Dr. Sam Harris: Using Meditation to Focus, View Consciousness & Expand Your Mind | Huberman Lab 105

My guest is Sam Harris, Ph.D. Sam earned his bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Stanford University and his doctorate (Ph.D.) in neuroscience from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). He is the author of multiple best-selling books and is a world-renowned public-facing intellectual on meditation, consciousness, free will, psychedelics and neuroscience. He is also the creator of Waking Up and the host of the Making Sense podcast. In this episode, we discuss meditation as a route to understanding “the self” and experiencing consciousness, not just changing one’s conscious state. Sam describes several meditation techniques and their benefits, including how meditation fundamentally changes our worldview and how it can be merged seamlessly into daily life. It can help us overcome universal challenges such as distractibility and persistent, internal dialogue (“chatter”) to allow for deep contentment and pervasive shifts in our awareness, all while acknowledging the more immediate stress-lowering and memory-improving effects of meditation. We also discuss the therapeutic use of psychedelics and the mechanistic similarities between the benefits of a psychedelic journey and long-term meditation practices. And we discuss the rationale behind Sam’s recent decision to close his social media (Twitter) account. This episode should interest anyone wanting to learn more about the higher order functions of the brain, the brain-body connection, consciousness and, of course, meditation and why and how to meditate for maximum benefit.
#HubermanLab #SamHarris #Meditation
Thank you to our sponsors
AG1 (Athletic Greens): athleticgreens.com/huberman
Levels: levels.link/huberman
WHOOP: join.whoop.com/huberman
Eight Sleep: eightsleep.com/huberman
InsideTracker: www.insidetracker.com/huberman
Supplements from Momentous
www.livemomentous.com/huberman
Huberman Lab Special Offer for Waking Up
www.wakingup.com/huberman
Huberman Lab Premium
hubermanlab.com/premium
Social & Website
Instagram: / hubermanlab
Twitter: / hubermanlab
Facebook: / hubermanlab
TikTok: / hubermanlab
LinkedIn: / andrew-huberman
Website: hubermanlab.com
Newsletter: hubermanlab.com/neural-network
Dr. Sam Harris
Waking Up app: www.wakingup.com/huberman
Making Sense podcast: www.samharris.org/podcasts
Website: www.samharris.org
Instagram: / samharrisorg
KZbin: / @samharrisorg
Facebook: / samharrisorg
Books
Waking Up: A Guide to Spirituality Without Religion: amzn.to/3Z51pIb
Making Sense: Conversations on Consciousness, Morality, and the Future of Humanity: amzn.to/3CgbIQ3
Timestamps
00:00:00 Dr. Sam Harris
00:04:36 Levels, WHOOP, Eight Sleep, Momentous
00:08:54 Sense of Self & Meditation, Dualism of Self
00:18:07 Sense of Self in Brain & Body
00:25:28 Consciousness vs. Contents, Meditation
00:28:25 Interrupting Sense of Self & Attentional Focus, Visual Saccade
00:33:30 Observer & Actor, Default Mode Network & Meditation, Blind Spot
00:40:48 AG1 (Athletic Greens)
00:41:57 Mediation & Paths to Understanding Consciousness, Non-Dualistic Experience
00:57:32 Sense of Self throughout Evolution
01:07:40 Sense of Self from Human Development, Language
01:18:42 InsideTracker
01:19:46 Internal Dialogue, Distractibility & Mindfulness
01:26:27 Time Perception & Mindfulness, Vipassana Meditation, Resistance & Pain
01:37:13 Consciousness & Sense of Control, Free Will
01:43:14 Authoring Thoughts: Storytelling & Ideas, Free Will
01:52:11 Meditation & the Paradoxical Search for Self
02:06:44 Meditation & Concentration Practice
02:11:58 Mindfulness, “Skylike Mind” & Thoughts
02:15:11 States of Self & Context, Dualistic Experiences
02:32:39 Distraction & Identification of Thoughts, Meditation & “Flow” States
02:42:58 Eyes-Open Meditations, Sense of Self, Visual Cues & Social Interactions
02:54:59 Paths to Meditation, Mindfulness Meditation Step-Functions
03:05:58 Psychedelics, MDMA & Experiences in Consciousness, Religion
03:21:11 Meditation, Psychedelic Journeys & Inner Truths
03:29:48 Psilocybin, Ego-Dissolution & Thought Expansion
03:40:09 Process vs. Achievement of Goals, Fulfillment in Present
03:54:29 Leaving Twitter; Conflict, Life Interruption & Politics
04:06:14 Social Media, Attentional Disruption & Deep Work
04:15:39 Meditation & Sense of Self
04:19:02 Sam Harris & Waking Up App, Zero-Cost Support, KZbin Feedback, Spotify & Apple Reviews, Sponsors, Momentous, Social Media, Neural Network Newsletter
Disclaimer: hubermanlab.com/disclaimer
Title Card Photo Credit: Mike Blabac - www.blabacphoto.com

[@BeefandEggs]

Huberman is the best thing to happen to KZbin. The information he provides is priceless and has improved every aspect of my life

[@shanemckeown]

So true, no one else has me effortlessly listening to 2hr+ videos and loving every minute

[@anthonyman8008]

You listen to 4 plus hours for 5 minutes of relevent info. He's a master of wasting your time

[@zahariachirica5466]

'priceless '....nearly all including Sam offer at a price their information. Anglo Saxon way of life: make money from just about anything. Priceless?😁 I love Sam Harris any way.

[@cruzc5frc]

He is covering the spiritual side whether he knows it or not lol!!!

[@more3520]

Dr. Huberman, you're the man!

[@darrengagliardi1540]

As an experienced meditator, I am pretty amazed at Sam's ability to clearly and properly explain a thing that is traditionally very hard to put into words. What a remarkable job.

[@emboe001]

What's even more amazing is his inability to apply it to himself

[@joelwilson4197]

@@emboe001 what are you even talking about

[@emboe001]

@@joelwilson4197 he's the so called expert on rational thinking and quieting the ego, yet has severe ego problems and irrationally hijacked by political ideology and resentment etc.

[@joelwilson4197]

@@emboe001 so because he disagrees with your political ideology he has an ego problem ?

