The Art Bell Archive

Dr. Raymond Moody, the world's foremost expert on near-death experiences, explores the profound mysteries of what happens when we die. Art Bell welcomes the pioneering researcher who coined the term "NDE" and has spent decades documenting the remarkable consistency of near-death experiences across cultures and belief systems. Dr. Moody discusses the typical elements of NDEs, from the tunnel of light to life reviews and encounters with deceased loved ones, examining what percentage of people who experience clinical death actually report these phenomena. The conversation delves into the most fascinating cases from his extensive research, exploring whether these experiences represent glimpses of an afterlife or something else entirely. This episode offers compelling insights into one of humanity's greatest mysteries and the scientific study of consciousness beyond physical death.

What connections exist between voices from the dead and humanity's approaching apocalypse? Remote viewing expert Major Ed Dames applies his controversial psychic espionage techniques to analyze Electronic Voice Phenomena, revealing startling conclusions about the source of these mysterious recordings. Dames suggests that EVP communications may originate from future timeline echoes or dimensional bleed-through rather than traditional spirits of the deceased. He discusses his latest remote viewing sessions predicting catastrophic events, including massive seismic activity and potential civilization-ending scenarios that he calls "the killshot." The Major explains how his team uses controlled remote viewing to investigate the origins of the child's voice featured in previous EVP recordings, uncovering disturbing implications about the nature of consciousness and temporal mechanics. Dames argues that these phenomena represent warnings about humanity's trajectory toward self-destruction, whether through environmental collapse, technological disasters, or cosmic events beyond our control. His combination of military-grade remote viewing and paranormal investigation creates a uniquely ominous perspective on both spirit communication and human survival.

How will molecular engineering reshape human civilization within the next decade? Nanotechnology expert Charles Ostman reveals that this revolutionary science has already moved from science fiction to commercial reality, with over 1,000 companies producing nanoscale materials and devices. From paint that generates electricity for your home to microscopic machines that could repair human arteries, nanotechnology promises to transform everything from medicine to military applications. Ostman discusses nano-enhanced solar cells, carbon nanotubes stronger than steel, and biological systems that could manufacture materials at the molecular level. However, the technology also raises terrifying possibilities: self-replicating nanomachines could theoretically consume all organic matter on Earth, while nanobiological weapons might target specific genetic populations. The race between beneficial applications and potentially catastrophic misuse has already begun, with classified military research advancing faster than public oversight can follow. Ostman warns that nanotechnology represents humanity's next great leap forward or potentially its final mistake, depending on how wisely we navigate this unprecedented power over matter itself.

Can electronic devices actually capture conversations with the deceased? Ghost Investigators Society members Brendan Cook and Barbara McBeath present their most disturbing Electronic Voice Phenomena recordings, including chilling messages from what appear to be spirits trapped in mental hospitals and crime scenes. Their evidence includes the voice of a drowning child saying "I can't breathe," threatening messages like "I will kill you bastards," and conversations that seem to respond directly to questions posed by the living. The team explains their recording techniques, the different types of spirit voices they encounter, and why these communications often occur in locations associated with trauma or violent death. Some EVPs feature multiple distinct voices, including children and adults speaking in different languages or dialects. The researchers discuss the international scope of EVP work, particularly advances in Germany, and the emotional toll of capturing these often disturbing messages from beyond. Their findings suggest consciousness survives bodily death and desperately seeks communication with the living world.

Is America heading toward an energy apocalypse that will destroy our way of life? Art Bell presents a sobering analysis of peak oil theory, warning that global petroleum production may have already reached its maximum output, triggering an irreversible decline that threatens industrial civilization itself. Open lines reveal passionate debates about whether the energy crisis is real or manufactured, with callers arguing about OPEC manipulation, hidden oil reserves, and corporate conspiracy theories. The program examines everything from the collapse of suburbia to regional survival strategies, as rising fuel costs make long commutes economically impossible. Discussions range from alternative energy solutions and hydrogen fuel cells to the geopolitical implications of resource wars over dwindling supplies. Some callers dismiss peak oil as propaganda, while others prepare for societal breakdown. The fundamental question becomes whether America would go to war to secure energy resources, and how quickly our modern lifestyle could unravel when cheap oil disappears forever.

