Art Bell begins his program by expressing gratitude to his team, including sound engineers, webmasters, and producers, emphasizing their contribution to the show. Art then shifts to discussing current events, notably the discovery of aircraft debris in the Indian Ocean, believed to be from the missing flight MH370. He speculates that authorities are finalizing protocols for family notification and identification of the debris.
Art connects this news to a previous show about unacknowledged special access programs (USAPs) in the US government, citing these as highly secretive black projects. He references Edward Snowden’s 2013 leak, revealing the existence of such programs and their significant budget, highlighting the vast resources allocated to operations concealed from public oversight.
The conversation then takes a turn to explore the phenomenon of encounters with the deceased, mentioning a study that found a majority of reported apparitions were male, often with a history of violent death. This pattern mirrors findings in reincarnation studies.
Art delves into the story of Cecil the Lion, expressing deep sadness over the animal’s death, caused by a dentist who allegedly lured Cecil out of a wildlife preserve. The incident provoked significant public outrage and led to the dentist going into hiding. Art reflects on the emotional impact of this event, connecting it to his personal loss of a pet and the broader issue of animal rights.
Art Bell passionately discusses the “cube,” a peculiar object that has captured his interest. He expresses frustration that his webmaster removed the cube’s image from the website, believing Art was done discussing it. Emphasizing the importance of the cube, Art urges his listeners to visit the website and view the photographs, which were taken by multiple people, underlining the object’s authenticity.
Art critiques the UFO community for dismissing the cube due to its unconventional shape. He argues that expecting UFOs to always resemble flying saucers is narrow-minded and potentially egocentric. He suggests that UFOs could have various forms, including cubes, and that dismissing them based on preconceived notions is a mistake.
Art then introduces his guest for the evening, Preston Dennett, who has been investigating UFOs and paranormal phenomena since 1986. Dennett, known for his extensive research and numerous publications, has been involved in various roles, including as a field investigator for the Mutual UFO Network and a ghost hunter. He has written 17 books and over 100 articles on these subjects, and his work has been featured in various media outlets.
The conversation is set to focus on out-of-body experiences and possibly ghosts, but Art intends to start with a discussion about the cube. When Dennett joins, they discuss the unconventional appearance of the cube. Dennett acknowledges that while the cube doesn’t fit the typical UFO description, it should not be disregarded. They explore the idea that extraterrestrial beings might have a completely different perspective on design and technology, leading to a variety of UFO shapes beyond the classic saucer.
Art Bell and his guest, Preston Dennett, delve deeper into the discussion about the mysterious “cube.” They speculate on its interdimensional nature, suggesting it could be materializing into our physical space. Dennett underscores the sincerity of witnesses who captured the cube from different angles, reinforcing the idea that it’s not a fake photograph. They ponder the notion that extraterrestrial propulsion methods might be vastly different from our understanding, and the cube’s appearance could reflect this.
The conversation shifts to out-of-body experiences (OBEs), with Art recounting a personal experience he had in Paris. He describes it as a sudden transition to an overwhelmingly joyous and welcoming place, which startled him back to reality. Preston elaborates on the concept of OBEs, explaining that it involves perceiving oneself separate from the physical body and is linked to our ‘astral body’ or ‘dream body’. He touches on the idea of a ‘source’ from where we originate, encompassing concepts of God, spirit, and universal light prevalent in various cultures.
Art introduces a thought-provoking perspective from his friend, John Lear, who warns against going towards the light at death, suggesting it’s a trap. This leads to a discussion about the afterlife, with Dennett affirming the positive nature of the light reported in near-death experiences. They discuss the importance of making a conscious choice at death, with Art expressing concern about the irreversible nature of this decision.
The topic transitions to the fate of those who don’t move towards the light, like ghosts stuck on the physical plane. Dennett agrees with Art’s earlier mention of a study from Iceland about people who died violently, suggesting there are different levels of vibration in the afterlife. Higher vibrations lead to more beautiful realms, while lower vibrations associated with negative emotions can impede this transition.
Art Bell continues his conversation with Preston Dennett about out-of-body experiences (OBEs). Dennett explains that OBEs often involve intense emotions and sensations, such as joy, terror, or even lust. He describes the astral plane as a place where thought has immense power, allowing one to manifest desires instantaneously.
Art shares his own profound OBE, emphasizing its unforgettable nature. They discuss common precursors to OBEs, such as feeling paralyzed and hearing buzzing sounds, which Dennett explains as the vibratory state indicating readiness to transition to a higher dimension. Art expresses his fear of transcending this state, to which Dennett responds that there is no physical harm in OBEs, but overcoming the fear barrier is essential.
