 - A life changing supernatural experience at age 17 14:35 - Driven to explore the occult 16:18 - Internet occult communities 18:10 - Finding a deeper spirituality in a toxic relationship 20:23 - Trauma and connecting with the spirit world 21:06 - Premonition about ex-partner’s death 23:38 - Finding herself exiting a toxic relationship 25:57 - Everything you need is within 27:51 - Learning to trust intuition 29:42 - Two sources of intuition 32:57 - Working with guides 33:46 - Years of secret occult practice 34:33 - Exploring Tarot cards 36:10 - Shame around occult practice 36:19 - Worry about the opinions of others 37:47 - Ongoing learning and mentoring others 39:33 - Chaos magick practice 41:01 - Wealth magick and radical financial gain 43:30 - Is wealth magick stealing? 45:11 - Podcasts and books 47:55 - Icons and idols 49:51 - Me-too era and mistrust of public figures 50:54 - Meditation practice 52:40 - Evolution of Jessica’s meditation practice 53:08 - Trance mediumship 55:17 - Physical sensations of spirit contact 55:40 - Psychic self defence and magickal protection 59:49 - Going beyond fear 01:01:04 - Entity encounters 01:02:15 - Visitations 01:03:29 - What do entities want? 01:05:29 - Personal lore and natural psychics 01:07:00 - Sharing magick in a relationship 01:10:17 - A hub for alternative lifestyle communities 01:13:14 - A magickal experience in the shop 01:17:13 - Using magick and psychic abilities to help others 01:20:34 - Finding CraftHaus Occult 01:22:15 - Concluding remarks … Find out more about Jessica Messenger: - https://crafthausderby.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James If you value the podcast and would like to support its continued production, you can do so here: https://ko-fi.com/guruviking.
Ep381: I Nearly Died - Delson Armstrong
October 2, 20261 h 11 min
In this episode, filmed in London, England, I am once again joined by Delson Armstrong, spiritual teacher, meditation virtuoso, and author of ”A Mind Without Craving”. Delson recounts his recent close encounter …
Show notes
In this episode, filmed in London, England, I am once again joined by Delson Armstrong, spiritual teacher, meditation virtuoso, and author of ”A Mind Without Craving”. Delson recounts his recent close encounter with death in severe floods in Missouri. He recalls fighting for his life as ten feet of water filled his retreat cabin, and how he escaped with deep laceration in his foot. Delson describes the surprising consequences of this experience including what he calls a “crotchety old man” attitude towards spiritual practice as entertainment or escapism, symptoms of trauma, and a new perspective on meditation and enjoying life. Delson also talks about the dimension of spiritual luminosity, why he hasn’t meditated since the floods, his openness to a change in life direction, and the relationship between the will to live and the ego. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:01 - Delson’s close encounter with death 06:07 - Pure survival instinct 08:47 - Escaping the flood 12:25 - Recovery 13:45 - Becoming a “crotchety old man” about spirituality 14:39 - Loosh and the demiurge 16:43 - Impatience with spiritual entertainment 17:25 - What’s important when you die 17:55 - Delson and Steve sit in silence 23:12 - Luminosity and the thinking mind 26:29 - Delson’s experience of luminosity 31:49 - Spiritual practice as escapism and avoidance 36:28 - How to embrace the present moment 40:53 - Delson’s intention to live to the fullest 42:15 - Waves and the ocean 42:54 - The importance of the spiritual journey 47:38 - Is Delson traumatised? 51:51 - Jhana-assisted therapy? 55:07 - Why Delson hasn’t meditated since the flood 57:38 - The spiritual ego 01:01:04 - There was no God that came at the point of death 01:02:14 - Meditation just for fun 01:04:01 - Surrender and openness to change of life direction 01:06:58 - Might Delson give up teaching? 01:08:26 - How to completely give up ... Watch previous episodes with Delson Armstrong: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=delson Find out more about Delson Armstrong: - https://www.delsonarmstrong.com/events - https://delsonarmstrong.substack.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James If you value the podcast and would like to support its continued production, you can do so here: https://ko-fi.com/guruviking.
Ep380: Cultivating the Jewel of Mindfulness - Har-Prakash Khalsa
September 25, 202658 min
In this episode, filmed in the city of London, I am joined by Har-Prakash Khalsa, artist, meditation teacher, and senior student and archivist of American meditation teacher Shinzen Young. Har-Prakash takes a …
Show notes
In this episode, filmed in the city of London, I am joined by Har-Prakash Khalsa, artist, meditation teacher, and senior student and archivist of American meditation teacher Shinzen Young. Har-Prakash takes a walk through London drawing on the sights and sounds of the environment to demonstrate meditation techniques and express his experience as an advanced meditator. Har-Prakash reflects on being an introvert, shares meditation strategies to work with pain and sensory overload, and recalls his early days studying with Shinzen Young. Har-Prakash also addresses common misconceptions about meditation and enlightenment, describes mystical experiences of cessation and nonduality, and emphasises the importance of adding psychological work to meditation practice. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:51 - Har-Prakash’s experience of the world as a meditator 04:25 - How to see the world differently 06:13 - Har-Prakash’s experience of the self 09:03 - Different types of cessations 12:23 - Experiencing emptiness in real time 14:11 - First cessation + working with Shinzen Young 15:16 - Dance of sensory experience 16:09 - Are mystical experiences inevitable for meditators? 18:06 - So what? 19:31 - Being useful to others 19:50 - Introversion and overcoming overwhelm 20:46 - Alienation and becoming invulnerable 22:09 - How to practice in daily life 25:24 - From meditating to “being meditated” 27:19 - Noting and labelling practice 32:48 - Dissociation and fast noting 34:07 - Noting practice as avoidance 35:54 - The ultimate addiction 40:01 - Common misunderstandings about Shinzen’s system 41:01 - Background equanimity 44:03 - Simultaneous zoom in / zoom out for knee pain 49:30 - #1 misunderstanding about enlightenment 51:43 - Adding psychological work to mindfulness … To find our more about Har-Prakash Khalsa visit: - https://www.cultivatingthejewel.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep379: Chaos Magick & Astral Travel - Graham Nicholls
September 18, 20261 h 42 min
In this episode I am joined by Graham Nicholls, a leading teacher and writer of out of body experiences (OBE). Graham recalls his working class upbringing in London, his unusual schooling in a Marxist-Feminist …
Show notes
In this episode I am joined by Graham Nicholls, a leading teacher and writer of out of body experiences (OBE). Graham recalls his working class upbringing in London, his unusual schooling in a Marxist-Feminist school, and reflects at length about the British class system and its effect on his personal life and his work as a teacher. Graham details his occult explorations including contact with Goetia demons, mismatch with the chaos magic order the Illuminates of Thanateros (IOT), and explains his initiations and subsequent dark night of the soul. Graham also shares his unusual views on entities and the astral realm, considers the pros and cons of Wicca and other recently constructed traditions, and reflects on his ethos of scientific skepticism and experimentation. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:52 - Graham’s evolving understanding 03:04 - Personalised teaching style 05:45 - Graham’s working class upbringing in London 06:50 - Why Graham became internal 08:18 - Obsession with spiritual topics 09:47 - A childhood sense of destiny 12:31 - Positive and negative teacher reactions 15:32 - How would adult Graham understand a child like him? 17:00 - A strong father 18:40 - Reflections on being working class 22:49 - How class limit’s Graham’s spiritual teaching 26:02 - Cognitive dissonance and voting against your interests 28:39 - Addressing class from a spiritual context 29:40 - Diversity of London 30:11 - Graham’s Marxist-Feminist school 31:47 - Resistance to feminist and racist ideologies in school 37:31 - Reflecting on the purpose of Graham’s first book 38:53 - First encounter with a spiritual entity 42:45 - Unusual lack of fear 47:57 - Ethos against speculation and interpretation 48:11 - Fascination overrides fear 49:52 - Graham’s unusual opinion about dangers of OBE and entities 55:53 - Research into possession literature 58:39 - Do other teachers criticise Graham? 59:54 - Demons, djinn, and pre-Christian deities 01:05:20 - Graham’s interest in magick 01:07:59 - Joining the Oxford Golden Dawn 01:09:13 - Mismatch with the Illuminates of Thanateros (IOT) 01:13:01 - Experimentation with the Goetia 01:17:10 - Working with a Goetian entity 01:20:51 - Graham’s Goetia experience 01:21:14 - What motivated Graham’s magickal career? 01:23:07 - Pros and cons of Wicca 01:23:56 - Aleister Crowley’s writing 01:26:32 - HGA working and Graham’s 18.5 year initiation process 01:28:46 - Dark night of the soul and aftermath of initiation 01:30:59 - Trance work and accumulation of spiritual changes 01:33:35 - Doing magick properly 0101:34:26 - Dedicated OBE practice 01:37:14 - Willpower vs letting go 01:40:22 - Parental support of Graham’s magickal practice … To find our more about Graham Nicholls visit: - https://www.grahamnicholls.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep378: Entering the Brahma Viharas - Leigh Brasington
