Kia Ora, Ni Hao and Hello, welcome to the Chiwi Journal Podcast. I’m your host, Camellia Yang. Today’s guest is Dawn Musil, a Network School active member, consultant in natural capital, writer on biotech and community, and someone with an extraordinary personal journey—from growing up in a cult, to Oxford, to McKinsey, to building businesses inside an experimental intentional community. This conversation moves through identity, community, resilience, curiosity, and the courage to rewrite your own story. If you’re interested in alternative education, Network States communities, or simply how people rebuild their lives with openness and grit, this episode is for you. * Leaving a high-control cult at seventeen and rebuilding life with no map, no support system, and no blueprint * What Network School feels like from the inside * Micro-businesses emerging in community: bikes, scooters, smoothies, and more * Natural capital and what “working with nature” actually looks like * Behind the scenes of McKinsey’s AI tool launch * Oxford’s enduring traditions and why they still matter * Beekeeping, insects, and the search for Malaysia’s legendary honey harvesters * Long-distance bike riding and the generosity of strangers * The rising importance of community in modern life * The note she’d leave for her younger self Links/Resources Mentioned: * Network School * Connect with Dawn Musil on LinkedIn and IG * Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover * A Glimpse of Tomorrow: Life Inside Network School * Network State Conference 2025: James of Ârc * The Skoll Scholarship * Ellison Institute of Technology Oxford * The Most Dangerous Job in the World Harvesting Honey from Giant Killer Bees * The cult of McKinsey: Belief, Belonging, and the Architecture of Community * Venture for America

Last month at the Hamburg Literature Festival, I heard Dan Brown discuss his latest novel, a thriller that explores what happens to consciousness when the body dies. But this isn't just fiction. The book weaves together real neuroscience research, declassified CIA experiments, and a theory that challenges everything we think we know about the mind. What if your brain doesn't create consciousness but just receives it? What if the reality you perceive is heavily filtered, and death simply removes that filter? And what happens when intelligence agencies try to weaponise these ideas? In this episode, I break down the science behind nonlocal consciousness theory, the GABA filter mechanism, near-death experiences, sudden savant syndrome, and the CIA's decades-long experiments with remote viewing. Whether these ideas resonate as cutting-edge science or elaborate pseudoscience, they raise questions we all face: What are we? And what happens when we die? Key concepts: Nonlocal Consciousness Theory — Consciousness as a fundamental universal element, not generated by the brain GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) — The neurotransmitter that filters reality and prevents sensory overload Cocktail Party Effect — How we hear everything but only consciously process what matters Habituation — The brain's energy-saving mechanism that ignores constant stimuli Near-Death Experiences (NDEs) — What happens when GABA levels drop to zero before death Out-of-Body Experiences (OBEs) — Consciousness detaching from physical constraints Postictal Bliss — The expanded consciousness state after epileptic seizures Retrocausality — The theory that effects can precede causes; time as non-linear Sudden Savant Syndrome — Acquiring extraordinary skills after head injuries CIA Stargate Project — The real Cold War program studying remote viewing (1970s-1990s) Threshold Project — The fictional CIA program weaponising consciousness through brain-machine interfaces H2M Interface — Human-to-Machine brain interfaces based on nanoelectric biofilaments Remote Viewing — Using consciousness to perceive distant locations Psychonauts — Test subjects whose consciousness operates at the edge of death Books Referenced: * The Secret of Secrets by Dan Brown * The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown * The Doors of Perception by Aldous Huxley * The Wreck of the Titan by Morgan Robertson (1898) * Ecclesiastes (Biblical text) * 📝 Read the full article: https://chiwijournal.substack.com/p/dan-brown-the-secret-of-secrets Questions to ponder * What if consciousness was never contained in your body to begin with? * If death is just a filter being removed, what reality would you see? * Can science eliminate our fear of death? And if so, how would that change humanity? * Are psychedelic experiences hallucinations, or glimpses of "more reality"? * Should consciousness be studied, or is weaponising it crossing an ethical line? If this episode made you think differently about consciousness and death, please share it with someone who's ever wondered what happens when we die.

