So Listen: A Positing of Hideas

What is the meaning of life? Humans have been asking that question for thousands of years, so naturally Kief and Sage decided to tackle it in about 45 minutes... while high. In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, the conversation drifts through ancient philosophy, absurdism, happiness, purpose, and the idea that meaning might not be something you discover — but something you build.

In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage light up and take a clear-eyed look at the cracks in modern democracy. From polarization and misinformation to structural gridlock and the weird incentives baked into the system, they ask whether the problems we’re experiencing are bugs… or features. Along the way, they unpack reform ideas, wrestle with cynicism vs. hope, and explore what it actually means to participate in a system that feels both fragile and stubbornly resilient. It’s not a doom spiral — it’s a thoughtful, slightly smoky examination of how democracy strains, adapts, and maybe even survives.

In this laid-back episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage explore the magic of the flow state — that sweet spot where effort fades and everything just clicks. We talk about why gripping tighter can hold you back, how surrender can unlock creativity, and what happens when you let momentum carry you.Windows down. Aux plugged in. Destination optional.

In this episode, Kief and Sage look up at the stars and ask a more interesting question than “are we alone?”. They ask why do aliens always seem to look the way they do, and what does that say about us? From little green/grey men to cosmic horrors, ancient gods to benevolent space siblings, we unpack how fear, hope, science, and pop culture all shape the beings we imagine watching us from the void. Is alien life a scientific mystery, a psychological mirror, or just humanity projecting its weirdness into the cosmos? Pack a bowl, suspend disbelief, and let’s get it.

Video games don’t just entertain us—they quietly grow up alongside us.In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage look back at the games they played at different stages of their lives, from childhood wonder to teenage mastery to adult, intentional play. They explore how games shaped their sense of identity, offered escape and connection, and became emotional timestamps tied to who they were at the time. It’s a laid-back, reflective conversation about nostalgia, growth, and the strange way a controller can feel like a time machine—and that’s okay.

n this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage make the radical case for being okay. Not thriving, not spiraling, not in the middle of a breakthrough or a breakdown—just here. They talk about the pressure to always be improving, why calm can feel uncomfortable in a world addicted to urgency, and how “fine” somehow became a suspicious answer. With a bowl break and plenty of gentle tangents, this episode sits with the idea that a shorter, quieter conversation can still be meaningful—and that being okay, even for just 30 minutes, is more than enough.

What if “you” aren’t a solid thing, but more like a playlist on shuffle? Some tracks hit every day, some pop up once and never again, and some you swear you deleted but they keep coming back. Kief and Sage spark a bowl and dig into identity, change, nostalgia, and why it’s okay if your vibe keeps evolving.

Kief is joined by his favorite person in the world, Elana Ericson, for a cozy, festive hang where the two unwrap memories, traditions, and a whole lot of holiday cheer. Guided by ChatGPT’s 25 Questions of Christmas, they bounce from heartwarming moments to brand-new traditions—and yes, they absolutely spill the sauce on the worst Christmas gift ever received.So pour yourself a drink, spark a bowl, and settle in by the fire. It’s laughs, love, and holiday chaos with Kief & the Wife in this Christmas Special you won’t want to miss.

In this short and slightly mischievous holiday episode, we explore the villains we commiserate with—the bad guys whose motives feel a little too understandable. From tragic backstories to systems that failed them, we unpack why certain antagonists resonate with us more than the so-called heroes, and what that says about empathy, morality, and the stories we tell ourselves.It’s a shorter episode than usual due to the Christmas holiday, but we still manage to stir the pot, blur the line between good and evil, and ask the uncomfortable question: at what point does understanding become agreement?Grab a drink, something to smoke and take a breather from the chaos. Come sympathize with the devil—just a little. 🎄😈

In this episode, Kief and Sage spark up a conversation about the underrated power of walking away. From cutting loose toxic relationships, to escaping soul-sucking jobs, to breaking stubborn bad habits, we explore how quitting isn’t always failure—sometimes it’s the smartest, healthiest move you can make. Join us as we redefine what it means to give up, and why stepping back can be the first real step forward.