September 11, 20262 h 1 min
In this episode I am once again joined by Leigh Brasington, Buddhist meditation teacher and author of “Right Concentration, A Practical Guide to the Jhanas”. Leigh discusses his new book “Love, Compassion, Joy …
Show notes
In this episode I am once again joined by Leigh Brasington, Buddhist meditation teacher and author of “Right Concentration, A Practical Guide to the Jhanas”. Leigh discusses his new book “Love, Compassion, Joy, Equanimity: The Brahma Viharas – Suttas, Stories, Practices, Hidden Gems” in which he delves into the Pali canon of Buddhist scripture to shed new light on how to understand and practice these potent meditations. Leigh gives detailed descriptions of each of the four brahma viharas. He draws from his decades of teaching experience, as well as scriptural and commentarial literature, to offer his best advice for how to utilise these methods in meditation practice. Leigh reveals how far the brahma viharas can take you towards enlightenment, reflects on the trivialisation of love in today’s culture, and I challenge Leigh to retire what I describe as a tired cliché of Western Buddhist pedagogy. … Episode link in bio. Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:05 - Why Leigh wrote the book 05:50 - How far towards enlightenment can brahma vihara practice take you? 08:54 - Entering the jhanas with the brahma vhiaras 11:48 - Defining “brahma vihara” 13:41 - Paucity of sutta evidence to link the four attitudes with the term “brahma vihara” 14:12 - The Buddha did not invent the brahma viharas 16:43 - Using phrases is a much later development 18:14 - The pervading practice 19:51 - Ayya Khema’s metta practice method 22:32 - Steve’s brahma vihara story 25:46 - Real or fake? 28:19 - Brahma vihara as antidote practice 32:25 - Steve challenges Leigh on mudita claims 37:17 - Suttas do not teach mudita as appreciative joy 37:44 - Leigh’s disappointment in the English language 39:25 - How to practice appreciative joy 40:43 - Can we retire the cliche? 42:30 - Does the West lack the concept of appreciative joy? 44:13 - Metta, unconditional love 47:27 - Problems with “unconditional love” 47:54 - Trivialisation of love 50:34 - Attachment vs love 53:07 - How to practice metta in daily life 56:43 - How metta reduces personal suffering 59:17 - Less thinking, more loving 01:03:25 - Late night reading and being a night owl 01:04:15 - Karuna, compassion and kindness 01:07:42 - Compassion is active 01:10:40 - Do gooders and dumb compassion 01:14:52 - Compassion burnout 01:20:01 - Does compassion need results? 01:21:16 - Ambiguity of sickness 01:22:56 - Upekkha, equanimity 01:25:28 - Leigh’s stories of equanimity 01:32:54 - Equanimity vs apathy 01:36:14 - States, traits, and the equanimity range 01:39:12 - Antidote to freak out 01:43:32 - Bias and practicing equanimity with political enemies 01:45:47 - Exchanging self and other and reducing self clinging 01:49:10 - Will brahma vihara lead you to enlightenment? 01:54:17 - Leigh’s mahasiddha story 01:55:49 - The beauty of the metta sutta 01:57:40 - Leigh reads the metta sutta … Previous episodes with Leigh Brasington: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=brasington To find our more about Leigh Brasington visit: - http://www.leighb.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep377: Gnosis, Initiation, & Esoteric Traditions - Peter Kelly
September 4, 20262 h 7 min
In this episode I am joined by Peter Kelly, independent spiritual teacher and author of “The Phoenix Birth” and “The Saturated Breath”. Peter recalls his troubled childhood, struggles with crime and addiction …
Show notes
In this episode I am joined by Peter Kelly, independent spiritual teacher and author of “The Phoenix Birth” and “The Saturated Breath”. Peter recalls his troubled childhood, struggles with crime and addiction, imprisonment, and subsequent spiritual quest. Peter recounts what he describes as a series of powerful spiritual initiations that he believes have led him to the level of adept, how his use and facilitation of ayahuasca trips contributed to his path, and the role that esoteric reading has played in informing his insights. Peter reveals that he has slept for only 30 minutes a night for most of his life, details childhood astral learning and experiences of gnosis in contact with ascended masters such as Kuthumi, and emphasises the importance of fully embodying spiritual truth. I also question Peter about his claim to specialise in the “alchemy of the Egyptian Priesthood and Hermetic Traditions, the sacred wisdom of the fire temples of Zoroastrianism, and the Qabalah of the Essene and Mosaic traditions”, among others and suggest that in doing so he risks misrepresenting both those traditions and his own teachings. … Episode link in bio. Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … 01:20 - Peter’s childhood 03:29 - Drugs, alcohol, and crime 04:42 - Prison, rehab, and becoming a father 05:17 - Healing work and interest in esoteric wisdom 05:47 - 9 years of intense initiations 06:20 - Boyhood 08:05 - Peter has slept 30 minutes a night for most of his life 10:16 - Aastral plane teaching during childhood 11:05 - Unusual spiritual knowledge 14:14 - Wired but drained 14:44 - How much does Peter sleep now? 15:19 - Ascended masters and spiritual activation at age 6 19:54 - A bodily sense of knowing about Egyptian culture 21:42 - What is gnosis? 23:46 - Deep healing work, ayahuasca, and connection to esoteric teachings 28:53 - Initiations, unlocking parts, and visions 30:19 - Hermeticism and perennialism 31:02 - Peter’s understanding of the Egyptian tradition and alchemy 31:51 - Teaching what comes through 32:22 - How Peter draws on various religious systems in his client work 34:58 - Using the names of traditions to help people understand Peter’s work 38:36 - Peter’s 3 types of learning 40:09 - Peter’s esoteric and religious reading 42:32 - Graham Hancock’s books and linking to the astral plane 43:50 - Reading in archaeology, the occult, Egypt, and Tarot 46:08 - Finding a book that explains a past experience 46:58 - A personal perspective on ancient traditions 48:55 - Ayahuasca, Youtube, and Crowley 53:00 - Youtube became stale 53:42 - Spiritual experiences make sense of esoteric books 56:59 - Gnosis vs intellectual learning about symbols 01:02:28 - More on intellectual absorption and different was of knowing 01:05:58 - Peter reflects on his ayahuasca trips and learning to trust his experience 01:08:26 - Embodying knowledge 01:08:49 - How Peter correlates his experiences to traditions 01:13:46 - Peter’s understanding of the traditions in which he claims to specialise 01:18:32 - Is Peter a specialist in Zoroastrianism and Hermeticism etc? 01:21:23 - Using traditional terminology 01:22:32 - The dangers of using traditional terminology 01:26:18 - Is Peter misrepresenting traditions and his own work? 01:26:52 - Peter reflects on his use of traditional terminology 01:28:14 - Peter Kellyianism 01:30:50 - Dedication to truth, even when it’s uncomfortable to hear 01:32:41 - Communication with Master Kuthumi and other astral teachers 01:38:08 - Peter’s understanding of consciousness 01:39:38 - How Peter became a Western Adept 01:47:16 - Isolation and learning to live in the world 01:52:08 - What triggers Peter’s initiation experiences 01:55:18 - Defining “adeptship” 02:02:54 - What is a “Western” adept? … To find our more about Peter Kelly visit: - https://peterkelly.online/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep376: Adi Da’s Zookeeper - Stuart Camps
