Phantom Astronaut
A podcast about art and the people who make it. Mind expansion through the feed. Artists, educators, and experts join Dekker Dreyer (Phantom Astronaut) to talk about the creative process, their inspiration, personal journeys, and issues impacting creative people from all walks of life. Visit phantomastronaut.com to discover the full catalog of episodes.
Episodes
Friday Mar 08, 2024
Aaron Ross Powell - American Political Culture & Social Dynamics
Friday Mar 08, 2024
Friday Mar 08, 2024
On this episode of Phantom Astronaut we're thrilled to feature Aaron Ross Powell. Known for his insights into political culture, Powell has been critically analyzing the transformations in political societal norms since his time at Cato Institute's Libertarianism.org, and continuing with his current writing and the Reimagining Liberty podcast. Together we assess the impacts of political tribalism and the changing attitudes towards sensitive subjects, all while re-emphasizing the importance of unbiased political progress.
We demonstrate how controversial rhetoric from political figures like Donald Trump has shaped societal norms and public discourse. We share our personal experiences of cultural polarization and delve into the societal implications of engaging individuals with varying levels of expertise in social media debates.
We analyze how intellectuals stray into areas beyond their expertise, leading to the promotion of conspiracy theories and misinformation and conclude the episode by highlighting the direct link between knowledge overestimation and the consequent culture of commentary and tribalism.
Don't miss this look into the world of political social media. Visit us at phantomastronaut.com for more content and to support our platform.
Friday Mar 01, 2024
Friday Mar 01, 2024
Welcome to an enlightening episode of Phantom Astronaut that reveals the world of Hemophilia. Join us today as we engage in a heart-touching conversation with an accomplished musician and hemophilia advocate, Max Feinstein. He offers a deeper insight into his life as a hemophiliac, debunking common misconceptions and highlighting the challenges of continuous internal bleeding that can severely degrade quality of life.
Taking us back in history, Max shares how Hemophilia ties into significant historical tragedies, most notably the AIDS epidemic. He discusses how hemophiliacs have steadfastly advocated for health care reforms, significantly impacting the wider healthcare landscape in times of global crises. We also delve into the complex medical science behind Hemophilia, exploring changes in treatments over the years, and anxieties within communities about the impact of a potential 'cure'.
This profoundly insightful episode also explores links between personal experiences, societal values, and healthcare choices. It contrasts the resources allocated to different health conditions and journeys towards understanding and empathy. Max reflects on public health messaging during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the harms of misinformation and the importance of vigilance.
Turning his pain into passion, Max's courageous story serves as an intimate testament to sheer resilience and a willful spirit. From his view on civil war and societal tensions to his beautiful tattoos and soulful guitar sessions, this episode is sure to inspire. Tune in to truly appreciate life, pain, sacrifice, and the pursuit of happiness despite all odds.
Friday Mar 01, 2024
Exploring Reality TV Success: AZ Goat Yoga with Sarah Williams
Friday Mar 01, 2024
Friday Mar 01, 2024
In this episode of the Phantom Astronaut podcast, we transport you into the fascinating universe of Goat Yoga with Sarah Williams, co-founder of Arizona Goat Yoga. We explore how what began as a playful pastime evolved into a booming business that's as therapeutic for the pygmy goats partaking, as it is for the human participant.
Goat Yoga has become more than just a wellness trend - it's an immersive experience that bridges the gap between humans and animals, promoting laughter, conversation, and community bonding. Williams shares her journey of how combining fitness, eco-tourism, and a deep love for animals resulted in an activity that's now one of Arizona's top tourist attractions.
The story goes beyond just fun and fitness. It delves into the empowering experience of stepping outside societal expectations, of giving voice to eccentric ideas, and of fearlessly pursuing one's passion. Williams' journey also takes us behind the scenes of reality TV shows, from exciting experiences on American Ninja Warrior and The America's Got Talent on her entrepreneurial journey.
Join us as we dive into the symbiotic dynamics of Goat Yoga, exploring the nurturing, healing, and transformative power of this unique fitness trend. This episode will leave you reconsidering your relationship with nature, animals, and perhaps even nudging you to embrace your own unconventional ideas.
Friday Mar 01, 2024
Perspective on Death & Dying from Death Doula Ashley Oppon
Friday Mar 01, 2024
Friday Mar 01, 2024
In this episode of Phantom Astronaut, join us as we explore the complex intersections of spirituality and mortality with guest, Ashley Oppon, a shamanic practitioner and death doula. Gain invaluable insights into the nuances of funerary practices, grief acceptance, and end-of-life administration across different cultures. Borne from her diverse cultural lineage and experience in nursing and hospice care, Ashley shares her journey to becoming a death doula, masterfully illuminating the pivotal role these professionals play.
From advanced planning to memory projects, and emotional support through dying and beyond, we discuss how a death doula can bridge the gap of understanding death. The conversation takes a deep dive into the cultural norms, personal wishes, and emotional struggles tied to death, highlighting the stark contrasts between Western and African funeral customs. This episode provides a unique lens to view your thoughts on death, offering comfort amidst the chaotic emotional landscape that accompanies end-of-life situations.
We also delve into the often difficult dynamics that arise when personal death preferences conflict with family or societal expectations, including scenarios within the LGBTQ+ community. The imperative role of death doulas in respecting the identities and wishes of the deceased is underscored. Lastly, we touch upon our emotional bonds with pets, pointing out the critical need for pet doulas too.