[@emboe001]

@@joelwilson4197 no. Nice strawman though. Sounds like you don't want to know, just want to push your ego.

[@ougoah]

This quote from Sam around 3:48:00 is so well-said: "I think what we want is a circumstance where attention can be located in the present in a way that's truly fulfilling. And unless you have had some kind of radical insight that allows you to do that on demand, you are in some sense hostage to the circumstances of your life to do that for you. You're constantly trying to engineer a state of the world that will propagate back on a state of self that will make the present moment good enough."

[@srussifordwilliams]

Truly, our context doesn't define us, but how we are in relationship with that context does

[@b.hornetiii.6771]

That's why if you have a hobby "you love to do", and you don't need others for doing it, you win. It could be sport, drugs, music, art in general, beeing in constant survival mode etc. As long as it doesn't kill you too fast ... :)) You don't want to be 100% dependent on people, events or things at the end of the day. This is a real nightmare.

[@CeceliPS3]

That's why I stopped doing what I learned on The Power of Now. It is something quite beautiful and peaceful and you reach the now, but it's goddamn stressful to know about it and spend your time everyday trying to be in the Now. It's like we're rigged to not be there and this brings resentment. And no one managed explain why that is.

[@danimal519]

@@b.hornetiii.6771 the point being, you've defined only that "hobby" as having the power to free you, which defines the rest of your life *outside* of that hobby as a sort of state to be avoided, so you're still not free. (hence even your hobby/joy produces suffering then. Temporary high then withdrawal.) What he's saying is liberation comes in being able to conjure the appreciation while working that you have while playing music (or what have you.) THAT's the ultimate skill to learn, which can really only come with letting go of the illusion of self

[@b.hornetiii.6771]

@@danimal519 I think I understand what you're saying, but you don't want to be a living zombie just to avoid some pain in your life is my answer to you - "letting go of illusion of self". There is no joy without state of the opposite - pain, suffering, so "a little down is nesesary to be "up". But I was talking about "having something that you like to do" where time stops. It could be a few things at the same time, music, movies, playing an instrument, riding books etc. If you're 100% free than that = dead. Dead you're free 100%. The best advice to give someone who thinks he's suffering is to have one moment in his life when he really suffered a lot, like from 1 to 10 a 10, so when the so called bad moment comes, you go to that place every time and you just laugh at your suffering today ... Yes, lett go, but lett go in a sence that you don't care what happens next, not in a sence that you train yourself to be a living zombie.

[@codinginflow]

I have been waiting for this crossover. No one explains the deep benefits of meditation like Sam Harris does.

[@codinginflow]

@Savior Money What's TDS?

[@RCTricking]

Trump Derangement Syndrome 😂😂😂 I personally don’t agree with all of Sam’s political takes, but I respect his neuroscience and meditation research. Personally I feel it might be a waste to throw the proverbial baby out with the bathwater.

[@tyl8ter]

@Coding in Flow Trump Derangement Syndrome.. Which is unfortunately true ..his covid ranting is also unfortunate...well, what do you do .. just people

[@davidr2421]

@Savior Money He's great, it's very useful.

[@yomilalgro]

Love SH 💙

[@sniff4643]

sam harris- the man that got me out of islam and into meditation 4 years ago huberman- the man that started getting me into optimizing my neurobiology 2 months ago and now they made a video together... im so happy!

[@thewordsmithsdaughter]

You cannot have both?

[@TomasPetkevicius94]

You should check out Lex Fridman's podcast, i bet you would like it as well.

[@noname-td2td]

Are you ready for him to be your imam into Jahannam? Do tawba

[@zack49]

Glad for you man

[@BaclibreMa_DocJamal]

May God bless you either way my friend. Many ways, same destination.

[@andrewholland21]

The waking up app is an absolute gem. I have pretty severe adhd and applying meditation to my daily life essentially turned me into a properly functioning human being. The scholarship program is an absolute blessing as well. Appreciate both of you.

[@jfi_]

adhd approved +1

[@ThePaulaon1]

💯

[@knachos2233]

Same

[@knightwalker5958]

Holy shit, what did you do? Just the daily meditations? the lessons as well? I am in a similar boat. Also for how long?

[@camerynlamare4356]

@@knightwalker5958 I'm not the original commenter but I've had the same experience. I have tried medications in the past and they did work but had pretty bad side effects and I was concerned about long term use. I switched to meditation and practice around 15-30 mins a day and have slowly, over the course of years, brought the meditation from the few moments sitting to other areas of my life. Along with that, prioritizing my sleep and completely removing social media were some of the biggest improvements in my ADHD I had ever seen - I feel better now than I did when medicated. It certainly took a lot of time and patience, but it did work for me. It might not work for everyone, but it's certainly a useful tool for improving regardless.

[@labsanta]

Takeaway: 1. Meditation can help individuals recognize the illusion of the self and discover a deeper understanding of the relationship between the mind and body. 2. Practicing mindfulness can increase one's frame rate of time perception and lead to equanimity and relief from suffering. 3. Meditation involves ceasing to do something in order to recognize consciousness without the automatic arising of thought. By becoming aware of reactions and not identifying with any particular self-concept, individuals can develop a sense of psychological integrity that is not dependent on external factors. 4. Recognizing the non-selfhood of consciousness and detaching from the constraints of the ego can lead to a realization of freedom and selflessness through meditation. 5. Deleting Twitter can lead to a less cluttered and noisy life that feels better.

[@gatesroyale]

It's weird that they just pointed out Twitter because that sounds like a narrative. Makes you think if these guys are bought and sold? Why not Facebook or Instagram which is increasingly way worse.

[@leticiasouza1118]

Thanks for the great summary. Very useful

[@FeelsGoood]

Very underrated comment, only 48 likes! The praise of the author always gains 1000+ likes easily although it does not require anything other than gratitude it would be more usefull if people wrote a separate thank you to Huberman, it would help to promote the video more than just a like on someone else comment. You did a great job and deserve more feedback, thanks a lot!

[@kappla]

Who are you?

[@lecongli452]

all the points are very complex and then the last point is Twitter is bad.

