The Superhumanize Podcast

superhumanize.com
The Superhumanize Podcast

Superhumanize and learn how to transform and transcend your human experience, and achieve the highest potential of mind, body and spirit. Our host Ariane Sommer brings you deeply insightful interviews with the global thought leaders in health, personal development, business, biohacking, science and spirituality - to inspire YOU to live your best life ever. Ariane is a published author, vegan biohacker and wellness entrepreneur, journalist and keynote speaker. Born in Germany and growing up in diverse places including Sierra Leone, India, Spain, the UK and the United States, Ariane has a unique global perspective on our individual struggles, as well as the challenges we face as the collective human family. The Superhumanize Podcast was born out of Ariane’s passionate quest to create the ultimate human experience, merging the best of ancient wisdom with cutting edge scientific discoveries and advanced technologies.

  1. Breaking Free From False Narratives and Transforming Past Trauma into Present Freedom with Bryan Hubbard

    NOV 22

    Breaking Free From False Narratives and Transforming Past Trauma into Present Freedom with Bryan Hubbard

    What if the version of yourself you think is you is actually just a story—a false narrative woven from your past traumas, fears, and societal pressures? And what if freeing yourself from this story could unlock a life of true authenticity, joy, and freedom? Today, I am thrilled to bring you Bryan Hubbard, a visionary thinker and the creator of Time-Light Therapy. Bryan is also the author of two groundbreaking books: The Untrue Story of You and Time-Light: How to Let Go of Your Past, Be Your True Self, and Become Who You Were Always Meant to Be. Bryan's deeply personal journey began with his battle against chronic depression, a struggle that led him to a profound realization: depression wasn't something external—it was intricately tied to his very being. This revelation inspired him to create Time-Light Therapy, a revolutionary model that challenges how we view time, self, and healing. In this episode, we dive into the core concepts of being "time-heavy" versus "time-light," exploring how we carry the weight of our past into the present and how to liberate ourselves from it. We’ll also talk about practical tools for rewriting the false narratives that keep us stuck, discuss how childhood traumas shape our adult selves, and explore the interplay between the past, present, and future. Bryan offers a unique blend of philosophical depth and actionable insight guiding us toward inner freedom and fulfillment. Episode highlights: 00:55 Brian Hubbard's Personal Journey with Depression 01:17 The Concept of Time Light Therapy 03:14 Brian's Early Life and Psychological Abuse 04:20 The Role of Key Figures in Brian's Life 05:54 The Turning Point: Realizations and Inspirations 09:39 Understanding Time and Trauma 14:17 The Psychological Past and Its Impact 17:52 The Potential Center and True Self 28:30 Techniques for Rewriting Your Story 32:12 The Power of Forgiveness 34:20 Understanding Parental Perspectives 36:41 Exercises for Empathy and Understanding 39:42 Mindfulness and Non-Narration 46:54 The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences 50:26 Healing from Trauma 54:51 War, Conflict, and Memory 58:35 Conclusion and Resources Resources mentioned: Time Light Books by Bryan Hubbard Guest's social handles: Facebook Instagram P.S. If you enjoy this episode and feel it helps to elevate your life, please give us a rating or review. And if you feel others may benefit from this podcast as well, spread the word, share and help grow our tribe of Superhumans. When we help heal One, we help heal All. Much gratitude and love. Yours, Ariane

    1h 2m
  2. Beyond Darwinian Demons: Understanding the Role of Technology in Global Empathy with Kristian Rönn

    NOV 19

    Beyond Darwinian Demons: Understanding the Role of Technology in Global Empathy with Kristian Rönn

