Guru Viking Interview Series

In this interview I am once again joined by Mordy Levine, serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author of ‘The Beginner’s Guide to Karma’ with Lama Lhanang.

Mordy discusses the Buddhist doctrine of karma, explores its history in Indian thought, and differentiates the various types of karmic actions and their consequences.

Mordy reveals special, esoteric methods to purify bad karma, compares the Tibetan tradition to Zen, and grapples with the importance of motive in karmic justice. 

Mordy also discusses the six realms, whether Buddhist hell should be understood as a place or a psychological state, and why he believes an understanding of karma is a pathway to true freedom.

NB: Lama Lhanang was originally scheduled to appear in this interview alongside Mordy, but was unable to attend due to a last minute scheduling conflict. 

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Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep299-karma-mordy-levine-2

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.

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Topics include:

00:00 - Intro 
00:52 - Why Mordy wrote “The Beginner’s Guide to Karma”
02:17 - Understanding of karma regulates human behaviour
03:38 - Creative collaboration with Lama Lhanang
04:48 - A powerful insight about karma and consciousness
06:53 - The history of the doctrine of karma in India
09:50 - Mordy’s research into karma, using primary sources
11:50 - Different types of karmic actions and their consequences
13:29 - Selfishness vs selflessness as motive
15:08 - Is intention all?
16:19 - How great masters read karmic history
19:34 - Does Buddhism disincentivise effective action?
21:19  Does self-interest negate efforts to generate good karma?
23:24 - The desire to help others is an exception
26:00 - Motivations are complicated
28:57 - How karma helps us face negative situations 
31:25 - The story of the Zen farmer
33:48 - Does the doctrine of karma blame the unfortunate?
36:02 - Explanation without accusation
37:09 - Mordy’s message about karma
38:38 - Working the karmic system to reduce negative karmic consequences and accrue merit
41:06 - Esoteric methods to purify negative karma
44:24 - The special power of meditation 
45:44 - Does motivation affect the karmic consequence of meditation?
44:34 - Can meditation create negative karma?
48:28 - Generating and dedicating merit
50:45 - Is enlightenment the result of good karma?
52:42 - How to work the karma system to become enlightened
53:43 - What is collective karma?
56:24 - Can we hold groups accountable for their karma?
58:18 - Mordy on Donald Trump
59:41 - Can bad karma send you to hell?
01:02:07 - Are the 6 realms real locations or psychological states?
01:03:29 - Does Mordy believe in the 6 realms?
01:04:13 - Is belief in the 6 realms necessary?
01:05:21 - Is karma believable?
01:06:26 - Is there a place for chance in the Buddhist view?
01:07:00 - Mordy’s hopes for the book 
01:07:58 - Does karma give freedom or a burden?
01:08:38 - American karma, “Have it your way”.

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Previous episode with Mordy Levine:
- https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=mordy 

Previous episodes with Lama Lhanang:
- https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=lhanang 

To find out more about Mordy Levine, visit: 
- https://www.mordylevine.com/ 
 …
 For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- www.guruviking.com

…


Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep299: Karma - Mordy Levine 2

In this episode I am once again joined by Katarina Falkenberg & Tommy Westlund, alchemists, practitioners of Western Esotericism, and authors of ‘Alchemy, The Divine Work’.

Katarina and Tommy detail the stages and methods of the spiritual path of Western alchemy. They explain the movement through four phases, describe the operations employed during each, and reveal the signs of progress that indicate success.

Katarina and Tommy reveal how to pray to the Madonna, how to purify karma, how to work with fire and emotions such as anger and sadness, the role of tinctures and elixirs, and methods of astral travel and archetypal work.

Katarina and Tommy also consider the power of the imagination, the interaction with external alchemical operations and inner personal refinement, and recount stories of entity encounters and reality creation.

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Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep300-the-spiritual-practice-of-alchemy-katarina-falkenberg-tommy-westlund 

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.

…

Topics include:

00:00 - Intro
01:04 - “Alchemy, The Divine Work”
02:30 - Practices of the alchemical path
03:38 - Prima materia and meditation
05:42 - Meditating on alchemical emblems 
06:43 - The metaphysics of prima materia consciousness
07:30 - Praying to Black Madonna
08:38 - How to pray
10:07 - Use of the imagination 
11:42 - Signs of contact with the Black Madonna
13:44 - Purifying karma and releasing traumas
15:08 - Inhaling suffering and exhaling love
16:50 - Purification and divine providence 
19:09 - The Nigredo phase
20:50 - The seven planets and chakras
21:49 - Theosophical ideas about seven governing forces
26:15 - Moving into the Albedo phase
27:11 - Mercurial consciousness
28:22 - Nigredo vs Albedo phases
29:43 - Working with the astral body
30:17 - Work with herbs and creating tinctures
34:18 - An alchemical elixir toast
36:39 - The Citrinitas phase
38:27 - Working with fire
40:16 - Using anger and sadness
41:48 - Death is not the end
43:33 - Reintegrating the Dark Angel
44:04 - The magic of imagination
48:14 - Fourfold processes and the quintessence
49:37 - Making the soul bigger
51:22 - Working with the Egyptian and Gnostic traditions
52:24 - Projecting the four elements
53:53 - Pilgrimages to magical locations
55:19 - Visitations from giants and other beings
57:42 - Meeting inner archetypes in the outer world
59:37 - The Rubedo phase
01:01:41 - Microcosm and macrocosm 
1:04:109 - Fasting and insight into the shadow
01:07:51 - Signs of process on the path
01:10:14 - Working at a deeper level
01:11:31 - Katarina’s novel manifesting into real life
01:13:41 - Creating your own universe
01:15:25 - Life as a creative project 
01:17:23 - Working with the ego
01:19:40 - Death and resurrection
01:20:27 - Bad gurus with siddhi powers
01:22:11 - The power of partnership
01:23:34 - Humility and the flaming heart
01:24:40 - Practice advice for the eager student
01:30:36 - Balance vs obsession
01:33:50 - 10-15 years to a successful white wedding
01:36:32 - Working for the next life

…

Previous episode with Katarina Falkenberg & Tommy Westlund:
- https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep238-alchemy-the-divine-work-katarina-falkenberg-tommy-westlund 

To find out more about Katarina Falkenberg & Tommy Westlund, visit: 
- https://www.alkemiskaakademin.se/eng/about-us/ 
 For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- www.guruviking.com

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep300: The Spiritual Practice of Alchemy - Katarina Falkenberg & Tommy Westlund

In this episode I am joined by Lorna Byrne, spiritual teacher and best selling author of “Angels in my Hair”.

Lorna describes her childhood in Ireland when she first began to see and interact with angels and souls of the dead, and recalls how she navigated these visionary experiences.  

Lorna discusses the different types of angels that she sees, as well as other beings such as souls of the deceased, land spirits, elementals and more, and how others might learn to see as she does.

Lorna also reflects on feeling the energy of a place; her lifelong experience of being different to others; unusual reactions people have towards her; and the importance of love, hope, and compassion. 

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Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep301-angels-in-my-hair-lorna-byrne
|
Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.

…

Topics include:

00:00 - Intro
00:52 - Growing up different 
04:17 - Learning from angels
05:27 - Be your unique self
06:36 - Seeing angels physically 
07:50 - Holding things back and confusion about mankind
09:07 - Consulted by clerics, theologians, and academics 
10:04 - Is God real?
11:32 - Responses from people all over the world
13:02 - Deep interactions with strangers 
15:20 - Lorna’s view of human beings
16:39 - Can anyone see angels and spirits?
19:10 - Being open to new knowledge
21:39 - Intertwining of the human body and soul
23:43 - Everything is possible
25:57 - Has Lorna met others who can see angels?
28:32 - People who pretend to see spirits for money
39:37 - Feeling the energy of a place
30:35 - Local traditions, land spirits, and the range of beings Lorna encounters
35:59 - How to see spirits 
37:53 - The Spirit of the Water
39:52 - Everything has energy
41:51 - Angel at the Centre of the Earth
43:25 - Detecting the influence of Satan
45:59 - A story of boy soldiers
49:06 - Cycles of abuse
50:12 - Thoughts about the future of mankind
52:50 - Love, hope, and compassion
54:43 - Lorna’s retreat centre, Sanctuary
 …

Find our more about Lorna Byrne:
- https://lornabyrne.com/
- 
…

For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- https://www.guruviking.com 

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep301: Angels in my Hair - Lorna Byrne

In this episode I am joined by Rebekah Sturgill, mother, school teacher, and convert to Orthodox Christianity.

