Chiwi Journal

Last month at the Hamburg Literature Festival, I heard Dan Brown discuss his latest novel, a thriller that explores what happens to consciousness when the body dies. But this isn't just fiction. The book weaves together real neuroscience research, declassified CIA experiments, and a theory that challenges everything we think we know about the mind. What if your brain doesn't create consciousness but just receives it? What if the reality you perceive is heavily filtered, and death simply removes that filter? And what happens when intelligence agencies try to weaponise these ideas? In this episode, I break down the science behind nonlocal consciousness theory, the GABA filter mechanism, near-death experiences, sudden savant syndrome, and the CIA's decades-long experiments with remote viewing. Whether these ideas resonate as cutting-edge science or elaborate pseudoscience, they raise questions we all face: What are we? And what happens when we die? Key concepts: Nonlocal Consciousness Theory — Consciousness as a fundamental universal element, not generated by the brain GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) — The neurotransmitter that filters reality and prevents sensory overload Cocktail Party Effect — How we hear everything but only consciously process what matters Habituation — The brain's energy-saving mechanism that ignores constant stimuli Near-Death Experiences (NDEs) — What happens when GABA levels drop to zero before death Out-of-Body Experiences (OBEs) — Consciousness detaching from physical constraints Postictal Bliss — The expanded consciousness state after epileptic seizures Retrocausality — The theory that effects can precede causes; time as non-linear Sudden Savant Syndrome — Acquiring extraordinary skills after head injuries CIA Stargate Project — The real Cold War program studying remote viewing (1970s-1990s) Threshold Project — The fictional CIA program weaponising consciousness through brain-machine interfaces H2M Interface — Human-to-Machine brain interfaces based on nanoelectric biofilaments Remote Viewing — Using consciousness to perceive distant locations Psychonauts — Test subjects whose consciousness operates at the edge of death Books Referenced: The Secret of SecretsThe Lost SymbolThe Doors of PerceptionThe Wreck of the Titan 📝 Read the full article: https://chiwijournal.substack.com/p/dan-brown-the-secret-of-secrets Questions to ponder If this episode made you think differently about consciousness and death, please share it with someone who's ever wondered what happens when we die.

Today on the podcast, I’m talking with my friend David Ridley-Parris, a coach who helps people navigate life’s biggest transitions and design careers that truly align with their identity. After years on Wall Street and in Silicon Valley, David left the corporate grind for a slower-paced life in Portugal and a new calling in grief coaching. In this episode, he shares how personal loss shaped his path, why grief coaching is about envisioning the future, and how AI, group coaching, and community are transforming his practice. 🔑 Key Points Why David left Wall Street and Silicon Valley to start anew in Portugal. David’s coaching philosophy: strategic questioning for self-discovery. Grief coaching as a forward-looking practice — beyond therapy’s clinical lens. The concepts of liminal space, primary loss, and secondary loss. Insights from working with global clients and the LGBTQ+ community. Group coaching: peer accountability, confidentiality, and shared growth. How AI tools enhance coaching through summaries and action tracking. Professional growth opportunities and the forthcoming Grief Coaching Network. Connect with David on LinkedIn Navigate Your Path Forward: David’s website

In this episode of Chiwi Journal, two AI hosts take you on a deeply personal journey across continents, from Shandong to Auckland, London to Lisbon, as they share Camellia’s story of moving 20,000 miles and confronting an invisible tiger she’d been running from her entire life: her own ambition. Together, they explore the weight of cultural expectations, the silent pressure of “neijuan”, and the bittersweet lessons Portugal taught about slowing down, letting go, and simply being human. This is a story about identity, burnout, and the quiet permission to exist without constant achievement, and maybe, it’s about finding your own way to stop running too. NOTE: This episode was created using Notebook LM to transform Camellia’s original article into a podcast-style narration. If you enjoyed it, consider subscribing for more reflections on life, culture, and creativity.

You once asked me: Are you still searching for home? In this episode, I try to answer you. It’s not a guidebook to Lisbon. It’s a voice memo from a night tram. A letter from a café table. A footnote scrawled under a fado song. If you’ve ever felt like an outsider, or longed for a place that doesn’t quite exist — maybe, like me, you’ll find something in this city that gently holds your questions, without rushing to answer them.

