Beyond the Human

Beyond the Human
  • 3.8 (8)
  • Social Sciences
  • Updated Monthly

From ghost stories to alien encounters to medical mysteries, every culture holds some belief in the paranormal. But why do so many of us believe in things that science can’t explain? On Beyond the Human, join two anthropologists as we explore the mysteries that unite us – strange experiences, supernatural beliefs, and the stories that stretch the limits of our understanding. Through global perspectives and personal insights, we dive into what these shared beliefs reveal about humanity – and what they might say about the unknown itself.

  1. SETI Updates Alien Contact Protocols as Disclosure Movement Ramps Up

    3d ago

    SETI Updates Alien Contact Protocols as Disclosure Movement Ramps Up

    This week on Headlines from the Beyond: While much of the UFO conversation has focused on declassified files, whistleblowers, and Hollywood's growing fascination with disclosure, scientists have been quietly updating the protocols that would govern humanity's response to the discovery of extraterrestrial intelligence. The International Academy of Astronautics' SETI Committee has released a revised Declaration of Principles that addresses social media, artificial intelligence, researcher safety, and the increasingly complex ways scientists search for evidence of non-human civilizations. The new guidelines also reaffirm that any response to a detected signal should only occur after international consultation and not at the discretion of individual researchers. We also examine the surprising removal of Msgr. Stephen Rossetti as principal exorcist for the Archdiocese of Washington after nearly two decades in the role. Rossetti, a priest, psychologist, author, and founder of the St. Michael Center for Spiritual Renewal, recently sparked controversy with public statements asserting that UFOs are demonic rather than extraterrestrial in origin. While Rossetti emphasized these views were his personal opinions rather than official Catholic teaching, the Church's decision has generated discussion about the intersection of religion, exorcism, and modern UFO beliefs. Finally, we check in on the current state of the disclosure movement following a new press conference held near the U.S. Capitol. Featuring lawmakers, journalists, filmmakers, and whistleblower David Grusch, the event renewed calls for greater government transparency regarding UAPs and alleged non-human intelligences. We discuss where the movement stands after years of investigations, congressional hearings, declassified documents, and competing narratives—and why the growing debate over figures like Luis Elizondo, AARO, and the future of disclosure may leave even longtime followers struggling to keep up. Three stories, one briefing on the strange, the storied, and the extraordinary. Stay connected with us between episodes—follow ⁠⁠⁠Beyond the Human on Instagram⁠⁠⁠ and subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠Field Notes from the Beyond⁠⁠⁠ on Substack. Show Notes Beyond Disclosure Day: The Real-World Protocols Position Paper on Declaration of Principles Concerning the Conduct of the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) – (2026 Update) St. Michael Center for Spiritual Renewal Rossetti’s video     ‘OF COURSE SOMETHING IS GOING ON’: Congress Dodges Questions on Missing Scientists at UFO Transparency Push

    19 min
  2. New Orang Pendek Evidence? Adam Thorn's Sumatra Expedition & Conjuring House Court Ruling

    Jun 5

    New Orang Pendek Evidence? Adam Thorn's Sumatra Expedition & Conjuring House Court Ruling

    This week on Headlines from the Beyond: Did cryptozoologist Adam Thorn capture evidence of the elusive orang pendek? During a recent expedition to Sumatra, Thorn collected environmental DNA samples, possible hair specimens, and deployed camera traps throughout the jungle. In footage recently shared on his YouTube channel, something appears to smear mud across one camera's lens before a cinnamon-colored limb briefly comes into view. Thorn stops short of calling it proof, but says he's unsure what known animal could have produced the footage. With long-term camera traps still operating in the region, the investigation is far from over. We also review the results of this year's annual Loch Ness Monster hunt in the Scottish Highlands. Armed with sonar systems, underwater drones, and even an autonomous submarine designed to map the loch's depths, researchers spent several days searching for evidence of Nessie. While no new discoveries were announced, the hunt comes during a year that has already produced six reported sightings, including a recent claim from an American tourist who says he captured footage of a large object breaking the surface of the water. Finally, we break down the latest development in the ongoing Conjuring House ownership dispute. A Rhode Island judge has issued a restraining order against YouTuber Elton Castee, ruling that paranormal investigator Jason Hawes has presented sufficient evidence supporting his claim to ownership of the infamous property. The judge also found that Castee had trespassed on the property multiple times since the disputed transfer of ownership, describing the entire case as "a huge mess." Three stories, one briefing on the strange, the storied, and the extraordinary. Stay connected with us between episodes—follow ⁠⁠Beyond the Human on Instagram⁠⁠ and subscribe to ⁠⁠Field Notes from the Beyond⁠⁠ on Substack. Show Notes Judge issues restraining order in battle over Conjuring House New drone could solve mystery of the Loch Ness monster Loch Ness Monster sightings for 2026 now stand at six after Nessie-spotting USA tourist on Highland tour bus spies ‘large, dark object’ breaking the surface of the loch in the Great Glen, near Inverness. Orang Pendek Expedition 2: Sumatra's Sasquatch Caught on Camera

