<p>Recorded on a boat to Antarctica, New York Times bestselling author Norman Ohler joins us for a conversation that challenges how we understand history, consciousness, and the hidden forces shaping human evolution.</p><p><br></p><p>Known for his deep archival research and provocative storytelling, Ohler explores the often-overlooked role of psychoactive substances in shaping major historical events, from the inner workings of the Nazi regime to the broader evolution of human awareness. He also offers a first look into his upcoming work, <em>Stoned Sapiens</em>, where he proposes a new lens on how molecules may have influenced the development of the human brain and our survival as a species.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Together, Norman and Alli explore:</strong></p><p>- Rewriting History: Insights from <em>Blitzed</em> and what widespread drug use reveals about power, control, and decision-making at the highest levels.</p><p>- The Origins of Consciousness: A new perspective on how psychoactive compounds may have contributed to the development of the human mind.</p><p>- Drugs &amp; Empire: The overlooked role of substances in shaping global systems, including the opium trade and colonial expansion.</p><p>- Literature as Disruption: Why storytelling can shift perception and act as a powerful political force.</p><p>- Healing &amp; Psychedelics: A personal look at Ohler’s exploration of LSD and its potential in treating neurodegenerative conditions, and how it reshaped his own understanding of medicine and care.</p><p><br></p><p>This episode invites you to question what you think you know about history, and consider how chemistry, culture, and consciousness may be more deeply intertwined than we realize.</p><p><br></p><p>--</p><p><br></p><p>TIMESTAMPS:</p><p>0:40 Podcast Introduction</p><p>1:10 Welcoming Norman Ohler</p><p>1:39 Writing as a Political Act of Transformation</p><p>6:25 Evolution Through &quot;Stoned Sapiens&quot;</p><p>7:50 Uncovering the Archives: Substance Use in Nazi Germany</p><p>15:10 Consciousness Modes: Connection vs. Survival</p><p>18:32 The Alchemy and Energy of Chemical Compounds</p><p>19:47 Historical Perspectives through the Lens of Consciousness</p><p>24:27 Colonialism, Queen Victoria, and the Global Drug Trade</p><p>30:03 Family Healing and Redefining Psychedelic Medicine</p><p>33:40 Complexity and Tolerance: Personal Reflections</p><p>34:50 Publishing the Planetary Narrative</p><p>35:40 The Ultimate Lesson: Learning to Open the Heart</p><p><br></p><p>--</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Norman Ohler:</strong> https://www.instagram.com/normanohlerRead </p><p><strong>Norman’s Work on Substack: </strong>https://stonedsapiens.substack.com/</p><p><br></p><p>--</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Step into the Multiverse with us...</strong></p><p>Shop Supermush: <a href="https://supermush.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://supermush.com/</a> our in house brand of the most effective and delicious functional mushroom supplements.</p><p>Use Code: ITM15 for 15% off</p><p>Into the Multiverse Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/intothemultiverse/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://www.instagram.com/intothemultiverse/</a></p>