What drives the world's most notorious hacker to break into virtually any computer system on Earth? Kevin Mitnick, once hunted by the FBI as a cybercriminal, reveals the psychological addiction behind his legendary exploits and the current state of digital security that should terrify every internet user. From his early days phone phreaking to infiltrating major corporations, Mitnick explains how social engineering often proves more effective than technical attacks. He discusses the shocking vulnerabilities in everyday software like Internet Explorer, the ease of identity theft through electronic means, and why even security professionals were once hackers themselves. Mitnick shares real stories of wireless network penetration, corporate espionage, and the cat-and-mouse games that define modern cybersecurity. His transformation from digital outlaw to legitimate security consultant offers unique insights into protecting personal data in an increasingly connected world. The sobering reality: if Mitnick wanted your information, he could probably get it.

Are we living through Earth's sixth mass extinction event right now? Paleontologist Peter Ward presents his chilling analysis of how rapid climate change triggers species die-offs on a planetary scale, warning that our current trajectory mirrors the conditions that caused previous mass extinctions. His research reveals that rising temperatures and carbon dioxide levels create hydrogen sulfide poisoning in the oceans, turning life-sustaining waters into toxic death zones. Ward argues that we're already witnessing the early stages of this process, with accelerating species loss that could ultimately include humanity itself. From the Permian extinction that killed 95% of all life to the patterns emerging today, he explains why global warming represents an existential threat unlike any in human history. The terrifying truth is that Earth has experienced these catastrophic climate shifts before, and the geological record shows they happen faster than complex life can adapt. Time is running out to prevent the next great dying.

What if humanity has been infiltrated by an alien species for millennia? Mythologist John Lash presents the stunning Gnostic teachings about Archons, described in ancient texts as artificial beings created from premature cosmic plasma who have manipulated human consciousness since before recorded history. These entities allegedly cannot reproduce with humans but instead implant delusional beliefs, particularly the messianic complex central to Judaism and Christianity. Lash argues that modern alien abduction reports match precisely the Gnostic descriptions of Archonic encounters, suggesting these experiences represent ongoing interference by the same inorganic beings. Drawing from the Nag Hammadi library and other suppressed texts, he reveals how these cosmic predators simulate human experiences they cannot truly understand. The Gnostics viewed Earth as a living being under assault, with humanity caught between our divine potential and these parasitic forces. This forbidden knowledge challenges the foundations of Western religion while offering startling explanations for humanity's perpetual conflicts.

Could your pet's behavior predict the next devastating earthquake? Seismologist Jim Berkland reveals his controversial methods for forecasting major quakes using animal behavior, magnetic field fluctuations, and tidal forces that mainstream science refuses to acknowledge. With thousands of recent earthquakes rattling the Pacific Northwest and unusual volcanic activity worldwide, Berkland explains why conventional earthquake prediction has failed so catastrophically. He discusses the connection between solar flares and seismic events, the cover-up of true casualty numbers from historical disasters, and how Princeton's consciousness experiments might relate to geological upheavals. From the 1906 San Francisco quake's hidden death toll to modern-day patterns emerging in missing pet reports, Berkland demonstrates how bureaucratic resistance has prevented life-saving earthquake warnings. His track record of successful predictions challenges everything the scientific establishment claims about the unpredictability of Earth's most destructive forces.

Can the human soul actually split in two after death? Peter Novak presents his revolutionary Binary Soul Doctrine, proposing that consciousness divides into unconscious spirit and conscious soul at the moment of death, explaining everything from reincarnation to ghostly encounters. Before diving into this metaphysical territory, Willie Nelson joins the program to discuss his pioneering work with biodiesel fuel, demonstrating how vegetable oil can power vehicles while reducing environmental impact. Novak's theory suggests this soul division influences political polarization, religious conflicts, and even alien abduction reports. Drawing from ancient Gnostic texts and modern near-death experiences, he argues that understanding our binary nature could revolutionize how we perceive consciousness, afterlife communication, and human psychology. This exploration challenges conventional beliefs about death, offering a startling new framework for understanding the eternal mysteries of human existence.

