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Beyond the Conversation
Essays, reflections, and explorations inspired by the questions we ask.
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What Death Teaches the Living: Shared Death Experiences and the Wisdom of a Death Doula
Crossing the Threshold: What Death Teaches the Living Death is the one experience every human being will face, yet in much of modern Western culture, it remains hidden, avoided, and deeply feared. In this episode of Beyond 80%, death doula Gretchen Jones invites us to step closer to death, not to dwell in morbidity, but to discover what it can teach us about consciousness, connection, and how to live more fully. Relearning How to Be With Death Gretchen explains that for much
Ryan olexson
Feb 252 min read


The Fluidity of Self: Exploring Consciousness with Dr. Susan Blackmore
In the realm of psychology and philosophy, few topics are as captivating or mysterious as consciousness and the self. Our recent discussion with Dr. Susan Blackmore, a renowned psychologist and philosopher, takes us on a journey into these profound questions. Dr. Blackmore, who has dedicated her career to understanding the nature of consciousness, invites us to view the self not as something fixed, but as a fluid process driven by both internal and external influences. The Jo
Ryan olexson
Feb 183 min read


Exploring the Brain's Spiritual Doorway: Dr. Kevin Nelson on Near-Death Experiences
In the realm of scientific exploration, where data and empirical evidence reign supreme, the study of Near-Death Experiences (NDEs) often challenges our understanding of consciousness and existence. In a compelling discussion, neurologist Dr. Kevin Nelson provides insights from his extensive research into how the brain might generate these profound experiences at the edge of life. The Enigma of Near-Death Experiences Near-Death Experiences commonly occur when individuals are
Ryan olexson
Feb 112 min read


Living On: Insights from Near-Death Experiences
Navigating the Metamorphosis: Returning from the Brink In part 2 of the Experiencers, we explore the profound journeys of individuals who have glimpsed beyond the veil, experiencing Near-Death Experiences (NDEs). These transformative encounters often leave those who return altered in ways that defy ordinary comprehension. The Extraordinary Return This episode centers on a crucial, often overlooked aspect of NDEs, the return to life. Our storytellers didn’t come back hoping to
Ryan olexson
Feb 42 min read


Beyond the Veil: Stories of Near-Death Experiences and the Lessons They Teach
Introduction In the realm of human experience, few stories captivate and mystify as much as those detailing near-death experiences (NDEs). People from across the globe, and from vastly different walks of life, report eerily similar journeys to realms beyond our everyday physical existence. We delve into the intriguing world of NDEs, inspired by the accounts of five individuals whose encounters with the edge of life have stirred profound insights. Awakening to the Beyond Each
Ryan olexson
Jan 282 min read


Exploring the Mysteries of Life Reviews in Near-Death Experiences
In a world dominated by empirical evidence and tangible data, there exists a realm that challenges our current understanding of science: Near-Death Experiences (NDEs). Among the most intriguing aspects of NDEs is the Life Review—a phenomenon that allows individuals to revisit their past actions and experiences from a profound, almost omnipresent perspective. Dr. Robert Coppes, an esteemed researcher and board member of the International Association for Near-Death Studies, she
Ryan olexson
Jan 213 min read


Bridging Consciousness and Neuroscience With Dr. Eben Alexander
In the delicate dance between empirical science and the enigmatic realm of the human mind lies a story of transformation and exploration. Dr. Eben Alexander, a celebrated neurosurgeon, offers a profound journey through both the surgical theaters and the expansive realms of consciousness that defy conventional scientific frameworks. A Journey from the Brink of Death In 2008, Dr. Alexander's life took a dramatic turn when he fell victim to bacterial meningitis, a condition pres
Ryan olexson
Jan 143 min read


Exploring the Frontier of Consciousness: Near-Death Experiences and Beyond
In a world filled with tangible data and empirical evidence, there exists a realm of experience that challenges our current scientific understanding: Near-Death Experiences (NDEs). Dr. Marieta Pehlivanova from the University of Virginia's Division of Perceptual Studies is at the forefront of research into these profound encounters that occur at the precipice of life and death. Her work, alongside other researchers, explores the nature of NDEs and how they might transform our
Ryan olexson
Jan 52 min read
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