[@muskie5622]

I make the mistake of starting Andrew's videos while I'm doing something. After some time doing this I come to the realisation that I'm not absorbing everything or missed something and then I have to set a time and clear my schedule to pay these videos the respect they deserve. Thank you soo much Andrew for all the free and readily available information, you are an absolute legend mate 🇳🇿🇳🇿

[@roberthopkins8089]

I have the same trouble.. Unless im doing something mindless i get distracted and miss bits... Must focus more...

[@growwithkris]

What a blessing it is to be alive in a time where this much value is FREE!

[@canadianmale7610]

@@FloatingLeaf1111Life itself, family and community.

[@rjc5175]

This channel is contributing to the change of humanity

[@sid7547]

I love both of these guys. Imagine how much better humanity would be if we all took their advice instead of fighting over BS

[@stoicsanjin]

Yes

[@rudyp7935]

@@sid7547 you love sam harris? wow

[@ReligionAndMaterialismDebunked]

^_^ 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 I've been waiting for this podcast, but I saw the day it came out, 9 days ago, and I just put it off. Andrew Huberman and his dad are huge fans of Sam Harris for meditation, especially since he explains on how it's beyond some medical benefits. Plenty of people in Andrew's team, Andrew, and his dad have the Waking Up app. I've used that app some years ago, before it got the many updates it's had. It's a very nice app! I've though of paying for it before. The scientific, non-religious deep analysis of meditation and many ways to do meditation are provided in the app too. Dr. Sam Harris, a scientist who's Jewish too, but is like many of us Jewish related people, non-religious from going over the religious claims and reality (the most non-religious culture to exist right now), and questions a lot of stuff. He's also an excellent debater against religion and stuff in general. He challenged Jordan Peterson very well with an audience present physcially. He kinda has some idea of a soul existing, from meditation, and from experimenting in psychedelics. He's been a tremendous critique of religion. However, of course, plenty of Far-Left don't like him because they will say Islamaphobic, regardless that Islam is very LGBTphobic, many of them are Christianphobic, soulphobic, etc. It's a great discussion! I love these 4+ hour podcasts. It's a great way to thoroughly go over a topic. I'm able to talk a lot too, and to write a lot too. People who talk a lot don't need to be considered as mentally disturbed, as some love to state people who rant or talk often have mental issues. Many people have low attention spans and dopamine overload. To scroll TikTok especially, but any social media, you keep content switching, and it's like watching a bunch of movies in some minutes. That will severely exhaust people alone, so much content switching. Andrew Huberman has said before on a doctor's podcast that mental issues, and many suicides too, usually take place because of lack of sleep. Many mental issue cases are just a lack of sleep, especially blatant in the modern day status quo of wage slaves and materialisation obsession.

[@ReligionAndMaterialismDebunked]

O.o Two-party system is puppetry, warmongering profiteering, tyrannical, fractional reserve banking cancerous, and just a silly clown show. Always one of those "choices". O.o Centrist.

[@theMidsizeLebowski]

It's rare to see someone so talented at both presenting information and interviewing. I'm a big fan of Sam Harris, and this was definitely one of the best interviews with him I've ever heard, thank you!

[@gilbogabbins5076]

This has to be the best podcast I've ever heard (long-time HLP listener). I've been a serious meditator for about 8 years and study psychology. Also had a few years of experiencing psychedelics firsthand in my youth. Such deep topics to comprehend, and every word spoken by Sam is so carefully chosen. Some really great topics covered. Thank you for providing such a great platform for learning and developing ideas.

[@GDMartin]

Hats off to you for such a concise and profound comment as well. Much love

[@bigglyguy8429]

Harris was carefully choosing his words when he said it would be better if hundreds of thousands of kids would die? And all the other garbage he's come out with about 9/11 etc etc?

[@aidenyoshida]

Hey Gilbo! Do you mind sharing your experiences and insights after meditating for 8 years? I have recently adopted an extensive meditation practice using the Waking Up app. I've only been practicing for two months, but my life has completely changed. I have begun to notice fleeting thoughts appearing in consciousness that I would have previously attached to. Instead, I feel a sense of equanimity knowing that if I'm just aware of these thoughts, feelings, and emotions, I will be closer to experiencing consciousness without a filter. Now, I am more in tune with the nature of my mind, but I'm noticing this deep feeling of curiosity that wants to know more about myself and others. Meditation really is an amazing skill to learn, and I find myself wanting to look deeper and deeper within to unravel the layers of the self. I can only imagine what years of extensive practice may feel like. I plan to get there myself, knowing full well that I'm already there; I just need to look deeper.

[@gilbogabbins5076]

@Aiden Yoshida I think that life has not changed, but your perspective on it has. There is very little I can explain to you about meditation, it means different things to different people depending on where you are in life, and it can change from moment to moment, day to day, year to year. You have to drink the water yourself to quench your thirst, I cannot do it for you. The best advice I can give is not to look for anything in particular. Just observe. I sit 10 day silent vipassana courses in the tradition of s.n. goenka, and I would advise everyone to try this at least once in their life, if they are able to. I was a very angry man when I started, so very confused about existence and full of self-loathing. I have so much peace in my heart and clarity in my mind now. There is still a long path to walk, but each day, I'm taking steps. All the best to you on the path

[@aidenyoshida]

@@gilbogabbins5076 Thank you for sharing. I do wish to eventually try a meditation retreat at least once in my lifetime! Thanks again, and best to you as well.

[@TheMentalLevel]

Also, something that doesn't get talked about often in the West when it comes to using meditation as a tool for focus is the duration of your session: while a 12-15 minute session will often produce a lot of wonderful benefits, most experienced meditators can tell you that there is a progressive intensification of focus that occurs over a longer session (45-60 minutes). That can seem like a long time, but often people get underwhelming or inconsistent results from shorter meditations and so they give up, thinking that meditation is not for them. That's analogous to going to the gym and doing 2-3 sets, experiencing underwhelming results and then thinking the gym is not for you. The deeper results in fitness or meditation alike are usually on the other side of expanding your comfort zone; so for those interested, I definitely suggest doing a longer session once or twice a week, with your eyes open on a spot in front of you and sitting upright (as these adjustments will combat the frequent "I fall asleep when I meditate for more than a few minutes" effect many people experience), and noticing how you can cultivate what will often be a profoundly deeper state of focus and flow once you've given yourself more time to ease into it and progressively intensify your focus. Thank you, Dr. Huberman and Dr. Harris for sharing these tools!