Rebekah details her upbringing in a Texan evangelical church and how encounters with authoritarianism and questions about her sexuality saw her leave the religion.

Rebekah describes a period of passionate teenage atheism before becoming deeply involved in feminist activism beginning in university. Rebekah explains why she remains a feminist but left activism and how, through a powerful visionary experience, she converted to Orthodox Christianity.

Rebekah also explores the mechanisms of conversion, considers the line between faith and extremism, and comments on the pros and cons of a new trend of conversions to Orthodox Christianity driven by internet influencers and discussion communities.   

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Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep302-my-conversion-to-orthodox-christianity-rebekah-sturghill

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.

…

Topics include:

00:00 - Intro
01:00 - Evangelical Christian upbringing in Texas 
04:17 - Studying theology and philosophy at St Johns College	
04:38 - Encountering Jesus through reading the Gospels
05:39 - Feminist activism 
06:09 - Joining the Orthodox Church 
08:18 - Anger at religion and questioning sexuality
11:22 - Authoritarianism in the church 
12:26 - Why Rebekah’s family left the church
14:05 - Religious community vs contemplative practice
16:19 - Contemplative emphasis in the Orthodox Church
17:10 - Youth groups and community emphasis
18:16 - Radical atheism phase and the impact on family
23:18 - Becoming a feminist activist
25:50 - Questioning feminist theory, struggles with relativism and essentialism
26:52 - Becoming a 2nd wave feminist 
28:34 - Influence of the internet on Rebekah’s various conversions 
31:35 - Conversion or coming home?
33:42 - What feminism really is
35:18 - Frustrations with 3rd wave feminism
40:08 - Why feminist activism? 
44:34 - Still a feminist? Which views Rebekah still holds
48:00 - Orthodox Christian view of the individual and equality 
49:47 - Are Rebekah’s views controversial?
51:43 - In-fighting and leaving activism 
54:17 - Religious extremists and extreme activism 
55:53 - Losing oneself in extremism 
57:50 - Critical mass of buy-in needed for conversion	
58:13 - Embracing the dharma or losing oneself?
01:01:46 - CS Lewis’ “The Great Divorce”
01:03:36 - Dying to oneself
01:04:54 - Theosis and losing oneself
01:05:42 - Popularity of Orthodox Christianity online, a new wave of converts
01:07:26 - The practice of Orthodoxy Christianity and the supernatural 
01:09:05 - Lent
01:09:55 - High profile conversions to Orthodoxy and an internet pipeline
01:11:22 - Rebekah’s conversion through relationships and community
01:13:15 - The moment of conversion
01:14:41 - Powerful first conversation with an Orthodox priest 
…

For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- https://www.guruviking.com 

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep302: My Conversion to Orthodox Christianity - Rebekah Sturgill

In this episode, I am joined by Lopon Yudron Wangmo, American teacher of Tibetan Buddhism and author of several books including her recent “Clearing the Way to Awakening”.

Lopon Yudron Wangmo offers an analysis of the shortcomings of today’s Buddhist literature, details the writing process for “Clearing the Way to Awakening”, and reveals the stylistic and language choices she made to better reach the average reader.

Lopon Yudron Wangmo describes the power of the ngondro preliminary practices of Tibetan Buddhism and explains the techniques of mantra recitation, prostrations, mandala offerings, bodhicitta generation, tummo, śamata, and more.

Lopon Yudron Wangmo extols the benefits of turning away from worldly life and towards religion, reports the fruits of her own practice such as profound peace and joy, warns about the danger of following a guru without first testing him,  and advises on how to work with the supernatural dimension of Buddhism.

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Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep303-clearing-the-way-to-awakening-lopon-yudron-wangmo

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.

…

Topics include:
 
00:00 - Intro
01:04 - Clearing the Way to Awakening
01:52 - The problem with today’s Buddhist literature 
03:20 - Sublime topics
04:22 - Style considerations for today’s reading level 
06:03 - Learning to write more simply for the average reader
07:18 - Patrul Rinpoche and avoiding imitation
08:30 - What is awakening?
09:09 - Local context in Buddhist cultures 
10:34 - Buddha’s description of his awakening
12:37 - Working with the supernatural dimension of Buddhism
14:25 - The ālaya vijñāna and the unconscious mind
17:34 - Buddha nature vs being driven and unconscious
18:57 - Gradualist vs subitist awakening
20:22 - The role of ngondro and the power of visualisation
22:51 - The power of recitation
24:05 - The power of prostrations 
26:17 - The power of maṇḍala offerings 
28:13 - Why esoteric practices are not appropriate for most people
30:00 - The secrets to completing your ngondro
32:27 - The importance of motivation
33:15 - The anti-climax of realising the nature of mind
35:33 - Tummo and śamata
36:50 - Origin of the ngondro system + Theravada critique
39:17 - Taking refuge
40:30 - Generating bodhicitta and practicing the four immeasurables
41:12 - Vajrasattva and purification practice
42:21 - Merit making and guru yoga
44:06 - If you don’t like it, don’t practice it
45:04 - Yudron asks for Steve’s opinion
46:58 - Choose your Buddhism 
48:23 - Disillusionment with saṃsāra and choosing Buddhism later in life
50:03 - The power of choice and acquired ADHD 
51:43 - Get on it
52:38 - The power of disillusionment and renunciation
55:07 - The peace and joy of turning away from the world
57:41 - The suffering of loneliness and the fruits of practice
01:00:09 - The mechanism of spiritual contentment 
01:02:04 - Yudron on the importance of disclosing attainments
01:03:28 - Spiritual saints
01:04:13 - Political lamas and checking out gurus
01:05:32 - Personal relationship with the guru
01:07:13 - We’re all devoted to something
01:09:09 - Pitfalls of ngondro: anxiety, OCD, depression, and PTSD
01:14:06 - Yudron’s struggles with depression and anxiety
01:19:34 - Boomer Buddhists
01:20:04 - Preliminary or foundational?
01:22:06 - Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo’s advice about retreat
01:23:38 - Congratulated by Vajrasattva and the ontology of deities
01:26:45 - Spontaneous feelings of love


To find out more about Lopon Yudron Wangmo, visit:
- https://www.yudronwangmo.com/ 
 
For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- https://www.guruviking.com 

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep303: Clearing the Way to Awakening - Lopon Yudron Wangmo

In this episode I am joined by Tulku Sherab Dorje, Buddhist teacher, translator, and author of scholarly and popular books about Tibetan Buddhism.

Tulku Sherdor reflects on the changes in the spiritual journey over a lifetime, whether or not the world is becoming more turbulent, and the effects of ageing on yogic practice and view.

Tulku Sherdor explains why mind training is superior to mystical experiences, emphasises the reality of impermanence, and shares the best tests of successful retreat and spiritual growth.

Tulku Sherdor also warns about the prognosis of tulkus who do not conduct extensive retreat; critiques the shortcomings of the 3-year retreat model as conducted in the West; and details the temptations for dharma teachers in pleasure, profit, praise, and popularity.


…

Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep304-crumbs-from-the-parrots-beak-tulku-sherdor 

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.

