https://www.robbcast.com
This podcast explores the science, history, and culture of altered states — from psychedelics and plant medicines to meditation, hypnosis, anesthesia, dreaming, sensory deprivation, and everything in between.

We dig into the research without the jargon overload, unpack the stories and traditions that shaped these experiences across cultures and centuries, and talk honestly about what people actually encounter when consciousness shifts. No hype, no lectures — just clear, thoughtful conversations about one of the most fascinating (and least understood) parts of being human.New episodes regularly.

Come along for the ride.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.]]>enFictionRobb Jarretthttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/c6fd778a963cd1c25ab70c8d0a03fda9.jpghttps://www.robbcast.comMon, 26 Oct 2026 15:40:37 +0000Robb JarrettRobb Jarrettrobb@medialabb.netAn exploration of unknown facts, people, places and things. Some may consider this a collection of useless information that may one day come in handy.
This podcast explores the science, history, and culture of altered states — from psychedelics and plant medicines to meditation, hypnosis, anesthesia, dreaming, sensory deprivation, and everything in between.

We dig into the research without the jargon overload, unpack the stories and traditions that shaped these experiences across cultures and centuries, and talk honestly about what people actually encounter when consciousness shifts. No hype, no lectures — just clear, thoughtful conversations about one of the most fascinating (and least understood) parts of being human.New episodes regularly.

Come along for the ride.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.]]>false2748c06d-984d-54b3-90c3-2865fb47b2f0episodicSupport the podcast!https://www.spreaker.com/episode/are-you-still-here-the-out-of-body-experience-what-is-it--75902675
Why does the brain sometimes make you feel like you're floating above your body?

In this episode of Altered, I look at brain stimulation cases, the temporoparietal junction, virtual reality body illusions, fighter pilot G-LOC, sleep paralysis, ketamine, and near-death reports.

It starts with a 2002 case published in Nature, where a gentle electrical pulse to one spot in a woman's brain made her feel she was floating near the ceiling, looking down at her own legs.

From there we ask a bigger question: what if the feeling of being inside your body is something your brain builds moment to moment, and what if it can come apart? I try to be fair to both sides.

The skeptics have strong arguments, and some of the stories are genuinely hard to wave away. Have you ever had an out-of-body experience?

Tell me about it in the comments. Stay curious, go out and do great things.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/75902675Thu, 22 Oct 2026 08:20:02 +0000Robb JarrettOut-of-body experiences, explained by neuroscience. Why does the brain sometimes make you feel like you're floating above your body? In this episode of Altered, I look at brain stimulation cases, the temporoparietal junction, virtual reality body...
Why does the brain sometimes make you feel like you're floating above your body?

In this episode of Altered, I look at brain stimulation cases, the temporoparietal junction, virtual reality body illusions, fighter pilot G-LOC, sleep paralysis, ketamine, and near-death reports.

It starts with a 2002 case published in Nature, where a gentle electrical pulse to one spot in a woman's brain made her feel she was floating near the ceiling, looking down at her own legs.

From there we ask a bigger question: what if the feeling of being inside your body is something your brain builds moment to moment, and what if it can come apart? I try to be fair to both sides.

The skeptics have strong arguments, and some of the stories are genuinely hard to wave away. Have you ever had an out-of-body experience?

Tell me about it in the comments. Stay curious, go out and do great things.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>1977astral,body,consciousness,death,experience,explained,floating,junction,ketamine,near,neuroscience,obe,of,out,out-of-body,paralysis,projection,science,sleep,temporoparietalfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-actually-happens-when-you-die-the-final-minutes--75768551
We explore the critical window of brain function when the heart stops, causing rapid depletion of fuel and oxygen. This analysis investigates the biological mechanisms at play during the moments of clinical death, moving past speculation to look at the high energy demands that sustain our cognitive processes. It is for those interested in the physiological reality of the dying process.