    Have you ever wondered if our very instincts—those survival mechanisms that got us here—might actually be our biggest threat? Today, we’re diving into this fascinating paradox with Kristian Rönn, a brilliant mind who’s not only the CEO and co-founder of Normative, the world's first carbon accounting engine, but also a thought leader whose work spans climate policy, philosophy, and artificial intelligence. Before founding Normative, Kristian worked at the University of Oxford's Future of Humanity Institute, researching global catastrophic risks. His new book, The Darwinian Trap, examines how our evolutionary wiring, these so-called ‘Darwinian demons,’ drive behaviors that could undermine humanity’s future. In this episode, we’re exploring everything from the hidden forces shaping our decisions to the existential risks of technology and our fundamental need for global cooperation. Kristian brings a fresh and urgent perspective to the conversation on climate change and societal challenges, and he’s got some revolutionary ideas on what it will take to truly evolve beyond our short-term impulses. By the end of this episode, you’ll not only understand these deeply ingrained patterns but hopefully feel inspired to start recognizing them in your own life—and maybe even consider how we, collectively, can work toward a more sustainable future. Episode highlights: 00:25 Meet Kristian Rönn: CEO and Thought Leader 02:40 Understanding the Darwinian Trap 03:44 Examples of the Darwinian Trap in Action 07:38 Can We Override Our Evolutionary Instincts? 08:42 Hope from Nature's Solutions 13:14 Global Cooperation and Governance 18:09 Reforming Global Policies and Incentives 38:49 The Role of Technology in Global Empathy 42:41 Ethical Guidelines for Technological Innovation 49:12 Normative's Role in Carbon Emissions Accounting 52:18 Conclusion and Contact Information Resources mentioned: Normative.IO The Darwinian Trap by Kristian Ronn Guest's social handles: LinkedIn Instagram P.S. If you enjoy this episode and feel it helps to elevate your life, please give us a rating or review. And if you feel others may benefit from this podcast as well, spread the word, share and help grow our tribe of Superhumans. When we help heal One, we help heal All. Much gratitude and love. Yours, Ariane

    53 min
  3. From Grain Brain to Gut-Brain: Dr. David Perlmutter's Groundbreaking Research on Processed Foods, Neurodegeneration and More.

    NOV 2

    From Grain Brain to Gut-Brain: Dr. David Perlmutter's Groundbreaking Research on Processed Foods, Neurodegeneration and More.

    Imagine a world where the foods we eat daily are quietly eroding our brain's capabilities, silently accelerating the aging process of our most vital organ. Recent groundbreaking studies have unveiled the shocking impact of ultra-processed foods on our brain health, revealing significant reductions in gray matter volume and white matter integrity. This isn't science fiction—this is our reality. As bad as this sounds and is, the good news is, we can turn this around and actively not only stop the damage to our brain, but heal it and optimize it. Our guest today is a globally recognized expert whose work has revolutionized our understanding of brain health and the critical role of diet in neurological function. We are honored to speak with Dr. David Perlmutter, a board-certified neurologist and Fellow of the American College of Nutrition. He is the author of several New York Times bestselling books, including "Grain Brain," which has sold over a million copies worldwide, and his latest, "Drop Acid," which explores the surprising role of uric acid in metabolic diseases. Dr. Perlmutter's extensive research and groundbreaking findings have been published in esteemed journals such as the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, Archives of Neurology, and Neurosurgery. Dr. Perlmutter's research has been a beacon of hope, offering practical, science-backed strategies for enhancing brain health and preventing neurodegenerative diseases. Today, we will delve into how ultra-processed foods contribute to cognitive decline and brain structure changes, explore the gut-brain axis's profound impact on neurological health, and discuss innovative preventative strategies for conditions like Alzheimer’s. In a world where chronic diseases and cognitive decline are on the rise, Dr. Perlmutter's insights offer a beacon of hope and practical guidance. Whether you're concerned about your brain health, seeking to enhance cognitive resilience, or looking for the latest scientific breakthroughs in neurology, this conversation is packed with invaluable information. In my conversation with Dr. Perlmutter, you'll discover: -How our hectic lifestyles are deleteriously affecting the "happy" side of our brain...02:50 -If we were all sleeping well, moving adequately and eating nutritious whole foods, we would not see a lot of this strife and against each other...08:12 -Case study in processed foods having an immediate effect on the health of the brain...12:40 -Current trends in the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimers and Parkinson's diseases...18:01 -What else besides diet is affecting inflammation levels in our bodies?...22:00 -Introducing the iboga plant and its use in current treatments of neurological issues...29:58 -Dr. Perlmutter's thoughts on ketamine and MDMA in treating PTSD...34:30 -How does the semen microbiome influence sperm quality and fertility...40:43 -Why you should think twice about delivering via C-section!...46:23 -And much more... Resources mentioned: Dr. Perlmutter's website Books authored by Dr. Perlmutter SOCIAL MEDIA Instagram Facebook YouTube P.S. If you enjoy this episode and feel it helps to elevate your life, please give us a rating or review. And if you feel others may benefit from this podcast as well, spread the word, share and help grow our tribe of Superhumans. When we help heal One, we help heal All. Much gratitude and...