[@v1kt0u5]

Well, helpful for some, but not necessary for many...

[@Peace.Beyond.All.Understanding]

I can confirm longer sessions usually yield much deeper meditations

[@mikealgee1489]

@@v1kt0u5 not necessary for who? World seems pretty insane last i checked. Think some meditation could help everyone.

[@333brapbrap]

I learned and experienced the same thing during my first Vipassana retreat a while back. When sitting, and importantly, without any movement of the body, for 1-1.5 hours, it gets very interesting.

[@user-mk3yo6wo2h]

You have to realize many people simply do not have that much time in their day to schedule an hour for meditation. Work, kids, spouse, gym, homework and before you know it, its time to sleep.

[@owenparillo3421]

When Dr Harris began explaining the mental white noise at 1:17:00 i almost teared up, never related to something harder, he described my entire mental space so explicitly

[@dp2404]

We are all there! At least I think. I know of people who can visualize a lot. For me it's just constant chatter. I can even speak over myself, like multiple people are having a conversation. And sometimes when I speak my mind goes faster than my mouth and I loose my trin of thought because of it.

[@ThePaulaon1]

I know how you feel. Dig deeper into that practice Owen. Double down on it. All the best.

[@yomilalgro]

He's guilty of doing that quite often.

[@1729krish]

@@yomilalgro We all do. Learn what you can with humility instead of picking faults in others bro

[@kahwatv]

I've been meditating Sam's words. It made me realize this: 1 - You are not your emotions 2 - You are not even where your emotions come to 3 - Consequence is: you are much freer and much more powerful than you can imagine. Thank you Andrew for this very interesting content.

[@dianebowen837]

Please consider adding transcripts of these important talks. I am retired and can spend a day listening to a podcast, taking notes, and thinking about the ideas presented. But not everyone has this kind of time. It would be so much faster to be able to read this conversation, reread parts without having to back up the recording, and periodically take a few minutes to consider what's being said. I believe that providing transcripts would open up these ideas to many more people who could benefit greatly.

[@jdeighan]

great idea, probably wouldn't be hard to do either =)

[@yomilalgro]

I couldn't agree more!!!

[@cameron_ross]

PRO TIP: click on the "..." to the right of "Download" and select "show transcript." Bada bing, bada boom. How I've been taking notes of YT vids for years.

[@cameron_ross]

Also, as a side note, the HLP transcripts are probably the the best I've seen.

[@jdeighan]

​@@cameron_ross Ask a question, get it answered, bada bing bada BOOM! thx

[@michele.m.miller]

By far my best New Years gift ever!! My two favorite people that I ALWAYS learn from together! Both have independently changed my life, multiple times, as well as making me laugh while I learn! Priceless. It might be a long episode, but I did NOT want it to end and even cried at Andrew’s huge smile and his “again and again and again…”!. There is no one like either of you!! ❤

[@jfi_]

Same here! Have been looking forward to this for a long while :D

[@motostarmx1777]

Time to go to therapy i guess..good luck

[@tomwolfe7782]

​@@motostarmx1777 Being able to witness another receive a great compliment without resenting having witnessed it is but one sign of maturity. I implore that you consider the potential truth of this.

[@jmcoffin1]

Best Huberman podcast yet! Two great minds in an in-depth discussion on what I believe to be the most important topics to humanity. The one area that I felt Andrew was lacking in experience was so called “awakening”. Sam, IMHO, Is the best speaker on this subject. He is the superbly skilled at describing awakening in intellectual terms… extremely difficult because it is a process largely outside the bounds of the intellect. Andrew is the perfect interviewer for Sam. I feel he is Sams equal intellectually, yet genuinely open and deeply interested in broadening his understanding of a subject that often alienates intellectual types. I look forward to seeing where Andrew’s journey takes him going forward.

[@RossCampbellGuitarist]

As someone who has, for whatever reason, suddenly taken an interest in spiritualty and meditation, as well as the concept of free will after recently having read Sam's book, I'm finding that this is podcast is so immensely thought provoking to the degree that I struggle to follow the conversation without needing to take regular breaks to process each nugget. If I don't then I'll find myself ruminating and then realising 10-15 minutes of the podcast have gone by without me listening to any of it, the sounds of their voices just fade into the background as my thoughts on what was just said take the spotlight. Additionally, every time I feel as though I have wrapped my head around the idea, it slips away from me and I am thrown back into the thought loop where I'm chasing the nugget and its meaning once again. I've been listening to this podcast in chunks for a few days now and I feel like my brain is burning 100 calories per minute with each session.

[@sassk90]

You aren't alone :P

[@honeydew4084]

I heard of Sam Harris for several years, but I just started listening to him recently. While I do not agree with everything he says, I enjoy listening to his point of views. He makes me think deeply about my own existence and belief system. He is brilliant, insightful and articulate. I am glad to know that someone like Sam Harris exists in my life time.

[@ClaraBowInThisLight]

I look forward to WFH on Monday mornings just so I can listen to these gems. Absolutely incredible everytime. Since finding your podcast, I’ve fixed my sleep scheduling and started working out four times a week. Thank you for your interest in making the world a better place.

[@WheresBillie104]

A 4 hour video on how to focus…. Hmmm…. Is this a test?

[@arzoo_singh]

And I fail in this test .

[@benhudson4014]

Incongruity in motion

[@benhudson4014]

Any practice is NOT meditation!

[@Christopher-md7tf]

Focus is just one of the topics covered

[@forisma]

😂😂

[@Jamesgarethmorgan]

Well done Andrew for not interrupting almost at all and just letting Sam do his stuff. Thanks.

[@PoetlaureateNFDL]

Sam is always interesting on anyone’s podcast. 😊

[@collin6270]

I’ve had the Waking Up app for almost 2 years now. The $100/yr is 100% worth the value it provides.

[@HeliosEffect]

Coolest HubermanLab collaboration i have seen yet, big fan of Sam

[@robbiep742]

This might be the most impactful episode for me yet. I've been aware of Sam Harris for a long time, but always assumed he was a political personality and was unaware of his deep understanding of meditation. The perspective he is providing is opening my eyes beyond just - "meditate to improve focus". The lens of understanding consciousness is really powerful.

