Sarid Harper sits down to tell the story of a life driven by curiosity and contradiction. He opens with a vivid teenage UFO sighting outside Billings that shattered familiar narratives and seeded a contrarian mindset. From there we follow his path through London, Montana, Copenhagen, Berkeley, and Bali — learning Visual Basic, assembler, FreeBSD, and offensive security; building exploits and testing the world’s biggest banks; then pivoting into social engineering, hypnotherapy, and Ayurveda when the ethics of the work started to weigh on him. He explains how those disparate skills converged into algorithmic trading (PIPNOTIC), describes a synesthetic way of seeing numbers, and shares why failure and resilience have been his truest teachers. The episode pairs technical war stories with spiritual reflection: an exploration of truth, responsibility, and how to raise a family while living a life that refuses easy answers.

Some of the topic we cover:

1. Green School (Bali)
   https://www.greenschool.org

2. Doctor Who (referenced when describing a UFO sighting)
   https://www.bbc.co.uk/doctorwho

3. Knight Rider (referenced when discussing American-style muscle cars)
   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knight_Rider

4. Bigfoot (referenced alongside monster trucks in Montana)
   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bigfoot

5. Great Pyramid of Giza (visited in Cairo)
   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Pyramid_of_Giza

6. LiDAR discovery beneath the pyramids
   https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-022-05355-8

7. Joe Rogan (mentioned during the pyramid/LiDAR discussion)
   https://www.joerogan.com

8. Graham Hancock (cited in the same conversation)
   https://grahamhancock.com

9. Craigslist (used for finding housing in Berkeley)
   https://www.craigslist.org

10. YMCA (room rented near Berkeley’s YMCA)
    https://www.ymca.org

11. Hack This Site (hacking challenges mentioned)
    https://www.hackthissite.org

12. Pull The Plug (the “pulltheplug.org.com” hacking farm)
    https://pulltheplug.org.com

13. Visual Basic (learning to write early computer viruses)
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visual_Basic

14. FreeBSD (used for building firewalls on Intel 486 machines)
    https://www.freebsd.org

15. Python (used to write scripts that hacked IP telephones)
    https://www.python.org

16. FIX Protocol (the stock-exchange messaging protocol)
    https://www.fixtrading.org

17. Ayahuasca (the plant brew used in multiple ceremonies)
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayahuasca

18. Ayurveda (the 5,000-year-old “science of life” referenced)
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ayurveda

19. Mescaline (Carl Jung’s entheogen of choice)
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mescaline

20. Carl Jung (referenced for psychedelic research)
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carl_Jung

21. Friedrich Nietzsche (quoted regarding going against the herd)
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friedrich_Nietzsche

22. The Big Short (film mentioned when discussing standing alone)
    https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1596363

23. Stop AI (advocacy group to pause new AI model training)
    https://stopai.org

24. PIPNOTIC (the speaker’s own algo-trading software)
    https://pipnotic.org

In this episode, Ty Smith, a retired Navy SEAL, shares his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood in East St. Louis to becoming a Navy SEAL and entrepreneur. He discusses the importance of resilience, mentorship, and leadership, as well as the impact of 9/11 on his military career. Ty reflects on the intersection of luck and skill in combat, the lessons learned from his experiences, and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. He emphasizes the significance of spirituality and personal growth in navigating life's challenges and the entrepreneurial journey. In this conversation, Ty Smith and Blake Fisher explore themes of spiritual evolution, the philosophical frameworks that guide their lives, and the redefinition of masculinity in contemporary society. They discuss the importance of connection, healing journeys, and the transformative power of experiences like Ibogaine therapy. The conversation also delves into the future of AI, emphasizing the need for adaptability and the potential for technology to enhance human life rather than detract from it.

Takeaways:

Ty's journey began with a dream to become a Navy SEAL.

Overcoming adversity is a common thread in Ty's life.

Mentorship played a crucial role in Ty's success.

The impact of 9/11 reignited Ty's purpose in the military.

Luck and skill intersect in unpredictable ways during combat.

Leadership is about never giving up on your team.