    13 min
  3. Pennhurst Data Center Denied & Ohio’s Loveland Frogman Bill

    May 29

    Pennhurst Data Center Denied & Ohio’s Loveland Frogman Bill

    Welcome to our new listeners! We’ve had a lot of new followers since launching our TikTok and 250 Years of American High Strangeness series, so for those just joining us: Headlines from the Beyond is our (mostly) weekly series covering the paranormal, unexplained, and strange stories that caught our attention this week. This week on Headlines from the Beyond: After months of hearings and intense local opposition, East Vincent Township officials have denied Pennhurst Holdings LLC’s controversial proposal to build a massive data center complex on the grounds of the former Pennhurst State School and Hospital property. The expanded plan included nearly 1.9 million square feet of development, gas-powered generators, battery storage fields, and multiple data center buildings along the Schuylkill River. Residents, firefighters, farmers, and preservation advocates raised concerns about environmental impacts, noise pollution, fire risks, and the future of one of Pennsylvania’s most infamous historic sites. Developers have already announced plans to challenge the decision in court. We also explore Ohio’s proposed House Bill 821, a bipartisan effort to officially recognize the legendary Loveland Frogman as the state’s official cryptid. Sightings of the frog-like humanoid date back to the 1950s along the Little Miami River near Loveland, including reports from police officers and witnesses who claimed the creature walked upright—and in one case, carried a wand that emitted sparks. If passed, the bill could make Ohio the first state to formally recognize an official cryptid through legislation. Two stories, one briefing on the strange, the storied, and the extraordinary. Stay connected with us between episodes—follow ⁠Beyond the Human on Instagram⁠ and subscribe to ⁠Field Notes from the Beyond⁠ on Substack. Show Notes East Vincent rejects Pennhurst data center proposal; developer plans to take fight to court This mysterious creature could become Ohio's official cryptid

    14 min
  4. Exorcism Across Cultures: Demons, Possession, and Spiritual Healing

    May 19

    Exorcism Across Cultures: Demons, Possession, and Spiritual Healing

    What happens when cultures around the world interpret illness, suffering, and altered states of consciousness as spiritual possession? In this episode of Beyond the Human, we explore exorcism as a cross-cultural phenomenon, examining how different religious traditions understand spirits, possession, healing, and the supernatural. Rather than treating exorcism as simply horror movie material, this episode approaches it through anthropology, religious studies, and the study of lived spiritual experience. Drawing on ethnographic research and religious texts, we examine Catholic exorcism and the Roman Ritual, Muslim ruqya practices involving djinn possession, and Korean Buddhist rituals used to heal spirit-related illness and troublesome ghost encounters. Along the way, we discuss why possession experiences across cultures often share strikingly similar features: altered states of consciousness, unusual strength, personality changes, physical symptoms, and experiences interpreted as contact with non-human entities. From Catholic priests and Muslim raqis to Buddhist ritual specialists and spirit mediums, this episode asks a broader question: what do exorcism and possession reveal about the ways humans understand suffering, healing, evil, and the unseen world? Rather than offering definitive answers, this episode explores the intersection of religion, anthropology, medicine, and the paranormal—and why experiences of possession continue to challenge the boundaries between belief, psychology, and reality. Topics discussed in this episode: (2:14) - The Anthropology of Possession and Exorcism (17:52) - Ruqya, Muslim Exorcism (30:15) - The Roman Ritual (1:11:45) - Exorcism in Buddhist Korea (1:28:42) - Why Consider Exorcism and Possession Show Notes: Divine Horsemen A Balinese Trance Seance Oparin, D. (2020). Possession and exorcism in the Muslim migrant context. Ethnicities, 20(4), 731-751. Ayah Al-Kursi Living with the Invisibles (available to stream on Alexander Street Press) The Exorcism of Anneliese Michel, Felicitas Goodman Deliver Us (Kanopy, but available on other streaming services) Archbishop of Milwaukee Jeffrey Grob’s dissertation on Catholic exorcism: https://www.scribd.com/document/326664328/Grob-Thesis

    1h 33m
  5. Can Orang Pendek Finally Be Proven Real? | Headlines from the Beyond Ep. 16