    52 min
  4. Toxic Fashion Exposed: Detox Your Wardrobe and Protect Your Health with Alden Wicker

    NOV 2

    Toxic Fashion Exposed: Detox Your Wardrobe and Protect Your Health with Alden Wicker

    What if the clothes on your back—the very fabrics that define your identity, keep you warm, or make you feel empowered—were actually working against your health? What if, beneath the aesthetics of sustainable fashion, there was a darker truth about toxic chemicals in everything from fast fashion to luxury garments? And how would knowing this change the way you choose, wear, and interact with your wardrobe moving forward?" The conversation of today’s episode is equal parts eye-opening and actionable—one that might make you look at your closet differently by the time we’re done. I’m speaking with Alden Wicker, a leading investigative journalist and author of the powerful new book To Dye For: How Toxic Fashion Is Making Us Sick – and How We Can Fight Back. If you’ve ever wondered about the invisible chemicals lurking in your clothes or the impact the fashion industry is having on both the environment and your health, this conversation is going to be absolutely essential. Alden’s work delves deep into the hidden costs of fashion, exploring everything from autoimmune disorders linked to synthetic dyes to how greenwashing is deceiving well-meaning consumers. She’s appeared on platforms like NPR, Wired, and BBC, and today she brings her insights here to offer both a critique of the fashion industry and, more importantly, solutions for how we can all make safer, healthier, and more ethical choices moving forward and how we as consumers can push the industry toward genuine accountability. We’ll also explore innovations in non-toxic materials, practical ways to detoxify your wardrobe, and the truth about what’s really happening behind those ‘sustainable’ labels. Episode highlights: 00:51 Meet Alen Wicker: Investigative Journalist 02:24 The Hidden Dangers in Our Clothes 05:40 The Airline Uniform Scandal 15:41 Common Toxic Chemicals in Clothing 37:44 The Environmental Impact of Toxic Fashion 43:58 Consumer Advocacy and Industry Change 47:28 Future of Fashion: Transparency and Accountability 52:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resources mentioned: Alden Wicker's website To Dye For by Alden Wicker Guest's social handles: LinkedIn Facebook P.S. If you enjoy this episode and feel it helps to elevate your life, please give us a rating or review. And if you feel others may benefit from this podcast as well, spread the word, share and help grow our tribe of Superhumans. When we help heal One, we help heal All. Much gratitude and love. Yours, Ariane

    54 min
  5. Technosignatures, Alien Civilizations, and the Nature of Time: A Quest for Meaning with Astrophysicist Adam Frank

    OCT 28

    Technosignatures, Alien Civilizations, and the Nature of Time: A Quest for Meaning with Astrophysicist Adam Frank

