Dr. Justin Sledge, creator of the Esoterica channel, joins the Mystery College podcast to discuss the difference between esoteric and exoteric religious practices, the role of intellectual humility, and the importance of philosophy and language learning in understanding mysticism. He shares insights from his academic journey, practical advice for self-learners, and his vision for accessible community-focused education. Topics range from spirituality vs. religion, neurophilosophy, and the limits of scientific and experiential knowledge to the future of education and his work with Esoterica.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEsotericaChannel

Website: https://www.justinsledge.com/esoterica

00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Justin Sledge & Esoterica

01:00 - Defining Esoteric vs. Exoteric Practices

02:30 - Mysticism in Major Religions & Occultism

04:00 - Dr. Sledge’s Approach to Belief, Religion & Intellectual Humility

06:00 - Symbolism, Myths & Navigation of Reality

09:00 - Sensory Experience and Prayer

11:00 - Language Learning for Religious Studies

13:00 - The Importance of Reading in Original Languages

15:00 - Science, Mathematics & Logic in Truth-Seeking

17:00 - The Limits of Propositional & Experimental Knowledge

18:30 - Phenomenology, Meaning, and Experience

20:30 - Qualities for Rigorous Phenomenology

22:00 - Interdisciplinary Approach: Neuroscience, Philosophy & Religion

27:00 - Learning, Intellectual Humility, and Psychological Development

34:00 - Belief vs. Knowledge: Navigating Mystical Experience

40:00 - Hubris, Memory, and Experiencing ‘Truth’

44:00 - Dr. Sledge’s Philosophy on Education

48:00 - Expanding Esoterica: Future Projects & Community Engagement

52:00 - How to Connect with Dr. Sledge & Closing Thoughts

Join us at: https://www.mysterycollege.com/courses

Our ever-growing course library holds some of the most advanced spiritual topics you can find available online.

Join us for an in-depth podcast interview with Leigh Brasington, renowned teacher and author, as he demystifies the practice of Jhana (meditative absorption) in the Buddhist tradition. Leigh shares his personal journey, pivotal milestones, and practical guidance for both beginners and seasoned meditators. We cover the essential stages of Jhana practice, integrating deep meditation into daily life, misconceptions, the role of neuroscience and feedback loops, common challenges, and much more.

▶ Leigh's website: leighb.com

Join Jake as he welcomes renowned spiritual teacher Gangaji to explore direct self-inquiry, radical presence, and what it means to truly let go. Gangaji offers illuminating insights into moving beyond rote “practices” into the living experience of awareness and spontaneous being. This dialogue delves into how to meet everyday life, emotions, and even self-criticism from the ground of unchanging presence and freedom.

Gangaji is an internationally respected teacher and author whose work centers on self-inquiry and the realization of one’s true nature. Her teachings invite seekers to discover the peace and fulfillment that is already alive within them. You can find her books, retreats, podcasts, and more at her official website: gangaji.org

0:02 – Welcome and introduction to Gangaji

1:09 – The roots and real meaning of self-inquiry: willingness, not technique

2:25 – Making inquiry a living, spontaneous experience

5:31 – The radical invitation: just stop, drop the mental activity, discover what’s always here

7:49 – Living in the world: bringing presence to ordinary life moments

12:04 – The “stateless state” and discovering what never comes and goes

27:05 – Recognizing presence in both good and bad moments

31:09 – Gangaji’s own journey: meeting Papaji, learning to “just stop”

34:57 – Cultivating vigilance and love for the unchanging awareness

43:08 – Last words: vigilance as the “golden key” and what freedom really means

Join us at: https://www.mysterycollege.com/courses

Our ever-growing course library holds some of the most advanced spiritual topics you can find available online.

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Chris Guillebeau, New York Times bestselling author of The Art of Non-Conformity and his latest book, Time Anxiety. Chris unpacks the concept of time anxiety—the persistent sense that time is slipping away, and the challenge of managing endless opportunities in our fast-paced world. We explore how these challenges intersect with neurodivergence and living with ADHD, sharing practical strategies for embracing your strengths, pursuing big quests, and living a meaningful life.

-Learn actionable tips for handling time blindness, setting boundaries, and questioning “time rules” that don’t serve you.

-Chris shares insights from his year-long mental health project and explains why allowing more transition time can reduce stress for everyone.

-We discuss how to balance ambition with well-being, find what truly matters “right now”, and reframe legacy as living well today.

