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

    6 DAYS AGO

    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,...

    1h 13m
  2. 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
  3. Ho'oponopono and the True Warrior Spirit: Healing, Leadership, and Hawaiian Traditions with Kumu Ramsay Taum

    SEP 17

    Ho'oponopono and the True Warrior Spirit: Healing, Leadership, and Hawaiian Traditions with Kumu Ramsay Taum

    Welcome to Superhumanize, where we explore the wisdom and traditions that connect us to our roots, our purpose, and the universe itself. Today, we have the incredible honor of hosting Kumu Ramsay Taum, a revered cultural practitioner and spiritual leader whose work in integrating Native Hawaiian values into modern contexts is truly evolutionary. Kumu Ramsay is a living bridge between the ancient and the modern. Trained and mentored by some of the most respected Hawaiian elders, he is a master of several Native Hawaiian practices, including Hoʻoponopono, a powerful process of reconciliation and healing; Lomi haha, an art of body alignment and healing; and Kaihewalu Lua, the formidable Hawaiian martial art. His journey has been deeply influenced by the belief that true warriors must first be healers—a philosophy that stands in stark contrast to today's often misunderstood notions of strength and masculinity. Imagine a man who, with nothing more than a calm smile and subtle movements, can disarm larger, highly trained opponents—because for Kumu Ramsay, the essence of combat is not in the violence but in the preservation of peace and balance. In our conversation today, we will explore not just the techniques, but the profound spiritual and ethical foundations that guide these practices. Kumu Ramsay's contributions go far beyond personal mastery. As the founder and president of the Life Enhancement Institute of the Pacific, he has been a transformational leader, advocating for the integration of cultural and place-based values into business and community models. His approach is a call to honor our interconnectedness and to operate from a place of respect, reciprocity, and sustainability—a message that is critically needed in our world today. Today, we’ll talk about his personal journey, about what it means to be a true warrior, and how ancient Hawaiian principles can guide us toward a more balanced, respectful, and connected way of living. Get ready to be inspired by Kumu Ramsay, where the wisdom of the past meets the possibilities of the future. Episode highlights: 00:24 Meet Kumu Ramsay Taun 03:49 The Essence of Aloha 09:53 The Concept of Common Ground 16:40 Kumu Ramsay's Background and Training 24:24 A Warrior's Path 31:19 Martial Arts Demonstration and Philosophy 32:47 The Essence of Lua: Art and Science 34:25 Inner Peace and Warrior Spirit 36:24 Protection and Confrontation 38:54 Healing and Responsibility 42:54 Ho'oponopono: Misconceptions and Depth 51:53 Creating Peace from Within 56:16 Upcoming Events and Offerings Resources mentioned: Makali’i Rising / Immersion with Kumu Ramsay Kumu's website 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

    60 min
  4. Reawakening the Sacred: Gaia Ma on Tantric Healing, Intentional Community Living, and the Path to Freedom

    SEP 11

    Reawakening the Sacred: Gaia Ma on Tantric Healing, Intentional Community Living, and the Path to Freedom

    Imagine a world where our deepest wounds are not just healed but transformed into our greatest gifts—a world where the boundaries between the human and the divine dissolve in the dance of everyday life. Today, I'm thrilled to take you on a journey with Gaia Ma, a visionary leader in personal and spiritual transformation. Gaia Ma is the founder of The Tantric Way Process, an innovative approach that blends tantra, trauma healing, breathwork, and conscious community living to guide individuals toward greater freedom and authenticity. As the co-founder of InanItah, an earth-based spiritual community on Ometepe Island, Nicaragua, Gaia has created a living and learning center dedicated to regenerative living and the evolution of human potential. In this episode, we'll delve into the depths of sacred sexuality, explore the transformative power of breathwork, and learn how intentional communities like InanItah are redefining what it means to live in harmony with ourselves and the planet. Whether you’re a seeker, a skeptic, or somewhere in between, get ready to dive deep into a conversation that promises to challenge, inspire, and awaken. So grab your headphones, take a deep breath, and let's step into the transformative world of Gaia Ma. In my conversation with Gaia Ma, you'll discover: 02:26 Gaia Ma's Early Life and Personal Journey 06:21 Struggles with Addiction and the Path to Recovery 08:36 Rediscovering Spirituality Through Yoga 10:27 Embracing Nature and Founding a Community 12:43 The Power of Boundaries and Gender Dynamics 21:18 Understanding Tantra Beyond Sexuality 39:01 Exploring Pagan Tantra and Feminist Revolution 39:22 The Power and Responsibility of Manifestation 40:14 Reflecting on Historical Consequences 45:06 The Inanita Community: A New Paradigm Lifestyle 50:05 Living Authentically Without Masks 59:19 The Masculine and Feminine Balance 01:06:58 Gaia's Offerings and Final Thoughts Resources mentioned: Gaia Ma website InanItah Guest's social handles: 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 love. Yours, Ariane

