Topic: Esalen

Lawrence Rockefeller hosted a significant retreat for UFO researchers in September 1993, the same weekend The X-Files pilot premiered. Attendees included Stephen Greer, Linda Moulton Howe, and Bob Bigelow. Rockefeller is described as a true believer who funded various New Age and ufology projects as part of an effort to build a new cultural religion.

The discussion compares Horsley’s views with those of scholar Jeffrey Kripal regarding "trauma genesis." While Kripal views the opening of the psyche through trauma as a path to a type of enlightenment or superhuman power, Horsley views it as a "horror show" of possession and dissociation. Horsley argues that these experiences are not spiritual but are instead "psychism," which he views as potentially malevolent or satanic.

The influence of "The Council of Nine" is examined, specifically their reported control over the Esalen Institute for several years through channeler Jenny O'Connor. Knowles claims this group exerted significant influence over the Star Trek franchise and Silicon Valley elites. He argues that whether the entities are objectively real is secondary to the fact that influential people act as if they are.

Host Greg Carlwood introduces Dr. Jeffrey J. Kripal, the Associate Dean of the School of Humanities at Rice University and a leading scholar in the study of Gnosticism, esotericism, and mysticism. Kripal’s extensive bibliography is highlighted, including works like Secret Body and The Superhumanities, alongside his leadership roles at the Esalen Institute. The segment establishes Kripal as a "powerhouse guest" frequently cited by previous paranormal researchers on the program.

The conversation shifts to the role of the "Goddess" and the divine feminine in mystical experiences, with Dr. Kripal noting that these encounters often defy traditional heterosexual models. He recounts a teaching experience at the Esalen Institute where participants shared deeply conflicted stories about their sexuality and spirituality. He emphasizes that historical religious traditions often do not align with modern social values regarding gender and sex.

The influence of the "Council of Nine" on the Esalen Institute and the Star Trek franchise is examined. Knowles argues that these channeled entities have shaped cultural perceptions of the future by influencing key figures in Hollywood and the tech industry.

The Rockefeller family's involvement in fringe research is used as evidence of elite belief systems that diverge from the public narrative. Lawrence Rockefeller funded crop circle research, the Esalen Institute, and Zecharia Sitchin’s work on Sumerian aliens. White contrasts these interests with the family's historical funding of eugenics and the Shadow State, suggesting the elite possess a worldview based on hidden data.

The interview becomes contentious as Irvin argues that feminism and humanism are CIA-backed tools designed to break the family unit and make individuals reliant on the state. He cites Gloria Steinem's CIA ties and claims the Esalen Institute promoted these ideologies as a form of "neo-feudalism." Irvin asserts that the ultimate goal of these movements is population control and the marginalization of men.

Irvin provides specific citations from McKenna's book "True Hallucinations" and a talk at the Esalen Institute to support his recruitment claims. He quotes McKenna admitting to working in "deep background positions" and "public relations" for an unnamed organization. Irvin contrasts this with the traditional Mazatec use of mushrooms described by Maria Sabina, which focused on healing and finding lost items rather than spiritual or political agendas.