[@AssailantLF]

It's such a shame that people overlook this meditative/introspective side of Sam's work just because he has some strong and/or controversial political stances.

[@Obyvvatel]

Yeah, it's sad because he mostly is interested in neurology and free will and adjacent philosophical things yet most just hear the politics because it gets amplified the most.

[@robtcallahan]

I would suggest reading Sam’s book Waking Up.

[@RedIria]

Probably the most impaction guest I've ever seen hosted here. My own experience with meditation mirrors Sam's and I see him struggle to frame it over and over in this talk. In the end though, it's unframable, and escapes description. It's like trying to describe a difficult struggle up a mountain or the experience of your kids being born, you are left with the knowledge in your bones that you were a different person before and after those events but good luck describing them without feeling like no description does it justice. Sam struggles to do the description justice but language can only convey so much, which is both frustrating and beautiful.

[@dariacompati8070]

In the episode on meditation which was a few weeks ago you mentioned Waking up app, and I decided to give it a try and it became an essential part of every day of my life. It completely changed my understanding of meditation and evolved my practice to the level I couldn’t imagine was possible. That’s so different from everything I’ve been trying for the last few years, and it changed so many aspects of my life to the better. Thank you so much for mentioning this app and of course for having Sam Harris on your podcast!!

[@trinidiana]

Completely agree, it’s a brilliant app. I love Sam

[@cbmti1118]

Harris / Huberman was always a certainty for informative, entertaining, occasionally thrilling deep dive into the extraordinary nature of our brains

[@cbsutherland5174]

These just keep getting better .. both Huberman and Harris are contributing hugely useful understanding of the human condition .. I imagine enlightenment here directly maps to individual and social contentment

[@robertwhite2449]

What a fantastic talk. Love listening to everything both these guys discuss. When Sam mentioned the Vipassana experience this is exactly what I experienced when I did an intensive Vipassana retreat years ago - your whole concept of physical being just dissolves into a sea of ever changing sensations. It was both fascinating and terrifying for me. I did the retreat to cope with a chronic pain condition and it totally changed my relationship to the pain - I realised objectively the pain sensation itself wasn't what was ruining my life, but it was actually my subjective emotional hangups / internal chattet I associated with the pain ("why me", "it's never going to go away", " I hate it so much", it hurts so much", it's ruined my life", etc.) that was really the crux of my distress. Also, when I finished the retreat and tried to go back into the real world I experienced the significant ramping up of the visual / auditory / tactile perception frame rate these guys discussed, to the point where it was overwhelming and distressing for about a week until my perceptive frame rate normalised again

[@CRYP70N4U7]

THANK YOU so much Dr Huberman! Please, PLEEAAASSSE bring Sam Haris again on the subject of non-dual meditation.

[@Nocturne83]

Wow, I did not realize this podcast was this long. This will probably go on my top 10 podcast episodes of 2023, and it's only January 😅 I have been meditating for five years, the last two years daily, and I learned a lot from this. Will have to relisten with eyes closed to fully absorb the concepts discussed here 🙂

[@kokograpes]

What a treat to have both of you together !!! Best 2023 Gift ! Thank you Dr Andrew Huberman and Dr Sam Harris.

[@philippedefague3835]

Sam Harris isn't a doctor though.

[@Evanturar]

Philippe. PhD is the same doctorate degree Andrew has.

[@misslayer3340]

@Philippe De Fague well now that's how you're wrong. Actually Sam does have a PhD in neuroscience at Stanford in fact. He took the philosophy direction instead of becoming a research(lab) scientist like our dear Andrew.

[@LynnFishmanMeditation]

Awesome interview! Thank you to Sam and Andrew. I love the way Sam distills meditation and the buddhist philosophy from which mindfulness stems, in a practical clear way. For meditation practice to flourish, formal sitting and everyday life have to evolve into an integrated whole, supporting each other. This is what Sam talked about. The true challenge for most meditators is the ability to maintain the presence of mindfulness, regardless of what needs to be done. It's being able to stay present, open, relaxed, focused. I personally like to do a formal practice each day. It helps me set the tone for the rest of my waking hours.

[@birgerkung]

Thank you so much for what you are doing here and beyond Andrew! I've been loving this since It came my way about a year ago. I've been one of the early adopters of the Waking up app. Been showering myself with whatever content Sam puts out. Since a year back I've also follow this channel and been wishing silently for this conversation soooo much, and here it is! I thought I found my pole star in Sam but if there was one for the South, that would be Andrew. Thank you so much for what you are doing here Andrew! You strike a magic balance on so many ways; humility, honesty, clarity, forwardness, strength, compassion, and more. Just finished it and I will review it again next week. I'm lucky to be alive for this. Many thanks, Erik from Gothenburg Sweden.

[@wolfie1221]

It's my second day of meditation(yes, it's a new year thing) and mah boy drops this vid. We are so lucky to have these men in our lives.

[@ericdevere888]

Dr. Harris has given transformative perspectives related to philosophy. Dr. Huberman so eloquently conveys the biology and behaviors related to optimization. The balance I find between the two allows me to have the direct experience of effortless mindfulness and the ability to explain and teach it to students. I am very grateful for you both.

[@philippedefague3835]

Sam Harris is a total irrelevance with nothing of value to say. Do you really want mental calibration advice from a guy that torpedoed his own career and reputation and clings to the idea of being a "doctor" and a "scientist" despite him doing absolutely nothing to warrant this status?

[@ericdevere888]

@ThriceGreat its depth is subject to the mind reading it. Are they cognitively on a place to understand the concept. I find a lot of older texts in need of updating or translation -- Sam fills that need for me, and that's what I aim to do, as well.

[@kainaatkakkar9455]

Huberman asking the brightest wisest questions!!!!

[@AxOutdoors]

Excited to watch this. Putting effort into a consistent sleep schedule, sunlight in the morning, low light in the evening, a cold shower, waiting 90 minutes after waking up to drink coffee, getting exercise, not drinking, and doing short, simple meditations has made me feel like a new man

[@ladykate2602]

Do you mean not drinking alcohol?

