#308 - Steve Volk
Categories
Key Takeaways
Skeptical inquiry can reveal surprising evidence for fringe phenomena.
This challenges conventional views and encourages open-mindedness in scientific exploration.
Statistical significance in studies suggests potential validity of telepathy.
It opens doors to further investigation and discussion in scientific communities.
Human intuition may be an evolutionary advantage for survival.
Understanding this can help in recognizing the importance of innate senses.
Skepticism remains high regarding the reliability of psychics in law enforcement.
This highlights the ongoing debate about the credibility of psychic phenomena.
Childhood memories can be fragmented and unreliable.
This highlights the complexity of memory and how it affects perception.
Episode Timestamps
Exploring the Evidence Behind Telepathy and Psychic Phenomena
- Discussion centers on skepticism and evidence for psychic phenomena like telepathy.
- Studies such as the Gansfield test show statistically significant results for psychic claims.
- The conversation highlights the tension between scientific rigor and fringe beliefs.
Exploring Intuition, Evolution, and Psychic Phenomena
- Discussion on the evolution of human intuition and sensory perception.
- Skepticism regarding the effectiveness of psychics in police investigations.
- A humorous take on Robert De Niro's career trajectory and recent projects.
Exploring Childhood Memories and Paranormal Experiences
- Discussion about childhood ghost experiences and their lingering impact.
- Importance of critical thinking in evaluating childhood memories.
- Humorous anecdotes about raccoons and courtroom sketch artists.
Exploring the Science Behind Ghosts and Near-Death Experiences
- The discussion centers on skepticism surrounding ghost phenomena and personal experiences.
- Scientific explanations for unusual occurrences, including infrasound and electromagnetic energy, are explored.
- Near-death experiences are examined as potential evidence of consciousness beyond death.
Exploring Near-Death Experiences and Their Impact on Perception
- Researchers are investigating the mysterious nature of near-death experiences.
- Elizabeth Kubler-Ross's work significantly influenced end-of-life care discussions.
- Controversial stories challenge traditional views on consciousness during clinical death.
Exploring Psychedelics and Their Impact on Human Perception
- Psychedelics like psilocybin alter brain activity and perception of reality.
- Near-death experiences may link to brain's chemical responses during psychedelic trips.
- The discussion includes personal anecdotes related to UFO sightings and skepticism.
Exploring UFOs, Privacy, and Human Connection in Modern Society
- The discussion revolves around UFO sightings and public skepticism towards them.
- Privacy concerns are highlighted in the context of advancing technology and social media.
- The potential for spiritual experiences from space exploration is explored.
Exploring Nature and the Human Experience: Insights from the Big Island
- Hilo's Keck Observatory offers stunning views of the Milky Way.
- Camping reconnects individuals with nature and fosters a humble perspective.
- The vastness of space prompts questions about extraterrestrial life and technology.
Exploring the Intersection of Bigfoot, Science, and Consciousness
- Discussion centers on the skepticism surrounding photographic evidence of Bigfoot.
- Exploration of lucid dreaming as a tool for personal development.
- Critique of Richard Dawkins' approach to atheism and science.
Exploring Lucid Dreaming and Consciousness Through Personal Experiences
- Dr. LaBerge shares his insights on lucid dreaming and its potential benefits.
- He recounts a personal experience of reuniting with deceased family members in dreams.
- The discussion touches on consciousness and the nature of reality in dreams.
Exploring Lucid Dreaming and Mindfulness Techniques
- Lucid dreaming can be enhanced through state tests and mindfulness practices.
- Nootropics may improve brain function and support lucid dreaming experiences.
- Dream characters often challenge the dreamer's awareness and perception of reality.
Exploring Lucid Dreams and Their Impact on Life
- Lucid dreaming allows control over dream scenarios and self-exploration.
- The discussion highlights how lucid dreaming can alleviate anxiety and nightmares.
- Recommendations for resources and techniques to improve lucid dreaming are provided.
Exploring the Intersection of Parapsychology and Skepticism
- Discussion on the rise of e-books and their impact on reading habits.
- Skepticism around parapsychology and the challenges faced by researchers.
- The role of notable figures like Uri Geller and James Randi in public perception.
People Mentioned
Joe Rogan
Podcaster, Comedian
Steve Volk
Journalist, Author, Media Personality
Robert De Niro
Actor
Dionne Warwick
Singer, Psychic
Bobby De Niro
Actor, Media Personality
Brian Red Band
Comedian, Podcast Host
Vic Tandy
Researcher
Elizabeth Kubler-Ross
Psychologist, Author
Reverend Walamu Amara
Research Partner, Interviewer
Ricky Sorrells
UFO witness, Deer hunter
Carhart Harris
Researcher
Edgar Mitchell
NASA astronaut, UFO believer
Richard Dawkins
Scientist, Author
Eddie Bravo
Comedian, MMA Commentator
Dr. Stephen LaBerge
Psychologist, Lucid Dreaming Expert
Bill Romanowski
Athlete, Entrepreneur
Uri Geller
Magician, Public Figure
James Randi
Skeptic, Magician
Daryl Bem
Psychologist, Researcher
Dean Radin
Parapsychologist
Rupert Sheldrake
Biologist, Researcher
Places Mentioned
Stephenville, Texas
Location of UFO sighting
Big Island, Hawaii
Geographical Location
Keck Observatory
Astronomical Observatory
Hilo
City
Hawaii
Location for workshop
Books Mentioned
Fringeology
Steve Volk
On Death and Dying
Elizabeth Kubler-Ross
Exploring the World of Lucid Dreaming
Stephen LaBerge
Notable Quotes
"There's lot people almost immediately discount anything fringe."
Discussing the general skepticism towards fringe topics like telepathy.
"There's actually evidence, scary thought, like intellectually criticized marginalized?"
Reflecting on the implications of finding evidence for psychic phenomena.
"There's got to be, like, pretty intense focus predator locks you, know, that sort psychic bond."
Discussion on the evolutionary aspect of sensing danger.
"I've always wanted to know. I've heard a lot of people talk it, everybody I've heard talk researched it."
Expressing skepticism about the use of psychics in police work.
"I mean, hard trust childhood memories."
Discussing the reliability of childhood memories.