#891 - Zach Leary

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Zach Leary Reflects on the Legacy of Timothy Leary and the Psychedelic Revolution

  • Zach Leary discusses his upbringing as the son of Timothy Leary, a prominent figure in the psychedelic movement.
  • He shares insights on his father’s innovation and contributions beyond psychedelics, emphasizing Leary's interest in technology and virtual reality.
  • The conversation explores parallels between psychedelic experiences and advancements in virtual reality, highlighting the visions of figures like Terence McKenna.
• 00:07:21

  Exploring Sensory Deprivation and Shamanic States with John Lilly’s Innovations

  • Zach reminisces about his experiences with John Lilly, the inventor of the sensory deprivation tank and a pioneer in interspecies communication.
  • Discussion on the experimental use of ketamine within sensory deprivation settings and its effects on consciousness.
  • Anecdote from Todd McCormick about a wild experience with John Lilly involving ketamine and sensory deprivation that illustrates the unconventional exploration of altered states.
• 00:12:08

  Ram Dass and Personal Revelations Through Ketamine in Hollywood Hills

  • The host shares a profound experience of taking ketamine in a sensory deprivation tank while his father and Ram Dass were visiting.
  • Ram Dass posed a transformative question, 'Who are you now?', prompting deep self-reflection.
  • The chapter discusses ketamine as a psychedelic tool and its connection to personal identity and spiritual journey.
• 00:19:31

  Obama's Drug Policy Failures: A Critique of Schedule One Classification and Big Pharma

  • The conversation criticizes former President Obama's handling of drug policy, particularly the classification of marijuana as a Schedule One substance.
  • Discussion about the profits and influence of Big Pharma on the availability and perception of substances like CBD and marijuana.
  • Concerns over the societal implications of denying proven medical benefits associated with psychedelic substances for profit motives.
• 00:24:11

  The War on Consciousness: The Profit Motive Behind the Criminalization of Drugs

  • Discussion on the competition between pharmaceutical drugs and marijuana, highlighting how legalization could harm pharmaceutical profits.
  • Examination of the Oxycontin epidemic and the hypocrisy of the war on drugs, focusing on the legal status of alcohol and prescription drugs.
  • Controversial claims about government involvement in the drug trade, citing the CIA’s historical links to drug trafficking incidents, including the crash of a government jet carrying cocaine.
• 00:28:55

  Michael Rupert's Bold Exposé: CIA Drug Operations and their Consequences

  • Highlighting Michael Rupert's testimony as a former LA police detective alleging CIA involvement in drug trafficking.
  • Emphasis on the assassinations of witnesses like Barry Seal, linking drug trafficking to high-profile government figures.
  • Contemplation on the implications of drug policy in the Philippines under President Duterte, addressing the barbaric anti-drug measures and its class-based nature.
• 00:36:31

  Alonzo Bowden's Take on Trump Supporters and the Racism Wave

  • Alonzo Bowden observes that while not all Trump supporters are racist, all racists seem to support Trump.
  • Discussion includes how Trump's presidency has emboldened racists to express their views openly.
  • The chapter touches on Jeff Sessions' anti-marijuana stance and a humorous suggestion to get him high to ease his views.
• 00:41:36

  The Downfall of Fame: From George Michael to Gary Coleman

  • Reflects on the deaths of Carrie Fisher and George Michael, examining their struggles and legacies.
  • Considers the harsh reality of former fame, highlighted by Gary Coleman’s experiences as a security guard.
  • Explores the destructive nature of societal values tied to 'winning' and wealth, with mentions of Steve Jobs’ regrets about his life's balance.
• 00:48:30

  The Transformation of a Ruthless Businessman to Humanitarian: The Journey of Karma Yoga

  • The speaker reflects on a man's evolution from a ruthless business gangster to a dedicated humanitarian.
  • Highlights the concept of 'karma yoga' and how significant life changes can lead to altruistic pursuits.
  • Discusses the traditional Indian path of the sadhu, marking a profound transition in life stages focused on serving others.
• 00:55:34

  Psychedelics and Spirituality: Exploring the Ancient Roots of Belief in God

  • Explores the historical connection between psychedelics and religious experiences in ancient Hindu cultures.
  • Discusses how mind-altering substances may have influenced the conceptualization of God and spirituality.
  • Contrasts modern perceptions of Hindu practices with ancient traditions that embraced intoxicants as sacraments.
• 01:00:00

  Zach Leary Discusses Gun Violence and Compassion in American Society

  • Zach Leary emphasizes the need for compassion towards individuals who commit violent acts, proposing that education and empathy are essential.
  • He references a specific incident in Minnesota involving a concealed carry permit holder who saved lives by shooting a knife-wielding perpetrator.
  • Leary critiques the imbalanced risk versus reward of gun ownership in America, suggesting there are far more negative outcomes than positive ones.
• 01:30:00