Content Warning: This episode discusses clinical depression, including themes of hopelessness and intrusive thoughts. Please listen with care.In this quiet descent into the mind’s winter, Kief and Sage explore the heavy hush of clinical depression — the way it dims color, slows time, and convinces us that its story is the only story. Together they trace the shape of numb mornings, raincloud thoughts, and the strange fatigue that seeps into both body and spirit.But within the drifts, they also search for warmth: the small lamps we light for ourselves, the hands that reach out even when words fail, the gentle reminder that the mind’s weather can shift, however slowly.So listen… even when the days feel frostbitten and narrow, there is still a horizon waiting to be rediscovered.

In this feastful episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage dive beneath the cranberry-sauce glaze of America’s most mythologized meal. From the desperate first winter at Plymouth to the complicated alliance with the Wampanoag, we unpack what really happened in 1621—and how centuries of storytelling turned a three-day diplomatic potluck into a national holiday of gratitude. Along the way, we explore mythmaking, memory, and the ethics of celebration: what does it mean to give thanks on a day rooted in both unity and upheaval? Grab a plate, pass the truth, and join us for a deeper look at the origins of the first Thanksgiving.

In this playful yet quietly profound Hidea, Kief and Sage climb aboard the philosophical classic known as the Ship of Theseus and steer it straight into everyday life. What parts of “you” have been replaced over time—habits, memories, opinions, dreams—and what parts still feel original? Are we rebuilt plank by plank, or are we the ever-changing crew navigating a shifting vessel?Together the hosts explore identity, reinvention, emotional upgrades, and the weird comfort of knowing you’re always both the old ship and the new one. Packed with laughter, bowl-break reflections, and a few “wait… who even am I?” detours, this episode invites listeners to consider whether becoming yourself is less about staying the same and more about learning to sail with the changes.

In this heartwarming episode, Kief and Sage explore the quiet power of kindness — the small, unseen gestures that ripple through our days and shape the world around us. From paying for someone’s coffee to offering a listening ear, they unpack how compassion connects us, even in moments we barely notice. Along the way, they ask: Is kindness instinctive or learned? Can we be kind without expecting anything in return? And what happens when kindness meets cynicism?Take a deep breath, light up something gentle, and settle in as we rediscover the beauty in being good — just because.

In this delightfully unserious episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage get back to basics—the art of play. From rolling down hills to turning chores into side quests, they explore why fun isn’t just for kids, it’s fuel for creativity, joy, and maybe even enlightenment. Expect giggles, high thoughts, and a few rule-breaking ideas about what it means to live playfully.So pack your imagination, spark up your curiosity, and join the hosts as they rediscover why life’s better when you’re just goofing off on purpose.

This Halloween, Kief and Sage crack open the coffin on our darker sides. From werewolves and vampires to the hidden hungers we try to repress, The Monster Within asks: what if the real terror isn’t what lurks in the shadows, but what lives beneath our skin? Light up, look inward, and remember — sometimes the scariest thing you can face is yourself.

Written by David Sharrock and narrated by Peter Lewis, The Mummer Man creeps in with the quiet dread of a half-forgotten tradition gone wrong. In this episode, So Listen: A Positing of Hideas takes a more reactionary approach—Kief and Sage share their unfiltered thoughts, chills, and theories as the story unfolds.

We’re getting witchy with it this week as Kief and Sage light up and dig into the long, twisted history of witches — from ancient healers and midwives to broom-riding icons of rebellion. They trace how fear, power, and patriarchy brewed one hell of a potion that turned wisdom into witchcraft. Along the way, they ask: what does the witch really represent — evil, empowerment, or evolution? Grab your broom (or your bowl) and join the coven as we conjure up a conversation that’s equal parts spooky, smoky, and surprisingly enlightening.

In this episode, Kief and Sage get real about burnout—the creeping exhaustion that sneaks in when passion turns into pressure. From the subtle warning signs to the crash-and-burn moments, they explore the different shapes burnout can take and why it’s become such a universal experience. Along the way, they unpack strategies for prevention, talk recovery rituals, and ask whether burnout is just a personal problem… or a symptom of a culture that runs too hot for too long.So light up, lean back, and let’s figure out how to cool the flames together.