    What if everything we think we know about life—about time, space, and even our place in the universe—is only scratching the surface? Imagine that our search for extraterrestrial life isn’t just about finding ‘others,’ but also about understanding ourselves. What if the way we explore the stars mirrors how we need to evolve right here on Earth? Welcome back to Superhumanize, the space where we journey deep into the intersections of wellness, science, philosophy, and human potential. Today’s conversation is with someone who stands at the very edge of these frontiers: Dr. Adam Frank, an astrophysicist, author, and thought leader who has dedicated his career to understanding both the cosmos and our place within it. Adam isn’t just about stars and galaxies—he’s also a bridge between worlds: between science and spirituality, technology and tradition, and humanity’s distant past and possible futures. He explores the birth and death of stars and also the potential rise and fall of civilizations, both here on Earth and beyond. His work on technosignatures—the clues left behind by advanced alien civilizations—forces us to ask: How do we know what we are even looking for? And perhaps more importantly, what would finding something out there mean for the way we live down here? In his book Light of the Stars: Alien Worlds and the Fate of the Earth, Adam weaves together the quest for alien life with the urgent need for planetary stewardship during the Anthropocene. His latest work, The Little Book of Aliens, offers an exploration of humanity’s deep fascination with extraterrestrials and why these narratives matter as much for our culture as for science. During today’s conversation, we’ll explore the scientific and cultural dimensions of the search for extraterrestrial life, the lessons we can learn from modeling the rise and fall of potential alien civilizations, and what the nature of time means for how we live and evolve as individuals and societies. We’ll also talk about the fascinating intersection between science and spirituality—a recurring theme in Adam’s life and work. And as someone who has contributed to media like The New York Times, The Atlantic, and NPR, as well as serving as a consultant for Marvel’s movie Doctor Strange, Adam has a unique perspective on how popular culture shapes the public’s understanding of science—and why storytelling is a vital tool in inspiring humanity to reach its highest potential. This conversation will challenge you, inspire you, and hopefully, make you look at the sky—and yourself—a little differently. Let’s dive into the universe with Adam Frank. Episode highlights: 01:24 Exploring Techno Signatures and Alien Civilizations 04:28 The Evolution of SETI and Technosignatures 09:05 Technological Advances in Detecting Alien Life 12:36 Challenges and False Positives in the Search for Life 18:48 Cultural and Societal Impacts of Discovering Extraterrestrial Life 23:33 Personal Stories and UFO Phenomena 26:19 Skepticism and Scientific Perspectives on UFOs 35:01 Modeling Alien Civilizations for Human Sustainability 35:53 The Technosphere and Climate Change 37:06 Sustainability and Civilization's Future 39:27 The Role of Science and Skepticism 41:09 Consciousness and Experience 51:31 The Concept of Time 57:48 Science in Popular Culture 01:01:09 Steps for a Sustainable Future Resources mentioned: Dr. Frank's Website Books by Dr. Adam Frank Guest's social handles: a...

    1h 4m
  6. Hacking Happiness: Rewire Your Brain, Lead with Purpose, and Thrive with Ashish Kothari

    OCT 22

    Hacking Happiness: Rewire Your Brain, Lead with Purpose, and Thrive with Ashish Kothari

    What if everything you’ve been chasing—success, wealth, recognition—turned out to be the very thing standing in the way of your true happiness? What if the relentless pursuit of ‘more’ is keeping you from discovering that the joy you seek has been within you all along? Today, on Superhumanize, we dive deep into these questions with a guest who has not only asked them but found answers—Ashish Kothari. Ashish is the founder of Happiness Squad and the author of Hardwired for Happiness. After spending 25 years in consulting, including nearly two decades as a partner at McKinsey & Company, Ashish made a radical pivot toward what really matters: teaching individuals and organizations how to rewire for happiness from the inside out. His goal? To touch over a billion lives and democratize happiness for all. In this conversation, we’ll explore the art and science of thriving in a world designed for survival. We’ll talk about emotional mastery, how purpose-driven leadership transforms businesses, and why true happiness isn’t about accumulating but about aligning—with yourself, your values, and your community. Whether you're an individual looking for deeper fulfillment or a leader aiming to build a happier organization, this episode offers insights that can change the way you live, work, and lead. Episode highlights: 01:11 The Science and Practice of Happiness 03:09 Integrating Mindfulness into Daily Life 13:28 The Power of Gratitude 22:59 Organizational Happiness: A New Metric for Success 31:43 Exploring Human Compassion Beyond Humanity 32:49 The Need to Evolve Beyond Human 34:23 The Role of Technology in Human Evolution 35:16 Balancing Technology and Mental Health 37:06 The Impact of Technology on Social Connections 39:15 Practical Tips for Managing Technology Use 53:26 Redefining Success and Personal Metrics 01:00:25 Finding Stillness and Inner Peace 01:02:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resources mentioned: The Happiness Squad website Hardwired for Happiness book Guest's social handles: LinkedIn Instagram YouTube P.S. If you enjoy this episode and feel it helps to elevate your life, please give us a rating or review. And if you feel others may benefit from this podcast as well, spread the word, share and help grow our tribe of Superhumans. When we help heal One, we help heal All. Much gratitude and love. Yours, Ariane