Transitioning to civilian life requires preparation and support.

Entrepreneurship is the hardest challenge Ty has faced.

Spirituality has become a significant part of Ty's life.

Personal growth is a continuous journey, shaped by experiences. We are all connected through one creator.

Spiritual evolution is a personal journey.

Philosophical operating systems guide our actions.

Masculinity can be redefined to include empathy.

Healing journeys can transform lives.

AI is a wave that cannot be stopped.

Adapting to AI is essential for survival.

Men can express vulnerability and still be strong.

God's will is always good for us.

Connection and compassion are vital in leadership.

Chapters:

00:00 From Dreams to Reality: Ty's Journey Begins

02:24 Overcoming Doubts: The Anomaly Mindset

05:17 The Lone Wolf: Embracing Individuality

08:11 The Path to Becoming a Navy SEAL

10:18 9/11: A Turning Point in Purpose

13:09 The SEAL Experience: Trials and Triumphs

16:11 Luck vs. Skill: The Reality of War

19:07 Faith and Survival: A Spiritual Perspective

21:47 Leadership Lessons from the SEAL Teams

34:30 Never Give Up: The Heart of Leadership

36:19 The Power of Not Giving Up

38:53 Success Beyond the Battlefield

41:12 Preparing for Life After Service

46:23 The Challenges of Entrepreneurship

49:18 Spiritual Awakening and Transformation

01:00:26 Redefining Masculinity

01:09:29 Leading with Love and Compassion

01:14:01 Healing Through Community and Support

01:14:52 Transformational Journeys and Personal Growth

01:16:50 Facing Demons: Overcoming PTSD and Trauma

01:18:44 Experiencing Healing: The Power of Ibogaine

01:21:51 Profound Peace: Insights from Spiritual Experiences

01:25:20 Embracing Life: Letting Go of Fear and Doubt

01:34:18 Innovations in AI: The Future of Business Intelligence

01:40:56 Navigating the AI Wave: Opportunities and Challenges

01:45:56 Faith in Humanity: The Role of Technology in Our Lives

In this conversation, Miles Bolden and Blake Fisher discusses the profound impact of breath on mental health, performance, and overall well-being. They emphasizes the importance of breathwork as a tool for managing stress, anxiety, and emotional regulation, particularly for veterans facing mental health challenges. Miles shares various breathing techniques and their applications in athletic performance, highlighting the science behind breathwork and its accessibility as a natural alternative to pharmaceuticals. The discussion also covers the significance of understanding the autonomic nervous system and tracking progress through metrics like heart rate variability. They discusses the transformative power of breathwork, emphasizing its role in enhancing performance, mental clarity, and emotional well-being. Miles shares practical techniques for harnessing breath to prepare for high-stakes situations, the science behind breathwork, and its historical roots. Miles also highlights the importance of teaching breathing techniques to children and adolescents, advocating for a mindful approach to breathing that can be integrated into daily life for improved mental health and focus.

Takeaways

Breath is a constant companion that can help in dark moments.

Intentional breathing can shift energy from negativity to positivity.

Breathwork can be as effective as SSRIs for mental health.

Nasal breathing enhances oxygen absorption and performance.

Breathwork techniques can be tailored to specific situations.

Understanding the autonomic nervous system is crucial for breathwork.

Breath can help manage stress and emotional responses.

Breathwork is accessible and free, making it a valuable tool.

Tracking metrics like heart rate variability can enhance breathwork practice.

Breath can change the atmosphere and improve mental clarity. Breath is the only autonomic function you can consciously control.

Breathwork can reduce stress instantly and activate the parasympathetic system.

Deep, slow breaths boost energy and focus.

Breathwork is accessible anytime, anywhere.

Breathwork has been practiced for thousands of years across cultures.

Visualization enhances the effectiveness of breathwork.

Teaching breathing techniques to children can empower them.

Consistency in breathwork practice leads to significant benefits.

Intentional breathing can bring peace and clarity.

Breath is a bridge to emotional and spiritual health.