By observing the relationship between cerebral metabolism and the cessation of vital signs, we can better grasp the limits of human consciousness. We break down the clinical sequence of events that occur as neural activity falters, providing a clearer picture of what happens at the boundary of life. This inquiry bridges the gap between medical reality and the subjective accounts often reported during these critical moments.

Subscribe for weekly explorations of the human mind, and comment below on your perspective regarding the nature of the near-death experience.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/75768551Wed, 14 Oct 2026 08:20:01 +0000Robb JarrettExamine the physiology of near-death experiences and how the brain reacts when oxygen supply is abruptly cut off. We explore the critical window of brain function when the heart stops, causing rapid depletion of fuel and oxygen. This analysis...
We explore the critical window of brain function when the heart stops, causing rapid depletion of fuel and oxygen. This analysis investigates the biological mechanisms at play during the moments of clinical death, moving past speculation to look at the high energy demands that sustain our cognitive processes. It is for those interested in the physiological reality of the dying process.

By observing the relationship between cerebral metabolism and the cessation of vital signs, we can better grasp the limits of human consciousness. We break down the clinical sequence of events that occur as neural activity falters, providing a clearer picture of what happens at the boundary of life. This inquiry bridges the gap between medical reality and the subjective accounts often reported during these critical moments.

Subscribe for weekly explorations of the human mind, and comment below on your perspective regarding the nature of the near-death experience.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>2242after,afterlife,body,brain,clinical,consciousness,death,experience,experiences,function,heaven,human,life,nde,near,near-death,of,out,philosophy,storiesfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ibogaine-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-pros-and-cons--75461783
We examine the intersection of these botanical compounds and modern medical inquiry to understand how this root interacts with the human body. By analyzing the evidence from recent clinical trials, we look at the potential for therapeutic application and the inherent risks of such a treatment.

This inquiry is for those interested in the relationship between historical plant knowledge and the physiological reality of addiction. We also consider the nature of opioid withdrawal when viewed through the lens of modern pharmacology.

Subscribe for weekly explorations of the human mind, and comment below on your perspective regarding the future of addiction research.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/75461783Tue, 06 Oct 2026 08:20:02 +0000Robb JarrettOpioid withdrawal symptoms may be significantly reduced by a compound derived from a traditional, yet dangerous, root. This substance, a potent rainforest shrub root, has been used in ceremonial contexts for centuries. We examine the intersection of...
We examine the intersection of these botanical compounds and modern medical inquiry to understand how this root interacts with the human body. By analyzing the evidence from recent clinical trials, we look at the potential for therapeutic application and the inherent risks of such a treatment.

This inquiry is for those interested in the relationship between historical plant knowledge and the physiological reality of addiction. We also consider the nature of opioid withdrawal when viewed through the lens of modern pharmacology.

Subscribe for weekly explorations of the human mind, and comment below on your perspective regarding the future of addiction research.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>1531abuse,addiction,botanical,clinical,compounds,drug,epidemic,health,heroin,mental,opioid,opioids,rainforest,research,shrub,substance,trials,withdrawalfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/where-did-you-go-what-really-happens-under-anesthesia--75337691
By observing the sequence of medical procedures from prep to procedure, we consider the architecture of the mind under clinical control. It is for those interested in the intersection of biological science and the subjective experience of being put under.

We break down the clinical reality of anesthesia and how it alters our perception of time and self. By analyzing the patient experience, we can better grasp the cognitive processes that define our internal reality when the body is undergoing a major surgical experience.

This inquiry bridges the gap between physiological monitoring and the loss of human consciousness. Subscribe for weekly explorations of the human mind, and comment below on your perspective regarding the nature of medical sedation.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/75337691Fri, 25 Sep 2026 08:20:02 +0000Robb JarrettExamine the mechanics of anesthesia and what happens to the mind when it is rendered unconscious during surgery. We explore the transition between wakefulness and induced sedation. By observing the sequence of medical procedures from prep to...
By observing the sequence of medical procedures from prep to procedure, we consider the architecture of the mind under clinical control. It is for those interested in the intersection of biological science and the subjective experience of being put under.