Today on the podcast, I’m talking with my friend David Ridley-Parris, a coach who helps people navigate life’s biggest transitions and design careers that truly align with their identity. After years on Wall Street and in Silicon Valley, David left the corporate grind for a slower-paced life in Portugal and a new calling in grief coaching. In this episode, he shares how personal loss shaped his path, why grief coaching is about envisioning the future, and how AI, group coaching, and community are transforming his practice. 🔑 Key Points * Why David left Wall Street and Silicon Valley to start anew in Portugal. * David’s coaching philosophy: strategic questioning for self-discovery. * Grief coaching as a forward-looking practice — beyond therapy’s clinical lens. * The concepts of liminal space, primary loss, and secondary loss. * Insights from working with global clients and the LGBTQ+ community. * Group coaching: peer accountability, confidentiality, and shared growth. * How AI tools enhance coaching through summaries and action tracking. * Professional growth opportunities and the forthcoming Grief Coaching Network. Connect with David on LinkedIn Navigate Your Path Forward: David’s website

In this episode of Chiwi Journal, two AI hosts take you on a deeply personal journey across continents, from Shandong to Auckland, London to Lisbon, as they share Camellia’s story of moving 20,000 miles and confronting an invisible tiger she’d been running from her entire life: her own ambition. Together, they explore the weight of cultural expectations, the silent pressure of “neijuan”, and the bittersweet lessons Portugal taught about slowing down, letting go, and simply being human. This is a story about identity, burnout, and the quiet permission to exist without constant achievement, and maybe, it’s about finding your own way to stop running too. NOTE: This episode was created using Notebook LM to transform Camellia’s original article into a podcast-style narration. If you enjoyed it, consider subscribing for more reflections on life, culture, and creativity.

You once asked me: Are you still searching for home? In this episode, I try to answer you. It’s not a guidebook to Lisbon. It’s a voice memo from a night tram. A letter from a café table. A footnote scrawled under a fado song. If you’ve ever felt like an outsider, or longed for a place that doesn’t quite exist — maybe, like me, you’ll find something in this city that gently holds your questions, without rushing to answer them.

In this episode, we welcome Alyssa Phelps, an artist and former professional in international trade research and taxation. Currently based at the Network School, Alyssa shares her passion for women's health, sustainable fashion, and creative arts, including her journey into tufted art and silversmithing. Topics Covered: 1. Women's Health and Period Products: - Alyssa's personal journey into investigating the safety of period products. - Key findings on harmful substances in period products, including PFAS, dioxins, and heavy metals. - Discussion on the lack of mandatory safety tests in the industry. - Suggestions for safer product choices and the importance of consumer education. 2. The Environmental Impact of Fast Fashion: - How fast fashion contributes to environmental harm through overproduction and poor-quality materials. - Alyssa's thoughts on the addictive nature of platforms like Shein and their negative impact on personal and environmental health. 3. The Value of Secondhand Clothing: - Benefits of thrifting: uniqueness, quality, and environmental sustainability. - Overcoming stereotypes around hygiene and secondhand shopping. - Tips for finding secondhand treasures and repurposing vintage items creatively. 4. Creative Pursuits and Sustainability in Art: - Alyssa's process for creating a tufted snake vase, inspired by Vietnamese artist Shishi San. - The role of art in sustainability and self-expression. 5. Fashion Evolution and Personal Style: - How to develop personal style using tools like Pinterest and mood boards. - The importance of quality over quantity in curating a wardrobe. 6. The Broader Impact of Sustainability: - Insights into the need for a systemic change in both fashion and women's health industries. - The role of informed consumers and creative thinkers in shaping a more sustainable future. Resources Mentioned: * Network School * Dr. Shanna Swan * 1638 - Dr. Shanna Swan - The Joe Rogan Experience * Global Organic Textile Standard: Home - GOTS * Follow Alyssa on IG * Dr. Stacy Sims: Female-Specific Exercise & Nutrition for Health, Performance & Longevity * MAMAVATION | Non-Toxic Products For Healthy Families * Natural Pads for Periods - Natracare * GoodwillFinds: Online Thrift Store * How Dangerous Are Lululemon Leggings? * Toxic fabrics in Shein’s clothes: what are the materials to avoid? * Shishi San’s Vibrant Tufted Sculptures Celebrate the Colorful Motifs of Chinese Vases Alyssa will soon be sharing content on sustainable style, thrifting tips, and identifying quality garments. Stay tuned for her website link, which will be added to this page as it becomes available.