…

Topics include:

00:00 - Intro 
01:04 - Crumbs from the Parrot’s Beak
02:43 - The spiritual journey and the phases of life
04:24 - Is the world becoming more turbulent?
05:56 - The effects of ageing on spiritual practice
07:53 - How to relate to physical limitations
09:56 - Ambition for enlightenment
12:26 - This is more fundamental than Bodhicitta
13:23 - Reality of impermanence
15:20 - The unique challenges of intensive practice and retreat
18:39 - Distinguishing appearance from substance 
19:41 - The title “lama” is not a guarantee of quality
21:12 - The best proof of progress
23:17 - The role of a demanding retreat schedule
26:24 - Mature practice
28:03 - Tulkus must conduct extensive retreat but sometimes don’t
30:28 - Prognosis for high lamas who don’t do extensive retreat 
32:30 - Hopes for corrections in the tulku system
34:58 - The Tibetan Buddhist tradition is unique and precious
35:41 - Signs of a successful retreat
38:01 - Completing a 3 year retreat is not a guarantee of quality
38:56 - Substandard Western 3 year retreats
40:49 - Pre-1950s Tibet and the renunciate yogi system
46:11 - Today’s economic challenges when practicing the dharma
49:47 - Mind training is superior to glimpses of the nature of mind
55:45 - The best test of success in practice 
57:00 - Does practice ever get easier?
01:01:28 - The 4 payoffs: pleasure, profit, praise, popularity
01:06:49 - Guru devotion and the guru relationship
01:12:31 - A story about Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche
01:14:41- Peace Prayer Gathering in June 2025 

…

Previous episode with Tulku Sherdor:
- https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep276-canadian-tulku-translator-tulku-sherab-dorje  


To find our more about Tulku Sherdor, visit:
-  https://blazingwisdom.org/tulku-sherab-dorje/ 
- https://dharmakayacenter.org/all-programs/2637/sadhana-practice-expanding-our-compassion-for-all-beings/?fbclid=IwY2xjawKAGaRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFXZEJ2cmRmb0U3VTExUWpmAR729nsWXoI6VZEb9GkrzCeajdhS6ze_zGrQZUTvLpsphQJQHPSdJABxQ0brag_aem_dWMYHIGmMRk_dxeWxEuL7A 


For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- https://www.guruviking.com 

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep304: Crumbs from the Parrot’s Beak - Tulku Sherdor

This trialogue is the first in a series exploring the latest interdisciplinary research into tantric completion stage practices such as yogas of dream, sleep, and death.

Dr Michael Sheehy is the Director of Research at the Contemplative Sciences Center in the Department of Religious Studies in the University of Virginia.

Dr Tawni Tidwell is a biocultural anthropologist and doctor of traditional Tibetan medicine. 

Dr Julian Schott is an Indologist, Tibetologist, and assistant professor at the University of Vienna. 

Dr Sheehy shares his cutting edge research into the tantric completion stage yogas of dream and sleep, reveals the implication of new directions in neuroscience and micro-phenomenology, and warns of the danger of esoteric practices becoming extinct.

Dr Sheehy proposes a two-way split in the future of religious practice, Dr Tidwell reflects on the decline in the number of spiritual masters, and Dr Schott considers the real meaning of secrecy in Tibetan tantra.

Video version: www.guruviking.com

Topics include: 

00:00 - Intro
01:22 - Current research about yogic practices of dream and sleep
02:46 - Overview of Tibet and Indian dream and sleep practices
04:15 - Michael’s scientific studies of yogic lucid dreaming practice
07:53 - Opening a 2-way channel of communication between dreamer and scientist
08:46 - Rigorous micro-phenomenology
10:04 - Comparisons with classic descriptions and prescriptions found in Tibetan dream manuals
11:34 - Dreams are unpredictable spaces
13:53 - Understanding lucidity 
16:27 - Psychological flexibility, imaginal simulation, and somatic awareness
22:28 - The impact of dream yoga on daily life 
23:59 - 6 similes of reality and dream yoga 
26:26 - Lucid waking practices & the illusory body 
29:45 - 2-fold practice curriculum of day and night
31:16 - A devastating pitfall
32:07 - New ways to amplify practice 
35:38 - Designing virtual reality simulations for dream yoga exercises
39:49 - Intersections with psychedelic research
42:16 - 2 ways to approach contemplative practice 
47:05 - Generating interdisciplinary hypotheses 
48:14 - Utilising VR meditations as practice supports
52:37 - Drawing on traditional expertise 
53:27 - Bringing traditional practice categories into neuroscience research
55:27 - Neuroscience as the next level of translation 
59:40 - Michael challenges ahistorical perspectives; Tibetan tradition has been highly experimental
01:02:32 - Community-based partnerships
01:05:02 - What does it mean that a practice is “secret”?
01:07:01 - The body in tantric traditions and secularising tantra 
01:09:33 - A 2-way split in the global culture of religious practice 
01:12:10 - Esoteric traditions are in danger
01:16:56 - Bold experimentation is historically consonant with the tradition
01:18:23 - Great masters are decreasing in number
01:23:17 - Esoteric practices have a coherent logic
01:26:22 - Traditional practices have undergone evolution and change
01:28:36 - Ethics of scholar-practitioners 

To find our more about the panel, visit:
- https://michaelrsheehy.com/
- https://centerhealthyminds.org/about/people/tawni-tidwell
- https://stb.univie.ac.at/en/about-us/team/julian-schott/user/schottj85/inum/1083/backpid/198178/ 

For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- https://www.guruviking.com 

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep305: Neuroscience of Dream Yoga - Dr Michael Sheehy, Dr Tawni Tidwell, Dr Julian Schott

In this episode I am joined by Professor Mara Einstein, digital marketing critic; author and public speaker on cult brands and influencer scams; and tenured professor of media studies at Queens College (CUNY).

Mara discusses her latest book “Hoodwinked: How Marketers Use the Same Tactics as Cults”, warns about manipulative marketing techniques used in media and religions, details the 9 steps of cult recruitment, and shares case studies of religious marketing models.

Mara recalls her own life journey from an early interest in religions and cults, her path through academia studying religion and marketing, and her own discipleship under and subsequent disillusionment with spiritual teacher and political activist Marianne Williamson.

Mara also considers religion as a product, analyses stealth Buddhism and prosperity gospel preachers, and offers her own thoughts on how religious groups can market themselves more ethically. 

…

Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep306-marketing-tactics-of-religions-cults-prof-mara-einstein

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.

…

Topics include:

00:00 - Intro 
01:08 - Hoodwinked, 
01:21 - Religion as a product 
02:17 - Early interest in religion and cults
03:36 - PhD about religion and policy
05:35 - Televangelists and the Passion of the Christ
06:52 - The Purpose Driven Church marketing
07:34 - The secularisation theory and why the US bucks the trend
08:13 - Joel Osteen vs Oprah Winfrey  
09:34 - Why do secular organisations use religious themes?
11:41 - Cults and Multi-level marketing 
13:14 - Brand cults such as Apple
14:46 - Marketing Hoodwinked
1536 - Social media vs television advertising 
16:37 - Rage farming, increased anxiety, and becoming susceptible to messaging
20:20 - Brand purchases as expressions of individual identity
21:42 - Selling the sacred, how religion and marketing intersects 
25:03 - Mara’s own religious journey through Judaism and the New Age
26:31 - Becoming a follower of Marianne Williamson
27:01 - Disillusioned by religion
27:13 - Studying evangelicals
27:58 - Interviewing Ralph White
28:29 - Mara analyses her own journey to becoming a follower of Marianne Williamson
32:00 - World Nutella Day
34:18 - Going deeper with Marianne Williamson
36:10 - 9 steps of cult recruitment
36:47 - Targeting the vulnerable
40:26 - Upselling and the Kabbalah Centre
42:02 - Love-bombing 
43:14 - Tough love 
44:34 - Creation of in and out groups
46:30 - Severe repercussions for leaving
47:22 - American Evangelism 
49:33 - How should religions market themselves with integrity?
49:52 -  “He Gets Us” and the Alpha Course
52:07 -2 year mission trips don’t work
52:41 - The best marketing is to live the message
54:49 - Shady marketing tactics to avoid 
56:22 - Beware of panacea answers
57:02 - Beware the charismatic leader
57:56 - How would Mara advice a religious group to use marketing ethically?
59:33 - Know your target audience 
01:01:13 - The brilliance of Rick Warren’s consumer research driven marketing
01:02:47 - Is stealth Buddhism shady marketing?
01:04:44 - Bait and switch of secular mindfulness
01:06:34 - Capitalist meditation
01:07:42 - Is MBSR a bait and switch?
01:09:09 - Mara’s advice for those selling corporate mindfulness
01:10:15 - Transparency vs deception
01:12:23 - Make it ok to question and ok to leave 
01:13:31 - Hoodwinked 
01:14:15 - Pervasiveness of cults 
01:15:13 - Influencers and a spectrum of cults
01:16:29 - Teal Swan and lifestyle marketing
01:17:21 - Anyone can be pulled into a cult

…

To find our more about Professor Mara Einstein, visit:
- https://www.drmaraeinstein.com/ 


For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- https://www.guruviking.com 

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep306: Marketing Tactics of Religions & Cults - Prof. Mara Einstein

In this episode I host a dialogue between Lama Justin von Bujdoss and Charlie Morley.