We break down the clinical reality of anesthesia and how it alters our perception of time and self. By analyzing the patient experience, we can better grasp the cognitive processes that define our internal reality when the body is undergoing a major surgical experience.

This inquiry bridges the gap between physiological monitoring and the loss of human consciousness. Subscribe for weekly explorations of the human mind, and comment below on your perspective regarding the nature of medical sedation.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>1750abcs,anaesthesia,anesthesia,anesthesiologist,caregiver,consciousness,doctor,experience,explains,general,going,human,medical,nurse,of,operating,procedures,room,surgical,underfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-ancient-rituals-they-don-t-want-you-to-know-about--75176451
The podcast traces a path from the iconography of historical processions to the study of early spiritual traditions. By examining archaeological artifacts and contemporary accounts, we consider how specific substances may have influenced the religious experiences of the time. This inquiry bridges the gap between historical record and subjective interpretation.

Our investigation into psychedelic history focuses on the possibility of ritualized botanical use as a catalyst for insight. We move through the evidence—from ancient imagery to modern scientific inquiry—to understand the nature of this mystical journey. This is for those interested in the cultural frameworks that have shaped human perception of the sacred throughout history.

Subscribe for weekly explorations of the human mind and the traditions that shape our reality.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/75176451Fri, 18 Sep 2026 08:20:02 +0000Robb JarrettExplore the intersection of Ancient Greece and early ritual practices. We analyze the historical evidence behind these ceremonies. The podcast traces a path from the iconography of historical processions to the study of early spiritual traditions. By...
The podcast traces a path from the iconography of historical processions to the study of early spiritual traditions. By examining archaeological artifacts and contemporary accounts, we consider how specific substances may have influenced the religious experiences of the time. This inquiry bridges the gap between historical record and subjective interpretation.

Our investigation into psychedelic history focuses on the possibility of ritualized botanical use as a catalyst for insight. We move through the evidence—from ancient imagery to modern scientific inquiry—to understand the nature of this mystical journey. This is for those interested in the cultural frameworks that have shaped human perception of the sacred throughout history.

Subscribe for weekly explorations of the human mind and the traditions that shape our reality.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>3018ancient,archaeological,artifacts,civilizations,documentary,eleusinian,experience,gods,greece,greek,history,journey,mysteries,mystical,mythology,plato,psychedelic,spirituality,worldfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-truth-about-hypnosis-what-they-won-t-tell-you--75025913
This visual analysis examines how we visualize abstract knowledge. By observing symbols like mechanical gears and cosmic landscapes, we consider the architecture of thought. It is for those interested in the bridge between philosophy and the nature of cognition. 

We break down how human consciousness processes complex ideas, moving beyond literal interpretation to understand the subconscious mind. By analyzing these surreal representations, we can better grasp the cognitive processes that define our internal reality. 

Subscribe for weekly explorations of the human mind, and comment below on which aspects of consciousness you find most fascinating.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/75025913Thu, 10 Sep 2026 08:20:02 +0000Robb JarrettExplore the mechanics of human consciousness through abstract imagery and the complex inner workings of the mind. This visual analysis examines how we visualize abstract knowledge. By observing symbols like mechanical gears and cosmic landscapes, we...
This visual analysis examines how we visualize abstract knowledge. By observing symbols like mechanical gears and cosmic landscapes, we consider the architecture of thought. It is for those interested in the bridge between philosophy and the nature of cognition. 

We break down how human consciousness processes complex ideas, moving beyond literal interpretation to understand the subconscious mind. By analyzing these surreal representations, we can better grasp the cognitive processes that define our internal reality. 