-The episode closes with Chris’s enduring mission: live life on your terms, not by others’ expectations.

Resources mentioned:

Time Anxiety: https://www.amazon.com/Time-Anxiety-Illusion-Urgency-Better/dp/0593799550

NeuroDiversion conference: https://www.neurodiversion.org/

Chris’s essays: yearofmentalhealth.com

Side Hustle School Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3qnXDWYMqKD3nNBiJFXyP6?si=273092e9dd9e432c

Join the Mystery College at: https://www.mysterycollege.com

Join Steve James—host of the acclaimed Guru Viking Podcast and founder of the Movement Koan Method—as he sits down with Jake and Alex Leonhart at the Mystery College Podcast to share his remarkable spiritual journey. Discover Steve’s unique insights gained from years of contemplative study, teaching internationally, and leading retreats at renowned centers, including the upcoming program at the Omega Institute.

In this interview, Steve discusses:

-His personal path through various spiritual and contemplative traditions

-Lessons from years in practice, solitude, and also wilderness survival 

-The genesis and philosophy behind the Movement Koan Method—a fusion of mindful movement and deep embodiment

-Practical advice on meditation and humility

Whether you’re a meditation practitioner, a movement enthusiast, or someone seeking wisdom for spiritual growth, Steve’s grounded and experiential teachings offer a wealth of inspiration.

Connect with Steve James:

Website: https://www.guruviking.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guruviking/

Omega Institute Retreat: https://www.eomega.org/workshops/teachers/steve-james

Movement Koan Method: https://www.guruviking.com/shop

Guru Viking Podcast: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast

join us | https://www.mysterycollege.com

Donate for brain imaging to make hardcore spiritual practices be taken seriously: https://ebenefactors.org/

https://www.integrateddaniel.info/

https://www.mctb.org/

Join us for a deep-dive conversation with Dr. Daniel Ingram, author of "Mastering the Core Teachings of the Buddha," as we explore the intersections between hardcore Buddhist practice, Western occult/spiritual traditions, and the neuroscience of altered states. Daniel shares his personal journey from early mystical experiences and intensive Dharma training to his experiences into Western esotericism, magick, and scientific research on meditation.

We discuss:

-The overlap between Buddhist jhanas and Western magical states

-The history and suppression of esoteric practices in Theravada Buddhism

-The neuroscience of meditation and mystical experience

-Fire Kasina retreats: what they are, what to expect, and why they’re not for the faint of heart

-The risks, ethics, and psychological challenges of advanced esoteric and magical practice

-Why foundational psychological work is essential before diving into the deep end of the magical pool

-How to ground yourself and navigate the challenges of spiritual and magical attainment

-Whether you’re a meditator, magician, or curious skeptic, this episode offers rare insights into the real-world practice and science of mystical arts.

Book Link: https://a.co/d/0V9Ulz9

Website: https://www.husseinhallak.com/

Step into the depths of personal transformation with Hussein Hallak—entrepreneur, author of The Dark Art Of Mastering Your Life, and a pioneer in mindful leadership within both startups and fortune-500 organizations. In this episode, we explore Hallak’s unique journey from startup founder to spiritual seeker, uncovering how his encounters with adversity, cultural shifts, and the pursuit of meaning shaped his philosophy on mastering time, embracing the shadow, and cultivating authentic being.

Hallak shares candid stories from his own life, revealing how mindful awareness and personal development practices became the foundation for his success in business and beyond. We delve into the “dark arts” of self-mastery—facing inner fears, integrating shadow aspects, and harnessing the power of presence to transform challenges into opportunities.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a seeker, or simply curious about the intersection of practical wisdom and spiritual growth, this conversation offers actionable insights and inspiration for anyone ready to take command of their time, identity, and inner world.

Tune in for a thought-provoking dialogue on the art of living fully, the courage to confront your shadow, and the timeless journey of becoming who you truly are.

https://www.lamaglenndharma.com/

https://www.glennmullin.com/

We welcome renowned Buddhist scholar and translator Glenn Mullin. In this enlightening conversation, Glenn shares insights from decades of study in Tibetan Buddhism, explores the mysteries of Tantric practice, and offers practical wisdom for seekers on the path to awakening. Discover the transformative power of tummo, the Six Yogas of Naropa, and the living legacy of the Dalai Lamas. Whether you're new to Eastern philosophy or a seasoned practitioner, this episode promises inspiration and deep spiritual insight.