Justin and Charlie share their extensive experience as modern teachers of Vajrayana, compare notes on the state of Tantra in the West, and reflect on the responsibility of openly teaching previously restricted, esoteric practices. 

Justin and Charlie wrestle with the tension between conserving traditional religious forms and innovating to meet today’s moral sensibilities and technological currents. They suggest changes they would like to see in both Asian Buddhist cultures and Western society, consider the pros and cons of long meditation retreats in today’s world, and call for hierarchical equality for women practitioners and teachers. 

I invite Justin and Charlie to reveal the underlying principles that guide their desired reforms and consider the pitfalls of advocating change without awareness of one’s guiding rationale.    

Justin and Charlie also discuss the role of neuroscience in the furthering of Buddhist understanding, reveal the potential trauma-healing power of dream yoga and dark retreat, and share their thoughts on the impact of fatherhood on one’s religious life. 

…

www.guruviking.com

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.



01:52 - State of the Dharma in 2025
06:12 - Secret practices now widely available
09:37 - Whiteness and misogyny 
10:02 - Why are secret practices openly taught?
11:49 - Conservatism is the achilles heel of the Karma Kagyu sect
12:23 - Controversy about online empowerments
14:32 - Understanding emptiness
16:00 - Dream empowerments 
17:48 - Technology and survival of Buddhism
19:22 - Amulets of protection
21:16 - 4th turning of the wheel of Dharma 
23:58 - Trauma, racism, and classism, refugees
25:54 - Working for the NYC Department of Corrections 
28:41 - Potential of dream yoga and dark retreat for healing trauma
29:19 - Why don’t Tibetan lamas talk about trauma?
29:55 - Cultural overlay, Tibetan identity, and religion
32:44 - Western calls for reform vs traditional Tibetan values 
48:53 - Conservatism vs reform 
51:43 - Real religion vs mere cultural overlay
52:31 - N vs 3-year retreat
58:14 - Different versions of ngondro
01:02:12 - Classical Indian approaches to tantra
01:03:12 - How to reform without losing the spirit of the religion
01:04:28 - The energy of the tradition
01:06:28 - Justin’s desire for social change in Vajrayana
01:08:41 - Wisdom keeper vs lineage holder
01:12:51 - 2-way revolution
01:14:20 - How to decide what should be changed vs what should be preserved 
01:18:32 - Charlie’s collaboration with Choje Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche
01:22:05 - Charlie criticises misogyny in Tibetan Buddhism
01:23:50 - Transgender and non-binary people in Himalayan Buddhist contexts
01:27:49 - Religious traditions are diverse and evolving 
01:30:11 - Yogis and practice results
01:33:41 - Fatherhood and Dharma
01:36:37 - Long retreats are not important if you can rest in rigpa 
01:39:29 - Dharma Dads workshop 
01:42:09 - How important is ordination?
01:43:31 - Why is ordination so emphasised?
01:46:04 - Justin almost became a monk
01:48:22 - Advice for parents
01:49:14 - Charlie reflects on impending fatherhood and not being a monk
01:50:38 - Steve’s concluding remarks
01:51:11 - Steve urges a deeper investigation into motives behind advocacy for change
01:52:01 - Culture and Dharma essence
01:53:01 - Charlie’s concluding remarks and encouragement for practitioners 
01:54:04 - Justin’s concluding remarks 
01:54:15 -  Praise for Guru Viking Podcast, and encouragement to practitioners

…

Previous episodes with Justin:
- https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=bujdoss  

Previous episode with Charlie:
- https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=morley 

…

Find out more about Justin:
- https://justinvonbujdoss.com/

Find out more about Charlie:
- http://www.charliemorley.com/ 

…

For more interviews:
- https://www.guruviking.com 

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep307: Modern Vajrayana Buddhism - Lama Justin von Bujdoss & Charlie Morley

In this episode I host a dialogue between Stephen Snyder, meditation teacher and author, and Mark Mininberg, Zen master and dharma heir to Bernie Glassman. 

Stephen and Mark discuss their new podcast interview series, “Anatomy of Awakening”, in which they engage in peer-to-peer trialogue with other teachers of enlightenment.

Stephen and Mark reveal why they chose the  teachers they have featured, the degree to which various claims to spiritual attainment played a part in their selection, and how they navigated conversations with teachers from other Buddhist sects.

Stephen and Mark reflect on the increase in meditation teachers who claim spiritual awakening, recall their own trainings in Zen communities in which discussion of enlightenment was taboo, and emphasise the need for rigorous training under an experienced guide.

Stephen and Mark also warn about teachers who overestimate their abilities, offer suggestions to aspiring gurus, and emphasis the whole body commitment required to truly attain Buddhist awakening.

…

Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep308-anatomy-of-awakening-stephen-snyder-mark-mininberg

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. 

…

Topics include: 


00:00 - Intro 
01:12 - Anatomy of Awakening
03:12 - How did Stephen and Mark decide which teachers to interview?
05:43 - Are these teachers enlightened?
06:13 - Enlightenment doesn’t belong to anybody
07:36 - A synergy of awakening
08:21 - How can you even tell if someone is enlightened?
09:46 - Teachers who promote themselves as teaching awakening
10:16 - No teacher is flawless
10:56 - The danger of speaking openly about awakening
12:14 - Buddhism and awakening traditions are evolving in the West
14:54 - Why are more teachers claiming enlightenment?
16:29 - Changes in American Buddhism and the New Age since the 70s
18:15 - The lost virtue of humility
19:50 The Absolute awakens to Itself
20:49 - Going public with ones’s awakening
22:59 - Holding this life in reverence
24:05 - Signs of a mature practice
26:02 - Becoming a meditation teacher
28:11 - The true job of a teacher
30:47 - Teachers should not overestimate their level
34:35 - Ways to know you are in too deep as a teacher
35:45 - Teachers need teachers
37:50 - Is there any substitute for a 1-1 relationship with a teacher
39:54 - Humility and the truth a spouse sees
41:04 - People assume their teacher is perfect 
41:47 - Mark’s conservative Zen training
43:00 - Customer services spirituality
45:08 - Holding a teacher in reverence
47:13 - The pitfalls of leadership by committee
49:51 - Awakening is a whole body commitment
54:29 - Surprises when meeting enlightenment teachers
57:20 - Peer to peer trialogues
58:12 - How to find the interview series
59:24 - Host and guest
01:00:14 - Praise for the Guru Viking Podcast 

…

Previous episodes with Stephen Snyder:
- https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=snyder 

To purchase Anatomy of Awakening visit:
- https://awakeningdharma.org/anatomy-of-awakening/ 

GV Podcast receives no affiliate commission from your purchase.

…
 For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
 - www.guruviking.com 

…

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep308: Anatomy of Awakening - Stephen Snyder & Mark Mininberg (Bonus Episode)

In this episode, I am once again joined by Lopon Yudron Wangmo, American teacher of Tibetan Buddhism and author of several books including her recent “Clearing the Way to Awakening”.

Lopon Yudron Wangmo shares the story of her life, her childhood with a spiritualist mother, anecdotes of childhood psychic explorations in automatic writing and other techniques, and reflects on whether psychic abilities are inherent or cultivated.

Lopon Yudron Wangmo recounts how she became a radical lesbian feminist at university, details the social and theoretical aspects of that movement and time, and reveals the surprising choices she made when relating to male Tibetan teachers as a feminist.

Lopon Yudron Wangmo also discusses the pitfalls of performing death rites such as phowa for others, explains why she does not emphasise her feminism and politics in her dharma teaching, and considers the healing power of reparenting by taking the guru as a father figure.


…

Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep309-my-radical-life-lopon-yudron-wangmo-2

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.