August 28, 20262 h 12 min
In this episode I am joined by Stuart Camps, a 30 year devotee of the American spiritual teacher Adi Da, long time curator of Adi Da’s zoo, the “Fear No More Zoo”, and author of “Lightning Thunder Cows”, a …
Show notes
In this episode I am joined by Stuart Camps, a 30 year devotee of the American spiritual teacher Adi Da, long time curator of Adi Da’s zoo, the “Fear No More Zoo”, and author of “Lightning Thunder Cows”, a memoir of Stuart’s life with his guru. Stuart recalls his upbringing in Papa New Guinea, his later struggles to reintegrate into Australian society, and his lifelong connection with animals. Stuart describes his approach to Adi Da and their first meeting, how he became a devotee and zoo keeper, and details his master’s teachings about animals and natural contemplation. Stuart shares many anecdotes of his personal interactions with Adi Da, reflects on the teacher’s controversial behaviours and claims, and considers whether Adi Da was trapped by his own spiritual community. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - 30 years with Adi Da 04:16 - Lightning Thunder Cows 05:56 - Natural contemplation 07:31 - Are animals inferior to humans 11:15 - Childhood in Papa New Guinea 12:53 - Explaining Adi Da’s use of the term “non-humans” 13:47 - Life in Papa New Guinea 15:36 - Childhood mystical experiences 17:45 - Reading habit 18:49 - Difficulties adjusting to Australian life 20:45 - Connection with animals 22:43 - The Eating Gorilla Comes In Peace 25:35 - Approaching Adi Da 26:56 - Trying to escape 31:47 - The need to grow up 35:25 - “Come to me when you’re already happy” 38:44 - Preparing to work with Adi Da 42:39 - Powerful first meeting with Adi Da 48:58 - Stuart’s unique relationship with Adi Da 53:04 - Adi Da on animals 58:27 - Direct relationship rather than religion 58:55 - Stuart’s evolving understanding of Adi Da and his controversial behaviour 01:04:31 - Adi Da’s sannyasin period 01:07:40 - What was it like to be around Adi Da? 01:08:24 - Reflecting on Adi Da’s claims to superlative spiritual realisation 01:12:03 - Why did Adi Da incarnate? 01:16:02 - More of Adi Da on animals 01:21:18 - Adi Da’s roar when a camel died 01:25:48 - Human congestion and thought 01:30:14 - Energetic conductivity and premodern peoples 01:35:27 - The role of spiritual practitioners 01:37:06 - Australian aborigines 01:40:08 - What it takes to be in relationship with a guru like Adi Da 01:49:59 - Problems with the community 01:50:45 - Was Adi Da trapped by his own community? 01:53:10 - Adi Da’s sacred theatre activities 01:56:30 - Why Stuart left Adidam 01:57:56 - Adi Da’s death 02:02:40 - Life after Adidam 02:06:54 - Sadness at how Adi Da is perceived in the world 02:08:23 - Exhortation to consider Adi Da’s teachings … To find our more about Stuart Camps, visit: - https://fearnomore.vision/ - https://www.amazon.com/stores/Stuart-Camps/author/B0CKQ9PFVJ? For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep375: Meditation Sickness - Dr Ben Joffe
August 21, 20262 h 27 min
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Ben Joffe anthropologist and scholar practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. Dr Joffe shares his recent research and publications on the topic of gegs sel, Tibetan writing …
Show notes
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Ben Joffe anthropologist and scholar practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. Dr Joffe shares his recent research and publications on the topic of gegs sel, Tibetan writing about how to remedy the various obstacles and illnesses that can arise during meditation. Dr Joffe draws on Tibetan gegs sel texts to describe three types of meditation problems and five categories of solution and explains the surprising technique that Taranatha emphasises as central to removing spiritual obstacles. Dr Joffe also argues that although there has been increased interest in the negative effects of meditation, gegs sel literature remains understudied, and we reflect on the possible incompatibility between Tibetan medical and spiritual cures and modern psychological and psychiatric approaches to meditation injury. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Spiritual obstacles 02:53 - Ben’s research into meditation sickness 07:20 - Tibetan oral instructions for adverse yogic effects 11:47 - Taranatha on gegs sel 14:03 - Ben’s personal experience with gegs sel 16:26 - Why is gegs sel so understudied? 21:58 - Is intensive tantric practice dangerous? 24:06 - Practices should produce signs 28:22 - It is timely to talk about meditation sickness 31:47 - Differing medical and therapeutic models 36:33 - Catching lice in retreat 38:40 - Gegs gsel literature is for committed practitioners 42:38 - Do tantric solutions make psychiatric symptoms worse? 48:40 - Dr Nida on psychosis in retreat 56:50 - Dza Paltrul on demons 01:01:28 - Ultimate vs relative 01:03:31 - Guru Yoga and a psychodynamic lens on gegs sel 01:09:42 - Night terrors and deity devotion 01:12:50 - Ben’s experience of devotion 01:17:29 - 3 categories of problems, 5 categories of solutions 01:31:55 - 5 fundamental gegs sel methods 01:33:55 - Dispelling demonic obstacles 01:38:56 - Warning to not ignore devotion 01:40:23 - Meditation experiences vs obstacles 01:44:09 - Simple visualisation methods 01:46:35 - Tsa, rlung, thig le 01:50:49 - Breathing techniques 01:54:37 - How common is meditation sickness? 02:11:22 - The most important thing 02:13:43 - PTSD and MDMA 02:23:16 - Where to read more … Previous episodes with Dr Ben Joffe: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=joffe To find out more about Dr Ben Joffe, visit: - https://perfumedskull.com/ - http://www.skypressbooks.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep374: Occult Encounters - Raya Thorne
August 14, 20261 h 41 min
In this episode I am joined by Raya Thorne, occultist, psychic, and spiritual mentor. Raya recounts her troubled childhood, early ghost encounters, and teenage experiments in the occult and witchcraft. She …
Show notes
In this episode I am joined by Raya Thorne, occultist, psychic, and spiritual mentor. Raya recounts her troubled childhood, early ghost encounters, and teenage experiments in the occult and witchcraft. She describes terrifying encounters with summoned entities, details an ongoing working with a demon of the Goetia, and reveals her current understanding of the nature of spirit pacts and psychic connections. Raya also reflects on the role of trauma in awakening psychic gifts, shares her thoughts on the connection between protection spells and personal boundaries, and warns of the dangers of spiritual psychosis and ego inflation when practicing magick. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:49 - Middle class up-bringing in Australia 02:47 - Effects of isolation after premature birth 05:04 - Neglect and sensitivity to energy 07:25 - Chaotic household and learning to read people 09:32 - Ongoing work with childhood trauma 11:28 - Spiritual bypass and terrifying magickal experiences 16:27 - Why magicians should have therapy 17:51 - Spiritual psychosis and ego inflation 20:25 - Deconstructing the persona 24:29 - Which therapies Raya used 29:08 - Should Raya become a therapist? 31:06 - Childhood ghost encounters 34:18 - Early magickal workings 36:39 - Deep listening and interpreting intuition 38:53 - Local spirit encounters and violent dream 42:00 - Seeing spirits 45:12 - Dramatic exorcism by neighbour 50:18 - Reflection on sharing vulnerable stories 54:18 - Trauma and the new age 55:15 - Teenage magickal experiments summoning demons and the dead 01:02:41 - Seeking power through magick 01:05:06 - Similarities to the Labyrinth movie 01:06:36 - Terrifying Goetia demon experience 01:10:12 - Raya’s understanding of how to work with demons 01:11:16 - Working with the Goetia demon Gemory 01:15:47 - Psychic connection to demons 01:20:37 - Connecting directly to demons vs using protection 01:27:04 - Personal boundaries as protection 01:29:59 - Listening to feedback from entities 01:30:56 - Intense magickal experiences in 20s 01:34:09 - Shapeshifter encounter 01:36:38 - Ormus, remote viewing, tantra, and telekinesis 01:39:32 - Sequel plans … To find our more about Raya Thorne, visit: - https://www.rayathorne.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep373: Rude Awakenings - Samuel Bercholz