The discussion then turns to the nature of the soul in relation to OBEs. Dennett believes that during an OBE, one doesn’t necessarily leave the body with their soul; rather, it’s more about awakening to a larger part of oneself. He touches on the concept of bilocation, the ability to be in two places at once, and confirms his belief in the existence of souls.
Dennett shares his experiences of flying and walking through walls in the astral plane, describing the sensations of passing through different materials like brick, wood, and glass. He emphasizes the realness of these experiences, noting the distinct textures and resistance felt when moving through various substances.
Art Bell and Preston Dennett continue discussing out-of-body experiences (OBEs), focusing on the challenges and sensations involved. Dennett describes the initial stages of an OBE, where individuals often struggle with orientation and controlling their movements. He recounts an experience of flying through doors and landing in a stairwell, only to become stuck and abruptly return to his body.
Dennett addresses Art’s concerns about the dangers of OBEs, explaining that the risks are often overstated. He emphasizes that a person’s ‘silver cord’ ensures they cannot get permanently lost or locked out of their body, as it pulls them back in response to fear or intense emotion. This idea resonates with Art, aligning with his conversations with others who have had similar experiences.
They delve into the topic of whether the soul leaves the body during an OBE. Dennett is unsure if it’s the soul per se but describes it more as an awakening to a larger part of oneself. He talks about his attempts to affect the physical world during OBEs, such as moving objects, which he hasn’t succeeded in doing. However, he has verified his OBE experiences by visiting real-world locations he hadn’t been to before and confirming their appearance later.
Art raises the question of whether some ghost sightings might actually be people in an OBE state. Dennett believes this is a strong possibility, though he notes it’s not as common as one might think. He shares his own attempts to make himself visible to others during OBEs without success.
The segment concludes with Art pondering the auditory aspect of OBEs, to which Dennett responds that communication on the ‘other side’ is primarily telepathic, though music can be heard.
Art and Preston Dennett continue their deep dive into the phenomena of out-of-body experiences (OBEs). Dennett shares a story about meeting an ‘enlightened master’ during an OBE, who imparted a cryptic message to him. He reflects on the frequency of his OBEs, estimating them to be in the thousands.
Dennett then addresses the accessibility of OBEs, stating that there are no special qualifications needed other than a desire and open-mindedness to the experience. He dispels common fears about OBEs, reassuring that there are no significant dangers like getting lost or possessed, as the silver cord always ensures a safe return to the body.
Art raises a thought-provoking question about the possibility of the silver cord snapping, leading to death during sleep. Dennett acknowledges one outlier case but emphasizes that such occurrences are statistically insignificant compared to the numerous cases where people safely return from OBEs. He also discusses cases where people have reportedly healed physical illnesses through OBEs, citing an example of someone curing sarcoidosis.
The conversation turns to the existence of healing temples in the astral plane. Dennett recounts his own experience of visiting such a place, describing it as crossing a barrier and entering what he calls the ‘heavenly realms.’ He encourages listeners that anyone can attempt this journey to seek healing or simply explore these realms.
Art, intrigued by the discussion, wonders if experiencing these astral realms could bolster his own spiritual beliefs. Dennett suggests that anyone can explore OBEs, and the experience could potentially offer profound insights or even physical healing.
Dennett explains that about half of his OBEs begin with him already on the ‘other side,’ where he experiences a heightened reality with more vivid colors compared to the physical world. He acknowledges the fear associated with the sensations preceding an OBE, such as loud noises and paralysis, but assures that the benefits far outweigh these initial fears.
Dennett shares his experiences of exploring past lives during OBEs, recounting instances where he saw himself as a Native American and a sailor. He emphasizes that these explorations often lead to important self-discoveries. Art is intrigued by Dennett’s ability to learn about his past lives and his suggestion to connect with loved ones who have passed away to facilitate OBEs. Dennett encourages listeners to overcome their fears and attempt OBEs, suggesting a ‘love bridge’ to the other side by focusing on a deceased loved one.
Art expresses his skepticism and difficulty in overcoming the fear barrier associated with the initial stages of OBEs. He likens OBEs to a learning experience, where each subsequent attempt becomes easier. Dennett agrees, sharing that despite his extensive experience, he still encounters spontaneous vibrations signaling an OBE.
Discussing the potential dangers of OBEs, Dennett reassures listeners that the risks are minimal. However, he does mention encountering hostile ghosts, which Art finds unsettling. Dennett explains that in such situations, he instinctively returns to his body for safety.