Subscribe for weekly explorations of the human mind, and comment below on which aspects of consciousness you find most fascinating.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>1992cognitive,consciousness,human,hypnosis,mind,neuroscience,power,processes,reprogram,reprogramming,sleep,subconscious,therapyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/can-we-prove-what-consciousness-really-is--74813291
This video examines how our brains integrate sensory information to create a unified sense of self. By comparing neural networks to artificial intelligence, we analyze whether machine learning systems might eventually simulate human awareness or if there is a fundamental gap that technology cannot bridge. We look at the latest theories regarding brain function and the broader cosmos to determine if consciousness is a biological accident or a universal property.

Understanding the binding problem is essential for anyone interested in the intersection of neuroscience and computer science. We break down the complex relationship between neural processing and the emergence of subjective experience, providing clarity on where current research stands. By the end of this analysis, you will have a better framework for evaluating claims about machine sentience.

Subscribe for weekly science breakdowns and comment below with your thoughts on whether AI will ever truly be conscious.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74813291Thu, 03 Sep 2026 08:35:04 +0000Robb JarrettCan large language models ever achieve consciousness? We explore the biological binding problem and the nature of subjective experience. This video examines how our brains integrate sensory information to create a unified sense of self. By comparing...
This video examines how our brains integrate sensory information to create a unified sense of self. By comparing neural networks to artificial intelligence, we analyze whether machine learning systems might eventually simulate human awareness or if there is a fundamental gap that technology cannot bridge. We look at the latest theories regarding brain function and the broader cosmos to determine if consciousness is a biological accident or a universal property.

Understanding the binding problem is essential for anyone interested in the intersection of neuroscience and computer science. We break down the complex relationship between neural processing and the emergence of subjective experience, providing clarity on where current research stands. By the end of this analysis, you will have a better framework for evaluating claims about machine sentience.

Subscribe for weekly science breakdowns and comment below with your thoughts on whether AI will ever truly be conscious.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>2074binding,brain,consciousness,experience,hard,language,large,models,network,networks,neural,perception,philosophy,problem,quantum,spirituality,subjectivefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/quiet-your-mind-the-art-and-practice-of-meditation--74720868
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74720868Fri, 28 Aug 2026 09:15:02 +0000Robb JarrettExplore the quiet focus of meditation practice. Observe how stillness shapes our perception of time and inner calm. This observation of moments offers a framework for understanding the role of mindfulness in daily life. By observing the transition...
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>2018anxiety,awareness,breathing,buddhism,conscious,depression,exercises,for,guided,happiness,meditation,mindfulness,neuroscience,practice,stillnessfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-science-of-dreaming-rem-sleep-lucid-dreams-nightmares-why-we-dream--73938406
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73938406Fri, 14 Aug 2026 08:05:02 +0000Robb JarrettDreaming science REM sleep lucid dreams nightmares false awakenings: every night your brain builds immersive worlds you mostly forget by morning. Explore the real neuroscience of sleep stages, memory consolidation, activation-synthesis theory,...
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>2029activation,awakenings,dream,dreaming,emotional,explained,false,lucid,memory,neuroscience,nightmares,regulation,rem,science,sleep,stages,synthesis,theory,we,whyfalse2fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/your-mind-what-altered-states-actually-are-and-why-they-matter--73831949
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73831949Wed, 12 Aug 2026 02:29:43 +0000Robb JarrettAltered States of Consciousness | Episode 1 with Robb Jarrett – Dreaming, Meditation & Psychedelics **Spotify Description:** Episode 1 with host Robb Jarrett introduces altered states of consciousness. Explore the everyday mystery of dreaming, a...
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/altered--2756434/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, the best way to support the show is to subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might find it interesting. You can find new episodes, links, and more at robbcast.com. Just a quick note: this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing here is medical advice, and exploring altered states always comes with real risks and responsibilities. Until next time — stay curious.]]>1613altered,anesthesia,brain,consciousness,dmt,dreaming,experience,hypnosis,ketamine,lsd,lucid,mdma,meditation,mind,podcast,psilocybin,psychedelics,research,science,statesfalse1full