W.B.A.I Radio Interview - New York INNERVIEW

Synopsis

The talk explores personal transformation, the concept of the waking state versus the sleeping state, and the barriers that prevent individuals from achieving higher consciousness. The discussion touches on self-awareness, defense mechanisms, and techniques to reach a more awakened state. E.J. Gold, the guest, shares insights from his experience in transformational psychology, archaeology, and creative disciplines. The conversation weaves humor, storytelling, and philosophical explorations to challenge the audience’s perception of reality, consciousness, and spiritual growth.

Summary

The conversation begins with a humorous and chaotic introduction to the discussion, reflecting the complexity of navigating self-development. Mary Houston interviews E.J. Gold, a prolific author and transformational teacher, about his experiences, philosophies, and his approach to consciousness work. Gold reflects on the evolution of his work, his transition from archaeology and science fiction writing to transformational psychology, and his belief that personal transformation is a challenging but vital path.

Central to the discussion is the idea of the “waking state” versus the “sleeping state.” Gold explains that most individuals exist in a habitual, unconscious mode, which he labels as the sleeping state. The waking state, by contrast, offers heightened awareness and a different perception of reality. However, deeply ingrained defense mechanisms, collectively referred to as the "chronic," prevent people from entering this state easily. He highlights how societal conditioning from childhood reinforces this barrier.

Gold also discusses various methods used to break through these limitations, including attention exercises, storytelling, and observation-based techniques. He invites participants to challenge their self-perceptions and realize that much of their identity is constructed by their unconscious machine-like habits. His approach, which avoids rigid structures in favor of fluid engagement, aims to wear down these resistances gently.

The interview concludes with an inquiry into how to recognize waking state experiences from personal anecdotes and workshop exercises. Gold advises that only in the waking state can one truly study the nature of consciousness and its higher implications. He warns against commercialized spiritual teachings and stresses that transformative work is not for everyone; it is only meant for those with a deep, intrinsic drive to pursue it.

Keywords & Key Phrases

• Waking state
• Sleeping state
• The chronic
• Defense mechanism against the waking state
• Human biological machine
• Transformation process
• Attention method
• Archetypal connection
• Tantalus effect
• Entry-level consciousness
• Personal barrier to awareness
• Observational self-inquiry
• Alchemical process in perception
• Cathartic reaction cycle
• Mythic structures in transformation
• Biofeedback and consciousness
• Wind and water technique
• Non-linear teaching methods
• Philosophical conflict as transformation
• Creative productivity in altered states

Graphic Prompt

A surreal scene depicting an ethereal, futuristic cityscape with towering crystalline structures, where a lone figure clad in reflective silver robes stands at the threshold of a glowing portal. The city appears both ancient and futuristic at once, embedded with symbols from Greek, Egyptian, and science fiction mythologies. The figure reaches out toward the portal, as wisps of light swirl around their form. Above, celestial bodies emit an otherworldly glow, casting elongated shadows. The atmosphere carries a mix of mystery, transformation, and the pursuit of enlightenment.