In this episode, we welcome Alyssa Phelps, an artist and former professional in international trade research and taxation. Currently based at the Network School, Alyssa shares her passion for women's health, sustainable fashion, and creative arts, including her journey into tufted art and silversmithing. Topics Covered: 1. Women's Health and Period Products: - Alyssa's personal journey into investigating the safety of period products. - Key findings on harmful substances in period products, including PFAS, dioxins, and heavy metals. - Discussion on the lack of mandatory safety tests in the industry. - Suggestions for safer product choices and the importance of consumer education. 2. The Environmental Impact of Fast Fashion: - How fast fashion contributes to environmental harm through overproduction and poor-quality materials. - Alyssa's thoughts on the addictive nature of platforms like Shein and their negative impact on personal and environmental health. 3. The Value of Secondhand Clothing: - Benefits of thrifting: uniqueness, quality, and environmental sustainability. - Overcoming stereotypes around hygiene and secondhand shopping. - Tips for finding secondhand treasures and repurposing vintage items creatively. 4. Creative Pursuits and Sustainability in Art: - Alyssa's process for creating a tufted snake vase, inspired by Vietnamese artist Shishi San. - The role of art in sustainability and self-expression. 5. Fashion Evolution and Personal Style: - How to develop personal style using tools like Pinterest and mood boards. - The importance of quality over quantity in curating a wardrobe. 6. The Broader Impact of Sustainability: - Insights into the need for a systemic change in both fashion and women's health industries. - The role of informed consumers and creative thinkers in shaping a more sustainable future. Resources Mentioned: Network SchoolDr. Shanna Swan1638 - Dr. Shanna Swan - The Joe Rogan ExperienceGlobal Organic Textile Standard: Home - GOTSFollow Alyssa on IGDr. Stacy Sims: Female-Specific Exercise & Nutrition for Health, Performance & LongevityMAMAVATION | Non-Toxic Products For Healthy FamiliesNatural Pads for Periods - NatracareGoodwillFinds: Online Thrift StoreHow Dangerous Are Lululemon Leggings?Toxic fabrics in Shein’s clothes: what are the materials to avoid?Shishi San’s Vibrant Tufted Sculptures Celebrate the Colorful Motifs of Chinese Vases Alyssa will soon be sharing content on sustainable style, thrifting tips, and identifying quality garments. Stay tuned for her website link, which will be added to this page as it becomes available.

In this conversation, Björn Öeste discusses the Darksun.is project, an AI agent designed to explore esoteric knowledge and connect disparate ideas. The project includes a meme coin and aims to enrich the marketplace of ideas by uncovering suppressed knowledge. Björn Öeste shared the significance of the #binary meme, the role of the AI agent Holmes, and the importance of community engagement through gamification content. He also touches on decentralized archaeology and the collaborative nature of the project, highlighting the team's dynamics and future plans. SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: darksun.isFollow Björn ÖFollow MitchThe Network School eventsWhy I created darksunNemesis Star Theory: The Sun's 'Death Star' CompanionRobert Sutton HarringtonMichael SaylorNemesis Star Theory w/Neil deGrasse TysonThe Three-Body ProblemThe Network School

INTRO My guests today are Mili and Neter, my classmates from the Network School. In this episode, we reflect on our experiences so far, dive into some exciting ideas from our lectures and discussions, and share our personal journeys in crypto and beyond. Whether you're curious about the Network School or the future of decentralised living, this episode has something for you. WE DISCUSSED: SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: The Network SchoolThe Network StateThe Network School eventsMy First Million Podcast with Ryan PetersonVitalik Buterin's websiteInside Network School X ThreadZuzalu City

Intro My guests today are Berkeley Wanner and Sterlin Lujan. In this episode, we discussed their journeys into cryptocurrency, the influence of Balaji's ideas, and their experiences within the Network School. Timeline 00:00 Introduction to Network School and Guests 02:50 Philosophical Foundations of Cryptocurrency 06:39 Experiences with Balaji's Ideas 10:07 Application Process for Network School 13:49 Daily Life and Structure at Network School 34:47 Expectations and Future of Network School 39:57 Advice for Future Network Schoolers SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: The Network SchoolFollow Berkeley WannerFollow Sterlin LujanA Newsletter That Pays You Timothy C. May: Libertaria in CyberspaceBlueprint Bryan JohnsonLu.maToastmastersCounter Governance SubstackThe Network StatePraxis Gets $525 Million in Commitments for Planned ‘Heroic’ CityZuzalu CityH.L. MenckenBurning Man