    1h 10m
  5. Dispatches from Humanity’s Depths with Hollie McKay: War Reporting, Psychedelics, Motherhood, and the Power of the Human Spirit

    SEP 10

    Dispatches from Humanity’s Depths with Hollie McKay: War Reporting, Psychedelics, Motherhood, and the Power of the Human Spirit

    Hollie McKay is an extraordinary individual whose life and work have taken her to the front lines of some of the world’s most dangerous and complex conflicts. As a war reporter, geopolitical analyst, and international humanitarian, Holly has seen the very best and the very worst of humanity. Her journey through war zones, her powerful storytelling, and her ability to connect with people from every walk of life make her one of the most compelling voices of our time. Hollie's latest book, The Dictator’s Wife, is a stunning piece of fiction that weaves together the complexities of power, love, and identity in ways that reflect the deepest truths of the human experience. We’ll dive into how her extensive background in journalism and her first-hand experiences with global conflicts shaped the narratives in her novel. But our conversation doesn't stop there. Holly recently underwent a profound personal journey with  what is considered the most powerful known psychedelic, Iboga, in Mexico, that provided her with profound insights into her own psyche and the human condition. We’ll explore what she learned from this experience and how it intersects with her work and life philosophy. And as if that wasn't enough, Hollie is also navigating the beautiful, transformative world of motherhood. She’s a new mom to a beautiful baby girl, and we’ll talk about how this new chapter has reshaped her views on vulnerability, strength, and hope. In this episode, we’re not just unpacking Hollie’s professional accomplishments—we’re exploring the very essence of what it means to be resilient, to find light in the darkest places, and to live a life of purpose and passion. So, whether you’re seeking inspiration from Holly’s remarkable journey or practical insights on resilience and communication, I know you’ll find something truly valuable in this conversation. I’m deeply honored to have her on the show, and even more honored to call her a friend. In my conversation with Hollie, you'll discover: 00:54 Holly McKay's Latest Book: The Dictator's Wife 04:57 The Challenges and Rewards of Writing Fiction 16:54 The Emotional Toll of War Reporting 28:50 Resilience and Hope in the Face of Adversity 38:17 The Importance of Effective Communication 42:24 Generational Shifts in Parenting and Communication 44:44 The Power of Storytelling in Communication 48:18 Finding Common Ground in Difficult Conversations 50:59 Exploring Psychedelic Experiences: Iboga 01:08:46 The Profound Impact of Motherhood 01:14:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resources mentioned: Hollie's website Books authored by Hollie Nature Magazine Vet Solutions Of Night and Light Guest's social handles: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn YouTube P.S. If...

    1h 16m
  6. Mystical Minds: Dr. Shauheen Etminan on Spiritual Journeys with Sacred Plants of Ancient Persia

    AUG 31

    Mystical Minds: Dr. Shauheen Etminan on Spiritual Journeys with Sacred Plants of Ancient Persia

    Welcome to a journey into the mind and the mystic. Today, I'm thrilled to introduce Dr. Shauheen Etminan, a visionary who marries the ancient wisdom of Eastern medicine with the cutting-edge discoveries of modern science. As the founder of Ancestral Magi and VCENNA, Dr. Etminan is at the forefront of exploring how sacred plants and their psychoactive compounds, particularly beta-carbolines, can revolutionize our approach to mental health. These compounds, found in plants like Espand, also known as Syrian rue, have been used ceremonially for millennia to enhance mindfulness, promote longevity, and foster deep spiritual experiences. In our discussion we will talk about how these ancient practices are supported by modern neuroscience, creating potent natural supplements that maintain legal status while offering profound therapeutic benefits. Join us as we uncover the secrets of ancestral botanicals and how they transform our understanding of well-being and consciousness and as we decode the mystic messages of the past to navigate the complexities of the modern world. In my conversation with Dr. Shauheen, you'll discover: 00:28 Exploring Ancestral Botanicals 02:08 The Vision of Humanity 2.0 03:26 Dr. Etminan's Journey 05:04 From Engineering to Social Entrepreneurship 07:19 Founding Vecena and Psychedelic Research 14:03 The Ancient Potion Homa 21:52 The Role of Beta Carbolines 26:59 The Mystical Experience of Beta Carbolines 31:13 Exploring the Dreaming State and Telepathy 32:33 Eastern Mysticism vs. Shamanic Mysticism 35:34 Beta Carbolines and Neuroprotection 38:10 The Science of Sleep and Memory 43:50 Sufi Whirling Meditation and Neuroscience 49:36 Ancestral Magite: Products and Benefits 57:41 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions Resources mentioned: Ancestral Magi 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

    60 min
  7. Unlocking Sexual Healing: Psychedelics, Shadow Work, and Intimacy Beyond Taboos with Dr. Cat Meyer

    AUG 29

    Unlocking Sexual Healing: Psychedelics, Shadow Work, and Intimacy Beyond Taboos with Dr. Cat Meyer