In this conversation, Björn Öeste discusses the Darksun.is project, an AI agent designed to explore esoteric knowledge and connect disparate ideas. The project includes a meme coin and aims to enrich the marketplace of ideas by uncovering suppressed knowledge. Björn Öeste shared the significance of the #binary meme, the role of the AI agent Holmes, and the importance of community engagement through gamification content. He also touches on decentralized archaeology and the collaborative nature of the project, highlighting the team's dynamics and future plans. SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: * darksun.is * Follow Björn Ö * Follow Mitch * The Network School events * Why I created darksun * Nemesis Star Theory: The Sun's 'Death Star' Companion * Robert Sutton Harrington * Michael Saylor * Nemesis Star Theory w/Neil deGrasse Tyson * The Three-Body Problem * The Network School

INTRO My guests today are Mili and Neter, my classmates from the Network School. In this episode, we reflect on our experiences so far, dive into some exciting ideas from our lectures and discussions, and share our personal journeys in crypto and beyond. Whether you're curious about the Network School or the future of decentralised living, this episode has something for you. WE DISCUSSED: * Two months in: Our lives at the Network School and daily routines * Highlights from student-led events and how AI can help you understand yourself better * Guest speaker insights and Balaji's thought-provoking lectures * Pop-up cities and the concept of network state nodes * How we entered the world of crypto and Bitcoin hitting $100K * Our plans for life after finishing the Network School SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: * The Network School * The Network State * The Network School events * My First Million Podcast with Ryan Peterson * Vitalik Buterin's website * Inside Network School X Thread * Zuzalu City

Intro My guests today are Berkeley Wanner and Sterlin Lujan. In this episode, we discussed their journeys into cryptocurrency, the influence of Balaji's ideas, and their experiences within the Network School. Timeline 00:00 Introduction to Network School and Guests 02:50 Philosophical Foundations of Cryptocurrency 06:39 Experiences with Balaji's Ideas 10:07 Application Process for Network School 13:49 Daily Life and Structure at Network School 34:47 Expectations and Future of Network School 39:57 Advice for Future Network Schoolers SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: * The Network School * Follow Berkeley Wanner * Follow Sterlin Lujan * A Newsletter That Pays You * Timothy C. May: Libertaria in Cyberspace * Blueprint Bryan Johnson * Lu.ma * Toastmasters * Counter Governance Substack * The Network State * Praxis Gets $525 Million in Commitments for Planned ‘Heroic’ City * Zuzalu City * H.L. Mencken * Burning Man

My guest today is Jack Connor, a linguist, programmer, and author who speaks more than seven languages and has built various AI language technologies. In 2023, Jack launched a project to preserve endangered languages, believing that losing a language means losing an entire culture. Outside of his work, Jack is also a semi-professional skateboarder and has lived in ten countries. TIMELINE 00:57 Introduction to Language Preservation and LLMs 03:23 The Importance of Navajo Language and Its History 05:58 The Arctic World Archive and Language Storage 08:28 Cultural Significance of Language Preservation 11:15 AI's Role in Language Preservation and Revitalization 13:43 Challenges in Preserving Living Languages 16:32 Traditional vs. Modern Methods of Language Preservation 21:16 Preserving Languages Through Technology 22:22 Working with Native Speakers for Accuracy 23:46 The Importance of Quality Assurance in AI 25:14 The Risks of Machine-Generated Content 25:49 Language Diversity and Dialects 27:42 The Complexity of Language Classification 29:28 Cultural Exchange and Language Learning 30:53 Skateboarding and Language Preservation 33:50 Self-Motivation in Learning Languages 36:01 Experiencing Culture Through Language 37:57 Global Trends in Language Extinction 41:13 Cultural Connections Through Language 42:42 Preserving Endangered Languages 48:52 The Role of Fellowships in Language Projects 53:45 Language Learning and Cultural Immersion 56:01 Linguistic Determinism in Sci-Fi 58:57 Future of Language Preservation and AI's Expanding Role SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: * Follow Jack Connor on Twitter * Navajo language * [Navajo Code Talkers](https://www.britannica.com/story/navajo-code-talkers-infographic#:~:text=That language had no alphabet,code based on word substitution.) * Code Talker, book by Chester Nez * The Future of Data Preservation - AWA * Sami language * Naba language * Basque language * Mutual intelligibility * Cahuilla language * Documenting Endangered Languages: 𝕏 Interview * O'Shaughnessy Fellowships * Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut * Stories of Your Life and Others by Ted Chiang