Dennett describes the transition to OBEs as happening in the gray area between consciousness and sleep, where unusual thoughts and sensations occur. He emphasizes that despite some initial fears and strange sensations, the experiences are profoundly rewarding.
Art expresses concern about the dangers of OBEs, particularly the fear of encountering hostile entities. Dennett shares a personal experience where he felt a creature grab his ankle during an OBE, which he managed to fend off. He reassures Art that while such encounters can be unsettling, they are rare, and the overall benefits of OBEs far outweigh these occasional discomforts.
Dennett further explains that during OBEs, one can interact with other entities and even engage in physical-like actions, despite being in a non-physical state. He shares another eerie experience of encountering hostile men during an OBE, speculating that they might have been spirits of violent individuals.
The discussion takes a more profound turn as Dennett recounts an experience where he helped a lost soul of a young girl. He describes guiding her to the ‘heavenly realms,’ emphasizing the potential of OBEs for spiritual and altruistic purposes.
Art, initially enthusiastic about trying OBEs, becomes hesitant again after hearing about these potentially frightening encounters. Dennett suggests that one reason people become ghosts is a deep skepticism about life after death, leading them to remain stuck in the physical realm.
Dennett explains that many ghosts may not realize they are dead, and others remain attached to earthly desires or feel guilt about leaving. He shares that people can create their own comfortable spaces in the astral realm, similar to their homes on Earth, but even more spectacular since they can be formed by thought alone.
Dennett recounts how his interest in OBEs and the paranormal began after his mother’s death when he was 19. He initially didn’t believe in such phenomena, but after experiencing powerful dreams about his mother, he started exploring lucid dreaming and eventually OBEs. This personal journey transformed his life and his understanding of reality.
Art questions how Dennett distinguishes OBEs from dreams. Dennett explains that seeing one’s own physical body during an OBE is a profound and convincing experience, unlike anything in a normal dream. He emphasizes that the awareness and vividness during an OBE are unmistakable.
The conversation shifts to the potential dangers of OBEs. While Dennett acknowledges encountering hostile entities and unusual experiences, he reassures that the actual risk of harm is minimal. Art, however, remains concerned about the possibility of not being able to return to the physical body, referencing cases of people dying in their sleep.
Dennett admits that while it’s impossible to be certain, the experiences and teachings from OBEs suggest that such risks are highly unlikely. He maintains that the benefits and insights gained from OBEs far outweigh the potential fears or negative experiences.
Dennett explains that to achieve an OBE, one needs to relax deeply, reaching a point where physical sensations transform into vibrations. These vibrations can be accompanied by various noises, but they signify the onset of an OBE. He acknowledges that the initial experience can be disorienting and frightening, causing many to immediately return to their bodies.
Art questions the authenticity of these experiences, wondering if they could be dreams or mental constructs. Dennett counters this by describing the vividness and reality of these experiences, including seeing one’s physical body from an external perspective, which is not a common feature in dreams.
Dennett shares a personal experience of reuniting with his deceased mother during an OBE. He describes her as appearing younger and more vibrant, which he sees as proof of the experience’s authenticity. Art remains skeptical, pondering if the human mind could be creating these experiences.
Dennett suggests that while the mind plays a role in shaping these experiences, there is evidence of their authenticity. He mentions cases where people obtain information during OBEs that they couldn’t have known otherwise, which validates the reality of these experiences.
Dennett shares an experience where he encountered his friend Rex in the astral realm while Rex was still alive but had suffered a stroke. This experience, where Rex appeared in good health on the other side, suggests a connection between the physical and astral realms, particularly during times of physical distress.
Dennett also recounts visiting a friend who had died of alcoholism, finding him in a darker, lower realm of the astral plane. This experience underlines the idea that the state of a person’s spirit in the afterlife can be influenced by their earthly life and passing circumstances.
Art inquires about the presence of a higher power or God in these experiences. Dennett describes feeling a pervasive, glowing presence the higher he travels in the astral realms, likening it to basking in light and love. He suggests that this sensation could be an encounter with a divine source or energy.
The show then briefly shifts focus to other paranormal news, including the discovery of debris from Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 and a physicist’s quest to build a time machine to reconnect with his deceased father. These stories highlight the ongoing human fascination with understanding and exploring the mysteries of life, death, and time.
Preston Dennett discusses his experiences on the astral plane and how he encountered people he knew, both alive and deceased, in various states. He shares a story about seeing his friend Rex, who was in poor health at the time, appearing in good condition on the astral plane. Dennett also talks about encountering another friend who had passed away due to alcoholism, finding him in a darker realm, indicating the impact of one’s life and choices on their state in the afterlife.