My guest today is Jack Connor, a linguist, programmer, and author who speaks more than seven languages and has built various AI language technologies. In 2023, Jack launched a project to preserve endangered languages, believing that losing a language means losing an entire culture. Outside of his work, Jack is also a semi-professional skateboarder and has lived in ten countries. TIMELINE 00:57 Introduction to Language Preservation and LLMs 03:23 The Importance of Navajo Language and Its History 05:58 The Arctic World Archive and Language Storage 08:28 Cultural Significance of Language Preservation 11:15 AI's Role in Language Preservation and Revitalization 13:43 Challenges in Preserving Living Languages 16:32 Traditional vs. Modern Methods of Language Preservation 21:16 Preserving Languages Through Technology 22:22 Working with Native Speakers for Accuracy 23:46 The Importance of Quality Assurance in AI 25:14 The Risks of Machine-Generated Content 25:49 Language Diversity and Dialects 27:42 The Complexity of Language Classification 29:28 Cultural Exchange and Language Learning 30:53 Skateboarding and Language Preservation 33:50 Self-Motivation in Learning Languages 36:01 Experiencing Culture Through Language 37:57 Global Trends in Language Extinction 41:13 Cultural Connections Through Language 42:42 Preserving Endangered Languages 48:52 The Role of Fellowships in Language Projects 53:45 Language Learning and Cultural Immersion 56:01 Linguistic Determinism in Sci-Fi 58:57 Future of Language Preservation and AI's Expanding Role SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: Jack ConnorNavajo languagehttps://www.britannica.com/story/navajo-code-talkers-infographic#:~:text=That language had no alphabet,code based on word substitution.)Code Talker, book by Chester NezThe Future of Data Preservation - AWASami languageNaba languageBasque languageMutual intelligibilityCahuilla languageDocumenting Endangered Languages: 𝕏 InterviewO'Shaughnessy FellowshipsSlaughterhouse-Five by Kurt VonnegutStories of Your Life and Others by Ted Chiang

My guest today is MJDorian, the host of one of my favourite shows Creative Codex. He is also an artist and composer. In today’s episode, we talked about… Behind the ScenesCreative CodexCarl Jung’s InfluenceThe Red BookModern ImpactWilliam Blake EncounterThe Ancient of DaysNikola Tesla’s ParadoxKurt Cobain’s SymbolismChildren’s DrawingsCreative DecayDreams and Creativity Resources Highlighted in This Episode MJDorian’s websiteThe Third Eye Drops PodcastThe Red Book (Jung)MJDorian PatreonMy Spiritual OdysseyThe Ancient of DaysNikola Tesla & The Paradox of GeniusAlexander McQueen • Woven in ShadowsJimi Hendrix Electrifies The Star Spangled BannerCobain: Montage of Heck (2015)The Magic Secrets of Salvador DaliCaravaggio: 100 Famous Paintings Analysis and BiographyChiaroscuroLeonor Fini • The Dark Masquerade

In May this year, in Manchester, I witnessed an aurora reminiscent of angels descending to earth. Later, I came across trending news on X about a blue meteor appearing in Portugal. Coupled with constantly seeing fractal geometries in purple, gold, and green during breathwork sessions, and Buddhist mandala patterns, I've been in a dreamlike state, prompting me to ask myself deeply: What exactly is our universe up to? During a recent breathwork session, I suddenly saw my Huachuma (San Pedro) guide playing the flute in the valley, calling me back into the embrace of one of Peru's most sacred plants. So, I immediately booked a train ticket and headed to The Lighthouse Retreat to seek guidance and find clarity. The past four days in the remote mountains of Portugal felt like I've lived millions of years, experiencing the joys and sorrows of everything... I wanted to record my thoughts and feelings, but I realised the limitations of written words. So, I'll leave these scattered notes here, in the hope that if you happen to stumble upon this piece, you can personally experience this natural gift and interpret the messages that Huachuma communicates through your own bodily sensations. Books/links mentioned in this episode: The Lighthouse RetreatTranscendental MeditationExploring Psychedelic JourneysLife is nothing but a grand role-playing gameJade Dragon Snow MountainSisyphusThe DoorsThe Doors of Perception The written article of this piece can be found on Chiwi Journal Substack