August 7, 20261 h 19 min
In this episode I am joined by Samuel Bercholz, a senior teacher in the Nyingma and Kagyu lineages of Tibetan Buddhism, founder of Shambala publications, and author of “Rude Awakenings: An Unconventional Guide …
Show notes
In this episode I am joined by Samuel Bercholz, a senior teacher in the Nyingma and Kagyu lineages of Tibetan Buddhism, founder of Shambala publications, and author of “Rude Awakenings: An Unconventional Guide to the Buddhist Path”. Samuel recalls his childhood as the son of holocaust survivors, his arrival in America as a refugee, his rapid ascent in the Democratic party as part of the Kennedy campaign, and his eventual disillusionment with politics. Samuel describes his early spiritual seeking in theosophy and Buddhism, details his first experience of satori, and explains the process of learning to trust his gurus. Samuel tells stories of his years of discipleship under controversial spiritual teachers such as Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche and Thinley Norbu Rinpoche, offers his insights about how to be a vajrayana student, and reflects on what it takes to be the disciple of tough masters. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:02 - Rude Awakenings 02:46 - Child of the holocaust 05:03 - Arriving in America 07:18 - Interest in literature and politics 08:21 - Working for Kennedy 09:32 - Disillusionment with politics 11:16 - Exploring spiritual traditions 12:36 - Theosophy and Buddhism 14:56 - First satori 15:42 - Samuel’s mother’s preference for Russia 17:24 - Difficulties in America as a refugee and becoming a citizen 10:26 - Samuel’s resilience and processing past trauma in meditation 22:22 - Becoming part of the Kennedy office 25:02 - Refugee confidence 26:16 - Samuel’s doubts about himself 28:57 - Witnessing politicians lying about Vietnam 30:42 - Having a breakdown 32:32 - Disappointing spiritual teachers and politicians 34:15 - Experience with Lama Anagarika Govinda 38:17 - Developing trust in spiritual teachers 39:42 - Founding of Shambala Publications 41:00 - Years of discipleship under Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche 43:14 - Being with tough gurus 44:10 - Skepticism about Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche 45:34 - Death of Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche 46:43 - How to be a Vajrayana student 49:56 - Samuel’s special relationship with Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche 51:37 - Stories about Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche’s personal teaching 54:44 - Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche’s dark side 58:20 - Comparing enlightened teachers 01:03:09 - Becoming a disciple of Thinley Norbu Rinpoche 01:11:24 - Lineage stories are real 01:12:31 - Lama’s commission to Samuel 01:13:19- So easy to miss spiritual opportunities 01:15:19 - Rude Awakenings, breadth and depth 01:16:12 - Why “Rude Awakenings”? … To purchase “Rude Awakenings: vist: - https://www.shambhala.com/rude-awakenings.html For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep372: Hermitix - James Ellis
July 31, 20262 h 35 min
In this episode I am joined by James Ellis - independent researcher; writer; host of the Hermitix podcast; and founder of the online magick school, the Hermitage. James traces his spiritual journey including …
Show notes
In this episode I am joined by James Ellis - independent researcher; writer; host of the Hermitix podcast; and founder of the online magick school, the Hermitage. James traces his spiritual journey including new atheism, explorations in the occult, Gurdjieff work, conversion to and deconversion from Catholicism, and the founding of his online magick school, the Hermitage. James offers his critique of magickal protection practices, recounts his experiences of summoning demons of the Goetia, and explains his approach to spiritual teaching. James also describes his years of alcoholism, the complexities of British class culture, the awakening of his intellectual potential, his graduate studies in Continental Philosophy, why he did not enjoy reading Homer’s Odyssey, and the pros and cons of talking in stories. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:33 - James on Homer’s Odyssey and favourite fiction 07:02 - Church of England upbringing 09:26 - A class mutt 12:22 - Working class lessons 15:10 - Winnie the Pooh vs the Moomins 16:13 - Chronic underachieving at school 22:36 - Functional alcoholism from 14-22 years old 26:53 - Discovering a passion for reading 30:50 - James’ reading regime 32:36 - Finding time for reading 35:41 - School is an engine of trauma 39:45 - University degrees in Fine Art and Continental Philosophy 40:44 - A profound experience at 22 years old 45:08 - Why Continental Philosophy? 48:19 - Awakening intellectual potential 50:52 - Writing from the age of 16 53:53 - Beginnings of spiritual seeking & Alan Watts 56:04 - New Atheism, Chaos Magick, & the Occult 59:18 - Franz Bardon & Gurdjieff 01:03:34 - Franz Bardon and solo practice 01:07:43 - Discipline and building mind power 01:09:45 - Motives for occult involvement 01:12:30 - Crowley and HGA 01:15:47 - Becoming a Catholic 01:18:12 - Seeking falls away 01:23:40 - James draws a line in the interview 01:26:17 - Talking properly vs telling stories 01:28:26 - How to talk properly 01:30:04 - Energetic changes in the chest 01:34:46 - Free flowing being 01:36:56 - James asks for Steve’s reaction 01:40:37 - De-converting from Catholicism 01:46:17 - Catholic formation 01:48:28 - Trying to share doubts with Catholics 01:50:09 - A small wave of de-converts 01:51:44 - Why the recent vogue of conversion to traditional Christianity 01:52:55 - Can the modern man return to religion? 01:57:04 - Being a child of Winter 02:00:04 - Magick without seeking 02:00:57 - James’ magickal school, the Hermitage 02:09:15 - James on the experience of evil 02:14:27 - Summoning a demon of the Goetia 02:16:32 - Critique of magickal protection 02:20:17 - Why James still teaches banishing and protection magick 02:22:43 - Why James decided not to pursue a PhD 02:25:39 - Alan Chapman, John Michael Greer, and mentors 02:32:04 - Spiritual teaching and so what? … To find our more about James Ellis, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/@hermitixpodcast - https://the-hermitage.mn.co/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep371: The Zen Life - Muho
July 24, 20261 h 29 min
In this episode I am once again joined by Muho, Sōtō Zen teacher, Youtuber, and previous abbot of Antai-Ji monastery in Japan. Muho recalls the early days of his marriage and of his abbotship of Antai-Ji …
Show notes
In this episode I am once again joined by Muho, Sōtō Zen teacher, Youtuber, and previous abbot of Antai-Ji monastery in Japan. Muho recalls the early days of his marriage and of his abbotship of Antai-Ji monastery, compares Japanese to Western students, and addresses the shortcomings of Western Buddhism. Muho considers the role of the true teacher, the tension between tradition and innovation, and what it’s like to see the negative side of your teacher. Muho also reflects on narcissism in spiritual gurus, competitiveness on the spiritual path, and how to work with traumatic memories which arise during meditation. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:47 - First impressions of Japanese culture 04:12 - Arriving at Antai-Ji Monastery 08:33 - Initial difficulties at the monastery 10:00 - Becoming a monk 14:02 - Living in a tent and teaching Zen in Osaka 17:46 - Elected as abbot of Antai-Ji 19:01 - Falling in love with a Japanese woman 22:25 - Marriage and early days as abbot 26:04 - Retiring as abbot 28:47 - Japanese vs Western students 32:12 - A true teacher is like a carpenter 33:50 - Seeing the negative side of your teacher 37:24 - Is Buddhism universal or specific to each country? 41:25 - Shortcomings of Western Buddhism 49:25 - Innovation vs tradition 55:33 - Narcissism and spiritual teachers 59:24 - Competitiveness between Dharma brothers 01:07:16 - Trauma and emotions in meditation 01:11:53 - Should psychotherapy precede Zen practice? 01:14:21 - Sudden awakenings at Antai-Ji 01:26:18 - Should we emphasise or deemphasise awakening experiences? … Previous episodes with Muho: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=muho To find our more about Muho, visit: - https://www.youtube.com/@muho - https://www.youtube.com/@MuhoZen For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep370: What is Prophecy? - Alan Chapman
July 17, 20262 h 15 min