My guest today is MJDorian, the host of one of my favourite shows Creative Codex. He is also an artist and composer. In today’s episode, we talked about… 1. Behind the Scenes: An inside look at the making of the podcast show, Creative Codex. 2. Carl Jung’s Influence: How Carl Jung’s work has shaped MJDorian's creative process and influenced the reading of The Red Book. 3. Modern Impact: What makes Carl Jung's work particularly compelling for today's artists and creatives? 4. William Blake Encounter: The mysterious and unexplainable experience with William Blake’s iconic painting, The Ancient of Days. 5. Nikola Tesla’s Paradox: Discussing the paradox of Tesla's genius and how his innovative approach can inspire modern artists. 6. Kurt Cobain’s Symbolism: Interpreting the rich symbolism and personal references found in Kurt Cobain's lyrics. 7. Children’s Drawings: Observations on children's drawings and the exploration of the darker aspects of human nature. 8. Creative Decay: Strategies for artists to cope with creative decay, loss of inspiration, and overcoming writer’s block. 9. Dreams and Creativity: How recording dreams and taking naps can boost creativity and enhance artistic expression. Resources Highlighted in This Episode * MJDorian’s website * The Third Eye Drops Podcast * The Red Book (Jung) * MJDorian Patreon * My Spiritual Odyssey * The Ancient of Days * Nikola Tesla & The Paradox of Genius * Alexander McQueen • Woven in Shadows * Jimi Hendrix Electrifies The Star Spangled Banner * Cobain: Montage of Heck (2015) * The Magic Secrets of Salvador Dali * Caravaggio: 100 Famous Paintings Analysis and Biography * Chiaroscuro * Leonor Fini • The Dark Masquerade

In May this year, in Manchester, I witnessed an aurora reminiscent of angels descending to earth. Later, I came across trending news on X about a blue meteor appearing in Portugal. Coupled with constantly seeing fractal geometries in purple, gold, and green during breathwork sessions, and Buddhist mandala patterns, I've been in a dreamlike state, prompting me to ask myself deeply: What exactly is our universe up to? During a recent breathwork session, I suddenly saw my Huachuma (San Pedro) guide playing the flute in the valley, calling me back into the embrace of one of Peru's most sacred plants. So, I immediately booked a train ticket and headed to The Lighthouse Retreat to seek guidance and find clarity. The past four days in the remote mountains of Portugal felt like I've lived millions of years, experiencing the joys and sorrows of everything... I wanted to record my thoughts and feelings, but I realised the limitations of written words. So, I'll leave these scattered notes here, in the hope that if you happen to stumble upon this piece, you can personally experience this natural gift and interpret the messages that Huachuma communicates through your own bodily sensations. Books/links mentioned in this episode: * The Lighthouse Retreat * Transcendental Meditation * Exploring Psychedelic Journeys * Life is nothing but a grand role-playing game * Jade Dragon Snow Mountain * Sisyphus * The Doors * The Doors of Perception * The written article of this piece can be found on Chiwi Journal Substack

Based on the advice of an online mentor who suggests exploring influential books called 'earthquake books'—those that can significantly shake and impact our perspectives—one such powerful book is the profound works of Carl Jung. As I explore Jung's works, certain sections of his books have left a lasting mark on how I perceive things, resonating deeply with my journey. So I recorded this episode to share my learnings. Books/articles mentioned in this episode: * Memories, Dreams, Reflections: An Autobiography * The Archetypes and the Collective Unconscious * The Red Book * CATAFALQUE: Carl Jung and the End of Humanity * Tom Morgan's newsletter * In Basel * Rudolf Steiner * Goetheanum * Retrospect on My Two Years at Leipzig. 1868. * I Ching (易经） * Mandala * Higanbana “Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.” - Carl Jung

