This episode features a conversation between Dr. Rupert Sheldrake and Professor Peter Hawkins. This discussion is part of a series that Peter will be doing with some of the major thinkers and writers of our time, focusing on the necessary evolution of human consciousness, for humans to be future-fit to live on this planet in a way that makes a net-positive contribution to the wider ecology. The series is being done jointly with: The Weekend University and the Renewal Foundation.

Rupert is a biologist and author of more than 100 scientific papers and 15 books. Trained at Cambridge and Harvard, he is best known for his work on morphic resonance, as well as his explorations of consciousness, memory, and the nature of scientific inquiry.His most recent book is Ways to Go Beyond and Why They Work, which explores how practices such as meditation, gratitude, pilgrimage, and connecting with nature can transform our lives.

Peter is Emeritus Professor of Leadership at Henley Business School, founder of the Academy of Executive Coaching, and a leading authority on systemic leadership, coaching, and organizational transformation. His work integrates insights from psychology, systems thinking, ecology, and philosophy to help leaders navigate an increasingly complex world. His most recent book was: Beauty in Leadership and Coaching, which was published by Routeledge in 2025.

In this conversation, they explore:

— How morphic fields shape biological form and behavior through collective memory rather than genetic programming alone

— Why Professor Sheldrake believes the laws of nature are more like evolving habits than eternal constants

— The scientific evidence for telepathy, the sense of being stared at, and other phenomena beyond current materialist frameworks

— How spiritual practices across traditions—from pilgrimage to gratitude—demonstrably improve health and wellbeing

— Why the loss of ritual and connection to place has contributed to rising mental health challenges in Western societies

— The relationship between consciousness, light, and vision that suggests our minds extend beyond our brains

And more.

You can learn more about Rupert’s work at sheldrake.org and Peter’s at https://renewalassociates.co.uk/.

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Interview Links:

— Prof. Peter Hawkins’ website - https://renewalassociates.co.uk

— Rupert’s website: http://sheldrake.org/

— Rupert’s books: https://amzn.to/2Gbvijy