…

01:08 - Yudron’s unusual spiritualist, new age mother 
03:50 - Lawyer father 
04:57 - Early attraction to Tibetan Buddhism
06:19 - Likelihood of past life connections
07:11 - Early interests in environmentalism and solar energy
08:51 - Psychic readings, automatic writing, and hands-on healing
10:06 - Are psychic powers gifts or can they be cultivated?
12:09 - More stories of Yudron’s psychic mother
14:28 - Yudron reflects on her mother’s final years and death
17:06 - Performing phowa and other death practices for others 
18:21 - Remarkable death of Yudron’s father
19:28 - Affluent background affords opportunities for spiritual seeking
21:27 - Going to university and becoming a radical lesbian feminist 
22:54 - Impressed by Yeshe Tsogyal’s life story and other female practitioners
25:34 - Letting go of radical feminism to pursue the dharma
26:21 - Relating to male Tibetan teachers as a feminist 
27:26 - What attracted Yudron to radical lesbian feminism
30:40 - Today’s backlash against feminism 
33:00 - Conflicting theoretical and philosophical approaches to radical feminism 
35:11 - United in building woman power
37:12 - Working on anger and Vajrakīlāya practice 
41:27 - Giving up female chauvinism and relating to male Tibetan lamas
43:49 - Stories of great female practitioners
44:24 - Being typecast as an angry feminist
45:24 - Why Yudron doesn’t criticise Tibetan culture 
46:02 - Rage about abuse of women by Lamas
46:33 - Yudron’s desire to teach pure dharma and not mix in her politics 
49:43 - Why Yudron didn’t challenge her lamas with feminist ideas 
5149 - The lama as a father figure, reparenting, and the influence of Yudron’s lamas 
54:10 - Dropping one’s storyline and going beyond trivialities 
55:48 - Motivated to counteract abusive lamas 
58:05 - Americans are discouraged from teaching Tibetan Buddhism
58:51 - What to look for in a dharma teacher
01:00:55 - Sycophants vs finding the inner lama
01:02:27 - Fading interest in Tibetan Buddhism
01:03:26 - Dharma teachers should be full time 
01:04:16 - The ideal amount of money and pastoralist rhythms 
01:05:34 - Two extremes of converts
01:07:22 - Becoming soft
01:08:26 - Dharma teachers vs mindfulness teachers 
01:09:53 - Yudron reflects on Theravada meditation and the appeal of Sharon Salzberg
01:11:35 - Prophecies of an impending dark age
01:12:38 - Simplifying dharma teaching 
01:15:36 - Yudron asks for Steve’s opinion
01:16:43 - Ben Joffe and relating with spirits
01:17:36 - Steve reflects on the five perfections
01:18:38 -  Yudron on the pros and cons of ritual 

…

Previous episode with Lopon Yudron Wangmo:
- https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=yudron 

To find our more about Lopon Yudron Wangmo, visit:
- https://www.yudronwangmo.com/ 


For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- https://www.guruviking.com 

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep309: My Radical Life - Lopon Yudron Wangmo 2

In this episode, I am once again joined by Dhammarato: a lineage teacher in the Thai Buddhist tradition. 

Dhammarato critiques Western and Asian Buddhist forms, including the Mahasi method, and addresses misconceptions about stream entry.

Dhammarato comments on The Shorter Discourse to Mālunkyāputta, explains why the Buddha refused to teach on certain metaphysical subjects, challenges reincarnation, and questions mettā bhāvanā.

Dhammarato also presents his understanding of the Buddha’s true teachings, how to find a guru, and reflects on his own training under Ajahn Po.

…
 
Also available on Youtube - search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.

...

01:52 - Reflecting on 80 years of life
02:36 - Western Buddhism
03:02 - Buddhism with a lot of baggage 
04:42 - Buddhism’s inferior spread in the West 
05:25 - Alan Watts was more Christian than Zen 
06:33 - Steve reads a sutta
09:12 - The imponderables and what the Buddha left undeclared
10:06 - Reincarnation is not part of the teachings
12:29 - Dhammarato on the 4 noble truths
13:23- Enlightenment is immediately available
14:08 - Right samadhi 
15:18 - How to be free of suffering
15:33 - Buddha only taught one practice: ānāpānasati 
17:28 - The noble mind
19:50 - The four noble truths are the only teaching 
20:35 - Life is not suffering
21:48 - The Mahasi method is wrong
22:13 - The 16 stages of insight is a misguided model 
23:18 - Western Buddhism is a ripoff 
26:37 - Magical teachings and the folly of attainments
28:21 - Mahasi attainments vs what the Buddha taught
29:09 - Avoid these aspects of Western Buddhist meditation
30:16 - Mettā bhāvanā is not a teachings
32:44 - How to become a meditation teacher
34:02 - 5 ways to gain the Dhamma
35:15 - Critique of meditation retreats
37:28 - Buddha’s path is easy
40:44 - Attainments and mutual validation
42:03 - Peoples don’t see their greed
44:03 - Don’t brag about attainments 
44:30 - How to know is someone is enlightened
49:32 - Huge understandings about stream entry
57:48 - Why do people claim stream entry?
01:00:37 - Christian Buddhism
01:02:33- How to demonstrate attainments
01:05:45 - How to expose fake stream enterers 
01:08:52 - Meditation teacher trainings 
01:10:37 - Certificates and the Wizard of Oz 
01:18:11 - What are teacher trainings good for?
01:22:24 - How to become a good teacher 
01:23:57 - Don’t train under a lay man for money

- Discord: https://discord.gg/epphTGY  
- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjxg5GJFsRqnS-YLTzyrjLQ 

For more visit.
- www.guruviking.com

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep310: 10 Unanswered Questions - Dhammarato

In this episode I am joined by Johan Hausen, Taoist teacher, translator, Chinese medicine practitioner, and founder of Purple Cloud Press.

Johan shares his life story from years of competitive Tae Kwon Do, through his travels and travails in China in search of a master, and to his eventual training and discipleship in the Wu Dang mountains.

Johan reflects on his years learning Classical and spoken Chinese, considers the challenges of translating ancient literature for modern readers, and reveals the unique metaphors and analogies used in textual descriptions of Internal Alchemy.

Johan also describes the Taoist quest for immortality, explains his research into the dantien and the mineralogy of cinnabar, and recounts stories of his own encounters with spiritually advanced beings.

…

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.

...

Topics Include:

00:00 - Intro
00:57 - Admiration for Mattias Daly
02:56 - Learning Chinese to better learn Taoism 
04:53 - How Johan learned Classical vs Spoken Chinese
08:11 - Language is about communication 
08:47 - Should we consult living masters about textual translation problems?
10:24 - Metaphors and analogies used in Internal Alchemy
12:53 - Why are there different ideas about the dantian?
14:12 - Is the dantian constructed or inherent?
16:12 - Elixir fields?
17:37 - Johan’s research on the mineralogy of cinnabar using Chinese texts
18:04 - The old alchemists’ surprisingly good understanding of organic chemistry
20:56 - Johan’s childhood and training in Tae Kwon Do
22:47 - Johan’s competitive Tae Kwon Do career of over 100 fights
25:18 - Injury and travel to China for healing
26:24 - Travelling to China at 20 years old to train Shaolin kung fu
28:48 0 Training methods of Shaolin kung fu
30:35 - Demystifying the myths of Shaolin training
33:08 - Recovery routine
34:26 - Illness and leaving China
36:15 - Returning to Germany and feelings of failure
37:47 - Leaving a film course in London to train in the Wu Dang mountains
40:32 - Meeting Li Shifu at the Five Immortals Temple 
41:54 - Curriculum at the Five Immortals Temple
43:08 - Studying acupuncture and dedication to learning
44:19 - Years of study under Li Shifu and joining the lineage 
47:26 - Struggles with being treated as a foreigner in China
50:50 - Growing resentment and leaving China
55:26 - Johan’s Dragon Gate Lineage
56:28 - The quest for immortality
58:53 - Details about Taoist Immortals
01:00:34 - Difficulty of becoming an Immortal
01:02:10 - Consolation prize if you fail to achieve immortality
01:03:38 - Ethical rules of the Dragon Gate Lineage
01:04:59 - A typical daily practice routine
01:06:47 - Singing the scriptures to communicate to spirits 
01:09:26 - Taoist patron spirit of Wudang 
01:14:45 - The remarkable qualities of Li Shifu 
01:15:52 - Praise is bad in traditional Chinese teaching
01:17:05 - Is Li Shifu an Immortal?
01:18:02 - Johan’s reverence for his teacher
01:19:29 - Explaining culture clashes to Lif Shifu 
01:20:33 - Is charisma and spiritual power inherent or cultivated?
01:24:45 - Li Shifu does not have attained disciples
01:26:05 - Is it really possible to achieve success in Taoism, or is it mostly just natural talent?
01:33:11 - Using gifted practitioners as inspiration 
01:34:18 - Purple Cloud Press 
01:35:56 - Johan’s goal to create community and preserve texts 
01:37:09 - Search for location and funds 
To find out more about Johan Hausen, visit:
- https://purplecloudinstitute.com/about-us/who-we-are-2/ 

…

For more interviews, videos, and more visit.
- www.guruviking.com

…

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep312: Disciple of Wu Dang - Johan Hausen

This trialogue continues a series of discussion exploring the latest interdisciplinary research into tantric completion stage practices such as yogas of dream, sleep, and death.

