Episode 101

Written By Michaela Carlin
 
 
 
 

In this conversation with Emerson Nonduality, the core concept explored is the ineffable nature of nonduality itself—a direct experience beyond words or definitions. Emerson speaks to the fundamental realization that the belief in a separate self is an illusion, and awakening is a return to the simple and ever-present nature of being. He emphasizes that we wake up when we let go of the need for conceptual understanding, and instead, experience life as it is—without labels or separation. This realization leads to profound peace, even amidst life's challenges.

Emerson and Michaela explore the potential role of psychedelics in awakening, the concept of no-self, and the transformative power of accepting life’s intensity without resistance. They also touch on the importance of meeting people where they are in their journey, creating a safe space for radical honesty and true freedom.

Emerson expresses directness, naturalness, and the end of seeking. He simply points out to the freedom from all ideas of freedom and the ineffable. A former meditation junkie and an ex-spiritual teacher, he does weekly Zoom meetings and offers one on ones.

Episode Highlights

  • Defining non-duality as an undefinable, a natural experience beyond concepts

  • Exploring suffering and seeking in relation to non-duality

  • Awakening as ordinary, with fireworks being part of a narrative

  • Emerson’s early rave experiences and his first sense of awakening

  • Realizing there is no self, but also no "no-self"

  • Words as barriers to direct experience — the concept of "dreamlish"

  • Interconnectedness and illusion: the paradox of no true process or cause

  • Moving through the "dark night of the soul" and the illusion of suffering

  • Recognizing no hierarchy in non-duality — we're all already home

  • Letting go of delusions deepens clarity and removes psychological suffering

  • Different paths of seeking: trauma work, shadow work and direct experience

  • Freedom from belief systems and the liberation of no longer defending positions

  • Losing the sense of self and realizing there's nothing left to teach

  • How Emerson felt disconnected from language after a profound shift, akin to a stroke

  • Letting go of self-identity and witnessing everything unfold perfectly

  • Experiencing bottomless peace after a month of silence

  • How authenticity and honesty enable true connection in relationships

Emerson Non-duality’s Links 

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

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Special thanks to Jeremy Colbert (Taragápe) for the original podcast theme music.

You can find out more about Jeremey’s work here:
taragape.com and @taragape

Michaela Carlin
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