Join us at: https://www.mysterycollege.com/courses

Our ever-growing course library holds some of the most advanced spiritual topics you can find available online.

Website: https://www.alexanderarguelles.com/

The Academy: https://www.alexanderarguelles.com/academy/

Youtube: ⁨https://www.youtube.com/@ProfASAr

Join Jake and Alex for an in-depth conversation with Alexander Arguelles, a renowned polyglot fluent in 10 languages and familiar with over 60. In this episode, Alexander shares the story of his lifelong passion for languages, inspired by a childhood surrounded by books and global travel. Discover how his unique great books curriculum, shaped by experiences at Columbia and the University of Chicago, blends classic Western and Eastern texts and fosters seminar-style discussions that emphasize self-directed, lifelong learning.

Alexander discusses the philosophy behind his academy’s “circles,” where learners read and discuss literature in various languages, developing not just reading and speaking skills but also the ability to think in new languages. He explains why language is more than grammar and vocabulary—it's about building a relationship with a living entity, opening new perspectives, and connecting with cultures across time and space.

The episode explores how adults can reignite their love for learning, overcome negative experiences from traditional education, and build sustainable habits for personal growth. Alexander emphasizes the importance of community, habit formation, and aligning learning with personal values. He also reflects on the spiritual and esoteric dimensions of language, considering it a sacred practice akin to meditation or prayer.

Whether you’re a language enthusiast, a lifelong learner, or someone seeking to enrich your intellectual life, this conversation offers practical advice, inspiration, and a vision for education grounded in curiosity, reverence, and community.

Join us for a live course at the Mystery College: https://links.mysterycollege.com/Home

Our ever-growing course library holds some of the most advanced meditative/spiritual topics you can find available online.

Buy Dr. Bruce Goldberg's book from this link, mention this podcast in the order notes, and receive a Free CD: https://drbrucegoldberg.com/product/exploring-the-fifth-dimension/

Youtube | ⁨https://www.youtube.com/@UCiAc56ob5x-mQ-kaWmzYYYw   

Check out Bruce's monthly webinars as well. 

Join Jake & Dr. Bruce Goldberg as they explore the mysteries of time travel, teleportation, and astral projection. Discover fascinating insights into consciousness, past and future lives, and the science behind metaphysical experiences in this thought-provoking podcast.

Join us at: https://www.mysterycollege.com/courses

Our ever-growing course library holds some of the most advanced spiritual topics you can find available online.

The Leela School: https://leelaschool.org/

Leela Foundation YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@LeelaFoundation

Leele Foundation Website: https://leela.org/

In this episode of the Mystery College podcast, Jake welcomes Eli Jaxon-Bear, founder of the Leela School, for a profound conversation rooted in awakening, self-inquiry, and the art of true service. Eli shares his journey from being a federal fugitive during the Vietnam War to meeting his teacher, Papaji, and how these experiences shaped the Leela School’s unique approach to transformation. The discussion examines the meaning of awakening, the role of hypnotherapy and the Enneagram, and the importance of self-reflection on one's true desires.

Listeners will experience a guided exercise in presence, learn about the pitfalls of spiritual concepts, and hear Eli’s perspective on the value of genuine teachers and the necessity of direct realization over conceptual understanding. The conversation also covers the Leela School’s pioneering psilocybin facilitator program in Oregon, emphasizing the importance of set, setting, and skillful means in supporting deep transformation.

Read Description: (Appendix & Corrections Included)

Timothy Kenny Links:

YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@timothykenny

Featured video: Bookshelf Tour of The Largest Home Library...  

(One-of-a-kind video, consider at least looking through the table of contents) 

https://youtu.be/NtMVw1HnbYs?si=oJ1bCcimuI0ZWEez

Website: https://timothykenny.com (You can sign up for Timothy's excellent newsletter here) 

X (Twitter): https://x.com/timothy_kenny

Explore the Mystery College Podcast’s deep dive with Timothy Kenny, a thought leader in encyclopedic learning, polymathic thinking, and the cultivation of intellectual capital. In this episode, we discuss how to build an “interstate system” of knowledge, the lost art of being a Renaissance man, and why interdisciplinary, independent, and eclectic approaches are essential for navigating today’s information landscape. Timothy shares frameworks for developing judgment, leadership, and meta-systems for learning—empowering listeners to become true independent thinkers and cultivate the highest degree of intellect in an age of specialization and information overload.