Dr Tawni Tidwell is a biocultural anthropologist and doctor of traditional Tibetan medicine. 

Dr Michael Sheehy is the Director of Research at the Contemplative Sciences Center at the University of Virginia.

Dr Julian Schott is an Indologist, Tibetologist, and assistant professor at the University of Vienna. 

Dr Tidwell leads a deep-dive into the mysterious death practices of tantric yoga, the post-mortem state of suspended animation called tukdam, and the history of scientific investigation into these phenomena.

Dr Sheehy explores the implications of tantric death practices on current scientific models of the body, Dr Schott reflects on Buddhist vs Cartesian notions of consciousness, and Dr Tidwell explains the cultural sensitivities of working with Himalayan gurus.

The panel also discuss the importance of osel - clear light awareness - in completion stage practices, the relationship between nonduality and transformation, and consider new research directions on the cutting edge of contemplative neuroscience. 


…

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.

…

01:37 - Recap previously discussed themes
02:30 - Research in tukdam and yogic dying 
05:17 - Researching dying spiritual masters
09:27 - Recruiting Tibetan monastics
10:33 - Cultural dynamics around studying tukdam 
12:32 - Early phases & baseline measures 
13:23 - Collaboration with the Russian Academy of Science 
14:39 - What could tukdam contribute to science?
15:52 - American mortician shocked
18:40 - Biological aspects of tukdam
20:53 - Funding and reliance on Russian equipment
22:14 - What happens to the body after death
23:25 - Tukdam documentary
25:39 - Future direction for the project
27:15 - Skepticism about the project and growing body of evidence
30:45 - Siloed scientific disciples
31:22 - Catholic saints and attained mystics from other traditions	
32:16 - Fundraising 
33:05 - New learnings about the body and reflections on the Self
34:17 - The death process as a series of dissolutions
37:22 - Tracking heat, oxygenation, fluid movement, and visual imagery
44:27 - Buddhist vs Cartesian notions of consciousness 
46:56 - Different tukdam methods across lineages 
49:18 - Evan Thompson's theories of consciousness 
51:24 - We can die in different ways 
54:56 - Methodologically rich ways to attain wisdom
57:41 - The soteriological essence of Buddhism
01:01:35 - Human transformation and experiences of the edge
01:04:02 - Exaltation  
01:05:03 - How do tantric techniques lead to tukdam?
01:09:04 - Tummo & vajra recitation to control subtle energies
01:10:41 - Dream, orgasm, and death
01:13:26 - Tukdam is counter-rational and challenges scientific reductionism
01:17:28 - The personal impact of witnessing tukdam
01:19:38 - Tantra is radical
01:20:38 - Julian quotes the Hevajra Tantra 
01:22:40 - Can tukdam candidates be studied before death?
01:25:40 - Aggregate or sudden?
01:27:25 - Understanding osel, nondual awareness, and NDE
01:30:08 - Clear light sleep
01:33:04 - Challenging reductionistic paradigms
01:35:11 - The importance of nondual awareness 
01:37:53 - Sentience and yeshe 
01:41:44 - Exalted form in co-creation with consciousness
01:43:31 - Steve comments on scientific reductionist materialism
01:44:19 - What measurements has the project recorded?
01:47:04 - Julian’s closing remarks
01:47:31 - Tawni’s closing remarks 
01:48:57 - Michael’s closing remarks 

Previous panel discussion:
- https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep305-neuroscience-of-dream-yoga-dr-michael-sheehy-dr-tawni-tidwell-dr-julian-schott

For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- https://www.guruviking.com 

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep311: Neuroscience of Yogic Death Practice - Dr Tawni Tidwell, Dr Michael Sheehy, Julian Schott

In this episode I am once again joined by Mary Shutan: author, occultist, and spiritual teacher. 

Mary explains her activities as a modern spirit worker, reveals how to form and maintain working relationships with spirits, details the difference between spirit pacts and contracts, and warns about the unintended consequences of making deals with unknown beings.

Mary explores the problems associated with using the word “shaman”, offers a critique of modern shamanism training courses, and explains why many people who pursue shamanism would be better suited to a religious orientation to animism.

Mary also reveals her own aborted attempt at the infamous Abramelin ritual, details the resultant fallout and years of recovery, and reflects on the impact of magickal practice on mental and physical health.

…

Full episode link in bio.

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. 
…

01:00 - What is a modern spiritual worker?
02:20 - Why Mary doesn’t like to use the word “shaman”
02:44 - Mary’s problems with Core Shamanism 
04:31 - Shamanism and patriarchy 
05:34 - Why Mary doesn’t call herself a shaman
07:54 - Core Shamanism, Christian conditioning, and legacies of colonisation
10:58 - Anthropologists as shamanic teachers 
13:21 - Training in Core Shamanism 
15:41 - Critique of Core Shamanism and wounded healers
18:43 - Post-colonial critiques of modern shamanism
20:00 - Some people really want animism 
21:42 - When shamanism goes wrong
22:33 - Cherry-picking shamanism and reconstruction
23:47 - Discernment and tainted gnosis 
24:22 - Words have energy and the need for respect
26:36 - Mary uses the word “shaman” in her business and books
27:33 - Pervasive Christian conditioning
28:30 - Patriarchy in shamanism
29:38 - Pop-shamanism vs direct experience 
30:55 - 20 years of teaching shamanism 
32:16 - People don’t believe in spirits any more
34:04 - Modernity and scientism 
37:06 - Modernity and  shamanism
40:40 - Martin Prechtel engaging with indigenous shamanism 
43:06 - Indigeneity and the routes to become a shaman 
46:52 - What Mary tells people who feel called to shamanism?
49:05 - Conflating personal religious practice with professionalising 
49:53 - How to get started in animism
52:55 - Which spirits and entities does Mary work with?
55:27 - Spirit relations
57:42 - Mary’s way of relating to spirits 
59:33 - Spirit communication in dreams and through rituals
01:00:27 - Spirits who come to Mary 
01:01:23 - Spirit contracts 
01:03:56 - Spirit ID and the danger of spirit contracts 
01:04:53 - The Buddha in Sri Lanka
01:06:35 - Be careful what you wish for
01:07:31 - Spirit Lawyering
01:07:52 - Healthy skepticism when dealing with spirits
01:10:00 - Cultural misunderstandings about spirits 
01:11:21 - Don’t make a pact with a spirit
01:12:29 - Warning about spirit contracts 
01:13:18 - Pact vs contract
01:16:41 - Mary’s training in Western Occultism and time in the Void
01:20:14 - Mary’s spiritual crisis 
01:24:17 - Orienting to the Dark Feminine 
01:27:09 - Two attempts at the Abramelin ritual
01:29:16 - Abandoning the 18-month Abramelin ritual
01:29:50 - How did Mary exit the ritual?
01:30:48 - Magick and mental health
01:32:36 - Psychotherapists for magicians 
01:33:32 - Struggles with the Golden Dawn and pivoting to shamanism
01:38:24 - Christian monks did magick
01:38:55 - Giving up seeking

…

Previous episode with Mary Shutan:
- https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=shutan 

To find out more about Mary Shutan, visit:
- http://maryshutan.com/ 

For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- www.guruviking.com

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep313: Modern Spirit Worker - Mary Shutan 3

In this episode I am joined by Ani Pema, an American nun in the Tibetan Buddhist religion and former swami in the Siddha Yoga organisation.