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Breath in Mental Health

03:03 Breath as a Tool for Performance

05:55 Breathwork Techniques and Their Benefits

09:13 The Science Behind Breathwork

11:52 Practical Applications of Breathwork

15:02 Breathwork in Athletic Performance

17:53 Understanding the Autonomic Nervous System

21:13 Tracking Progress with Breathwork

23:56 Breathwork Techniques for Different Situations

39:05 Harnessing Energy for Performance

44:03 Pregame Routines and Mental Preparation

49:11 The Science and History of Breathwork

57:35 Visualization and Concentration Techniques

01:01:54 Breathwork for Adolescents and Children

01:07:21 The Power of Breath in Daily Life

In this episode, Dr. John Cordle shares his journey from a military upbringing to becoming a human factors engineer, focusing on the critical role of sleep in military operations. He discusses his experiences at the Naval Academy, the challenges of fatigue in the Navy, and the importance of sleep hygiene. Dr. Cordle emphasizes the need for cultural change within the military regarding sleep awareness and the integration of human factors in engineering to enhance performance and safety. In this conversation, John Cordle discusses the intersection of design, human factors, and the importance of sleep in military operations. He shares personal experiences related to mental health, suicide prevention, and the need for urgent action in veteran care. Cordle emphasizes the significance of leadership, vulnerability, and a positive attitude in navigating challenges within the Navy.

Keywords

military, human factors engineering, sleep, naval academy, fatigue, performance, leadership, safety, engineering, health, design, human factors, sleep, mental health, suicide prevention, veteran care, leadership, Navy, performance, innovation

Takeaways

Dr. Cordle grew up in a military family and was influenced by his father's Navy career.

He attended the Naval Academy and graduated with a degree in ocean engineering.

Dr. Cordle's career included command of multiple Navy ships and a focus on nuclear power.

He transitioned to human factors engineering after recognizing the impact of fatigue on performance.

Sleep is often overlooked in military operations, yet it is crucial for safety and effectiveness.

Cultural change regarding sleep awareness in the military takes time and effort.

Human factors engineering involves designing systems that accommodate human capabilities and limitations.

Fatigue is a significant factor in military mishaps and needs to be addressed systematically.

Dr. Cordle advocates for better sleep hygiene practices among military personnel.

The integration of science and technology in military operations is essential for improving safety. Human factors and design must work together for optimal performance.

Sleep quality directly impacts decision-making and safety.

Mental health issues, including suicide, are critical concerns in the military.

Urgent action is needed to address veteran care and mental health resources.

Vulnerability in leadership fosters trust and open communication.

Innovative solutions often face bureaucratic obstacles in the military.

The connection between sleep deprivation and mental health is significant.

Research should not hinder immediate action in addressing veteran suicide.

Leadership requires acknowledging personal limitations and seeking help.

A positive attitude and resilience are essential in high-stakes environments.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. John Cordle

01:06 Early Life and Military Background

04:02 Naval Academy Experience and Career Path

05:59 Transition to Human Factors Engineering

09:06 The Importance of Sleep in the Military

11:59 Cultural Changes in Sleep Awareness

15:02 Human Factors in Military Operations

20:05 Challenges in Human Factors Engineering

26:37 Balancing Design and Human Factors

31:17 The Impact of Sleep on Performance

36:30 Addressing Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

40:52 The Need for Urgent Action on Veteran Care

51:19 Philosophical Operating System in Leadership

In this conversation, Luis Lopez shares his journey from Tijuana to becoming a successful documentary filmmaker. He discusses his early life, education, and the influences that shaped his career. Luis reflects on his experiences in film school, his time in New York, and the challenges of documentary storytelling. He highlights the evolution of documentaries in the streaming era and shares insights into his current projects and future aspirations. Throughout the conversation, Luis emphasizes the importance of relationships and pursuing one's passions in achieving success. They discusses the importance of connection and authenticity in storytelling, particularly in the realm of documentary filmmaking. He emphasizes the role of music in evoking emotions and the need for genuine conversations in today's world. The discussion also touches on the balance between success and failure, the complexities of human nature, and the interplay of luck and skill in achieving one's goals.