What happens when private enterprise races ahead of government space programs? Space historian Robert Zimmerman explores the dramatic transformation occurring in America's quest to return to space. While NASA struggles with bureaucratic timidity and safety concerns that threaten to ground the shuttle program permanently, private companies are developing revolutionary spacecraft at breakneck speed. Zimmerman reveals how ventures like SpaceShipOne are pioneering commercial space travel, potentially making NASA's expensive programs obsolete by 2010. From the Crew Exploration Vehicle competition to the future of the International Space Station, this discussion exposes the internal battles, budget crises, and technological breakthroughs reshaping humanity's journey beyond Earth. The cosmic irony becomes clear: while NASA aims for the moon, private companies may wave goodbye as they pass them en route to the stars.

Are 9/11 conspiracy theories dangerous myths or legitimate questions about official explanations? Ben Chertoff, research editor for Popular Mechanics magazine and distant cousin of Michael Chertoff, joins Art for an explosive discussion about their investigation into 9/11 conspiracy claims. This highly contentious program examines Popular Mechanics' systematic debunking of alternative theories about the World Trade Center collapse, Pentagon attack, and Flight 93 crash. Chertoff presents the magazine's research methodology and findings while addressing criticism from conspiracy theorists who question his family connections and motivations. The heated conversation explores structural engineering evidence, aviation mechanics, government response protocols, and witness testimonies that both support and challenge official narratives. Art acknowledges the program will be "extremely contentious" as he prepares to read listener emails that demonstrate the passionate divide on this subject. The discussion becomes a battleground between official explanations and alternative theories, with Chertoff defending mainstream scientific analysis against claims of government coverup. This confrontational examination reveals the deep skepticism many Americans harbor about official accounts of national tragedies.

What happens when a government disinformation specialist confesses to planting UFO myths? Greg Bishop, publisher of "The Excluded Middle" and author of "Project Beta," reveals the disturbing story of Paul Bennewitz and how intelligence agencies deliberately created modern UFO mythology. Bishop exposes how the Air Force and Defense Intelligence Agency systematically dispensed disinformation to UFO researchers, turning genuine investigations into elaborate deception operations. The discussion examines specific disinformation techniques, training programs for government agents, and how officials manipulated public perception about extraterrestrial phenomena. Bishop details how disinformation campaigns work against anyone with sensitive information, not just UFO witnesses, revealing a broader pattern of intelligence manipulation. The conversation explores whether UFO researchers have been unwitting participants in government psychological operations designed to discredit legitimate investigations while covering up classified military projects. This expose demonstrates how easily disinformation can create lasting myths that serve official purposes while leading researchers down carefully constructed false paths, raising questions about what other subjects might be similarly manipulated.

Could nanotechnology become humanity's greatest achievement or our final mistake? Leading nanotechnology journalist Douglas Mulhall explores the revolutionary potential and terrifying dangers of molecular-scale engineering. Mulhall examines how nanotechnology enables the creation of devices smaller, more powerful, and more efficient than ever imagined, with applications spanning medicine, computing, and materials science. The discussion delves into the darker possibilities, including the nightmare scenario of "gray goo" where self-replicating nanobots consume all matter on Earth. Art and Mulhall explore ethical concerns about nanotechnology's rapid development outpacing our ability to understand its implications, much like nuclear technology in previous decades. They discuss potential weaponization of nanotechnology, from nanoneedles that could manipulate individual atoms to molecular machines capable of rewriting biological systems. The conversation addresses how nanotechnology investment is accelerating despite inadequate safety protocols and regulatory frameworks. This technological examination reveals how we stand at a crossroads where our greatest scientific breakthrough could either solve humanity's problems or create unprecedented existential threats.

Can the human mind truly see across vast distances without any physical connection? Physicist Russell Targ, co-founder of the government's remote viewing program at Stanford Research Institute, reveals the scientific investigation into psychic abilities that operated for decades within U.S. intelligence agencies. Targ, author of six books on psychic research and current ESP investigator in Palo Alto, discusses how remote viewing was developed and tested under controlled laboratory conditions during the 1970s and 80s. The conversation explores the Fort Meade remote viewing program, training methods for developing psychic abilities, and documented cases where remote viewers successfully described distant locations and events. Targ addresses skepticism by presenting scientific protocols used to validate results and eliminate fraud or chance. He explains how remote viewing differs from other psychic phenomena and why intelligence agencies invested millions in psychic espionage programs. This exploration of consciousness and perception challenges materialist assumptions about the nature of mind and its ability to transcend physical limitations through focused intention and training.