Sorry we missed you last week—Kief caught a gnarly ear infection and lost his hearing for a bit (not exactly prime podcasting conditions). But we’re back, loud and clear, with an episode that dives deep into the tangled web of gender roles. From ancient archetypes to modern expectations, Sage and Kief pick apart how these roles shape identity, relationships, and society at large. Along the way, they ask whether these constructs help us find meaning or just box us in. Tune in for laughs, questions, and the occasional tangent as we explore what it really means to “play your part.”

In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage dive headfirst into the classic stoner game of “Would You Rather.” From the absurd to the strangely philosophical, they weigh impossible choices, debate the logic (or lack thereof) behind each option, and find surprising insights hiding in the silliness. It’s laughter, tangents, and thought experiments all rolled into one joint of an episode. If you’ve ever wondered what your choices say about you—or just want to giggle at the bizarre scenarios—this one’s for you.

What if the only thing you can truly prove exists… is your own mind? In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage dive deep into solipsism—the trippy philosophical idea that everything else might just be an illusion. They explore the tension between skepticism and shared reality, debate whether other people are real or just reflections of the self, and get tangled in the infinite loop of thought that solipsism creates. Is reality something we experience together, or is it just a projection of one mind? Light up and tune in as the hosts question whether the world outside your head is even there at all.

Family: sometimes it’s the people you’re born to, sometimes it’s the ones you choose, and sometimes it’s just the weird uncle who won’t stop telling fishing stories at Thanksgiving. In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage blaze through the meaning of family — from blood ties and generational legacies to chosen kinship and found communities. Along the way, they explore cultural traditions, philosophical questions, and the messy psychology of love, loyalty, and letting go. Is family a natural bond, a social construct, or just who shows up when the smoke clears? Tune in and find out — and maybe rethink what family means to you.

In this episode Kief and Sage tackle the heavy hitting question "am i the asshole"? We look at bathing suit blunders, sibling overstays, and some miserable parents. Smoke up and join us as we do an off kilter episode to cover for Kiefs vacation.

From UFOs and poisoned punch to wellness gurus and some insanely charismatic leaders, cults have a way of pulling people in and refusing to let go. In this episode, Kief and Sage spark up and explore the hazy boundaries between belief, manipulation, and community. What even is a cult? Why do people join them? And is your favorite fandom just a few red flags away from full-blown indoctrination? Join us as we question everything—including each other’s book clubs.

Why do we put things off—even when we know we’ll regret it later? In this episode, Kief and Sage take a hazy stroll through the tangled terrain of procrastination. From ancient philosophy to modern psychology, they explore what it means to delay action, the role of akrasia (knowing better but doing otherwise), and why that looming task always feels easier to do tomorrow. Is procrastination a flaw, a feature, or just part of being human? Spark up, settle in, and let’s put off productivity—together.

Why do we cry—and why does it sometimes feel so good? In this emotionally soaked episode, Kief and Sage take a hit and dive deep into the science, symbolism, and soul of shedding tears. From the biological basics to the cultural taboos, from Aristotle to anime, they explore how crying connects us to ourselves and each other. Plus: why cartoons wreck us emotionally, and whether tears are the universe’s way of letting the truth leak out. Bring a tissue, and maybe a lighter.

In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage dive headfirst into the mind-bending idea that reality isn’t fixed—it shifts depending on who’s watching. From quantum physics to social masks, from the Panopticon to Instagram stories, they explore how our identities and our worlds get warped, reflected, and refracted through other people’s eyes. Are we ever truly ourselves, or just the versions we think others expect? Toss in some weed-fueled metaphors, a dog with no judgment, and a surprisingly chill take on surveillance culture, and you’ve got a reflection worth staring into. Reality, it turns out, might be less of a mirror—and more of a mood.