Based on the advice of an online mentor who suggests exploring influential books called 'earthquake books'—those that can significantly shake and impact our perspectives—one such powerful book is the profound works of Carl Jung. As I explore Jung's works, certain sections of his books have left a lasting mark on how I perceive things, resonating deeply with my journey. So I recorded this episode to share my learnings. Books/articles mentioned in this episode: Memories, Dreams, Reflections: An AutobiographyThe Archetypes and the Collective UnconsciousThe Red BookCATAFALQUE: Carl Jung and the End of HumanityTom Morgan's newsletterIn BaselRudolf SteinerGoetheanumRetrospect on My Two Years at Leipzig. 1868.I ChingMandalaHiganbana “Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.” - Carl Jung

My guest today is Liv Wang, a renowned Premier League journalist with a massive following of millions. I've been a follower of Liv's work for quite some time now, admiring her unique content creation and interviewing style with Premier League footballers. Recently, I had the opportunity to meet Liv in person during my visit to Manchester. Needless to say, it was an enlightening experience. So get ready for an insightful conversation about her journey, experiences, and perspectives in the world of football journalism. In today’s episode, we talked about… Passion for Football:A Day in the Life:Cultural Insights:Player Interviews:Managing Online Presence:Social Initiatives:Women's Football Development:Behind the Scenes:Premier League's Development in China: Links mentioned in this episode Premier LeagueFollow Liv Wang on InstagramRuben Dias’ nickname“What a scarf” with Jude BellinghamEssential Items Campaign

Today, we have the pleasure of welcoming three individuals to our conversation. Joining us are Luis Eduardo Arruda, not only a head Coach but also a co-owner of @thebakerycrossfit. Alongside him is Melissa Haun, a formidable athlete representing the Bakery Athletics team. And last but not least, we have Diogo Costa, who wears dual hats as both a data analyst at Revolut and an athlete within the Bakery Athletics team. This podcast is being recorded live at Bakery Cafe. If you happen to be nearby, why not stop in for a cup of coffee or even join us for a training session at the Bakery CrossFit? We’d be super happy to have you here! So, get comfortable and let's delve into today's conversation. Links mentioned in this episode Join The Bakery CrossFitEduMel,DiogoSaraHugoSlavikGuiCrossFitCrossFit OpenThe Bakery AthleticsBakery Cafe

If the doors of perception were cleansed every thing would appear to man as it is, Infinite. For man has closed himself up, till he sees all things thro' narrow chinks of his cavern. ― William Blake, The Marriage of Heaven and Hell In recent times, we've immersed ourselves in deep discussions challenging traditional beliefs and values. Concepts such as meditation, metaphysics, and the power of myths have taken precedence in our conversations. There's a growing acknowledgment of the limits of reason and scientific rationalism, alongside a newfound embrace of spiritual enlightenment. Despite technological marvels enhancing our lives, a subtle dissatisfaction persists. It seems we're fatigued with a system prioritising efficiency over spiritual fulfilment. Perhaps our collective consciousness has reached a turning point, urging us to seek meaning beyond the material. Last year, I had inexplicable visions defying scientific explanations, deepening my belief in the vastness of the universe. In this episode, I'll share glimpses of my journey from childhood to the present—a preliminary draft, with more stories awaiting exploration. So, relax and join me as we delve into the mysteries of the soul.💗 Books and Links Mentioned in This Episode: The Marriage of Heaven and HellFamen Temple《尼采传：我是太阳》I ChingRay DalioTim FerrissTranscendental MeditationJourney to Inner Peace: A Ten-Day Vipassana Meditation ExperienceFlowism: My Philosophy of LivingHow I overcame depression, learned to trust myself and grew as an indiepreneurBronte Parsonage MuseumThe Invisible Third Culture AdultJim O'Shaughnessy:Infinite LoopsTom Morgan:What's Important?The Lighthouse RetreatThe Doors of Perception: Heaven and Hell by Aldous HuxleyA books recommendation thread on spiritualityUnearthing Hidden Emotions through Zen Buddhism StudyAuerbachs KellerYe Gong Hao Long What we know is a drop. What we don't know is an ocean. – Adam, Dark | Netflix