Ani Pema recalls her childhood in Boise Idaho, her high flying career in fashion working for Vogue magazine, and how dissatisfaction with the American dream set her on a spiritual search.

Ani Pema details her sixteen years of close discipleship and ordination under the renowned Siddha Yoga guru Swami Muktananda, her transformative encounters with the 16th Karmapa, and her subsequent discipleship under Tibetan Buddhist teachers such as Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche and Namkhai Nyingpo.

Ani Pema also explains the powerful phenomena of shaktipat including the severe karmic consequences for its use, reflects on Western shaktipat gurus such as Rudi and Adi Da Samraj, and gives her heart advice for those who wish to follow the spiritual path.
 
…

Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep314-me-my-gurus-ani-pema

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. 
…

Topics include: 


00:00 - Intro
01:06 - High flying fashion career 
02:41 - Questioning the American dream
03:24 - Taking up yoga 
04:02 - Meeting Swami Muktananda
04:55 - A precognitive vision
05:40 - Close study with Swami Muktananda in India
07:29 - Rigorous practice regime at the ashram 
08:38 - Obliterating the self
11:02 - Muktananda as a vortex of energy
12:09 - A past life connection
14:47 - Swami Muktananda’s 1974 USA tour
19:17 - The serious karmic burden of giving shaktipat
20:09 - Attending the 16th Karmapa
22:02 - Leaving Muktananda’s organisation
22:55 - Becoming a disciple of Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche
24:24 - Becoming a disciple of Namkhai Nyingpo in Bhutan
26:03 - Working for Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche after he became famous
27:19 - You hire the guru to assassinate your ego
28:44 - Lichivi House
30:02 - Reflections on past gurus
31:23 - Rudi and shaktipat
32:28 - Adi Da’s ego and meeting with Swami Muktananda
36:33 - 4 methods of shaktipat
38:31 - Health consequences of offering shaktipat
40:25 - Dangers of unauthorised shaktipat
41:48 - Mind to mind transmission in Tibetan Buddhism
42:32 - 4-6hrs of chanting per day
43:24 - Celibacy and guru controversies 
47:27 - Comparing 16th Karmapa with Swami Muktananda 
49:19 - Kashmir Shaivism vs Tibetan Buddhism 
50:39 - Depression after Swami Muktananda’s death
52:47 - Profound periods of purification 
54:48 - Consequences of the spiritual path
56:23 - Do Tibetan teachers recognise Muktananda’s dharma?
59:18 - Meditation is beyond tradition
01:00:46 - Ani Pema reflects on her experience as a practitioner
01:03:55 - Ani Pema’s advice for practitioners 
01:06:19 - Difficulties in following famous gurus

…

To find out more about Ani Pema, visit:
- https://www.facebook.com/karen.schaefer
- https://dayananda-lifewithandafterbaba.blogspot.com/

For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- www.guruviking.com

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep314: Me & My Gurus - Ani Pema

In this episode I host a dialogue between Dr Caroline van Damme and Lama Justin von Bujdoss.

Dr Caroline Van Damme is an adult psychiatrist and family and systemic psychotherapist specialising in chronic psychotic disorders, and co-teacher of Buddhist guru and Sowa Rigpa doctor Nida Chenagtsang. 

Lama Justin von Bujdoss is an American Buddhist teacher, dark retreat yogi, founder and spiritual director of Yangti Yoga Retreat Center in Buckland Massachusetts, and author of ‘Modern Tantric Buddhism’.

Caroline and Justin discuss the risk of psychosis during extreme religious practices, consider the rewards and dangers of dark retreat, and describe the different forms of hallucination.

Caroline and Justin warn about engaging in advanced practices too soon, consider the pros and cons of spiritual ambition, and offer a mental health checklist for those considering intensive practice.

Caroline and Justin also reflect on their own biographies, share challenges they have faced, and recount anecdotes of religious psychosis.

…

Video version: www.guruviking.com

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.

…

Topics include:

00:00 - Intro 
01:08 - Justin explains the practice of dark retreat 
5:55 - What is the purpose of dark retreat?
06:50 - Obstacles during dark retreat 
09:39 - Distracted and disturbed by experience 
11:08 - Sensory deprivation induces psychosis and delusional ideation 
12:41 - Auditory or visual?
13:16 - Hallucinations in dark retreat vs in schizophrenia 
18:51 - Practice prerequisites to dark retreat
21:10 - The purpose of intensive practice contexts 
22:42 - Trekchod is the best antidote
23:38 - Justin laments the rush to do advanced retreats and practices 
24:35 - Lack of mental health crisis intervention skills in Buddhist sanghas
25:38 - The devastating consequences of psychosis 
27:09 - Sensory deprivation as torture and the “White Room”
29:01 - Tantric context of dark retreat and other challenging experiences 
31:34 - Gek sel literature and “set and setting”
34:24 - Disastrous outcomes of Vipassana and other group retreats
38:19 - Mystical delusions and the manic state
41:59 - Consent, context, and the need for a guide
46:17 - Practice slowly, arrive quickly
46:51 - Extreme sports practitioners and disregard for tradition
50:24 - - Social pressure to avoid boredom
54:48 - A menu of spiritual materialism
57:10 - Outer, inner, and secret yidam practice 
59:50 - Tilopa’s Six Nails 
01:00:47 - Śamatha and raw-dogging
01:02:33 - Lojong
01:03:21 - Dream yoga and illusory body practice
01:05:14 - Walking meditation
01:05:28 - Frequency, duration, and intensity
01:08:21 - Spiritual ambition and Justin’s own training
01:13:10 - Ngondro and building a good foundation
01:14:12 - Bodhicitta as context
01:15:44 - A story of temporary insanity
01:17:29 - Health checklist for extreme spiritual adventures
01:20:17 - Dr Caroline’s difficult intake experience
01:22:02 - Spiritual bypass and the role of the teacher
01:24:13 - Long term relationships with patients and students
01:25:40 - John Welwood’s advocacy for psychotherapy 
01:29:40 - Today’s lack of a long term relationship with the guru
01:35:22 - The power of relationship
01:40:00 - Justin’s concluding remarks
01:41:56 - Dr Caroline’s concluding remarks

…

Previous episodes with Lama Justin von Bujdoss:
- https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=bujdoss  
Previous episodes with Dr Caroline van Damme:
- https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=caroline 

…

Find out more about Lama Justin von Bujdoss:
- https://justinvonbujdoss.com/
- https://www.yangtiyoga.com/ 

Find out more about Dr Caroline van Damme:
- https://www.sowarigpainstitute.org/dr-caroline-van-damme 

…

For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- https://www.guruviking.com 

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep315: Religious Psychosis & Dark Retreat - Dr Caroline van Damme & Lama Justin von Bujdoss

In this episode I am joined by Alex W, long term practitioner of Zen, Pragmatic Dharma, and Western Occultism.

Alex describes his journey from elite upbringing in Geneva; through NeoPlatonism, Zen practice, and magick; to advanced states of spiritual attainment and insight.

Alex tells stories of his discipleships under pragmatic dharma teacher Kenneth Folk and renowned occultist Alan Chapman and details the lead up to, and attainment and after effects of his own experience of enlightenment.

Alex recounts his successful operation of the Abramelin Ritual, a powerful kundalini awakening, and his ongoing encounters with spiritual beings such as Kālī Mā and Hecate.