In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage dive deep into the tangled web of deception, self-doubt, and illusion known as impostor syndrome. But they don’t stop there—they unmask the entire Fraud Squad: from the high-achievers who feel like fakes, to the creatives who can't believe their own talent, to the systems that make people question their worth. Are we all just pretending to have it together? And what happens when we start to believe our own con? Light up and tune in as we expose the psychology behind the mask.

What is imagination—and why does it feel so real? In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage dive deep into the mind’s magic trick: from daydreams and thought experiments to the philosophy and neuroscience behind our wildest mental movies. They explore how imagination shapes empathy, fuels creativity, and maybe even builds reality itself. Plus: mushrooms that might be dreaming you. Spark up and tune in—this one’s all in your head.

In this midnight ramble, Kief and Sage close their eyes and open their minds to the weird, wobbly world of sleep. What is it? Why do we do it? Are dreams just brain static—or secret messages from the unconscious multiverse? From sleepwalking crimes to lucid dream rebellion, from capitalism’s war on rest to the cosmic twinship of sleep and death, the hosts drift through philosophy, biology, and pure stoner wonder. So grab a blanket, spark one up, and float with us through the shadow-self dimension. Just don’t try to read this in a dream—you won’t be able to.

In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage dive deep into the mind-bending debate over free will. Do we actually make choices—or just think we do? From Laplace’s Demon and hard determinism to compatibilism and the illusion of choice, they explore whether our decisions are our own or the universe’s well-scripted improv. Sage fights for freedom, Kief leans toward fate, and somewhere in the middle lies the blurry truth. Spark up and ask yourself: did you choose to press play, or was it always going to happen this way?

In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage dive into the murky waters of emotional manipulation. From gaslighting to guilt-tripping, they unpack how influence can twist into control. They explore the psychology behind manipulation, its presence in personal relationships and media, and how to spot it before it sinks its hooks. Expect deep dives, a few laughs, and maybe a moment of self-reflection. Just remember: if someone’s pulling your strings, it's okay to cut the cords.

Is beauty just for galleries and mountaintops—or is it hiding in your morning coffee and a well-worn hoodie? In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage take a long, hazy look at the philosophy of everyday aesthetics. From folding laundry to scrolling Instagram, they explore how moments of unnoticed beauty shape our lives, whether we realize it or not. Featuring philosophical detours through Kant, Dewey, and a plastic bag floating through the wind that almost made Kief cry.

Would living forever be a gift… or a curse? In this episode, Kief and Sage wade into the murky waters of immortality, exploring questions of justice, equity, and what it means to be human when death is off the table. From CRISPR and transhumanism to soul fatigue and societal imbalance, they unravel the philosophical and ethical implications of eternal life. So listen—because forever might be longer than you think.

In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief Ericson and Sage Haze light up and lean into the strange, sluggish world of boredom. Is boredom a bug in the human system—or a feature? They explore how boredom shapes creativity, self-awareness, and even societal change. From scrolling aimlessly to staring at ceilings, the duo posits that maybe boredom isn’t something to escape… but something to listen to.

In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, your hazy hosts Sage Haze and Kief Ericson twist up the truth and spark a conversation about lying. Why do we do it? Is it always wrong? Can a lie ever be more honest than the truth? From little white fibs to big existential deceptions, we untangle the philosophical knots of dishonesty and explore whether reality itself might be one big con. Light up, lean in, and let's get real about being fake.

In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief Ericson and Sage Haze dive deep into the surreal, mysterious, and often perplexing world of dreams. Are they just random neural firings, or do they hold deeper meaning? We explore the different theories behind dreaming—Freud’s subconscious desires, Jung’s collective unconscious, and the modern neuroscience take that dreams are just the brain’s way of sorting information.But, of course, we take things further. Can dreams be portals to alternate realities? Do they offer glimpses into the future? And why does our dream logic make perfect sense until we wake up? We also swap some of our own weirdest, wildest, and most inexplicable dream experiences—because let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good "you won’t believe what I dreamed last night" story?And since we’re high while recording, expect a few deep tangents—like, what if reality is just one big collective dream? What if you are just a dream someone else is having? Or, on a more practical note, can we train ourselves to lucid dream and take control?Whether you’re a believer in the mystical power of dreams or just think they’re brain static, this episode will make you question what happens when you close your eyes at night. So spark up, settle in, and let’s dream together.