    Welcome back, Superhumans. Today, we are navigating the deep waters where sexuality, trauma, and psychedelics converge. Our guest, Dr. Cat Meyer, is not just a therapist; she's a modern-day alchemist of the soul—a psychotherapist who integrates the ancient wisdom of tantra and yoga with the cutting-edge science of ketamine therapy. As a licensed psychotherapist, sexologist, and author, Dr. Cat is revolutionizing how we perceive and experience sexuality. She’s helping us redefine our relationships with our bodies, our partners, and ultimately, with ourselves. Imagine a world where sexual trauma is not just addressed but transmuted into a source of deep power and healing; where intimate relationships become a sacred dance of exploration and growth; and where the boundaries of pleasure and pain blur to offer a path of profound self-realization. This is the world Dr. Cat invites us into—a world where shadow work, psychedelics, and BDSM can be tools for transformation rather than taboos. In today’s episode, we’ll explore some highly provocative topics: How can psychedelics help us heal from sexual trauma and enhance our connection to our bodies? What does it mean to truly engage in shadow work, not just as a buzzword, but as a path to reclaim our authenticity? And for those curious about the world of play parties and BDSM, Dr. Cat will guide us through understanding these experiences not just as kink, but as profound avenues for growth, healing, and integration. We'll also get personal—how does one navigate their own trauma and bring it into the light for healing? Dr. Cat has guided many through these treacherous waters, and today, she'll share her wisdom with us. So, if you’re ready to challenge the norms, dive deep, and emerge with a more profound understanding of your own sexual and spiritual identity, you are in the right place. In my conversation with Cat Meyer, you'll discover: 01:25 The Intersection of Sexuality, Trauma, and Psychedelics 02:19 Personal Journey and Professional Insights 03:46 Reassociating with the Body and Healing 10:22 Exploring Sexual Desires and Styles 25:27 The Role of Psychedelics in Healing Sexual Trauma 29:43 BDSM as a Therapeutic Tool 35:17 Upcoming Workshops and Final Thoughts Resources mentioned: Sex Love &Yoga Website Book Sex Love Psychedelics podcast Guest's social handles: Instagram 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

    37 min
  8. Rewiring Cognitive Health: The Science of Nutritional Psychiatry and Reversing Cognitive Decline with Dr. John Lewis

    AUG 15

    Rewiring Cognitive Health: The Science of Nutritional Psychiatry and Reversing Cognitive Decline with Dr. John Lewis

    Welcome back to Superhumanize, where we explore the frontier of what it means to truly thrive in body, mind, and spirit. Today, I’m excited to be joined by someone who stands at the intersection of cutting-edge science and practical wellness—Dr. John Lewis. Dr. Lewis is a pioneer in the field of nutritional psychiatry and cognitive health. His groundbreaking work has expanded our understanding of how nutrition impacts the brain and has also led to tangible solutions that are transforming lives. Most notably, Dr. Lewis conducted a landmark clinical study on Alzheimer’s disease, where his innovative use of an aloe polysaccharide multi-nutrient complex led to clinically significant improvements in cognitive function, reduced inflammation, and enhanced immune responses in patients with moderate to severe Alzheimer’s. This study has opened new avenues for potentially reversing the cognitive decline associated with this devastating disease. In this episode, we’ll explore the very mechanisms by which the food we eat can enhance cognitive function, support immune health, and even modulate inflammation—a root cause of so many chronic conditions. We’ll go into the fascinating world of plant-based nutrients and their role in detoxification, heavy metal chelation, and adult stem cell production. Beyond the science, what truly sets Dr. Lewis apart is his commitment to applying this knowledge in ways that are both accessible and deeply impactful. Whether you're a health practitioner, a biohacker, or someone simply looking to optimize your mental clarity and longevity, this conversation will deliver insights that could very well change the way you think about food and health. In my conversation with Dr. Lewis, you'll discover: 00:22 Meet Dr. John Lewis: Pioneer in Nutritional Psychiatry 01:15 The Impact of Nutrition on Brain Health 02:03 Personal Stories and the Importance of Brain Health 03:57 Vitamin D: The Essential Nutrient 07:18 Understanding Polysaccharides and Their Benefits 10:08 Groundbreaking Alzheimer's Study 13:19 Clinical Trials and Real-Life Impact 20:52 Focus on Multiple Sclerosis 28:35 Immune Function and Brain Health 29:39 Nutritional Paradigm vs. Pharmacological Paradigm 30:13 Polysaccharides and Their Benefits 31:20 Personal Testimonials and Success Stories 33:20 Introduction to Aloe Vera and Rice Bran 37:10 Clinical Trials and Research 45:42 Challenges in Academia and Business 51:38 Future Plans and Innovations 53:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resources mentioned: Dr. Lewis' website Guest's social handles: Instagram YouTube 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
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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