Art Bell then opens the phone lines for listeners to call in with questions. A caller named Dino from a Facebook group dedicated to the show joins the conversation. He expresses interest in the topic and his struggles to achieve an OBE. Dennett suggests a technique for inducing OBEs, advising Dino and the listeners to regularly question their reality throughout the day by asking themselves if they are dreaming or out of body. This practice, known as reality testing, can include trying to levitate objects or push fingers through solid surfaces to confirm if one is out of body.
Dennett explains that doing these exercises during the day can lead to profound experiences at night, as the mind becomes trained to question reality, potentially leading to successful OBEs. He emphasizes the importance of consistency in these exercises to achieve results.
Art Bell takes calls from listeners, allowing them to share their experiences and ask questions about out-of-body experiences (OBEs). One caller, Gary, recounts his OBEs, describing sensations of sleep paralysis and vibrations, and how he learned to direct his energies to leave his body successfully. Another caller, Trina from Chattanooga, shares a frightening experience where she felt a hand grabbing her leg during an OBE, which scared her significantly.
Preston Dennett responds to these experiences, offering advice on how to protect oneself during OBEs through methods like white light meditations. He emphasizes the importance of these experiences for spiritual growth and awakening to psychic abilities. Dennett assures listeners that with practice, they can reach higher realms and have more positive experiences.
Art and Dennett discuss the potential benefits of practicing OBEs, including spiritual development and heightened psychic awareness. Dennett suggests that OBEs can be a form of preparation for the eventual experience of death, providing insights into the afterlife and the spiritual realm.
One caller, after a fall from a cliff, describes a surreal experience resembling an OBE, where he was temporarily paralyzed. Preston Dennett explains that such traumatic experiences can induce temporary out-of-body states, where people feel dissociated or see unusual things.
Another caller shares his inability to go through walls during OBEs, a common theme among several callers. Dennett suggests that with persistent practice and trying different techniques, such as visualization exercises, one can regain the ability to have OBEs and possibly go through walls.
Art and Dennett discuss the challenges and fears associated with OBEs, emphasizing the importance of experimentation and persistence. Dennett advises callers to keep trying different methods and to read literature on the topic to enhance their experiences and overcome obstacles.
Luke from Australia describes a unique experience where he felt like he was revisiting his younger self. He recalls feeling young and reflecting on memories from his childhood, suggesting a connection between OBEs and time perception.
Preston Dennett responds to Luke’s experience, explaining that during OBEs, time can collapse or expand, allowing individuals to travel to different times in their lives or even to historical events. Dennett highlights that OBEs can lead to profound experiences of revisiting past memories or envisioning future events, essentially enabling a form of time travel.
Art shares his intrigue about the possibility of reconnecting with a younger self and the concept of time travel in the astral plane. He also discusses the idea of precognition and psychic experiences related to OBEs, suggesting that such experiences can activate psychic abilities or chakras, leading to premonitions or warnings about future events.
Dennett shares a personal anecdote about a precognitive experience he had, where he envisioned a person at an ATM before actually encountering the individual, underscoring the potential psychic implications of regular astral travel.
One caller describes a unique experience where he saw the back of his own body leaving the room. Preston Dennett explains that this phenomenon is known as bilocation, where one’s consciousness can be present in both the physical and astral bodies simultaneously. He suggests that if this happens again, the caller could try to transfer his awareness to the astral body and explore further.
Another caller, Nick, asks about the distinction between lucid dreaming and OBEs. Dennett acknowledges that the line between the two can blur, explaining that while lucid dreaming involves being aware that one is dreaming and potentially controlling the dream, OBEs can occur in higher dimensions where the definitions between dreaming and astral projection become less clear. He mentions the different levels of dreaming and how they can progress from processing daily activities to engaging with psychological fears and desires in a lucid state.
Art Bell shares his own experiences of being in a state between wakefulness and sleep, where dreams feel incredibly real and he loses track of reality. He notes that most dreams occur in this gray area, echoing the theme of blurred boundaries between different states of consciousness.
One caller, Wallace, describes seeing himself leave his bedroom while he was still in bed, a phenomenon known as bilocation. Preston Dennett explains that bilocation allows one’s consciousness to be present in both the physical and astral bodies simultaneously and suggests that the caller could try focusing on the astral body to see if he can transfer his awareness.