In this episode I am once again joined by Alan Chapman, British writer, occultist, and spiritual teacher. Alan takes a deep dive into his understanding of the phenomenon of prophecy, how it operates, and its …
Show notes
In this episode I am once again joined by Alan Chapman, British writer, occultist, and spiritual teacher. Alan takes a deep dive into his understanding of the phenomenon of prophecy, how it operates, and its surprising purpose. Alan explains the different between prophecy and prediction, the tests a prophet will face, and contrasts his approach to that of the Old Testament prophets. Alan also shares stories of his own prophetic experiences, including a prophecy which he believes concerns events to come in 2026. … Video version: www.guruviking.com Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:43 - Prophecy vs prediction 02:57 - What is prophecy? 03:27 - Prophecy and the path of awakening 03:51 - 2 worlds 05:58 - Expressing the silent knowing 08:43 - Confounding factors on the path 11:32 - Surprising encounters as awakening deepens 12:24 - The role of the prophet 15:00 - Are musicians and artists prophets? 16:26 - Speaking truth to power 20:20 - Alan’s prophetic dream about Fukushima 21:51 - Prophecy about Alan’s awakening 26:04 - Premonitions and more on Fukushima 27:03 - Prediction vs prophecy 30:35 - Divine mercy and a parental tone 31:50 - Purpose of prophecy 34:58 - Divine judgement and smiting 36:36 - Interpreting Old Testament prophecy 40:47 - Love not wrath 45:21 - Is a prophecy inevitable or can it be changed? 50:04 - Incarnation and identity formation 52:21 - Path of spiritual seeking 53:18 - Rebellion and revenge 54:25 - Cultural rebellion and inevitability 58:39 - Analysing Alan’s Fukushima prophecy 01:01:27 - Oracles and prophetic institutions 01:03:00 - Alan’s prophecy about 2026 01:24:44 - Teachers and trusting the silent knowing 01:28:44 - Understanding why prophecy happens 01:30:37 - Has Alan failed? 01:34:26 - Tests on the path 01:38:16 - Alan’s comments on Western culture 01:38:44 - We have forgotten the divine 01:42:13 - The Presocratics were prophets and magicians 01:44:23 - Alan comments on today’s geopolitical and cultural situation 01:46:23 - False flags and true flags 01:49:59 - Alan’s advice for living in today’s world 01:53:03 - Beatitudes and being light 01:56:30 - The consequences of violating your conscience 01:59:07 - True repentance 02:01:55 - Alan’s relationship with Jesus Christ 02:12:07 - Upcoming Magia exegesis 02:13:43 - Planned series about Alan’s Magia system … Previous episodes with Alan Chapman: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=chapman To find our more about Alan Chapman visit: - https://barbarouswords.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep369: Esoteric Pharping - Lama Glenn Mullin
July 10, 202644 min
During a recent trip to Nepal, I met with Lama Glenn Mullin, spiritual teacher, Tibetologist, and author of over 30 books on Buddhism. Glenn was in Kathmandu to lead a group of pilgrims into tantric retreat and …
Show notes
During a recent trip to Nepal, I met with Lama Glenn Mullin, spiritual teacher, Tibetologist, and author of over 30 books on Buddhism. Glenn was in Kathmandu to lead a group of pilgrims into tantric retreat and graciously agreed to film with me at various sacred sites before and after their retreat. In this video, Glenn and I travel to Pharping where we explore sacred sites, temples, and meditation caves. We meet a student of Glenn’s who performs a fire pūjā after a multi-year cycle of tantric retreat, enter the meditation cave of Padmasambhava, view a self arising Tara image, and encounter guard dogs at the Vajrayoginī temple. Glenn converses with monks, explains the meaning of prayer flags, and traces the esoteric history of the region. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep369-esoteric-pharping-lama-glenn-mullin Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:57 - Pharping as a sacred site 01:32 - Pāṃthiṅpa brothers 02:21 - Fire pūjā footage 03:02 - Esoteric meaning of the fire puja 04:17 - Guru Rinpoche’s enlightenment place 04:43 - Other great masters who practiced in Pharping 06:05 - History of Tibetan monasteries in Pharping 09:27 - Ra Lotsawa Tulku’s monastery 10:17 - View of the developing valley 10:58 - Self-arisen (rangjung) Tara shrine 11:21 - Ganesh in Buddhism 11:51 - Entering the shrine and viewing the self-arisen Tara 12:26 - About the rangjung phenomenon 13:48 - Lighting the butter lamp 15:56 - Drupthob Rinpoche and persecutions 18:58 - 5 visions of Tsongkhapa 19:16 - Retreat huts 20:00 - About prayer flags 21:16 - Origin of the Dalai Lamas 23:00 - Prayer in Buddhism 24:52 - Evening vs morning kora advice 26:20 - About Thrangu Rinpoche 27:31 - Namo Buddha and the Buddha’s sacrifice 28:28 - Towards the Asura cave 30:12 - Guru Rinpoche cave 31:51 - Hand print of Guru Rinpoche 33:00 - Entering the cave 34:04 - Walking and conversations 37:11 - Vajrayoginī temple 38:31 - Kathmandu’s Buddhist past 40:25 - Remarks on religious conflict … Previous episodes with Lama Glenn Mullin: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=glenn%20mullin To find out more about Lama Glenn Mullin, visit: - http://www.glennmullin.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James Thanks to Norbu Samphel for checking my translation of the Tibetan language.
Ep368: Aristocracy of the Soul - Dr Francisco José Luis
July 3, 20261 h 57 min
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Francisco José Luis, scholar of Indo-Iranian Studies and Comparative Religion trained at the Sorbonne, Paris and SOAS, London. Francisco describes the religious and …
Show notes
In this episode I am once again joined by Dr Francisco José Luis, scholar of Indo-Iranian Studies and Comparative Religion trained at the Sorbonne, Paris and SOAS, London. Francisco describes the religious and philosophical view of Traditionalism, tracing the ideas of figures such as René Guénon, Julius Evola, and Henry Corbin to give a sense of the different strands of this increasingly influential system of thought. Francisco explains what he sees as the importance of uniting spiritual and martial disciplines, recounts his own experiences of receiving death threats during his academic research, and argues for an aristocracy of the soul. Francisco also addresses criticisms that associate Traditionalism with the political far right, various forms of ethnic and cultural chauvinism, and imperialism; compares and contrasts different caste and class systems from around the world; and outlines his objections to Plato’s ideas about education. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search “Guru Viking Podcast”. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:06 - First encounter with Traditionalism 06:03 - René Guénon 10:11 - Devotion to Indian saints 12:05 - Concern for the working class 15:51 - At odds with society’s direction 16:55 - Beyond René Guénon 17:50 - Debates are a competition between egos 19:30 - Julius Evola and the aristocracy of the Soul 22:45 - Who was Julius Evola 26:02 - Warriors, Brahmins, and merchants 28:07 - Corruption of the Brahmin class 29:51 - Evola’s theory of the body, soul, and spirit 33:05 - Evola and fascism 34:58 - Trial of Evola 36:31 - Francisco’s favourite Traditionalist 37:15 - Where does religion and mysticism fit into Traditionalism? 42:30 - Elites should practice a spiritual discipline 44:03 - Critique of institutional Catholicism 45:17 - Warrior spirituality 47:33 - Why Francisco is attracted to Sikhism 48:45 - Spiritual warfare 51:39 - Sikh Khalsa 52:17 - Francisco’s interest in the martial arts 55:13 - Receiving death threats 57:37 - Facing death like a samurai 59:38 - Embodiment 01:01:13 - Limitations of Henry Corbin 01:05:41 - Is Traditionalism far right? 01:20:34 - Cultures should respect each other 01:25:31 - European vs American cultures 01:26:44 - Pros and cons of American culture 01:31:55 - Warning about the language of Traditionalism 01:32:48 - Spirituality and politics 01:34:37 - Warrior spirituality is not for everyone 01:41:28 - Dangers of warrior spirituality 01:42:24 - Francisco’s spiritual path 01:43:11 - Francisco’s therapy journey 01:45:15 - Setting boundaries without hatred 01:47:13 - Why discuss the application of religion to politics? 01:48:52 - Plato’s views on education 01:50:55 - Francisco’s disagreement with Plato 01:53:18 - Francisco’s suggestion for education 01:55:15 - Waldorf education 01:55:59 - Speculum principum … Previous episodes with Dr Francisco José Luis: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=francisco To find our more about Dr Francisco José Luis, visit: - https://www.instagram.com/hludvig_tradicionalista For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep367: Life Extension & Inner Alchemy - Martin Faulks