Today, I'm joined by Devin Martin, the visionary behind Lifestyle Integrity and a distinguished executive life coach. In this episode, we talked about… Books/links mentioned in this episode Life IntegrityA Transformation Guide. Interview with Devin MartinKen WilberJordan PetersonAyahuascaDevin’s blogTom Morgan: Presence, Synthesis, and Giving the Master Its DueThe Art of LivingVipassana MeditationDance your darkness with this playlistDark retreat

Kia Ora, Ni Hao, and Hello! Welcome to a special edition of the Chiwi Journal podcast, recorded live at the ETHGlobal Istanbul Hackathon. In this episode, I bring you exclusive interviews with the brilliant minds who won scholarships from the Take Off Web3 program and are building exciting projects here. Join me now to delve into their inspiring ventures and creations and learn about their fascinating Web3 journeys. Speakers: @HooCrypto @Simonpuebla_ @nastyarods @vDarph @filmacedo Special thanks to @TakeOffWeb3 @TalentProtocol for sponsoring 15 scholars coming to Istanbul to attend DevConnect and ETHGlobal.

My guest today is Fabrizio Rinaldi and Francesco Di Lorenzo. They are serial tech founders and currently focus on building a writing, scheduling & publishing tool on 𝕏 and LinkedIn, Typefully. In today’s episode, we talked about… Lisbon Recommendation From Francesco: https://www.marrecreo.com/en/home/ https://www.instagram.com/ilmatricianolisbona/ https://www.rocco.pt/ https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZCRAGP6qb6bmMS7EA From Fabrizio: https://maps.app.goo.gl/mfjd5UbYEsPJVLV68?g_st=ichttps://maps.app.goo.gl/mTR4c8UBD2AgCaf98?g_st=ichttps://maps.app.goo.gl/dtEKenGWwMAdHwY86?g_st=ichttps://maps.app.goo.gl/NReLRX3sSoCQ4YWJ6?g_st=ic From Camellia: Google map list: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6Qv3YdpZk6jUrCiH9 Follow Fabrizio Rinaldi, Francesco Di Lorenzo and ⁠Typefully⁠ on X

My guest today is Ellen Chen. Ellen is the cofounder of the lifestyle brand Sapiens. With a background in biomed and bioengineering, Ellen also serves as a science communicator, connecting with a broad online audience. In today’s episode, we talked about… Books/links mentioned in this episode @minor_demonDiet, Nutrition, Physical Activity and Cancer: a Global Perspective ReportSapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah HarariFirst Interview in the MetaverseFlexible Dieting by Alan AragonWhy Calories Don't Count by Giles Yeohttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Body_positivity#:~:text=Body positivity is a social,as an undesirable social construct.)The Circadian Code by Satchin PandaDose-response relationship between weekly resistance training volume and increases in muscle massExercise SnacksHuberman LabLex Fridman Podcast Follow Sapiens Club Dou Yin 1: @SapiensClub Dou Yin 2: @新西兰Summer WeChat Channel: @SapiensClub “For humans and all species, the sensations, the perceptions and the thoughts and the feelings that we have in our life span, none of that is actually carried forward, except the ones that we take, and we convert into actions, such as writing, actions, such as words actions, such as engineering new things.” - Andrew Huberman

My guest today is Mona Sobhani. She is a distinguished cognitive neuroscientist, researcher, and accomplished author with a rich and diverse professional background spanning over 15 years. Her wide-ranging interests have led her to explore the intersections of science, technology, spirituality, and human behaviour. In today’s episode, we talked about… Books/links mentioned in this episode Proof of Spiritual Phenomena: A Neuroscientist's Discovery of the Ineffable Mysteries of the Universe by Mona Sobhani, PhDMona Sobhani, PhD websiteWindbridge Research CenterThe Challenging Psychedelic Experiences ProjectFinding Your Highest Path with Psychic Medium Laura Lynne JacksonMany Lives, Many MastersDeep Connection Within - Voice Workshop with YogetsuInstitute for Advanced Consciousness Studies ( IACS )Brave New World of Psychedelic Science SubstackExploring ConsciousnessSupport Neuroscience of Consciousness Symposium