Blocks w/ Neal Brennan Sam Harris
54 snips
Mar 19, 2026 
Sam Harris, philosopher of mind and neuroscientist known for Making Sense and Waking Up. He talks about meditation and spiritual charisma, including retreats and skeptical views on psychic claims. He explores balancing contemplative practice with political engagement, social media’s harms, Trumpism and leftist hypocrisy, plus reflections on family and writing ambitions.
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Growing Up With Susan Harris And The Pool Decision
- Sam Harris grew up with single mom Susan Harris, who wrote and created major sitcoms like Soap and Golden Girls, and rose from poverty to wealth by writing scripts.
- He remembers choosing a better life (telling his mom to get the pool) and many solo travel adventures with her that shaped his upbringing.
Take Kids On Brave Solo Travel To Broaden Perspective
- Sam emphasizes travel with caregivers can broaden a child's outlook; his mother took him abroad repeatedly when he was young.
- Use formative travel early if possible to expose kids to unfamiliar cultures and resilience.
MDMA Sparked A Lifelong Meditation Path
- A single MDMA session at Stanford produced a sudden noncompetitive loving-kindness experience that convinced Sam to pursue meditation seriously.
- That led him to Ram Dass, a summer retreat, and subsequent long silent retreats with Tibetan and Burmese teachers.