June 26, 20261 h 37 min
In this interview I am once again joined by Martin Faulks: author, hermeticist, meditation adept, and memory expert. Martin discusses the recent death of his mother, reflects on the profound power of her …
Show notes
In this interview I am once again joined by Martin Faulks: author, hermeticist, meditation adept, and memory expert. Martin discusses the recent death of his mother, reflects on the profound power of her positive support in his own life successes, and describes the surprising consequence of her loss in his own mindset and practice. Martin discusses his latest book “Long Livers”, a new edition of a work published in 1722 by English alchemists Thomas and Rebecca Vaughan. Martin explains the text’s methods of life extension, shows their links to spiritual and moral practice, and reflects on his successful participation in the Rejuvenation Olympics. Martin also muses on the appeal of high demand religious groups, espouses the virtues of philosophical Freemasonry, and compares Western and Eastern methods of spiritual alchemy. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:59 - Long Livers editions 02:24 - Martin’s current daily practice 03:55 - Interest in esoteric rejuvenation methods 07:23 - How to measure effectiveness of rejuvenation? 08:00 - Martin’s 2hr daily regime to slow the ageing process 11:16 - Setbacks 12:06 - Death of Martin’s mother 13:36 - Ascetic or English gentleman? 14:56 - Aftermath of Martin’s mother’s death 17:44 - Don’t let anything pull you out of who you are 18:33 - Sending well wishes to his mother 19:43 - The power of supportive observers 25:07 - Martin summarises his progress 26:41 - Authorship of “Long Livers” (1722) 28:45 - Thomas and Rebecca Vaughan, practical alchemists 31:33 - Anti-ageing advice in “Long Livers” 34:48 - Eccentric techniques 36:39 - Western vs Eastern Inner Alchemies 38:52 - Christian Inner Alchemy 42:31 - Morality and rate of ageing 46:52 - Simulacra of virtue 48:32 - Philosophical Freemasonry 53:22 - Is Freemasonary a good spiritual path? 01:01:48 - An avoidant pattern in Martin’s life 01:03:20 - Detachment vs engagement 01:06:34 - Respect through observation of authenticity 01:07:49 - Skepticism about public spiritual claims 01:09:58 - When spirituality is a distraction from the real challenges of life 01:14:54 - Actions as truth 01:16:37 - Intuition vs intellect 01:19:45 - Unity of complementary opposites 01:20:27 - Jordan Peterson 01:22:56 - Pushing the borderlines of human potential 01:27:00 - A cultural turn to rigorous religion and high demand groups 01:29:16 - Why anti-ageing? 01:30:36 - 5 top anti-ageing tips … Previous episodes with Martin Faulks: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=FAULKS To find out more about Martin Faulks, visit: - https://martinfaulks.co.uk/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Steve James Interviewed on the Clear Mountain Monastery Podcast
June 25, 20261 h 7 min
I was recently interviewed by Ajahn Kovilo and Ajahn Nisabho from the Clear Mountain Monastery Project. They asked wonderful questions and we talked a lot about the power of listening. ... Their shownotes: In …
Show notes
I was recently interviewed by Ajahn Kovilo and Ajahn Nisabho from the Clear Mountain Monastery Project. They asked wonderful questions and we talked a lot about the power of listening. ... Their shownotes: In this session, Ajahn Kovilo and Ajahn Nisabho interview Steve James, meditation teacher & host of the Guru Viking Podcast (https://www.guruviking.com/). 00:00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:01:32 Formative faith moments and vocation 00:06:18 Life on an English canal boat 00:08:40 The rhythm of travel and interviewing 00:10:59 Interviewing the same guest over time 00:14:20 Most moving and luminous conversations 00:17:21 Handling negative reactivity in conversation 00:22:24 Balancing internal and external awareness 00:23:50 Advice for engaging with teachers and mentors 00:29:50 Finding beauty in people on different paths 00:34:45 Questions that bring out conversational depth 00:41:06 Personal frameworks for organizing experience 00:48:15 Belief alignments and the "pie chart" of faith 00:55:30 Personal relationship to the Buddha 00:59:44 Navigating dual vs. non-dual teachings
Ep366: Questioning the Buddha - Leigh Brasington
June 19, 20261 h 17 min
In this episode I am once again joined by Leigh Brasington, Buddhist meditation teacher and author of “Right Concentration, A Practical Guide to the Jhanas”. This episode begins with a brief comment from Leigh …
Show notes
In this episode I am once again joined by Leigh Brasington, Buddhist meditation teacher and author of “Right Concentration, A Practical Guide to the Jhanas”. This episode begins with a brief comment from Leigh about his appearance in “Ep329: Enlightened Politics” in which he explored the relationship between Buddhism and political ideology. After that we discuss Leigh’s new book “On the Way to the Far Shore”, his commentary on the Pārāyanavagga, chapter five of Suttanipāta, one of the earliest sutta collections in the Pali canon. The text takes the form of a question and answer session with the Buddha himself and evidences nascent forms of the doctrines of the four noble truths and the path of gradual training. Leigh considers the pros and cons of formal study of the Pali language, explains the ways in which English translations can be misleading, and muses on why so few Buddhist converts read their own scriptures. Leigh also reveals how his Dzogchen practice helped him understand early Buddhist doctrine, gives advice about how to internalise intellectual ideas through meditation practice, and shares how a profound experience of the nature of mind changed his life forever. … Video version: www.guruviking.com Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 01:17 - Can there be an enlightened tyrant? 02:49 - Anyone can perform enlightened activity 04:20 - Why Leigh wrote On the Way to the Far Shore 08:13 - Wrestling with the Pali sutta 09:07 - Leigh’s training the the Pali language 11:18 - Struggles to learn foreign languages 12:37 - Is training as a scholar worth it? 14:36 - 4 categories of Pali suttas 17:05 - Why Leigh won’t pursue a PhD 19:17 - Why don’t Buddhists read the Pali canon? 23:14 - Diving into the the Pārāyanavagga, book five of the Suttanipāta 27:50 - Vedanā and āsava - don’t believe the English translations 29:44 - Literal vs meaning translations + implications of grammar 33:40 - Q&A with the Buddha 36:20 - Questions the Buddha refuses to answer 37:46 - Experiencing the world raw 42:27 - The most important insight 44:22 - How to really gain insight 45:24 - Leigh’s Dzogchen practice 46:14 - Leigh’s mind blowing experience of the nature of mind 51:28 - After effects of Leigh’s epiphany 53:56 - Integrating vs losing an insight 55:04 - How to keep an insight fresh 56:31 - How to regard the world so you are not seen by the King of Death 59:17 - How to become “ever mindful” 01:01:30 - This is a different kind of book 01:02:41 - The roots of the Four Noble Truths and the gradual training 01:05:13 - Will Leigh start a Pali sutta discussion group? 01:07:14 - Man in the Light of History of Religion 01:10:02 - Scripture as literature or an instruction manual? 01:12:32 - Leigh’s advice for approaching difficult books 01:13:46 - What do the suttas say about the brahmavihārās? … Previous episodes with Leigh Brasington: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=brasington To find our more about Leigh Brasington visit: - http://www.leighb.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep365 : The Last Interview - Lorin Roche PhD
June 12, 20261 h 9 min
In this episode I am once again joined by Lorin Roche PhD, meditation teacher and author of “The Radiance Sutras”. I first met Lorin at the Summit at Sea conference in 2015 where we were both teaching. We …
Show notes