What connects UFO coverups with the psychology of poker champions? Art presents an unusual double feature beginning with UFO researcher Timothy Good discussing government secrecy and disclosure ahead of ABC's major UFO special. Good examines decades of official coverups, witness testimonies, and the ongoing effort to keep UFO evidence from public scrutiny. The program then shifts to 2003 World Series of Poker champion Chris Moneymaker, the Tennessee accountant who transformed a $40 entry fee into $2.5 million and sparked poker's television revolution. Moneymaker discusses the explosion of poker popularity driven by televised tournaments where viewers can see players' cards, creating the "purest form of reality TV." He explains poker psychology, reading tells, strategic aggression, and how knowing your opponent's mental state becomes the ultimate advantage. This eclectic combination reflects Art's philosophy that the program covers whatever strikes his interest, from extraterrestrial mysteries to human psychology and the art of deception in high-stakes competition.

What happens when Art opens a special phone line exclusively for people who have made pacts with the devil? This remarkable open lines program features an unusual twist inspired by the late Father Malachi Martin's claims that many people have entered into supernatural agreements. Art dedicates one phone line specifically for callers willing to discuss their deals with dark forces, asking how they came to make such pacts and how those arrangements are working out. The evening unfolds with callers sharing extraordinary personal accounts of supernatural encounters, unexplained phenomena, and mysterious experiences that defy conventional explanation. From paranormal encounters to strange coincidences, the conversations explore the intersection of faith, supernatural beliefs, and modern life. This unique format allows listeners to hear firsthand testimonies about experiences most people would never discuss publicly. The program demonstrates Art's willingness to explore the most controversial and taboo subjects while maintaining respect for callers' deeply personal spiritual experiences.

Is the universe losing control of itself and racing toward an inevitable end? Science Magazine writer Charles Seife, author of "Zero" and "Alpha and Omega," explores cutting-edge cosmological theories about the universe's ultimate fate. Seife explains how recent discoveries about dark energy have revolutionized our understanding of cosmic expansion, revealing that the universe is not just expanding but accelerating at an alarming rate. The discussion examines two possible endings: the Big Crunch, where expansion eventually reverses and everything collapses back together, or heat death, where expansion continues until nothing but radiation remains. Seife delves into extra dimensions, parallel universes, and the concept of infinite space that could "break your brain" if contemplated too deeply. The conversation addresses how Edwin Hubble's 1920s discoveries about cosmic expansion laid the groundwork for our current understanding, while modern observations suggest we may be witnessing the universe literally "losing it" as dark energy tears apart the very fabric of space-time.

Are the ancient giants mentioned in biblical texts connected to the builders of the pyramids? Dublin-born author Patrick Heron presents his theory that the Nephilim, fallen angels described in the Old Testament, were responsible for constructing the pyramids and other ancient megalithic structures. Heron, whose book "Apocalypse Soon" became a bestseller in Ireland, explores the Hebrew word "Nephilim" derived from "nephal" meaning "to fall," and traces these beings through biblical texts and archaeological evidence. He discusses how these spirit beings allegedly produced hybrid offspring with humans, creating a race of giants whose influence shaped ancient civilizations. The conversation delves into prophetic texts suggesting these entities will return during end times, creating what Heron calls "the shadows of the apocalypse" that he believes are already manifesting in current world events. This biblical archaeology examination offers a supernatural explanation for humanity's most enduring construction mysteries.

Could someone be manipulating the weather on a global scale? Meteorologist Scott Stevens, who studied at the University of Kansas, presents compelling evidence that weather control technology may already be in operation. Stevens examines unusual weather patterns, atmospheric anomalies, and meteorological data that suggest natural weather systems are being artificially influenced or directed. Through his professional analysis of weather systems and forecasting experience, he identifies signatures in storm patterns that appear inconsistent with natural meteorological processes. The discussion explores the technology behind weather modification, the potential players involved in such operations, and the implications for agriculture, economics, and national security. Stevens connects his observations to broader geopolitical strategies and questions whether recent extreme weather events might be the result of undisclosed weather warfare capabilities. This examination challenges listeners to consider whether the atmosphere itself has become a battlefield in modern conflicts.