Takeaways

Luis's journey from Tijuana to the U.S. shaped his perspective.

Education played a crucial role in Luis's career path.

Film school provided a supportive community for Luis.

Luis's early experiences in New York influenced his comedic style.

The Dixie Chicks documentary was a pivotal project for Luis.

Documentary filmmaking requires sensitivity to difficult subjects.

The streaming era has changed the landscape for documentaries.

Luis values relationships in his professional journey.

Pursuing passions can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Luis believes storytelling is at the heart of filmmaking. We are social creatures who thrive on connection.

Music plays a crucial role in evoking emotions in storytelling.

Authenticity is key in documentary filmmaking.

Many popular movies may not live up to their hype.

Exploring subcultures can lead to meaningful insights.

Authentic conversations are essential for mental health.

Success often comes with a history of failures.

Vulnerability in leadership fosters trust and loyalty.

Finding joy in life is a conscious choice.

Understanding human nature involves reading nonverbal cues.

Luck and skill often intersect in achieving success.

The world is not simply good or evil; it's complex.

Cultural blending can lead to greater acceptance.

Shared experiences can create lasting family bonds.

The relationship between luck and skill is nuanced.

Keywords

Luis Lopez, documentary filmmaking, Tijuana, film school, storytelling, comedy, Dixie Chicks, streaming era, Coachella, filmmaking philosophy, connection, storytelling, music, authenticity, documentary, media, vulnerability, leadership, joy, human nature, luck, skill, culture, experiences, risk

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:37 Crossing Borders: A Journey from Tijuana to the U.S.

04:48 Education and Early Influences in Film

08:20 Navigating Film School and Early Career

09:50 The Impact of Sleepwalking on Creativity

11:09 Marriage and the American Dream

14:23 Life in New York and Comedy Influence

19:04 Transitioning to Documentary Filmmaking

25:12 The Rise of Documentaries in Modern Media

33:02 The Weight of True Crime Storytelling

35:14 Navigating Documentary Hierarchies

36:25 The Shift to Celebrity Documentaries

37:53 The Coachella Experience

40:25 Building Relationships in Filmmaking

43:26 The Importance of Attitude in Success

47:25 Connecting Through Music

50:39 Authenticity in Documentary Filmmaking

53:52 The Challenge of Overrated Films

56:51 The Joy of Learning from Experts

57:58 The Need for Authentic Conversations

01:03:28 Vulnerability as a Leadership Strength

01:05:23 Finding Joy in a Chaotic World

01:12:18 Understanding Human Nature and Character

01:18:14 The Complexity of Good and Evil

01:23:27 The Interplay of Luck and Skill

01:32:19 Managing Fear and Embracing Risks

In this episode of Zen and Callsigns, Dr. Megan Mercer shares her journey from a devout Christian upbringing in Southern California to navigating the complexities of neurodivergence, academia, and personal growth. She discusses her experiences with faith, the challenges of being a gifted individual, and the impact of her education on her worldview. Dr. Mercer also explores the intersection of writing, mental health, the role of psychedelics in healing compared to the Hoffman Institute. As she embarks on a new business venture aimed at providing resources for families aspiring College student, she emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and the power of words.

www.Dr-Meg.com

Instagram: @drmeg

Takeaways

Dr. Mercer grew up in a deeply religious environment, which shaped her early beliefs.

She identifies as neurodivergent and has faced challenges in academia due to this.

Her college experience was marked by a struggle between her faith and academic ambitions.

Dr. Mercer emphasizes the importance of writing as a therapeutic tool.

Leaving her church was a significant turning point in her life.

She pursued a PhD despite warnings about job prospects in academia.

Dr. Mercer believes in the healing potential of psychedelics for trauma.

She is passionate about helping gifted children and their families navigate education.

The importance of rest and joy in a workaholic culture is a key theme.

