On this episode of Sacred Stream Radio Podcast, Laura Chandler welcomes renowned neurosurgeon and consciousness researcher Dr. Eben Alexander. After a profound near-death experience during a week-long coma, Dr. Alexander's understanding of the mind, brain, and the nature of reality was forever transformed. His bestselling memoir, Proof of Heaven, which chronicles that extraordinary journey beyond ordinary consciousness, spent 41 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list.

In this conversation, Laura and Dr. Alexander explore consciousness beyond the brain, the use of binaural tones and sound technologies to access altered states of awareness, and key insights from his book Living in a Mindful Universe. They also discuss the evolving relationship between science, spirituality, and human potential.

Dr. Alexander will be appearing at the San Diego Transcendence Retreat, September 18–20, alongside an inspiring lineup of speakers and workshop presenters. Learn more about Dr. Alexander at ebenalexander.com.

In the first episode of the Remembering Robert Thurman series, Laura Chandler reflects on the recent passing of Robert A.F. Thurman—renowned Buddhist scholar, bestselling author, educator, and one of the world's foremost interpreters of Tibetan Buddhism. A close friend, mentor, and longtime supporter of the Sacred Stream, Bob devoted his life to making the profound wisdom of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition accessible to modern audiences. He was the Jey Tsong Khapa Professor Emeritus of Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Studies at Columbia University, co-founder of Tibet House US, and a lifelong advocate for the preservation of Tibetan culture and the teachings of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.

Recorded during Bob's West Coast book tour for Man of Peace: The Illustrated Life Story of the Dalai Lama of Tibet, this candid conversation took place in the car on the way to a talk at Google. Filled with his trademark humor, brilliant storytelling, and unwavering devotion to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the interview offers a rare glimpse into the warmth, brilliance, and infectious joy that made Bob such an extraordinary teacher and cherished friend.

This episode also honors the contributions of composer Dan Walters and legendary recording engineer Jesse Osborne, whose artistry helped bring this conversation to life. Join us as we celebrate the life, legacy, laughter, and enduring wisdom of Robert A.F. Thurman.

To learn more about Robert Thurman and his work, visit bobthurman.com, Tibet House US (thus.org), and Menla Retreat (menla.org).

On this episode, Laura speaks with author and activist Deborah Santana about her new memoir, Loving the Fire: Choosing Me, Finding Freedom—a story of awakening, courage, and the transformative power of finding one's voice.

Deborah shares the arc of her life from growing up as the daughter of pioneering interracial parents to her years alongside legendary musician Carlos Santana. While she embraced many roles—partner, mother, and supporter—this conversation centers on the pivotal moment when she chose to step forward fully as herself, reclaiming her voice and redefining her purpose.

At the heart of this episode is Deborah's commitment to uplifting others, particularly women and BIPOC communities. She speaks about how her personal awakening led her into meaningful, impact-driven work—from co-founding Do A Little to supporting education initiatives like Daraja Academy and contributing to cultural preservation through the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Her journey illustrates how finding one's voice is not only a personal liberation, but a pathway to collective empowerment.

Grounded in stories of resilience, heritage, and spiritual growth, Deborah's story is a call to anyone ready to move beyond old roles, speak their truth, and engage in work that uplifts and transforms lives—starting with their own.

To learn more about Deborah, visit deborahsantana.com.