    1h 5m
  7. From War Survivor to Global Advocate: How Rebecca Deng Transformed Trauma into Purpose and Power

    OCT 4

    From War Survivor to Global Advocate: How Rebecca Deng Transformed Trauma into Purpose and Power

    The following episode is not just about a story of survival—this is a story of profound resilience, of rising from the ashes of unimaginable hardship and emerging stronger, more empowered, and with a deep sense of purpose. Our guest Rebecca Deng’s life is a testament to the human spirit's ability to thrive, even after the darkest of times. Rebecca Deng has lived through what most of us can’t even begin to imagine. At just four years old, her life was torn apart by the Second Sudanese Civil War. Her peaceful village in South Sudan became a battlefield, and she found herself on a harrowing journey of survival. The Second Sudanese Civil War was an incredibly violent conflict that spanned 22 years. It involved child soldiers, slavery, mass atrocities, and the deaths of over two million people. The scale of destruction and suffering is nearly incomprehensible. For Rebecca Deng, however, this war was not a distant or abstract event—it was her reality. Forced to flee her home, Rebecca lived in Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya for nearly a decade, before she became one of the Lost Girls of Sudan. Of the 4,000 Sudanese refugees granted resettlement in the United States, only 89 were girls, making Rebecca’s journey both extraordinary and rare. In her remarkable memoir, What They Meant for Evil, Rebecca takes us through the unimaginable terror of her childhood, but even more importantly, she shows us the incredible power of resilience, hope, and faith. Her story is one of survival, about reclaiming identity, finding purpose, and transforming pain into a force for good. Today Rebecca will share her extraordinary journey with us, discussing how she navigated trauma, found strength through faith, and became a powerful advocate for refugees and women around the world. Her insights on how to choose kindness and goodness even after witnessing the worst of humanity offer a profound lesson for all of us, especially in times of adversity. I am deeply honored to bring you this conversation with Rebecca Deng—her story is one of the most compelling examples of the human spirit’s ability to heal, forgive, and inspire change. Episode highlights: 01:29 Life in Kakuma Refugee Camp 01:50 Rebecca's Memoir and Resilience 05:35 Finding Hope Amidst Darkness 11:45 The Role of Faith in Overcoming Trauma 24:51 Navigating Cultural Identity 32:43 The Transformative Power of Education 35:44 The Power of Critical Thinking and Open-Mindedness 36:36 The Role of Education in Shaping Perspectives 37:06 Personal Reflections on Education and Learning 38:00 The Second Sudanese Civil War: A Personal Perspective 39:52 International Community's Role in Conflict Resolution 42:42 Challenges Faced by Women and Girls in Conflict Zones 49:31 Advocating for Refugees and Policy Changes 58:17 The Importance of Forgiveness in Healing 01:05:48 Hopes and Future for South Sudan 01:10:42 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts Resources mentioned: UNICEF profile on Rebecca Deng What They Meant for Evil by Rebecca Deng Guest's social handles: Facebook P.S. If you enjoy this episode and feel it helps to elevate your life, please give us a rating or review. And if you feel others may benefit from this podcast as well, spread the word, share and help grow our tribe of Superhumans. When we help heal One, we help heal...

