Roger Walsh MD, Ph.D. DHL, is professor of psychiatry, philosophy, and anthropology at the University of California. His research focuses on topics such as meditation, psychological wellbeing, wisdom, and our global crises. An early pioneer in the field of Transpersonal Psychology, he is a student, researcher, and teacher of contemplative traditions, and an authorized lama in Tibetan Buddhism. His research and writings have received over twenty national and international awards, and his books include Essential Spirituality: The Seven Central Practices; The World of Shamanism; and The World's Great Wisdom. With John Dupuy, he cohosts the podcast Deep Transformation: Self-Society-Spirit, which is among the top 5% of English language podcasts and has listeners in over 100 countries. Among his more curious careers have been circus acrobat and “an extremely brief and unsuccessful career as a standup comedian.” In this, his second interview on Spirit Matters, we spoke about his podcast, the status of research on spirituality and consciousness, and the relevance of contemplative practice for today’s collective challenges. Learn more about Roger Walsh here: www.drrogerwalsh.com. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~