The Ezra Klein Podcast guest mentioned in the video is David Shor.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sx0J7dIlL7c

Update Quick update: The below was generated via Claude Opus 4:

Correction: I think I incorrectly said that St. Augustine (of Hippo) was the author of Summa Theologica. But it's actually St. Thomas Aquinas.

Appendix 1:

The Summa Theologica (1265-1274) is Thomas Aquinas's monumental systematic exposition of Christian theology, structured in a distinctive question-and-answer format where each article poses a question, presents objections, offers a contrary view ("On the contrary..."), provides Aquinas's answer ("I answer that..."), and then replies to each objection. The work is divided into three main parts: Prima Pars (on God, creation, and angels), Secunda Pars (on human nature, ethics, law, and virtue—itself divided into two sections), and Tertia Pars (on Christ and the sacraments, left unfinished at Aquinas's death). Throughout, Aquinas synthesizes Aristotelian philosophy with Christian doctrine, using reason to explore and defend faith, addressing topics from proofs for God's existence (the famous "Five Ways") to the nature of the soul, free will, natural law, the virtues, and the incarnation. The work became the cornerstone of Catholic philosophical and theological education, representing the height of scholastic thought in its systematic attempt to reconcile faith and reason.

Confessions (c. 397-400 AD) An autobiographical work written as a prayer to God, chronicling Augustine's spiritual journey from his sinful youth to his conversion to Christianity at age 31. The book explores themes of memory, time, and the human search for God. Augustine famously reflects on his rebellious adolescence (including the theft of pears), his involvement with Manichaeism, and his struggles with sexual desire. The later books shift from autobiography to philosophical meditation on creation, time, and the nature of God. His famous line "You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you" captures the work's central theme.

The City of God (c. 413-426 AD) Written in response to the sack of Rome in 410 AD, this massive 22-book work defends Christianity against pagan accusations that abandoning the old gods caused Rome's fall. Augustine contrasts two symbolic cities: the earthly city (driven by self-love and pride) and the heavenly city of God (driven by love of God). He provides a Christian interpretation of history, argues against pagan philosophy and religion, and develops influential ideas about just war, the nature of peace, and the relationship between church and state. The work profoundly shaped medieval political thought and Christian philosophy of history.

Appendix 2:

St. Augustine (354-430 AD) Born in Thagaste, North Africa (modern Algeria), to a pagan father and Christian mother (St. Monica), Augustine spent his youth pursuing worldly pleasures and academic success, becoming a teacher of rhetoric in Carthage, Rome, and Milan. After exploring Manichaeism and Neoplatonism, he converted to Christianity in 386 following a spiritual crisis in a Milan garden where he heard a child's voice saying "take up and read," leading him to randomly open Scripture to Romans 13:13-14. He was baptized by St. Ambrose, returned to Africa, and became Bishop of Hippo in 395, where he spent the rest of his life writing prolifically (over 100 works), preaching, and defending orthodox Christianity against various heresies. His writings on grace, free will, original sin, and the nature of the Church profoundly shaped Western Christianity and philosophy, making him arguably the most influential Christian thinker after St. Paul.

St. Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274) Born to a noble family near Aquino, Italy, Thomas shocked his relatives by joining the new Dominican order instead of the prestigious Benedictines, prompting his family to kidnap and imprison him for a year (during which he memorized Scripture and studied Aristotle). After his release, he studied under Albert the Great in Paris and Cologne, earning the nickname "Dumb Ox" for his quiet demeanor and large size, though Albert predicted "this ox will bellow so loud his bellowing will fill the world." He taught at the University of Paris and various Dominican schools, dedicating his life to reconciling Aristotelian philosophy with Christian faith through rigorous logical analysis. Despite producing an enormous body of work including biblical commentaries, disputed questions, and the monumental Summa Theologica, he experienced a mystical vision in 1273 that made him declare all his writings "seem like straw," and he wrote no more before dying four months later while traveling to the Council of Lyon.

Join Dr. Shreeram, Alex Leonhart and Jake as they explore the Soul Mirror Exercise, comparing its ancient roots with modern interpretations. In this second part of the "Lead and Gold" series, discover how timeless self-reflection practices can be applied today for personal growth and transformation. Man vs Self (or World?) Episode. 

https://links.mysterycollege.com/Shreerambook

Join Dr. Shreeram, Alex Leonhart and Jake as they explore the Soul Mirror Exercise, comparing its ancient roots with modern interpretations. In this first part of the "Lead and Gold" series, discover how timeless self-reflection practices can be applied today for personal growth and transformation.

