#797 - Alex & Allyson Grey

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Joey Diaz and the Ambitious Build of Entheon: A Visionary Art Sanctuary

  • Joey Diaz discusses the ongoing Kickstarter campaign to finance the completion of Entheon, a 12,000 square foot building in the Hudson Valley.
  • The building repurposes a historic carriage house from 1882, integrating visionary art and spiritual elements throughout its design.
  • Alex and Allison Gray describe a unique architectural feature of the building that represents the four cardinal directions through sculptures of angels.
• 00:10:00

  Alex and Allison Gray on Artistic Vision and Spirituality at Entheon

  • The Grays emphasize their mission to create a lasting sanctuary for visionary art as a church established in 2008, involving the community in its efforts.
  • They acknowledge concerns about the future leadership of the church and the potential for distortion of its message, stressing the importance of humility in their roles as artists.
  • Discussions on the spiritual connection of creativity and the project’s evolution highlight their commitment to an enduring mission beyond their lifetime.
• 00:12:29

  Alex Grey Discusses Creativity as a Universal Religious Impulse

  • Alex Grey emphasizes that creativity is fundamental to the human experience and serves as a means of connecting with spirituality.
  • He references historical and cultural expressions of art as tools for unity and understanding among diverse religions.
  • Grey argues for a reimagined approach to religion, suggesting that creative arts can provide a spiritual core for a global civilization.
• 00:24:05

  Exploring the Evolution of Religion: Alex Grey's Vision for a New Spiritual Framework

  • Alex Grey shares insights about the necessity for modern religions to evolve and incorporate scientific understanding.
  • He highlights the organization's struggle for recognition and the complexities of establishing religious status, including the creation of their liturgy.
  • The conversation reflects on the historical context of their vision for a temple and the transformative power of creativity in spirituality.
• 01:13:47

  Martine Rothblatt's Vision: Transforming a Creative Community into a Church

  • Martine Rothblatt, founder of Sirius Satellite Network, encourages Alex and the speaker to formalize their community efforts into a church.
  • The couple undergoes a lengthy legal process, taking four years to establish church status while navigating community challenges.
  • Alex and the speaker create a spiritual haven for 'psychedelophiles,' hosting full moon ceremonies and fostering a creative, supportive environment.
• 01:56:12

  From Catholic Upbringing to Mindfulness: The Search for Authenticity

  • The speaker reflects on their traumatic childhood experiences and how they ultimately led to skepticism towards organized religion.
  • Amidst family turmoil, the speaker finds solace in the idea of God but quickly realizes the hypocrisy within the church.
  • The speaker discusses the balance between heightened awareness and paranoia in responding to the chaos of the world around them.
• 00:34:41

  Alex and the Distorted Reality: How Social Media Shapes Perceptions of the World

  • Alex discusses the negative impact of social media on people's perceptions, causing a distorted view of the world's state.
  • He emphasizes the importance of treating people kindly, highlighting how positive interactions can change one's reality.
  • The conversation touches on personal experiences, including Alex's near-suicide incident and how a stranger's smile impacted his decision.
• 00:39:02

  Michelangelo's Last Judgment: Artistic Reflection on Catholicism and Human Experience

  • The chapter delves into Michelangelo's experiences while painting the Sistine Chapel, emphasizing his admiration for the art and spiritual expression.
  • Discussion of Michelangelo's relationship with Catholicism and how his work represents a deeper purity beyond the church's controversies.
  • The dialogue explores themes of religious interpretation, viewing art as a medium that embodies divine energy and connects people to spiritual concepts.
• 00:45:28

  Transformative Art and Consciousness: A Dive into the Energetic Influence of Tryptamines with Notable Artist

  • Discussion on the energetic and emotional impact of art, emphasizing personal interpretations and experiences.
  • Exploration of tryptamine experiences and the importance of positive thinking in shaping perceptions.
  • Comparison of consciousness to diseases, highlighting the need for a supportive community to foster positive ideologies.
• 00:53:11

  The Mockery of Democracy: Reflections on Trump, Clinton, and the Broken Voting System