[@hokiepokie]

Holy moly, I'm only half way through but already have a full page of notes that are truly impactful for me. I'll be returning to these notes regularly to make 2023 my best year yet. Thank you Andrew & your team and ofcourse Sam for this wondeful podcast!

[@Therevolution7]

D o share your notes as well!

[@Evanturar]

You might like subscribing to Sam Harris Making Sense podcast. This is essential Sam Harris and there’s much more available.

[@Brownkid422]

I reflexively sat down and watched this entire episode. That's the least I've ever had to consider how to spend so much time on a single KZbin video. You both are intellectual kings. I'd have loved to see some more controversial stuff but that's not the huberman lab wheelhouse, kudos to you both.

[@JoshuaRichardson123]

I can't believe we are talking about the affects of Dzogchen/Mahamudra etc on a major science channel like this, thank you both! I can add my subjective suffering is massively reduced when I do 'see' there is no self as Sam describes. To my complete surprise the feeling of me sometimes dissolves and in it's place love arises (sorry if this sounds hippy, it's just what happens). For anyone looking to know more about this approach I recommend Loch Kelly's book on audio 'shift into freedom', it has meditations in it (short) so I think is best as an audiobook. One other strange thing to note, in the non-dual approach often the effects 'linger', ie. the first time it worked for me the self did not come back online fully for 24 hours, and I felt more free, happier, present, in-flow etc.

[@JoshuaRichardson123]

It's worth noting other traditions recommend a level of mindfulness training first, so perhaps Sam's beginners course first is a good approach.

[@zaydevans2077]

I’d highly recommend loch too, his series on the waking up app (sams app) is fantastic but wouldn’t recommend it as a beginners jumping off point. I’d recommend doing the introduction to meditation first on waking up then jumping into some of loch’s work.

[@JoshuaRichardson123]

@@zaydevans2077 I concur, this is the best approach.

[@serengetilion]

Masterpiece!!!!!! This sit down, to spend 4 hours with these 2 is a dream come true, something many of us have been longing for....... finally is here. This is one of those that I'll come back to over and over again...

[@gabegabe5672]

Huberman is a gem. Am outstanding and necessary male role model we young men should all aspire to be!

[@HarryManback0]

Sam Harris is completely the opposite. A horrible role model for any man.

[@pernillakomolarasmussen783]

@@HarryManback0 I'm not familiar with Sam Harris, can you expand on why?

[@johnhayden6622]

A direct quote from Sam Harris: “Hunter Biden could literally have had the corpses of children in his basement…I would not have cared.” Harris has been so brainwashed by extreme left politics that he, nor any of his work, should ever be respected or taken seriously again.

[@Christopher-md7tf]

@@pernillakomolarasmussen783 The guy you're replying to is a right-wing troll, likely from 4chan. They carpet-bomb every single Sam Harris comment section because of his outspoken criticism of Trump. Just ignore everything they say, all they're trying to do is spin the narrative. Their comments almost always fall into two categories: 1. Something something Sam TDS 2. "I used to listen to Sam Harris all the time [lie], but since X happened, I really lost all respect for him/he lost all credibility"

[@Forrestarabian]

@@pernillakomolarasmussen783 maybe repeal the 19th?

[@CogSciEso]

I have been wishing for this interview to happen for the past year. I am ecstatic that it finally happened. Happy new year to me, and to the rest of the Huberman and Sam Harris admirers!🎉

[@rexfordhazelton7601]

This talk was literally one of the most interesting things I have ever experienced. I am in a good mood. The world is so damn interesting when I feel this way. But this particular topic and hearing these two thinkers talk is an absolute treat.

[@cytroyd]

1:16:22 This is gold. He is absolutely on point about the inner monologue in everyone. This is why I'm listening the whole thing again.

[@c.s.6687]

Me too!

[@LaNoireDetruit]

Wow. This was one of the best conversations, probably the best conversation, I had the fortune to hear. Thank you both. It gave me so many aha-moments - but in a way that felt like on a deeper level I already knew this and hearing it spoken like that just made me realize that I did.

[@mikeballew3207]

I've been waiting 104 episodes for this conversation. It was worth the wait.

[@jolfreire6948]

I have listened to this on and off for days, playing some bits back. So so good. Thank you both. The way you acknowledge each other at the end is beautiful.

[@podcastaddict2354]

This was a great episode. Every time sam speaks is with such eloquence, intention & meaning that its really worth listening to. Thanks Andrew

[@cassian4438]

I haven't gotten the chance to listen through this podcast however, I cannot thank Dr. Huberman and his guests enough. They provide an exponential amount of FREE information on what it means to be a healthier and better person. These tips have helped me drastically alter my lifestyle and I've become quite a bit more healthy. Thank you!

[@ingvankhinh7112]

Love sam.

[@amirprosper]

Sam Harris is the most center person you can find on any spectrum, be it political, ideological, medical or philosophical. He doesn't belong to any cult or wings. Amazing human being.

[@escorp991]

By far, one of the best conversations EVER! Take biology out, enter sub- and conscious mind thanks to Sam. Absolutely priceless! Hope for more

[@MarioJAyala]

Professor Andrew, please subtitle in Spanish. What the Dr. Sam says is always important. Thank you.

[@shader5410]

Beautiful thing that these 2 thinkers found each other and had the deepest conversation. I'm happy for the world.

[@joy24242]

Brilliant that Sam can articulate such complex thoughts

[@scavengertag]

I kept wanting to screen record clips to send to family/friends and then it just kept getting better. Sam has a way to take me on a journey with his precise language that really resonates. So much to think about (and I’m aware that I’m thinking!!)

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Four plus hours went by so fast. Incredible conversation, thank you both for this.

[@RushButter]

This is the best crossover episode ever. Been waiting for him to have Sam on his podcast.

[@mattbabb.]

Same here! Been dreaming of this for 2 years

[@zacksmith8763]

What do you mean crossover?

[@rafsanjani9207]

This is the best podcast ever. I have enjoyed every minute of it. Thanks Sam and Andrew.

[@nicholaskoenig3106]

Thank you for this 4.5hr piece of GOLD! Without Sam I would not have found meditation several yrs ago. Ive read all his books. Harris has an incredibly unique ability to explain things I have never understood. He's a true 'master of thought'.