My guest today is Liv Wang, a renowned Premier League journalist with a massive following of millions. I've been a follower of Liv's work for quite some time now, admiring her unique content creation and interviewing style with Premier League footballers. Recently, I had the opportunity to meet Liv in person during my visit to Manchester. Needless to say, it was an enlightening experience. So get ready for an insightful conversation about her journey, experiences, and perspectives in the world of football journalism. In today’s episode, we talked about… 1. Passion for Football: Liv shares what drew her to football and the inspirations behind her decision to pursue a career in football journalism. 2. A Day in the Life: Discover what a typical day looks like for Liv as she covers Premier League press conferences and conducts player interviews 3. Cultural Insights: Liv reveals interesting cultural nuances, such as Ruben Dias and Bernardo Silva's Chinese nickname, Jorginho's foray into writing Chinese characters and Anthony Elanga learning Chinese 4. Player Interviews: Liv discusses her experiences interviewing prominent players like Mo Salah, Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland 5. Managing Online Presence: Learn how Liv navigates negative online comments and maintains a positive online presence, especially with a large follower base. 6. Social Initiatives: Liv shares her initiative during the Women's Football World Cup to distribute sanitary pads 7. Women's Football Development: Liv explores the development of women's football and addresses stereotypes surrounding female football fans 8. Behind the Scenes: Discover fun facts about Liv's job as a football journalist, along with the unique challenges she faces. 9. Premier League's Development in China: Delve into the Premier League's remarkable rise in the Chinese market and her perspective on the current state of Chinese football Links mentioned in this episode * Premier League * Follow Liv Wang on Instagram * Ruben Dias’ nickname * “What a scarf” with Jude Bellingham * Essential Items Campaign

Today, we have the pleasure of welcoming three individuals to our conversation. Joining us are Luis Eduardo Arruda, not only a head Coach but also a co-owner of @thebakerycrossfit. Alongside him is Melissa Haun, a formidable athlete representing the Bakery Athletics team. And last but not least, we have Diogo Costa, who wears dual hats as both a data analyst at Revolut and an athlete within the Bakery Athletics team. This podcast is being recorded live at Bakery Cafe. If you happen to be nearby, why not stop in for a cup of coffee or even join us for a training session at the Bakery CrossFit? We’d be super happy to have you here! So, get comfortable and let's delve into today's conversation. 1. Let's kick things off with a brief introduction to Edu, Melissa, and Diogo, and their deep involvement with Bakery CrossFit. 2. Ever wondered what CrossFit is all about? We'll delve into its significance, particularly exploring why the CrossFit Open holds such weight within the community. 3. Follow along as we trace Edu's coaching journey, culminating in his role as co-owner of the Bakery CrossFit Box. 4. The Bakery Athletes program 5. Discover how Diogo balances his role as a data analyst at Revolut with his dedication as a Bakery CrossFit athlete, leveraging his analytical skills to enhance his training. 6. Melissa shares her transatlantic journey from the USA to Europe, alongside a heartwarming love story with Edu.💗 We'll also explore her daily routine, balancing training with work commitments. 7. What makes Bakery CrossFit so special, delving into the creation of a supportive and inclusive community for all its members. 8. Conquering fear and cultivating mental resilience are key themes. Join us as we explore everyone's unique perspectives on competitions. 9. Discover how Edu collaborates with fellow coaches and staff to ensure members receive an excellent fitness experience. 10. Get to know the remarkable staff members and coaches at Bakery CrossFit, including another enchanting love story that blossomed within the box.💗 11. Being a vegan in the fitness world presents its challenges. We'll share valuable tips on maintaining nutritional balance to support optimal training. 12. Finally, we'll discuss the future vision for Bakery CrossFit and hear Mel and Diogo's aspirations, both as athletes and in their personal journeys ahead. 13. Bonus: Obi’s story 🐶❤️ Links mentioned in this episode * Join The Bakery CrossFit * Follow Edu, Mel, Diogo and coach Sara, Hugo, Slavik and Gui * CrossFit official website * CrossFit Open * Learn more about The Bakery Athletics * Visiting Bakery Cafe