In this episode I am once again joined by Lorin Roche PhD, meditation teacher and author of “The Radiance Sutras”. I first met Lorin at the Summit at Sea conference in 2015 where we were both teaching. We attended each others’ workshops and immediately hit it off. In those days, we both taught on the California conference circuit and were often booked to teach at the same gatherings. Over the years we spent many weeks enjoying extended conversations, raucous dinners, and long evenings of music and poetry. In short, we became true friends. It was a desire to share the rich conversations I was having with friends like Lorin that contributed to my decision to start the Guru Viking Podcast. And so, naturally, I asked Lorin to be my first interview subject. He went on to become one of my most popular, recurring guests. On the 18th of April 2026, Lorin died. What follows is our last interview and conversation, recorded a few months before his passing. The episode covers many of Lorin’s most characteristic teaching themes and I have also included some of the conversation we had before and after the main episode content. There are many poignant and amusing stories from the years of my friendship with Lorin and there is a lot worth saying about his approach to meditation. One day, I might record an episode dedicated to those themes. For now I will say that it is obvious to all that Lorin was a vivacious man - the essence of his approach to teaching meditation was an encouragement to wholeheartedly embrace life. But I can also report that behind the scenes and off the stage Lorin was a generous man, irreverent, funny, and very kind. … https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep365-the-last-interview-lorin-roche-phd Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:5 - Boats, geese, and hummingbirds 07:05 - Meditating with the flow of nature 08:14 - Being human is like being president of Earth 11:35 - The miracle of attention 13:51 - Teaching was easier in the 70s 15:15 - Agencylessness is a dumb idea 16:38 - Human reaction time 17:52 - Attending to the inner life 18:44 - Evil meditation teaching 19:58 - Misunderstandings about Patañjali’s Yoga Sūtras 22:55 - Taming the body 26:33 - The genius of yoga 28:01 - Pros and cons of stopping the mind 28:57 - Where meditation went wrong 35:47 - Tuning the instrument 38:56 - Limitations of the “tuning” metaphor 43:24 - Monastic ideas sabotage lay people 45:41 - Religion vs meditation 50:56 - Is Loren’s approach self-indulgent? 56:18 - Peak experiences and enlightenment 59:20 - Loren’s drug experiences 01:02:20 - LA Yoga community’s enthusiasm for drugs 01:04:50 - Loren asks about Steve’s meditation … Previous episodes with Lorin here: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=lorin To find out more about Lorin visit: - www.lorinroche.com - www.radiancesutras.com - www.meditationtt.com For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com/ Music 'Deva Dasi' by Steve James
Ep364: 9 Stages of Consciousness - Tara Springett
June 5, 20261 h 10 min
In this episode I am once again joined by Tara Springett, a Buddhist psychotherapist who specialises in treating what she calls “Kundalini Syndrome”. Tara discusses her book "Stairway to Heaven" in which she …
Show notes
In this episode I am once again joined by Tara Springett, a Buddhist psychotherapist who specialises in treating what she calls “Kundalini Syndrome”. Tara discusses her book "Stairway to Heaven" in which she lays out a 9 stage model of consciousness from innocence to enlightenment. Tara compares psychological ego strengthening to Buddhist ego deconstruction, reflects on her own childhood development and family of origin, and considers the place of kundalini phenomena in her 9-stage model. Tara also reflects on the Tibetan saint Milarepa as a model for spiritual development, gives her assessment of Western Civilisation, and explains why she believes so many people choose the wrong practice for their stage of development. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep364-9-stages-of-consciousness-tara-springett Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:53 - Award for “Stairway to Heaven” 02:42 - Psychological ego strengthening vs Buddhist ego deconstruction 07:15 - Tara’s 9-stage model of consciousness 08:28 - Innocence stage 09:38 - Dominance stage 11:45 - Obedience stage 14:43- Ambition stage 17:36 - Sharing stage 21:21 - Responsibility stage 27:31 - Love stage 29:16 - Bliss stage 30:54 - Enlightenment stage 33:43 - Kundalini awakening vs spiritual awakening 38:14 - Difficulties when having an awakening at a lower stage 41:09 - Tara’s family’s stage 41:56 - Tara’s assessment of Western Civilisation 47:46 - Stage model applied to historical periods 49:53 - Political positions and the stage model 51:44 - Milarepa as an exemplar of stage development 53:41 - The power of stories, fairy tales, and myths 56:25 - Choosing practice according to stage 01:01:19 - Teachings appropriate to all levels 01:02:33 - Reflections on the last 10 years 01:07:12 - Tara’s optimism about the future … Previous episodes with Tara Springett: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=springett To find out more about Tara Springett, visit: - https://www.taraspringett.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com
Ep363: Mythic Descent & the Dark Side of Dharma - Duncan Barford
May 29, 20261 h 43 min
In this episode I am once again joined by Duncan Barford, occult practitioner, counsellor, and author of “Occult Experiments in the Home”. Duncan reflects on his training as a counsellor and the difficulties in …
Show notes
In this episode I am once again joined by Duncan Barford, occult practitioner, counsellor, and author of “Occult Experiments in the Home”. Duncan reflects on his training as a counsellor and the difficulties in sharing his occult interests in that context; his deep appreciation of Freud and Jung; and the links between psychoanalysis and mythic figures such as such as Uranus, Oedipus, and Narcissus. Duncan considers whether Buddhism is merely a useful fiction, offers advice for those interested in learning how tp use mythology to gain insight into life, and explains why the emphasis of his spiritual practice has shifted from awakening to psychological wellbeing. Duncan also talks about his new magical novel, “The Going Down”, describes its plot and messages, and reveals why he believes the practice of Pragmatic Dharma can accrue a profoundly dark karmic debt. … Video version: www.guruviking.com Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:59 - Duncan’s therapist hated the occult 02:58 - Misconceptions about Jungian therapy 04:19 - Psychopomp as therapist 04:25 - Freud, Jung, Skinner, Piaget, Rogers, and Carlyle 08:48 - Duncan was a fervent Freudian 09:35 - Freud vs trauma therapy 13:13 - What Freud did 15:58 - Buddhism’s useful fiction 19:47 - Where Freud went wrong 21:50 - The castration complex 26:37 - Castration myths 27:58 - Freud and Duncan’s childhood 30:40 - Universal or culturally specific? 32:15 - Oedipus, myth, and psychoanalysis 37:29 - Duncan’s novel 38:36 - Writing “The Going Down” 41:11 - Plot summary 43:07 - A life-changing ancestor working 44:22 - Duncan’s hope for the book 45:53 - Fiction and the occult 48:40 - Alan Chapman’s dismay at the novel 49:22 - The dark, karmic debt of Pragmatic Dharma 54:38 - Meeting a Dark Goddess 56:15 - The myth of Persephone 59:49 - A change in Duncan’s meditation practice 01:00:43 - This is the Underworld 01:02:34 - Bailey’s and Steve’s problems 01:03:55 - The Franklin’s Tale 01:05:30 - How occultists interpret their life situations 01:09:12 - Is everyone psychotic? 01:10:45 - Using depression and panic as portals 01:12:16 - Duncan believes in everything 01:14:00 - Internal vs external integration 01:19:30 - Why you need mythic literacy 01:20:57 - How to learn more about myths 01:22:55 - Should you read myths? 01:25:07 - The myth of Narcissus 01:28:25 - Scholar vs poet 01:32:22 - Finishing a novel 01:34:06 - Narrative fashions in fiction 01:36:01 - Haunting quality 01:37:43 - A companion in the Underworld … Watch previous episodes with Duncan Barford: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=barford Read “The Going Down”: - https://godsandradicals.squarespace.com/bookstore/p/the-going-down-by-duncan-barford To find our more about Duncan Barford, visit: - https://www.duncanbarford.uk/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep362: Goddess Encounters - Delson Armstrong
May 22, 20261 h 55 min
In this episode I am once again joined by Delson Armstrong, spiritual teacher, meditation virtuoso, and author of ‘A Mind Without Craving’. Delson describes his recent initiation into the goddess tradition of …
Show notes