Dr. Mercer is launching a business to provide accessible resources for families.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Background

03:02 Faith and Early Experiences

05:42 Neurodivergence and Its Impact

08:40 Academic Journey and College Life

11:17 Transitioning to Graduate Studies

14:16 The Role of AI in Literature

17:05 Navigating Personal Changes and PhD Journey

24:49 Thriving in Crisis: The Dopamine Connection

27:39 The Journey of Pursuing a PhD

29:38 Exploring Neurodivergence and Giftedness

32:58 The Intersection of Literature and Spirituality

38:11 Philosophical Operating Systems: Balancing Beliefs

43:07 Transformative Experiences at the Hoffman Institute

47:33 Psychedelics and Healing: A Comparative Insight

52:45 Lessons from Failure: Moral Courage and Growth

53:48 Navigating Mental Loops and Compassion

55:56 Cultural Diversity and Acceptance in America

56:46 Establishing Healthy Routines and Self-Care

57:49 Recognizing Individual Beauty and Gifts

01:00:46 The Modern Woman's Journey and Balance

01:02:53 Building a New Business and Supporting Families

In this conversation, Aengus Boyle shares his journey as an artist and marketer, discussing the evolution of his creative process, the influences that inspire his work, and the challenges of pricing and valuing art. He reflects on the role of AI in the art world, the importance of relentless positivity, and the intersection of luck and skill in achieving success. Aengus also shares insights on balancing his day job with his passion for art, creating viral content on social media, and his aspirations for future projects.

Takeaways

Aengus's journey from a non-artistic background to becoming an artist.

The impact of social media on connecting with audiences.

The importance of creativity in both art and marketing.

AI's role in the future of art and creativity.

The significance of pricing and valuing one's artwork.

Balancing a day job with artistic pursuits can be fulfilling.

Creating engaging content on social media requires strategy and creativity.

Failure is a crucial part of the learning process in art and business.

Relentless positivity can be a powerful mindset for success.

Art can be both a personal expression and a commercial endeavor.

Chapters

00:00 The Creative Journey Begins

02:46 Artistic Evolution and Influences

05:14 The Impact of Social Media on Art

07:50 AI in Art: A New Frontier

10:26 Balancing Art and Marketing

12:56 Valuing Art: The Pricing Dilemma

15:31 The Day Job: Marketing at VaynerMedia

24:01 Crafting Viral Content: The Journey of Creation

26:42 The Art of Patience: Time Invested in Creation

32:42 Navigating the Art World: Pricing and Value

37:23 Embracing Failure: Lessons Learned in Art and Business

40:34 Relentless Positivity: The Superpower of Perspective

44:04 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Projects

In this episode of Zen and Callsigns, host Blake interviews artist Filippo Giusti, who shares his journey from a young man in Italy to a successful painter in Mexico. Filippo discusses the societal pressures he faced, his struggles with identity, and the pivotal moments that led him to embrace his passion for art. He reflects on the importance of vulnerability, the power of belief, and the significance of community in his artistic journey. The conversation delves into the balance between being prolific and maintaining quality in art, emphasizing the need for self-discovery and intuition in the creative process. In this engaging conversation, Filippo Giusti shares his journey as an artist, emphasizing the importance of finding one's path, embracing luck, and evolving one's artistic style. He discusses the significance of purpose beyond passion, the value of feedback, and the impact of AI on the art world. Filippo reflects on the legacy of art and the timeless connection it creates with future generations, all while highlighting the need for empathy and understanding in both art and life.

Takeaways

Filippo's early life was shaped by societal expectations and family pressures.

He transitioned from acting to painting as a means of self-expression.

Mental health struggles led him to seek a more fulfilling path in art.

Finding purpose in art is crucial for personal fulfillment.

Community and environment play a significant role in creativity.

Filippo's art style evolved from surrealism to essentialism.

He values the impact of his art on future generations.

Authenticity in art is more important than following trends.

AI in art can coexist with traditional methods, offering new opportunities.

Success in art often comes from persistence and staying true to oneself.