Join this enlightening discussion to shed light on the power of acceptance, support, and the peace that comes with understanding one's own mortality. Whether through human connections or spiritual bonds with pets, this deep understanding often gives people the comfort to embrace their inevitable journey into the beyond.
Lastly, our conversation explores personal relationships with death and the impact it has on how we value life, suggesting that acknowledging our mortality can lead to a more present, courageous living. Experience the compassionate aspects of dealing with grief, sadness, and the often avoided subjects of addiction and cultural interpretations of death. Open dialogue on these areas is what leads to a more empathetic society, prepared to face the universal experience of death.
Round off this exploration with our special guest as she offers insight into the unique, role of death doulas. Whether it's planning for a specific type of funeral or creating legacy projects, discover how a death doula can provide indispensable support and guidance. Tune in to this intimate, human conversation and grasp why understanding these aspects can help us approach death with greater clarity and peace.
Friday Mar 01, 2024
An Exploration of Mortuary Science with Ben Schmidt
Friday Mar 01, 2024
Friday Mar 01, 2024
Welcome to another eye-opening episode of the Phantom Astronaut podcast, featuring Ben Schmidt, a renowned Professor of Mortuary Science. He shares intricacies of the death industry, the role of funeral directors, embalming processes, and the legal aspects surrounding death.
We learn about the necessity to understand diverse sciences for successful embalming. A personal narrative of the host sheds light on the pivotal role of understanding and accepting death and how it facilitates closure. Professor Schmidt’s perspective on the shifting cultural practices towards death and the rising trend of 'death doulas' opens up a fascinating paradigm.
The conversation further narrates personal experiences with funeral directors, dispelling common misconceptions about their roles. A detailed exploration of innovative disposition methods like alkaline hydrolysis and natural organic reduction illustrates a greener approach to death.
In this infectious exploration of mortuary science, we unravel the history of embalming, preservation techniques and unfurl the myths about the 'incorruptibles'. Find out how arterial injection for cadaver preservation evolved and changed the course of mortuary science. Our conversation becomes riveting as we delve into the controversial concept of incorruptibility and distinguish scientific facts from spiritual beliefs.
In this enriching dialogue with Prof. Ben Schmidt, listeners can immerse in the intriguing intricacies of mortuary science, including natural mummification and vampire graveyards. Uncover the mystery of decomposition and the variance among individuals. Discover the relevance of compassion and imagination in the funeral industry and learn about Prof. Schmidt's unconventional journey into this unique profession.
Join us at Phantomastronaut.com for more such intriguing conversations and expand your understanding about life, death, and everything in-between.
Friday Mar 01, 2024
Exploring Digital Archaeology with Francesca Albrezzi
Friday Mar 01, 2024
Friday Mar 01, 2024
In this insightful episode of Phantom Astronaut, delve into the vibrant world of digital cultural preservation with our guest Francesca Albrezzi, a PhD holder in digital humanities from UCLA's Office of Advanced Research Computing. Francesca presents an in-depth analysis of the novel utilization of advanced technologies such as 3D and XR in safeguarding cultural experiences and relics. Tune in to learn about the shifting dynamics of data storage, the risks of centralized data systems, and the dreadfully familiar tale of the Library of Alexandria in the context of our digital age.Join us in this enriching discussion, grappling with the transitory existence of internet culture and data preservation. Gain practical insights from the hands-on experiences of two librarians dealing with the mortality of digital projects and the daunting task of maintaining infrastructure for historical data storage. In this conversation, we explore the impermanence of internet values, the rise of physical artifacts from the digital realm, and the actions taken to preserve interactive websites.Our dialogue takes an interesting turn as we venture into the realm of building a physical-digital experience space for the display and collaboration of digital artists. Furthermore, we underline the importance of archiving art in its environmental context, and the emerging paradigms in recognizing neurodivergence and their implications in information absorption. This episode critically examines the 'contextual collapse' due to internet ubiquity, teaching digital humanities, and archiving challenges posed by AI generated artworks.Finally, listen in as we discuss the process of virtually recreating historical events like Chicago's World Fair, the role of multimedia in exhibitions, and other interactive archival methods. This episode promises a deep dive into the evolving frontier of art preservation and understanding in the technocentric world. Don't miss out!
Monday May 23, 2022
Phantom Astronaut - Savas Abadsidis
Monday May 23, 2022
Monday May 23, 2022
In this episode I talk to Savas Abadsidis of gaynrd.com about his appearance in White Hot: The Rise & Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch on Netflix as well as the current state of gay rights in the US.
Thursday Apr 07, 2022
Phantom Astronaut - Johnny Woods
Thursday Apr 07, 2022
Thursday Apr 07, 2022
On this episode I talk to video / musical artist Johnny Woods about art vs content, synths, off-grid living, UFOs, and more. Johnny is formerly of Buzzfeed and recently created episode 3 of Ambient Swim on Adult Swim, so check that out on HBOMax or cable. Also check out this great interview about his last album Pavilions. https://complexdistractions.blog/2020/08/18/johnny-woods-pavilions/
Note: Our connection from Johnny's Earth Ship wasn't stable so we've done extensive clean-up to make the audio as good as possible.
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