[@jordanbeaudoin8425]

My anticipation for this one has been through the roof! Thank you both for your contributions to science, learning, and rationality.

[@SUPER8ALTERN8]

Harris rational?!?! guess you didnt hear his covid nonsense and trump derangement syndrome episodes

[@dave9547]

Sam and rationality.. good one.

[@DB-sd3cw]

You must have missed Sam's recent escapades if you think he's a contributer to rationality.

[@jordanbeaudoin8425]

@@DB-sd3cw You must have missed his books, podcast, and podcast appearances if you think he isn't.

[@jackhand4073]

​@Jordan Beaudoin they're trolls. Don't engage. They obviously don't follow Sam's work, else they wouldn't be posting easily checked bullshit.

[@victorb656]

LOVE this, love the show, but Boxing Helena is certainly NOT a David Lynch film. It's by his daughter, Jennifer.

[@bonmotze]

That really bothered me, thanks for pointing this important fact out

[@mikek.7126]

The most amazing thing to me in this conversation (aside from many wonderful insights they shared along the way with us), is the fact that it lasts for 4+ hours and you don't notice it. Like with the very good movie, though I wouldn't name a title that lasts that long and still wouldn't feel tedious. And the guest and the host enjoyed the conversation and look as fresh and show the same genuine interest in each other ideas at the end of podcast as they had in the beginning of it. Superb, thank you so much!

[@Ticky21]

I have been following Sam Harris' stuff for a long time now and I am a big fan. Whether I agree with him or not, I am always grateful for the opportunity to think about something new, reconsider something I thought I knew, or to have my assumptions challenged and potentially updated. This is the first Andrew Huberman video I have seen and he seems to be such a fantastic interviewer being so deeply engaged in the conversation. I knew going in that Andrew is a neuroscientist who is committed to public education and well-being and seeing him here really sold that to me. I will definitely be checking out the rest of the channel. I think I may have just become a fan.

[@RPGyourLIFE]

Just finished and this is probably my all time favorite podcast ever. Going to have to rewatch this several times. Thank you both!

[@michelleparent209]

So happy to hear this podcast! I love this podcast and recommend it to everyone. Learning to meditate and following it through to realization has been the best thing I have ever experienced. My inner critic is gone. My life flows. If I get sucked in and contracted, I can see it and let go back into equanimity. I think if I hadn’t followed this path, I may have been in a deep and dark place or maybe not even here. Thank you for speaking in depth about it. ❤

[@vikramrghanekar]

Thank you Andrew for getting Sam on your podcast. What a fascinating conversation. Absolutely loved it. The waking up app has been an invaluable tool in my journey to explore meditation. Huberman lab podcast is one of the best things to watch on You Tube. It is so much more fun than to just listen on my phone. It would be great if Making Sense was also on KZbin!

[@ZeroArmy03]

“We are selfing more than we are selves.” Great quote Sam.

[@GIGACHAD148]

Andrew seems to be committing to something a lot of us have asked:interviewing other Stanford people like Attia & Harris,& now he’s done both.❤Thank you lots Andrew. To the commenters,any other Stanford health guys he hasn’t interviewed yet you think are deserving?

[@dontbugme7362]

Peter Attila is a solid source. Sam Harris is a nutcase.

[@juliegardner5845]

A mom w/littles! HLP offers tons of high quality information but it would be nice to hear ways to apply the life skills when it comes to raising a growing family.

[@latinaalma1947]

Robert Sapolsky...primatologist,,expert on Bonobos....psychology/personality...if he has interviewed Dr. Sapolosky, I have not seen it...he is another first rate mind from Stanford. Sybil Francis PhD, clinical psychology professor

[@GroteBosaap]

@@latinaalma1947 kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqXQqKeghNSGj7c

[@bobbymath2813]

@@latinaalma1947 He has indeed interviewed Dr. Sapolsky! Haven’t heard it yet but based on the view count it seems like it was popular.

[@chikarahokage5536]

these guys are discussing subjects that are so hard to describe, but they are explaining it so well. As a long time meditator I would recommend experience some of the stuffs that these guys are talking about through serious meditation practice

[@AshFaran-de9qh]

Huberman radio show is an absolute masterpiece of intellectual stimulation and linguistic brilliance! Sam Harris ability to paint vivid pictures with his words, brushing out intricate concepts with magnificent vocabulary, is simply unparalleled. Harris effortlessly delves into the depths of consciousness, bringing it to life in the most colorful and engaging way possible. Listening to the Huberman Show is like embarking on a mesmerizing journey through the wonders of the mind, guided by a true wordsmith and thinker. If you're seeking enlightenment and inspiration, look no further than the captivating world of huberman show radio show!"

[@peakimages]

I could listen to this guy all day. Fascinating!!!

[@peakimages]

I have learned how to meditate in Fairfield, Iowa… a TM sort of meditation… to improve my golf game of all things. But this takes it much deeper for me.

[@sgathf]

You have no idea how long I have been wanting for this conversation to happen. Thank you.

[@susanjones5592]

Thank you. I’m listening to this episode because I respect Dr. Huberman. Also I try to remember individuals have a variety of dimensions. Contributions to improving human experience come from a place of good intentions. Respect to you both for focusing on that.

[@bronxkutya]

Thank you Andrew and Sam for this delight. Sam's explanation of meditation and , 'the self' and as if we are searching for this 'missing person', who doesn't actually know they're missing, until they are supposedly 'located', made so much sense to me. And after years of meditation, I completely agree that i too was on this search. Hearing this conversation has made me realise the reasons I still should be meditating. Mind altering conversation, thank you to you both 🙏

[@daedalusjones4228]

I'm an hour and 20 mins into this video. Don't know how I found it. Wasn't looking for anything like it. It's the most intelligent conversation -- or maybe the only intelligent conversation -- that I've ever seen online or on TV. Good stuff.

[@theemperor4901]

Holy Shit! You got Sam Harris on. What a start to this Year 🔥🎉

[@DaylonsEmporium]

Easily becoming one of my favorite podcasts. The tools presented have increased my quality of life greatly. Keep it up Andrew!