In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief Ericson and Sage Haze dive into the wild world of parasocial relationships—those one-sided bonds we form with celebrities, influencers, fictional characters, and even podcasters (wink). How deep does the obsession go? When does admiration turn into unhealthy attachment? And is there a way to keep our love for public figures fun without crossing into delusion? Join us as we get high and philosophize on the fine line between fandom and fixation, the psychology behind these relationships, and how social media blurs the boundaries more than ever. Light up, lean back, and let’s get weird with it.

If you could make a perfect copy of yourself, would you? In this episode, Kief Ericson and Sage Haze dive into the wild world of cloning—exploring the ethics, identity crises, and sci-fi scenarios that come with making another you. Would your clone share your mind or go rogue? Could clones replace us, or would they just be expensive roommates? Grab your favorite strain and join us as we ponder the possibilities of double trouble.

In this episode, we uncover the fascinating—and at times frightening—phenomenon of mass hysteria, examining historical outbreaks and the psychological factors that drive them. From witch hunts and medical mysteries to modern-day social panics, we explore how rumors and collective fears can spread like wildfire. Tune in as we dissect the interplay of human psychology, cultural influences, and media sensationalism—and learn what these episodes of mass hysteria can reveal about our shared vulnerabilities, as well as our remarkable resilience.

In the “Paradoxes” episode of So Listen, the hosts explore a variety of well-known logical, philosophical, and sometimes playful paradoxes. They begin by discussing classic examples like the Liar Paradox (“This statement is false”) and Zeno’s Paradoxes of motion, examining what makes these riddles so perplexing. Throughout the episode, the hosts provide context about why paradoxes are important in shaping philosophical and scientific thought, and they also share personal anecdotes about encountering paradoxes in everyday life. The discussion balances serious analysis—covering how paradoxes challenge our assumptions about truth, time, and infinity—with lighthearted banter, ensuring listeners get both the intellectual depth and the fun side of these thought-provoking brain teasers.

In this episode, we dive deep into the concept of luck, examining its cultural, psychological, and even scientific dimensions. From discussing everyday superstitions to unpacking the power of a positive mindset, we explore how chance events shape our lives and why some people seem to attract good fortune. So, “Are you feeling lucky punk?” Join us as we unravel myths, analyze personal stories, and share practical tips that just might tip the odds in your favor. After all, whether it’s simply random chance or something more mystical at play, a little extra luck never hurts.

Like Grizabella’s haunting solo ‘Memory’ in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats, this week’s episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas delves into the fascinating ways our minds recall the moments that shape us. Hosts Kief Ericson and Sage Haze bring an eclectic blend of whimsy and introspection, exploring memory from both a scientific and personal perspective. They discuss how recollections can morph over time, the impact of sensory cues on what we remember, and the role nostalgia plays in our daily lives. Through anecdotes, research tidbits, and philosophical musings, Kief and Sage spark a lively conversation about how our past experiences continue to inform who we are in the present—and perhaps even offer a glimpse into who we might become.

In the latest episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief Ericson and Sage Haze dive into the philosophy of the unknown, unpacking how humans navigate the murky waters of uncertainty. The duo explored themes of curiosity, fear, and the resilience required to face what lies beyond the edge of the familiar. Through engaging anecdotes and thought-provoking musings, they highlighted how the unknown can be both a source of wonder and dread, ultimately encouraging listeners to reframe uncertainty as a gateway to growth and discovery.A standout moment came with the metaphor of a tiger in a jungle—a vivid and playful way to explore how mindfulness can guide us through life's most challenging and unpredictable situations. Sage and Kief broke down how staying present and focused could mean the difference between panic and clarity when facing such high-stakes encounters. This tangent, while wild and entertaining, seamlessly tied into the broader discussion, offering a practical philosophy for approaching life's metaphorical tigers with courage and composure. Listeners can expect to leave the episode with not only a deeper understanding of the unknown but also actionable tools to face it head-on.