    May 14

    Can Orang Pendek Finally Be Proven Real? | Headlines from the Beyond Ep. 16

    This week on Headlines from the Beyond: Will a new expedition to Sumatra finally uncover definitive evidence of the mysterious orang pendek? Cryptohominid researcher Adam Thorn has returned to the jungles of Sumatra with a much more ambitious investigation into the legendary “little person” of Indonesian folklore. Using long-term trail camera deployment, environmental DNA sampling, footprint analysis, and primate vocalization experiments, Thorn’s new expedition represents one of the most scientific attempts yet to investigate reports of this elusive cryptohominid. We also remember legendary Japanese horror author Koji Suzuki, the creator of Ringu and one of the pioneers of modern J-horror, whose work reshaped supernatural horror around the world. Finally, we break down the newest developments in the ongoing legal battle surrounding the sale of the infamous Conjuring House to paranormal investigator Jason Hawes, including the dismissal of the lawsuit that temporarily halted the sale. Three stories, one briefing on the strange, the storied, and the extraordinary. Stay connected with us between episodes—follow Beyond the Human on Instagram and subscribe to Field Notes from the Beyond on Substack. Show Notes: Orang Pendek: Methods for Finding Sumatra’s Sasquatch I Went in Search of the Orang Pendek, Sumatra's Sasquatch Orang Pendek Expedition: The DNA Results, My Theories, the Footprints and More Biothorn Primate Discovery Unit Koji Suzuki, Whose Horror Novels Inspired ‘Ring’ Movies, Dies at 68 Judge dismisses lawsuit blocking sale of ‘The Conjuring’ house

    10 min
  6. Near-Death Experiences Study, Pentagon UAP Office at Risk, and Missing Scientists Spark Conspiracy Theories

    Apr 17

    Near-Death Experiences Study, Pentagon UAP Office at Risk, and Missing Scientists Spark Conspiracy Theories

    This week on Headlines from the Beyond, we’re covering three major paranormal and unexplained stories shaping the conversation right now. A new publication from the International Association for Near-Death Studies proposes a bold scientific framework for studying near-death experiences (NDEs) and other end-of-life phenomena. Drawing on decades of clinical observations, one researcher estimates that millions of Americans report near-death experiences, shared death experiences, and deathbed visions each year. Could a national database and a willingness to study consciousness beyond the body transform how science understands life, death, and what may come after? Next, a new bill introduced by Tim Burchett aims to defund the Pentagon’s All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO), the office tasked with investigating unidentified aerial phenomena. If passed, the legislation would dismantle centralized UAP oversight and redistribute responsibilities across the Department of Defense. What would this mean for transparency, disclosure efforts, and the future of UFO research? Finally, internet investigators are drawing connections between a series of recent disappearances and deaths involving scientists, military personnel, and defense contractors—including the ongoing case of missing Air Force General William Neil McCasland. From NASA researchers to national security officials, the clustering of these cases has fueled speculation about whether these incidents are coincidental—or part of something larger. From the science of near-death experiences to government oversight of UFOs and emerging conspiracy theories, we’re tracking the stories shaping the strange, the uncertain, and the unexplained. Three stories, one briefing on the strange, the storied, and the extraordinary. Stay connected with us between episodes—follow Beyond the Human on Instagram and subscribe to Field Notes from the Beyond on Substack. Show Notes: O'Driscoll, Jeff. "A New Scientific Model for Studying Near-Death Phenomena." Journal of Near-Death Studies 42, no. 3 (2024). Dr. Jeff O’Driscoll Pentagon’s UFO Office to Be Eliminated Under New Bill All-domain Anomaly Research Office Dr. Jon T. Kosloski H.R.8197 - To terminate the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office of the Department of Defense, and for other purposes. Missing nuclear official becomes TENTH person tied to dark pattern surrounding US secrets Typewriter sound effect: “Typewriter snippet 01 mono [loop]” by cabled_mess, via Freesound (CC0).