  • Critique of the political landscape, discussing the insincerity of candidates like Trump and Clinton.
  • Analysis of the flawed voting systems, referencing the HBO documentary 'Hacking Democracy' and issues with Diebold voting machines.
  • Advocacy for modernizing elections through secure online voting, drawing parallels to advancements in online banking.
• 00:57:00

  Joe Rogan Explores Societal Participation and the Age of Artificial Intelligence

  • Joe Rogan emphasizes the need to energize apathetic individuals and encourage their participation in the community.
  • He discusses the unprecedented interconnectedness brought by social media and artificial intelligence.
  • Rogan draws comparisons between current times and significant historical figures, asserting today's rapid evolution is unparalleled.
• 01:02:03

  Burning Man's Gift Economy and the Psychedelic Experience: Insights from MAPS

  • The conversation shifts to the unique culture of Burning Man, characterized by a gift economy where transactions are based on gifting rather than bartering.
  • Participants share experiences about the festival and its symbolic representation as an underground intelligence akin to mushrooms.
  • Dr. Brawner’s foam dome camp at Burning Man is highlighted as a space for creative expression and community engagement.
• 01:08:03

  Burning Man: The Apocalyptic Preparation and Artistry of Alex and Friends

  • Alex describes the preparations for Burning Man, comparing it to a practice for an apocalyptic village.
  • He invites friends to witness the spectacle of 800,000 attendees and fire spinners at the event.
  • Details include the rules around art cars, the environmentally conscious nature of the festival, and the stunning installations like the 'Mayan Warrior' art car.
• 01:56:12

  Art and Interaction: Kate Roddenbush's Sculptures at Burning Man

  • The conversation highlights the interactive sculptures created by Kate Roddenbush which are featured at Cosm.
  • Alex and his friends reflect on their experiences with various sculptures and the fun of riding bikes around them.
  • The discussion includes thoughts on the festival's artistic intent and its capability to excite with fire and interactivity.
• 01:13:47

  Alex Grey and the Visionary Art Revolution at Burning Man

  • Discussion on Mars One sculptures and the upcoming Burning Man event.
  • Introduction of Entheon, a new space featuring Alex Grey's sacred art.
  • Insight into the challenges and experiences of attending Burning Man, including the environment and community.
• 01:56:12

  The Transformative Power of Psychedelics and Visionary Art

  • Exploration of the psychedelic art movement and its historical context.
  • Discussion on the impact of psychedelics in today's society and its role in environmental awareness.
  • Alex Grey emphasizes the importance of visionary art in shaping cultural consciousness and addressing societal issues.
• 01:13:47

  Marijuana as a Catalyst for Change: Insights from Colorado's Legalization Movement

  • Marijuana is highlighted as a critical medicinal plant, linked to the UDV church and the Native American Church's use of peyote.
  • The legalization of marijuana in Colorado has led to vast economic benefits, reduced crime rates, and a new sense of community.
  • The discussion emphasizes the profound psychedelic effects of edible marijuana, transforming perspectives and promoting introspection.
• 02:23:18

  Psychedelic Research and the Fight Against Mental Health Stigmas: Rick Doblin's Work with MAPS

  • Rick Doblin and the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) lead the renaissance of psychedelic research for mental health treatments.
  • Evidence suggests psychedelics can significantly aid in treating PTSD, addiction, and other psychological ailments.
  • Historical context is provided regarding the medical use of cannabis and its associated prohibition due to racial and political motivations.
• 01:03:11

  Transformative Powers of MDMA and Psychedelics in PTSD Recovery for Veterans

  • Recent studies show an 85% success rate in treating PTSD in veterans using MDMA.
  • MAPS initiated second and third trials to help the 15% of veterans who did not respond to the first treatment.
  • MDMA helps individuals gain distance from their trauma, allowing for self-compassion and forgiveness.
• 01:06:12

  Funding Success for Buildentheon: A New Era for Psychedelic Therapy

  • Buildentheon has raised over $122,626 from 923 backers for its psychedelic therapy initiative.
  • The campaign has gained traction with 20 days remaining for contributions.
  • Support for Buildentheon is being promoted across social media to raise awareness.