<p>In this episode of <em>Brain We Are</em>, we explore the amazing world of fungi with Merlin Sheldrake, biologist and author of <em>Entangled Life</em>. Fungi are more than just mushrooms – they form vast networks that communicate, process information, and have surprising effects on the world around us.</p> <p>We discuss <strong>whether fungi could be conscious, how they communicate, and their potential role in shaping weather and even influencing our minds.</strong> Merlin also shares his personal experiences with psychedelics and how mushrooms can grow in the most unexpected places.</p> <p>Tune in for a fascinating look at how fungi connect life on Earth in ways you might never expect!</p> <p> This podcast was recorded during the MELTINGPOT forum in Ostrava in 2024 </p> <p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p> <p>01:06 Who is Merlin Sheldrake</p> <p>02:01 How fungi differ from humans</p> <p>04:42 Organisms are complex amplifiers of experience</p> <p>05:16 Do any organisms have consciousness?</p> <p>08:09 Are fungi conscious?</p> <p>12:18 How fungi communicate</p> <p>17:16 Electricity in fungi – can it store information?</p> <p>20:50 Intelligence in organisms</p> <p>23:31 How can we be inspired by mushrooms?</p> <p>27:35 Do fungi spores affect our weather?</p> <p>29:35 Mushrooms can grow anywhere – The story of a factory</p> <p>32:39 Do mushrooms affect our minds on purpose?</p> <p>35:53 The story of LSD &amp; problem-solving abilities</p> <p>44:19 Merlin’s experience with psychedelics</p> <p>48:09 A few interesting things about fungi</p> <p>51:20 How humans influence each other</p> <p>53:36 How can we improve our health with mushrooms?</p> <p>56:19 What is your favorite mushroom?</p> <p>57:01 Ending</p>