In this episode we spoke with Marieke McKenna. Marieke studied philosophy and history of science at the the University of Amsterdam, the University of Glasgow and Utrecht University. She is interested in metaphysics, phenomenology, philosophy of mind, philosophy of physics, and consciousness studies. Her recent research focuses on historical, cross-cultural and philosophical perspectives on (lucid) dreaming, as well as the history of the scientific & academic study thereof. By combining an interdisciplinary oral history approach, hands on experience in a laboratory setting, historical analysis and philosophical reflection, she hopes to gain a deeper understanding of the spectrum of consciousness, specifically the phenomenology of dreaming (which is related to daydreaming, ideation, and creativity). Outside academia, Marieke, works as an dj, artist, creative entrepreneur, label owner of Mink Records, curator, lecturer, and programme maker, having your podcast “Roots & Threads” regarding ethnomusicology and most recently your own radio show on NPO Soul & Jazz at Round Midnight. In this beautiful conversation, we spoke about: Marieke’s Scottish roots and her spiritual & emotional inheritance of this ancient land The importance of a holistic and truly open educational system Having deeply profound (mystical) experiences and how to make sense of these in the context of a standard reductionist, brain focussed world view The history of research on dreaming and dreams as the most common of altered states of consciousness The evolution of science, its severance with Nature and the deep importance of spiritually interacting with Nature once again Her inspirations and influences Meta Modernism, A.I. and the history of technology Spiritual narcissism v.s. hands-on spirituality Interdisciplinary Conference on Psychedelic Research (ICPR - 2024), the assumptions v.s the reality of attending Psychedelic Academia, the novelty of the field and the massive lack of research regarding having an explicit focus on women Dream research, today and the future