Keywords

Filippo Giusti, art, essentialism, mental health, creativity, community, AI in art, personal expression, artistic journey, San Miguel de Allende

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Filippo Giusti

01:05 Filippo's Early Life and Influences

02:42 The Struggle with Identity and Expectations

08:15 Panic Attacks and the Search for Self

12:23 Finding the Bottom of the Ocean

16:24 The Shift to Painting and New Beginnings

22:04 The Power of Belief and Community

28:14 The Journey of Becoming an Artist

33:00 Balancing Prolificity and Quality in Art

35:46 Finding Your Path and Embracing Luck

39:20 The Evolution of Artistic Style

45:38 Purpose Beyond Passion

50:52 Navigating Feedback and Value in Art

57:40 The Impact of AI on the Art World

01:06:37 Legacy and the Timelessness of Art

In this episode, Blake Bolden shares her inspiring journey as a trailblazer in ice hockey, discussing her experiences as the first woman of color to play professional women's ice hockey and her transition into broadcasting. She reflects on the challenges she faced in a male-dominated sport, the importance of representation, and the resilience required to overcome setbacks. Blake emphasizes the significance of empowerment, mentorship, and the role of fear in personal growth, while also addressing the impact of social media on public perception. Her story is a testament to perseverance and the pursuit of dreams in the face of adversity.

Takeaways

Blake Bolden is the first woman of color to play professional women's ice hockey.

She faced significant challenges in a male-dominated sport.

Her journey began at a young age, inspired by a love for hockey.

Blake's mother played a crucial role in her success and resilience.

She experienced setbacks in her pursuit of becoming an Olympian.

Transitioning to broadcasting allowed her to continue her passion for hockey.

Empowerment and representation are vital in sports and beyond.

Fear can be a powerful motivator for personal growth.

Social media can amplify both support and criticism for public figures.

Blake emphasizes the importance of mentorship and giving back to the community.

Keywords

Blake Bolden, ice hockey, women in sports, empowerment, broadcasting, resilience, professional athlete, representation, challenges, mental health

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Blake Bolden

00:57 Early Life and Introduction to Hockey

04:14 High School Hockey Journey

09:49 College Aspirations and Boston College Experience

16:01 Olympic Dreams and Challenges

19:38 Transition to Professional Hockey

20:58 Navigating Failure and Finding Purpose

23:26 Career Transition and New Opportunities

24:16 Giving Back and Mentorship

27:25 Empowerment of Women in Sports

35:33 Empowerment and Identity

38:57 Navigating Misogyny and Prejudice

42:20 The Art of Being a Woman

43:37 Embracing Fear and Performance

49:51 Breath Work and Mental Health

52:21 Atomic Habits for Well-Being

55:52 The Power of Perspective and Support

58:52 The Significance of Names and Identity

01:02:38 The Struggles of Black Women

01:05:11 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

In this episode of Zen and Call Signs, host Blake interviews Chris Quilty, a prominent figure in the space industry. Chris shares his journey from a desire to fly to becoming a financial analyst focused on the space sector. He discusses the evolution of the space industry, the impact of SpaceX on launch costs, and the challenges faced by NASA. The conversation also delves into emerging technologies in satellite communications, the future of the space economy, and the potential for direct-to-device communication. Chris concludes with predictions for the next decade in space and highlights the growing public interest in space exploration.

Keywords

space industry, Chris Quilty, SpaceX, satellite communications, NASA, space economy, direct-to-device, launch costs, space exploration, technology

Takeaways

Chris Quilty's journey into the space industry began with a desire to fly.

He shifted his focus to the space industry due to changes in the defense sector post-9/11.

SpaceX has dramatically lowered launch costs, changing the economics of space.

NASA has both positive and negative impacts on the space industry.

The cislunar economy is emerging as a new frontier for space activities.

Direct-to-device communication is revolutionizing satellite communications.

Starlink is competing directly with terrestrial internet services.

The Trump administration significantly impacted the space industry.

Public interest in space exploration is growing, as seen in merchandise sales.

The future of space will involve more commercial activities and public engagement.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Chris Quilty

00:42 Chris's Journey into the Space Industry

02:41 The Evolution of the Space Industry

04:28 The Impact of SpaceX on Launch Costs

11:14 NASA's Role and Challenges in Space Exploration

17:02 Political Influence on Space Policy

18:51 Emerging Technologies in Space Communications

27:53 Future Predictions for Space Exploration