Another caller, Tyler from Florida, credits Art’s show for his interest and experiences in OBEs. He shares how interrupted sleep led to his OBEs and describes the intense vibration sensation commonly reported in these experiences. He also mentions seeing figures that resembled monks and experiencing the phenomenon of seeing with closed eyes, a sign of third-eye activation.
Dennett responds to questions about the silver cord, a concept often mentioned in OBE literature. He explains that while he initially did not see it, he eventually visualized it after focusing intently. The silver cord is reported in various forms by different people and is seen as a connection between the physical and astral bodies.
One caller discusses his technique for inducing OBEs, which involves deep relaxation and focusing on geometric shapes or body awareness. He notes that while OBEs can be draining, they offer profound experiences, such as standing on the moon or traveling through a tunnel of light.
Preston Dennett discusses the common fear associated with the intense vibrations experienced during the onset of an OBE. He agrees with a caller that once you get past this point, the experience becomes enjoyable and fascinating. The caller shares an extraordinary experience of diving through a window in his home during an OBE and ending up in a tunnel with a light at the end, deciding not to go further at that time.
The conversation also touches on the concept of a higher self and experiencing intense euphoria during OBEs. The caller mentions requesting to meet his higher self, leading to an experience described as an inverted tornado with intense feelings of euphoria.
A caller named Tyler from Florida shares his methods for inducing OBEs, including deep relaxation and visualization techniques. He also describes his experiences with OBEs, including standing on the moon and picking up sand, which remarkably aligns with an experience Art Bell had.
Another caller questions the relationship between deja vu and OBEs. Dennett explains that his increased experiences of deja vu were related to his out-of-body travels, where he could remember details and predict events that he had previously encountered in his astral travels.
A caller named Donald brings up the topic of soul transference, wondering if it’s possible to transfer one’s soul into another vessel. This question leads to a discussion about the concerns surrounding OBEs, such as the potential for one’s body to become occupied by other entities while the soul is traveling. Dennett acknowledges these concerns but shares that it hasn’t been his experience.
Art Bell takes the opportunity to ask Preston Dennett about his work and how listeners can learn more. Dennett mentions his book, “Out of Body Exploring: A Beginner’s Approach,” and invites listeners to visit his website for more information and personal assistance with OBEs.
One caller, who experienced seeing himself walking away from his bed, learns from Dennett that this is known as bilocation. Dennett explains that with practice, one could switch perspectives between their physical and astral bodies.
Another caller from Edmonton describes a peak experience he had in college, involving a sense of connection and an anxiety attack, followed by sleep paralysis and a vision of his room bathed in light. He wonders if physical and mental anxiety can trigger OBEs. Dennett confirms that fear, especially the fear of death, can indeed provoke such experiences and that confronting these fears can be spiritually elevating.
The conversation then shifts to the topic of drugs and their role in inducing OBE-like experiences. While Dennett has not experimented with hallucinogens, he acknowledges that some people have reported profound out-of-body experiences following drug overdoses. However, he does not recommend this method and suggests other ways to achieve OBEs, such as diet purification. Interestingly, Dennett also mentions having OBEs under the influence of alcohol, which is usually considered a deterrent to such experiences.
One caller from San Diego describes growing up in Haiti and experiencing OBEs from childhood, believing them to be normal. He shares a story of attempting to fly in real life after doing so in his dreams, resulting in an injury. Dennett responds by noting that there are cases where people have attempted to physically replicate their astral experiences, sometimes leading to success in unusual instances.
Another caller, an active-duty member of the United States Marine Corps, discusses experiencing sleep paralysis and sensing both dark and good presences during these episodes. He wonders if a benevolent presence he perceived could be a spirit guide or guardian angel. Dennett confirms that increased perception of different energies, including ghosts and spirits, is common among those who frequently have OBEs. He suggests that the good presence the caller felt could indeed be a guide.
As the show approaches its end, Art Bell encourages Dennett to share information about his website and how listeners can learn more about OBEs. Dennett mentions his book, “Out of Body Exploring: A Beginner’s Approach,” and his website, where he offers resources for those interested in learning about OBEs and related phenomena.
Art Bell expresses gratitude to Preston Dennett for sharing his extensive knowledge and experiences regarding out-of-body experiences (OBEs). Art acknowledges Preston’s expertise in both the positive and challenging aspects of OBEs, highlighting the depth and breadth of his understanding in this area.
Art remarks on the value of having a guest like Preston, who has personally navigated the complexities of OBEs, contributing significantly to the richness of the discussion. The interview ends with Art expressing his appreciation for Preston’s contributions and looking forward to future discussions.