  Exploring Food Ethics: Zach Leary on Omnivores and Veganism

  • Zach Leary discusses his personal eating habits and the struggle to balance a vegan philosophy with omnivore practices.
  • He highlights the disconnect between modern food production and consumer awareness, referencing Michael Pollan's work on food sourcing.
  • Leary introduces the concept of the nitrogen cycle related to agricultural practices, citing Fritz Haber’s contributions to modern fertilizers.
• 01:13:47

  The Surprising Sentience of Fish and Plants: A Shift in Understanding

  • Discussion on the changing perception of fish and their capacity to feel pain, contrasting previous beliefs.
  • Highlighting the remarkable ability of the Acacia tree to alter its chemical composition in response to the sound of caterpillars eating, showing plant sentience.
  • Critique of large-scale agricultural practices and their impact on both the environment and plant life, calling for a shift in ethical consumption.
• 02:23:18

  Consumerism and Disassociation: Insights from the Minimalist Movement

  • Analysis of the rise of hyper-consumerism since the 1990s and the psychological implications of constant accumulation of material possessions.
  • Mention of the documentary 'The Minimalists' which explores the journey of individuals re-evaluating their dependency on consumer goods.
  • Discussion on societal pressures and the challenges of living authentically amidst a world driven by materialism and perceived success.
• 01:13:47

  Exploring Parenthood: Joe Rogan and the Reality of Aging

  • Joe Rogan reflects on the paradox of aging, comparing adults to 'old babies' who are still figuring life out.
  • He humorously critiques Donald Trump's behavior, likening it to that of a seven-year-old, particularly highlighting Trump's fixation on branding.
  • Rogan shares insights on online interactions and the negative spiral of seeking conflict, advocating for more positive, real-life engagements.
• 02:23:18

  Political Tensions: Trump, Clinton, and the American Divide

  • The discussion shifts to the political landscape, with Rogan expressing confusion over why people would support Donald Trump over Hillary Clinton.
  • Rogan and his guest debate the implications of Trump's potential Supreme Court appointments and the resulting constitutional shifts.
  • They explore the culture of resistance that emerges in response to political leadership, highlighting the collective awakening and discourse triggered by Trump's presidency.
• 01:13:47

  Joe Rogan's Transformative DMT Experience: Awakening to a New Reality

  • Joe Rogan describes his first breakthrough DMT trip, emphasizing its profound impact on his perception of reality.
  • He contrasts his pre-DMT experience, limited by a conventional worldview, and a post-DMT perspective that includes understanding a broader spectrum of existence.
  • Rogan raises questions about the number of individuals in society who have had similar psychedelic experiences, drawing parallels to the cultural shifts of the 1960s.
• 01:56:12

  Bernie Sanders and the Search for Truth: Addressing America's Societal Corruption

  • The conversation shifts to political awareness, highlighting Bernie Sanders' role in addressing systemic corruption in American society.
  • The speakers express frustration over current political dialogues that fail to address fundamental issues, likening the situation to treating symptoms instead of the disease.
  • They discuss the potential for societal change through awareness and the need to eliminate the influence of money in politics for a more equitable and functioning democracy.
• 01:09:10

  Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton, and the Political Game: A Deep Dive into Campaign Dynamics

  • The speaker discusses Donald Trump's efforts to limit lobbyist access and contrasts it with Hillary Clinton's approach.
  • Highlights the disparity in political contributions and how money influences candidacy, particularly noting Trump’s wealth advantages.
  • Reflects on the emotional responses following Trump's election and the resulting political activism seen in mass protests.
• 01:18:30

  Timothy Leary's Legacy: The Struggles with Addiction and Transformation

  • The speaker shares personal experiences with addiction, discussing emotional pain, and the seductive nature of heroin.
  • Highlights the impact of Timothy Leary’s fame on his life and relationships, revealing how it shifted after Leary's death.
  • Explores humorous anecdotes about drug use, including a delusional attempt to join the CIA while high on crack.
• 01:13:47

  Bill Wilson's Controversial Views on Alcoholism and Acid: A New Perspective

  • Discussion of Bill Wilson, founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, and his experiences with acid.
  • Revelation of Wilson's belief that acid could be a viable treatment for alcoholism.
  • Criticism of traditional recovery views that dismiss alternative treatments as disempowering.
• 01:56:12

  Zach Leary's Journey: From Corporate Life to Spiritual Awakening and Podcasting

  • Zach Leary shares his career transition from technology consulting to spiritual podcasts.
  • Announcement of his upcoming MAPS podcast aimed at exploring new therapeutic approaches.
  • Leary emphasizes the need for individual paths in recovery and spiritual awakening.