    19 min
  7. Santa Muerte, Miracles, and the Paranormal: Interview with Dr. Andrew Chesnut

    Apr 10

    Santa Muerte, Miracles, and the Paranormal: Interview with Dr. Andrew Chesnut

    What happens when lived religious experience challenges how we define the paranormal? In this episode of Beyond the Human, we’re joined by Andrew Chesnut, one of the leading scholars on Santa Muerte, for an in-depth conversation on devotion, healing, and the realities behind one of the fastest-growing religious movements in the world. Building on our previous episode, we go beyond history and symbolism to explore lived experiences of devotion to Santa Muerte through the voices, practices, and reported miracles of her devotees. Drawing on his book Devoted to Death, Dr. Chesnut discusses how Santa Muerte devotion has evolved since he began his research in 2009, including its rapid growth in the United States, its spread beyond Hispanic communities, and its place within broader political and cultural conversations around immigration and identity. We also explore Santa Muerte's role in healing—examining how practitioners understand supernatural illness, protection, and healing in ways that often fall outside Western scientific frameworks. In one of the most compelling parts of the conversation, Dr. Chesnut reflects on the reports of miracles among Santa Muertistas, from physical healing to protection in life-threatening situations, and why it’s essential for scholars to take these experiences seriously, even when they challenge conventional explanations From anthropology and religious studies to the broader question of how we define the paranormal, this episode pushes the boundaries between belief, experience, and reality. Topics discussed in this episode: (0:35) - Welcoming Dr. Chesnut and the State of Santa Muerte Devotion (18:00) - Santa Muerte as Healer (24:39) - Gender and Santa Muerte (35:32) - Santa Muerte and the Paranormal (41:00) - Military and Law Enforcement Devotion (43:56) - Studying Anomalous Phenomena (47:21) - Dr. Chesnut's Upcoming Work Show Notes: Instagram - @drdeathanddivinity Threads -@drdeathanddivinity X - @AndrewChesnut1 Facebook - Andrew Chesnut Devoted to Death, 3rd Edition Campfire ambience: “Campfire at night soundscape (louder fire, quieter animals)” by SilverIllusionist, via Freesound (CC BY 4.0). Music: “Backwoods BBQ” by Chris Haugen, via the YouTube Audio Library.

    52 min
  8. Nick Pope Dies, JD Vance on UFOs, and Pilot Spots ‘Flying Disc’ Over Philadelphia

    Apr 9

    Nick Pope Dies, JD Vance on UFOs, and Pilot Spots ‘Flying Disc’ Over Philadelphia

    This week on Headlines from the Beyond, we’re covering three major stories shaping paranormal conversation right now. The UFO community is mourning the loss of Nick Pope, one of the most recognizable figures in modern UFO research. Known for his work on the UK Ministry of Defence’s “UFO desk” and later as a prominent media voice on shows like Ancient Aliens, Pope’s legacy spans decades of investigation, public engagement, and advocacy for serious study of unexplained aerial phenomena. Following his passing after a battle with cancer, we look back at his impact on UFO discourse—and why he was often called the “real-life Fox Mulder.” Next, Vice President JD Vance weighs in on extraterrestrials, offering a perspective that reframes UFO encounters not as alien—but potentially demonic. His comments add fuel to a growing divide between scientific and religious interpretations of the phenomenon. We break down his statements, responses from researchers like Avi Loeb, and what this debate reveals about how people interpret the unknown. Finally, a commercial airline pilot reports a possible UFO sighting while landing at Philadelphia International Airport. Describing a “flying disc” overhead, the report raises familiar questions: what was seen, how fast was it moving, and why couldn’t air traffic control confirm it? We examine what we know—and what remains unexplained. From the legacy of one of UFO research’s most influential figures to new political theories and fresh eyewitness accounts, we’re tracking the stories shaping the conversation around extraterrestrials and the unexplained. Three stories, one briefing on the strange, the storied, and the extraordinary. Stay connected with us between episodes—follow Beyond the Human on Instagram and subscribe to Field Notes from the Beyond on Substack. Show Notes: JD Vance says aliens are ‘demons’ and details obsession with UFOs The Benny Show - JD Vance | Saving Western Civilization by Fighting Demons, Will We Survive? Avi Loeb Comments on Vice President JD Vance’s Remarks that UFOs Might be Demons Avi Loeb Reacts to JD Vance Believing Aliens Are Actually 'Demons' | Jesse Weber Live Commercial Pilot Landing in Philadelphia Reports Flying Saucer to Air Traffic Control Typewriter sound effect: “Typewriter snippet 01 mono [loop]” by cabled_mess, via Freesound (CC0).

    13 min
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3.8
out of 5
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About

From ghost stories to alien encounters to medical mysteries, every culture holds some belief in the paranormal. But why do so many of us believe in things that science can’t explain? On Beyond the Human, join two anthropologists as we explore the mysteries that unite us – strange experiences, supernatural beliefs, and the stories that stretch the limits of our understanding. Through global perspectives and personal insights, we dive into what these shared beliefs reveal about humanity – and what they might say about the unknown itself.

Information

  • Creator
    Beyond the Human
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Beyond the Human
  • Show Website
    Beyond the Human

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