Beyond 80%

Ep. 1: Mapping the Mystery: Researching Near Death Experiences with Dr. Marieta Pehlivanova

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Beyond 80% Near Death Experience mini-series, host Ryan Olexson interviews Dr. Marieta Pehlivanova, a research assistant professor at the University of Virginia's Division of Perceptual Studies. They delve into the scientific exploration of near-death experiences (NDEs), past life memories, and after-death communications. With insights from both research and personal accounts, Dr. Pehlivanova discusses the transformative impact of these experiences, the intellectual humility required in studying them, and their potential implications on our understanding of life, death, and consciousness.

Episode Notes

In the premiere episode of 'Beyond 80% Near Death Experience mini-series,’ host Ryan Olexson discusses the mysteries of consciousness, near-death experiences (NDEs), and reincarnation with Dr. Marieta Pehlivanova from the University of Virginia's Division of Perceptual Studies. Dr. Pehlivanova shares her journey into this esoteric field, the transformative power of NDEs, and the necessity of studying these phenomena with scientific rigor. The discussion delves into the universality of NDEs across cultures, the integration of psychedelic experiences, and compelling cases of children recalling past lives. Whether viewed through the lens of science or spirituality, these conversations challenge our understanding of life, death, and what lies beyond.

Dr. Marieta Pehlivanova is a research assistant professor at the University of Virginia’s Division of Perceptual Studies, where she investigates near-death experiences, after-death communications, and past-life memories in children. Trained in both psychology and consciousness studies, her work bridges rigorous scientific inquiry with some of the most profound questions about human existence. Dr. Pehlivanova is known for approaching anomalous experiences with intellectual humility, emphasizing cross-cultural research and careful empirical methods, while exploring the possibility that consciousness may extend beyond physical life.