In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief Ericson and Sage Haze dive into the elusive concept of happiness. What does it truly mean to be happy? Is it a fleeting emotion, a state of being, or something more profound? They explore the roots of happiness through philosophy, psychology, and personal anecdotes, touching on everything from Aristotle's idea of eudaimonia to modern studies on mindfulness and gratitude. The duo also gets delightfully high and philosophizes about whether happiness is best found in the journey, the destination, or in the small moments we often overlook.As they spark up and let their thoughts flow, Kief and Sage tackle the societal pressures surrounding happiness and whether our modern pursuit of joy is actually making us miserable. They ask listeners to consider if chasing happiness is less important than cultivating it from within. Packed with humor, hideas, and heartfelt moments, this episode is a light yet thought-provoking exploration of what makes life worth living. Tune in, light up, and join the conversation!

For the "New Year, New You" episode, the discussion will revolve around the concept of change. Expect a deep dive into how we approach transformation, the psychology behind resolutions, and whether change is something we truly control or if it's an inevitable part of life. Tune in as Sage Haze and Kief Ericson share their hideas about personal growth, societal shifts, and the impact of time on our perceptions of self.

In this episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage dive into a fantastical showdown with "A Challenger Approaches," pitting mythical creatures against one another in a playful, escalating game of debate. Starting with the diminutive Flyweight category, a mischievous Pixie faces off against a magical Sprite in a battle of illusions and nature-based powers. The matchups grow more intense as a stealthy Chupacabra takes on a crafty Hobgoblin in the Bantamweight round, while the chaotic Chimera goes claw-to-claw with the cunning Griffin in the Welterweight bracket. Finally, the Heavyweight bout sees a fire-breathing Dragon clash with the multi-headed Hydra in a fight of epic proportions. Each battle offers room for creative arguments, absurd hypotheticals, and weed-fueled tangents about strength, strategy, and what it means to win.As the creatures fight for mythical supremacy, the hosts explore deeper questions about adaptability versus specialization, chaos versus control, and the imagination that shapes these legendary beings. With plenty of humor, philosophical musing, and high-energy banter, this episode celebrates the wonder of myth and the joy of asking ridiculous questions. Whether you're rooting for the cunning Pixie, the fierce Griffin, or the mighty Hydra, there's a little something for everyone in this mythical fight night!

In this festive holiday episode of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief and Sage dive deep into the duality of Christmas with “The Naughty and Nice List.” Alternating between figures of lore who embody the season's spirit of generosity and goodwill and those who represent its darker, mischievous side, they explore the stories behind icons like Saint Nicholas, Charles Dickens, and the Scandinavian Yule Goat, alongside fearsome beings like Krampus, Père Fouettard, and the chaotic Yule Lads. With each figure, they unravel the historical origins, cultural impact, and philosophical questions they inspire—like whether fear or generosity is a better motivator for morality, or if chaos is essential for holiday joy. As always, Kief and Sage sprinkle in their signature “highdeas” to keep things light, fun, and a little mind-bending.

In Episode 6 of So Listen: A Positing of Hideas, Kief Ericson and Sage Haze delve into the spine-chilling yet fascinating world of the philosophy of fear. They explore fear as a primal emotion, essential for survival yet capable of paralyzing reason. Through deep, hazy discussions, they consider fear's evolutionary roots, its role in shaping human behavior, and the ways it influences societal norms. From pondering why fear of the dark persists into adulthood to reflecting on how modern media weaponizes fear, Kief and Sage bring their unique blend of curiosity and stoner humor to the topic.As the smoke swirls and ideas flow, the duo navigates the relationship between fear and power, unpacking how fear is often wielded as a tool for control. They ask the big questions: Can fear ever be empowering? How does confronting fear change us? With a mix of light-hearted banter and thought-provoking insights, this episode promises to leave listeners both entertained and introspective, ready to face their own fears—or at least laugh about them.