[@bhushankaduful]

Sam Harris is absolutely reciting Krishnamurti's work here. Although idk if credit is given down the discussion, may be that's how K preferred it as well. The teachings live on! I'm grateful!

[@daviddeida]

Not only jk,thousands who came b4 him.I much prefer UG Krishnamurti to be honest

[@bhushankaduful]

@@daviddeida why? I don't understand the man with his nihilistic criticism on everything. Seems more like a pathological approach to cope up. I mean, it begs the question when listening him, why you mad bro?

[@bhushankaduful]

Sorry if I seem rude and ignorant but I really don't know what I'm missing. He's a terrific person in as a teacher and enquirer.

[@justinrodriguez1133]

I have been listening to making sense for several years, and to this podcast for maybe a couple. They are both very useful in mostly different ways to me . I occasionally thought about these men having a conversation, but decided they would likely be on different pages. A couple hours in, I switched from Spotify to KZbin, and was pleased to watch the two minds make a connection. I have trouble with some of Sam's concepts on consciousness, though he makes it very accessible. But watching Andrew use his super brain to slowly break out of it's constraints, mentioning things like his love of animals was really great.

[@TristanMattox]

Strategically released on New Years - to inspire people to get on a meditation routine for the new year. Well played, much love.

[@Skyhighuv22]

Funny how these podcasts are progressively getting longer and longer - don't think a 90 minute Huberman podcast can be a thing 😄 All for it though. Thank you for consistently bringing us such rich and informative content, Andrew 🙏

[@frederick6650]

I listened to this episode on Spotify, but I had to come here to say that I'm so happy to learn that Dr. Huberman took a stand for the animals and decided to experiment strictly on consenting humans and will ne be experimenting nor supports animal lab testing. ROCK ON

[@genoh9632]

KZbin really must reintroduce star ranking. Giving this conversation merely a "like" does not feel enough. Heartfelt thank you and best wishes to both Andrew and Sam.

[@shader5410]

It's so crazy how much you learn listening to these guys.. truly refreshing & interesting to hear and also the things you hear are quite life changing.

[@calmeats-danielamodesto]

This was an unbelievable podcast episode. I've been meditating for years and somehow this conversation shifted everything I believed about it. Truly moving to the core. And it was the fastest 4+ hours of my life. I wish it could have been 8. And not surprisingly, I've also started using the Waking Up App too. Thank you for that!

[@anneis8319]

Same here 🙂🙏

[@PianoSkillBoy]

May I ask what your previous perception was? And what it has changed to?

[@calmeats-danielamodesto]

@@PianoSkillBoy Immediate benefits vs. all of the waking moments not formally meditating, where real mindfulness comes into play and is far more challenging to apply, yet is the only way to true freedom.

[@vikramrghanekar]

I have been using Waking Up for last 6 months. I can certainly vouch for it.

[@calmeats-danielamodesto]

@@vikramrghanekar Wonderful! I've been doing it for 10 days now and the app is a wealth of knowledge!

[@Mentesestoicas_]

The mental power of this 2 combined is more than 8000 easily.

[@dashkandhar]

almost after an year you got sam harris in the podcast still remember you telling in meditation podcast that one day you will have him on the show and here we are !! thank you for so much knowledge and information

[@oliroberts4802]

Mr Huberman, your philanthropic nature and valuable information have helped me alter my path from depression to hope. Just wanted you to know that you are succeeding in helping people cope with the world as it is presently. Thank you for your contribution sir.

[@misslayer3340]

You know he is a doctor right? Not a Mr.

[@WaddupBoi]

Loving the Joe Rogan-esque lengths man. If you haven't already heard of him, Daniel Ingram is a fantastic spokesperson for the pragmatic dharma movement (and self-proclaimed awakened being) that isn't so bogged down in tradition, technicalities in language etc. but results. He's was formerly an ER physician and now a part of the ERPC that's trying to work out the neurocircuitry of awakening, states of meditation etc. Would love to see you interview him!

[@trinidiana]

He and also Angelo Dilullp

[@psyfiles7351]

Absolutely wonderful please do again. Maybe every 4-6 months as Dr. Huberman dives deeper into mediation. His observations and dialogue with the great Sam Harris would be enlightening. Thank you so much

[@Richcor]

What a time to be alive!!! Thank you for such an amazing conversation and so much knowledge shared🙏

[@yashtrivedi2671]

sam clearly has a deep understanding of non dualism/core zen tenets and has translated them into life. props to Andrew for bringing him on and trying to contextualize the wisdom for his audience :)

[@boyardengels]

How epic to hear Sam speak in an interview as apposed to the daily Waking Up sessions!!!

[@LordRykard9376]

You should check out his interview on Triggernometry. His TDS is on full display.

[@reprogrammingmind]

opposed to apposed?

[@boyardengels]

@@reprogrammingmind Yes, very much so. My bad.

[@khalilcolgrove1906]

I’ve been listening to the Huberman podcast since the first episode came out. Not sure where I originally discovered Dr. Huberman, but when I did I was immediately hooked. At one point, it was almost an obsessive thought looking forward to Monday night where I could sit down and pour over that week’s podcast. Since then, I’ve become a less devout listener and follower but a much bigger fan. Dr. Huberman has gone from a professor who merely “professes things” and returned to his role as a learner and researcher. In the last year, Dr. Huberman has shared his vulnerable human experience even at the heights of academic and human success. He has shown great integrity by revealing that he too experiences the “illusion of being a rider” of consciousness. It’s clear that Dr. Harris is an incredibly intelligent and lucid individual, but I think Dr. Huberman has heightened even his contributions by juxtaposing it with the reality of being trapped by logical and illogical intellectual thought. He’s really coalesced everything we know about the brain, thereby highlighting the need to stop changing the brain but to observe it’s processes. His own active efforts across this entire podcast to reach this discussion have been an incredible guide to understanding how to observe the human experience. I feel so incredibly grateful to Dr. Huberman for sharing his own search and allowing us to learn from it as well.

[@bartekbartek7012]

Two great minds, two amazing conversationalists. Such a pleasure to listen to and sip from the well of knowledge. Big thanks to the whole team behind the podcast. The new space is great - no distractions, just people talking. The skill with which Dr. Huberman steers the conversation and encourages the guest to go deeper is perfect. All the best!