In this episode I am once again joined by Delson Armstrong, spiritual teacher, meditation virtuoso, and author of ‘A Mind Without Craving’. Delson describes his recent initiation into the goddess tradition of Śri Vidya, recounts his subsequent encounters with deities and supernatural beings, and discusses his latest writings on para-consciousness and nibbanadhatu. Delson explains how to relate to guilt, doubt, and skepticism; how to enter the three gates to cessation; and gives his take on the essence of the spiritual path. Delson also reveals his recent explorations in Western Philosophy, why he has begun writing about world peace, offers his predictions for the future, and shares what he is doing to prepare himself and his family for what is to come. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep362-mirror-beyond-mind-delson-armstrong Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:53 - Delson life update 02:24 - Words for the exhausted seeker 04:18 - Why Delson still teaches TWIM 05:50 - Jhana wars 08:28 - Bad doubt vs good doubt 10:06 - What is beyond the fetter of doubt? 18:33- Questioning the doctrine of rebirth 19:46 - Ordinary right view vs supramundane right view 21:39 - Delson’s library of books 23:35 - Exploring Western philosophy 25:57 - The essence of the path 31:20 - Philosophy reading list 36:49 - Lucretius and the Swerve 38:42 - Initiation into Śri Vidya 45:10 - Encounters with Goddesses 50:17 - Deity visitations 54:39 - The Mirror Beyond Mind 58:41 - Para-consciousness and nibbanadhatu 59:01 - Did the Buddha reject the Vedas? 01:03:28 - Zero point of expansion and contraction 01:04:57 - 3 gates to cessation 01:10:25 - How to relate to cessation? 01:15:27 - What happens at death 01:16:47 - The Vakkalisutta 01:18:45 - Life review during meditation and death 01:19:42 - Forgiveness practice 01:22:25 - Teachings of Jesus 01:23:21 - Guilt and how to forgive 01:29:51 - When reconciliation is not possible 01:31:20 - Civilisational utopia thru enlightenment? 01:38:11 - Is world peace unrealistic? 01:39:57 - Can peace come from weakness? 01:44:01 - Why is Delson writing about world peace? 01:46:48 - Predictions about the immediate future of the world 01:50:43 - How Delson is preparing for the future ... Watch previous episodes with Delson Armstrong: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=delson Find out more about Delson Armstrong: - https://www.delsonarmstrong.com/events - https://delsonarmstrong.substack.com/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep361: Living Awakeness - Stephen Snyder
May 15, 20261 h 5 min
In this episode I am once again joined by Stephen Snyder, Buddhist meditation teacher and author of several books including “Living Awakeness: Embodying Your Awakening”. Stephen compares Theravada to Zen in …
Show notes
In this episode I am once again joined by Stephen Snyder, Buddhist meditation teacher and author of several books including “Living Awakeness: Embodying Your Awakening”. Stephen compares Theravada to Zen in terms of difficulty and depth, explains why 30 minutes of cessation is his minimum to achieve Theravada stream entry, and shares why he believes cessation has a feminine energy. Stephen discusses the writing practices that have made him such a prolific author, reflects on how spiritual experiences can change one’s reading habits, and reveals his opinion on academic histories of Buddhism Stephen also discusses false awakenings and ego inflation, whether enlightenment eliminates all negative emotions, and considers the controversial relationship between enlightenment and political engagement. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep361-living-awakeness-stephen-snyder Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:02 - Stephen’s secrets for writing so prolifically 04:51 - Writing routine 05:57 - Influence of law career on writing style 07:32 - Does Stephen read fiction? 08:00 - Does awakening change reading preferences? 10:03 - Does Stephen read Buddhist history? 12:14 - Stephen’s new book, “Living Awakeness” 12:34 - Patterns in students with deeper awakening 13:30 - 8 levels of consciousness 18:22 - Are desire and anger eliminated by awakening? 20:32 - The Buddha was angry 21:19 - How does awakening affect emotion? 22:59 - Stored karma in the 8th level of consciousness 24:31 - Awakening vs self improvement 27:07 - Meditation as stress reduction 29:26 - Why not just teach the brahmavihārās? 30:45 - Yogic origin of Buddhist practices 31:18 - Different ways to practice brahmavihārā 34:13 - Theravada vs Zen awakenings 34:54 - Theravada awakening is in danger of being lost 37:00 - Which is more difficult: Theravada or Zen? 37:58 - Fear of extinction 39:34 - Cessation is a feminine energy 41:06 - Which awakening should you get first: Theravada or Zen? 41:54 - 30 min cessation minimum for stream awakening 44:56 - False awakenings 45:11 - Cessation vs falling asleep during meditation 45:38 - “Awakening” is used to generically 46:10 - Interrogating awakening experiences 47:18 - Ego inflation after transcendent experiences 49:09 - Post awakening perspectives 53:07 - Awakening and political engagement 57:21 - Bernie Glassman’s Auschwitz retreats 59:52 - Does awakening change one’s politics? 01:03:01 - Origin of enflamed political engagement … Watch previous episodes with Stephen Snyder: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=Stephen%20Snyder To find our more about Stephen Snyder, visit: - https://awakeningdharma.org/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James
Ep360: Gurus & Awakenings - Dr Christopher “Hareesh” Wallis
May 8, 20261 h 50 min
In this episode, I am once again joined by Dr Christopher “Hareesh” Wallis, a Sanskritist and scholar-practitioner of Classical Tantra. Christopher shares how he became a spiritual teacher, explains the dangers …
Show notes
In this episode, I am once again joined by Dr Christopher “Hareesh” Wallis, a Sanskritist and scholar-practitioner of Classical Tantra. Christopher shares how he became a spiritual teacher, explains the dangers of guru idealisation, and considers if he may be misleading his students. Christopher discusses his own series of religious peak experiences, explores their causes, and reflects on their consequences. Christopher recalls his time studying with American spiritual teacher Adyanshanti, the influence of Marshall Rosenberg, and reveals how his ability to spot fake gurus improved after his awakening. … Full episode at www.guruviking.com. Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 00:43 - Studying under Alexis Sanderson 04:16 - Faithfulness to the traditions 05:38 - The requirements to understand tantric sources 06:24 - Secrecy and the oral tradition 09:07 - Did Sanderson receive Lakshmanjoo’s energetic transmission 12:28 - Academic approaches to religion 13:28 - Public vs private religion 14:23 - Why isn’t Sanderson religious? 16:40 - Is Shaivite Tantra a relic of the past? 17:42 - Does religious affiliation contaminate academic objectivity? 20:43 - Cabezón on the benefits of an insider perspective on religious 21:44 - Piety and devotion as motives 23:02 - Humanists can have devotion too 23:43 - Cynicism about human motives 24:50 - Loss of trust in gurus 26:39 - Famous gurus want to be famous 28:30 - How gurus fall 31:25 - How Christopher became a spiritual teacher 33:33 - Switching from academia to freelance spiritual teaching 25:22 - Is Christopher a guru? 39:30 - Does Christopher mislead his students? 44:21 - Christopher’s experience of flow when teaching 47:20 - Feeling the presence of past masters 49:30 - Self-deception and collusion with students 53:02 - Student-teacher projection 54:29 - Christopher’s experience with naive projection 56:23 - How Christopher deals with idealisation 57:52 - Why your biggest fans can become your greatest haters 59:14 - A story of praise and blame 01:01:55 - Christopher’s spiritual journey 01:05:22 - Studying with Adyashanti 01:08:26 - Christopher’s awakening 01:09:45 - What is vs one’s mental representation 01:14:39 - Sudden or gradual? 01:18:08 - Freedom from mental constructs 01:20:08 - Non-violent communication 01:24:13 - Am I good enough? 01:26:31 - Aftermath of an awakening experience 01:29:58 - Glimpse vs abiding shift 01:33:42 - Spotting fake gurus after awakening 01:35:57 - Changes in doctrinal understanding 01:40:22 - Challenging the true believer 01:42:29 - Denying the Buddhist doctrine of no-self 01:43:26 - 3 stages of awakening 01:47:41 - Christopher’s “Tantra 112” meditation app … Previous episode with Christopher Wallis: - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=wallis To find our more about Dr Christopher Wallis visit: - https://hareesh.org/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

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