Join us at: https://links.mysterycollege.com/HomeOur ever-growing course library holds some of the most advanced spiritual topics you can find available online.

Dr. Shreeram's Brand New Book: https://links.mysterycollege.com/Shreerambook

Join us at: https://links.mysterycollege.com/Home

Unlock the real secrets behind Franz Bardon’s Initiation Into Hermetics with Dr. Shreeram Iyer, a high-level Shaivism practitioner. In this in-depth talk, Dr. Iyer breaks down Bardon’s Step 1 and 2—not just as technical exercises, but as a genuine enlightenment path, drawing on the deep wisdom of Shaivism and Vedic traditions.

Highlights include:

A step-by-step Shaivite perspective on Bardon’s foundational practices (steps 1-2), with clear explanations of how these relate to traditional enlightenment methods and the complete philosophical shifts needed for western minds to fully comprehend the scope of this exercise

Practical, accessible approaches using pranayama, mudras, yantras, and japa to accelerate your progress—bypassing myths like “many lifetimes needed” myth and other limiting beliefs found in both Vedic and Western occult circles.

A critical look at common Sanskrit translation errors that mislead practitioners and how proper understanding can unlock your spiritual growth.

Why Bardon’s system puts the hardest practices first—and how Shaivism’s gradual, supported approach can make these obstacles far less daunting.

Control mechanisms and “gatekeeping” in both Vedic and Hermetic traditions: what’s real, what’s myth, and how to move forward with confidence.

Whether you’re struggling with Bardon’s early steps or seeking a more direct, integrated path to realization, this conversation will give you new tools, deeper clarity, and a practical roadmap for your spiritual journey.

Our ever-growing course library holds some of the most advanced spiritual topics you can find available online.

https://links.mysterycollege.com/Shreerambook

Non-Dual Shaivism, especially the Kashmir tradition, teaches that all reality is an expression of a single, universal consciousness, often described as Shiva. This philosophy dissolves the boundaries between self and universe, offering a path where dualistic worship and nondual realization are both valid stages of spiritual evolution. The teachings emphasize that the divine is both transcendent and immanent: Shiva and Shakti are not separate, but two aspects of the same ultimate reality.

The podcast will explore how these ancient teachings remain relevant today, offering practical frameworks for meditation, self-inquiry, and everyday living. Dr. Shreeram Iyer’s expertise ensures each episode is rooted in authentic tradition while remaining accessible and transformative for modern listeners.

https://links.mysterycollege.com/Shreerambook

Join us at: https://links.mysterycollege.com/Home

Our ever-growing course library holds some of the most advanced spiritual topics you can find available online.

De-Hypnotize Yourself to Awaken Now | Jack Elias | Mystery College Podcast

https://jackelias.com/

https://findingtruemagic.com/

Discover how Guided Shifting helps break free from habitual thought patterns, fosters deep relaxation, and makes peace an accessible, foundational experience rather than a fleeting state. Jason opens up about his own journey: from high-achieving entrepreneur and TED speaker to facing burnout and depression, and ultimately finding renewal through coaching and the development of Guided Shifting. He explains how this method can help anyone—regardless of background—move beyond emotional repression, improve empathy, and experience a more vibrant, present life

Unlock the secrets to finding your true purpose in this Chi Skills interview with Didi and Arnaud. If you’ve ever felt lost or stuck searching for meaning, this episode dives deep into the real reasons behind your struggle—and offers practical steps to break through. Discover how to overcome common mental blocks, shift your mindset, and start living with clarity and intention. Tune in for honest insights and actionable advice to help you finally connect with your purpose and move forward with confidence.

In this episode, join Jake and Vedic astrology expert Tamara Pitzer as they dive into the intersections of astrology, spiritual growth, and planetary magic. They explore how understanding your astrological chart can illuminate your karmic lessons, aid in spiritual development, and help balance daily responsibilities with your higher aspirations. Tamara shares insights on integrating the energies of Ketu and Rahu, using astrology for personal transformation, and working with planetary influences in magical practices. For further resources, Tamara recommends visiting 4mystics.org for more information on courses and consultations, downloading Graha Sutras from vedic-astrology.net, and using vaultoftheheavens.com for chart calculations.