    1h 13m
  8. CosmoErotic Humanism: Unveiling the Blueprint for Humanity’s Next Evolution w/ Dr. Marc Gafni

    SEP 17

    CosmoErotic Humanism: Unveiling the Blueprint for Humanity’s Next Evolution w/ Dr. Marc Gafni

    Welcome to Superhumanize, where we explore the frontiers of human potential and the complex tapestry of consciousness. Today, we have an extraordinary guest—one of the most controversial and transformative thinkers of our time, Dr. Marc Gafni. Marc is not just a philosopher; he’s a revolutionary mind, a master teacher, and a provocateur who challenges us to rethink the very fabric of our reality. Marc Gafni is known for his groundbreaking 'source code teachings' that delve into the profound depths of spirituality, ethics, and human connection. His theories, such as the Unique Self, CosmoErotic Humanism, and the transition from Homo sapiens to Homo Amor, are not just philosophical musings; they are calls to action for a global reawakening—a radical shift in how we view ourselves and our collective story. In this episode, we talk about Marc’s latest work, 'First Principles & First Values,' where he collaborates with other visionary thinkers like Ken Wilber and Zak Stein to chart a path through the meta-crisis facing our civilization. This book is a manifesto for the future of humanity, where love, value, and the essence of what it means to be human are redefined in the most fundamental ways. We'll explore some of the most pressing questions of our time: How do we confront the root cause of evil, what does it mean to reclaim our collective narrative as a love story? And how do we ensure that emerging technologies serve to enhance, rather than undermine, our journey toward becoming Homo Amor? Marc’s insights are intellectually stimulating and they challenge us to integrate spiritual enlightenment, ethical living, and the art of meaningful relationships into our everyday lives. This is a conversation that promises to push boundaries and invites you into a new way of seeing the world. Episode highlights: 01:09 Exploring First Principles and First Values 03:08 The Think Tank and Metacrisis 05:08 The Shocks of Existence 06:23 Existential Risks and AI 09:13 The Death of Our Humanity 10:41 The Techplex and Skinner's Box 22:48 Creating a New Story of Value 47:29 Exploring Eros and Intimacy 48:03 The Principle of Continuity and Discontinuity 49:44 A Story of Timeless Love 51:57 The Evolution of Intimacy and Freedom 54:29 The Debate on Free Will 57:48 The Impact of Technology on Freedom 01:02:09 Understanding Intrinsic Value 01:04:34 The Field of Value and Shared Stories 01:19:47 The Democratization of Heroism 01:21:01 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections Resources mentioned: Marc's website About Marc Gafni First Principles & First Values by Marc Gafni Download Chapter 1-5 of First Principles & First Values https://worldphilosophyandreligion.org/free-download-chapter-1-5-of-first-principles-and-first-values Free Weekly Broadcast with Dr. Marc Gafni https://www.onemountainmanypaths.org/ Guest's social handles: Substack Facebook Instagram a href="https://medium.com/office-for-the-future"...

    1h 28m
5
out of 5
24 Ratings

About

Superhumanize and learn how to transform and transcend your human experience, and achieve the highest potential of mind, body and spirit. Our host Ariane Sommer brings you deeply insightful interviews with the global thought leaders in health, personal development, business, biohacking, science and spirituality - to inspire YOU to live your best life ever. Ariane is a published author, vegan biohacker and wellness entrepreneur, journalist and keynote speaker. Born in Germany and growing up in diverse places including Sierra Leone, India, Spain, the UK and the United States, Ariane has a unique global perspective on our individual struggles, as well as the challenges we face as the collective human family. The Superhumanize Podcast was born out of Ariane’s passionate quest to create the ultimate human experience, merging the best of ancient wisdom with cutting edge scientific discoveries and advanced technologies.

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