…

https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep316-dharma-the-goddess-alex-w

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.
…

Topics include: 

00:00 - Intro
00:55 - Elite upbringing in Geneva
03:50 - Religious experiences in America 
05:39 - Major surgery and turn towards spirituality
08:05 - Immersion in a Hindu religious group
10:25 - First spiritual experiences and power places
12:07 - Interest in philosophy and the Kyoto School
13:05 - Law school and studying mediaeval philosophy 
15:52 - Entering Zen Buddhist practice with Deshimaru Taisen
18:14 - Finding a real Zen master & understanding Zen in Japan
21:55 - Observations about Japanese religiosity
24:09 - 1996 financial crisis and internship in law firm
24:58 - Connecting with advanced practitioners online
26:53 - Interest in Chan Buddhism
30:08 - Japan vs Chinese and Korean monasticism
32:15 - Plateau after 15 years of Zen
33:01 - Daniel Ingram & Kenneth Folk
39:09 - No-self experience
39:54 - Become a student of occultist Alan Chapman
45:25 - Scrying the Enochian Æthyrs 
48:02 - Visions and esoteric Christianity 
50:09 - Abramelin Ritual w/ Alan Chapman
53:50 - Meeting the Holy Guardian Angel
56:32 - Approaching enlightenment 
01:02:38 - Achieving enlightenment
01:10:59 - Consequences of enlightenment 
01:14:45 - Confirmation by Stuart Lachs 
01:18:54 - Massive kundalini experience 
01:22:21 - Loss of interest in spirituality
01:23:21 - Spirit encounters in Santeria 
01:27:23 - Strategic presentations of Tibetan Buddhism
01:28:13 - Difficulties after awakening
01:29:52 - Post kundalini energetic development 
01:31:56 - Loss of fear of death
01:33:15 - Breathwork
01:34:54 - Opening of psychic senses
01:37:40 - Powerful encounters with Kālī Mā
01:45:03 - Meeting other Dark Goddesses
01:48:27 - Synchronicities and initiations
01:49:20 - Alan Chapman’s Magia
01:53:26 - Adventures in Bali 
02:03:14 - Chinese Internal Alchemy & Mattias Daly 
02:05:25 - Nan Huai-Chin
02:07:31 - Energy rewires for 12 years after awakening 
02:09:11 - Neoplatonist theurgy
02:12:31 - Reviving the Western spiritual tradition
02:12:53 - Instructed by Hecate to be interviewed
02:14:31 - Specialties of the Western tradition
02:17:00 - Sacred geography and local deities
02:20:27 - #1 problem in the West
02:23:11 - Karmic connections 
02:24:34 - Fall from grace after awakening
02:26:16 - Divine beings care about authenticity
02:28:15 - Sequel plans
02:29:57 - Praise for the Guru Viking Podcast

…

For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- www.guruviking.com

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep316: Dharma & the Goddess - Alex W

In this episode I host a dialogue between Lama Glenn Mullin and Oded Rahav about the magic of the Dead Sea. 

Oded shares how he fell in love with the Dead Sea, the power of story and the arts in communicating important messages, and why he believes water is a sacred medium.

Glenn reveals the power of sacred places and how they are formed through a combination of geomantic features and human spiritual activity.

Glenn and Oded explore the history of the Dead Sea region, trace 10000 years of Western mysticism, and discuss how the area may hold the keys to peace in the region.

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Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep317-dead-sea-magic-lama-glenn-mullin-oded-rahav

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’.

…

Topics include:

00:00 - Intro 
00:47 - Oded’s world record swim to save the Dead Sea
03:10 - The political complexity of the Dead Sea swim
04:11 - Falling in love with the Dead Sea
05:51 - Meeting Glenn Mullin
06:52 - How to build trust
08:08 - The powerful energy of sacred places
11:03 - The impact of humans on the earth
11:37 - Glenn talks about the Dead Sea
13:02 - How to relate to sacred places
14:19 - A great healing sea 
14:55 - The Dalai Lama’s prophecy 
15:39 - Saving the Dead Sea
16:48 - A potential peace initiative  	
18:45 - A million signatures
19:29 - Water is a scared medium
20:24 - Dead Sea stories
22:08 - Biological attributes of the Dead Sea
23:05 - Dead Sea is vanishing 
23:38 - 4 main threats to the Dead Sea 
27:55 - Water treating
28:55 - Practical solutions to political problems
30:03 - Power places and pilgrimage 
32:03 - Magic of the Dead Sea
34:49 - Twin rivers and other initiatives
36:49 - Incentivising capitalism 
38:00 - Poems about the Dead Sea
39:34 - Glenn’s history with the Dead Sea
40:27 - Arts initiatives 
41:02 - More Dead Sea poetry
41:39 - 10000 years of Western mysticism 
42:14 - Glenn’s message to listeners
43:36 - Oded’s invitation to listeners
45:41 - Geomancy vs human mystical infusion in creating sacred places
49:01 - Why save the Dead Sea?
50:04 - A future-oriented perspective 
52:03 - How change happens
56:41 - Meditation caves next to the Dead Sea
57:34 - Meditation caves around the world
01:01:03 - Tibetan medicine and healing retreats
01:03:09 - Oded’s documentary
01:04:33 - Rheumatism and skin 

… 

Previous episodes with Lama Glenn Mullin:
- https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=glenn%20mullin 
 
Find out more about Lama Glenn Mullin:
- http://www.glennmullin.com/
- https://www.facebook.com/Maitripa.Glenn

Find out more about Oded Rahav & the Dead Sea Guardians:
- https://deadseaguardians.org/team/ 
…

For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- https://www.guruviking.com 

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep317: Dead Sea Magic - Lama Glenn Mullin & Oded Rahav

In this episode I am joined by Victor Shiryaev a teacher of  Buddhist and modern meditation and somatic practices.

Victor recounts his childhood in the Soviet Union, early underground exposure to the New Age, and subsequent study of Avaita Vedānta and Ken Wilber’s Integral Theory.

Victor details his discipleship under American mindfulness teacher Shinzen Young, reflects on the tension between tradition and innovation, and shares stories of his own awakening experiences.

Victor also lays out his disagreements with Shinzen Young’s approach, critiques the Pragmatic Dharma’s use of maps and stages, and presents his own understanding of the spiritual experiences to be expected on the road to awakening and beyond.

…

Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep318-modern-mindfulness-victor-shiryaev

Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast’. 
…

Topics include: 

00:00 - Intro
00:56 - Childhood in the Soviet Union
02:24 - Exposure to the New Age and psychotherapy
07:15 - Studying Chinese History at university
08:07 - Advaita Vedānta and Ken Wilber
09:18 - Unity experience 
10:21 - Altered states and psychic phenomena
13:14 - Personal crisis 
14:52 - Awakening in Myanmar 
17:19 - “I know what I have is working”
19:17 - Meeting Shinzen Young and adopting his model
24:50 - Observational statistics
27:29 - Studying with Shinzen
29:27 - Divorce and launching meditation teaching career
31:00 - Finding a path thru crisis
37:10 - Writing a letter to nature
42:48 - Finding purpose in spirituality
44:15 - Victor’s teaching approach and activities
48:58 - Why go deeper in practice?
51:17 - Creating a culture of openness
58:33 - Shinzen & Ken Wilber vs Victor
01:05:16 - Being a clear conduit 
01:19:32 - I am not a Buddhist teacher
01:12:40 - Experience vs faith
01:15:58 - Disagreements with Shinzen
01:17:43 - Disagreements with Theravāda 
01:19:32 - Shinzen’s modernism and scientism
01:25:19 - Steve’s understanding of Shinzen 
01:28:15 - Victor’s update on Shinzen’s scientism 
01:30:50 - Heretics and reformers
01:33:39 - Fundamentalism and the world-centred view
01:30:39 - A world-centred view is also fundamentalist
01:42:50 - Victor on the Pragmatic Dharma movement
01:46:55 - Hypocrisy of Pragmatic Dharma
01:49:29 - Traditional vs modern practitioners
01:58:13 - Critique of maps and stages 
02:06:18 - First stage: thoughts to presence
02:09:41 - Second stage: all experience is consciousness
02:12:09 - One taste
02:13:38 - Intimacy with all things
02:15:26 - The consciousness trap
02:18:18 - We shape our experience 
02:19:10 - The pregnant void 
02:22:32 - Victor’s view of the path


To find out more about Victor Shiryaev, visit:
- https://victorshiryaev.co/ 

…

For more interviews, videos, and more visit:
- www.guruviking.com

Music ‘Deva Dasi’ by Steve James

Ep318: Modern Mindfulness - Victor Shiryaev

The Guru Viking Podcast specializes in in-depth interviews with remarkable figures in the world of meditation, spirituality, and self development.

Steve travels internationally teaching somatic practices and meditation, and leads explorations in contemplative, mystic, & relational realms.

Guru Viking Interview Series

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