Podcast Summary: Duncan Trussell Family Hour - Episode 675: Mitch Horowitz

Introduction

In Episode 675 of the Duncan Trussell Family Hour, released on March 24, 2025, comedian Duncan Trussell welcomes author and modern occultist Mitch Horowitz as a recurring guest. This engaging conversation delves deep into the intersections of artificial intelligence, Buddhism, quantum physics, and practical magic, offering listeners a rich tapestry of insights and actionable practices.

Exploring the Multiverse and Black Holes

The episode kicks off with Duncan expressing excitement over Mitch's return, highlighting the anticipation from their listeners. The discussion rapidly transitions to contemporary scientific theories, particularly the latest findings from the James Webb Space Telescope (Timestamps [02:22]-[04:50]).

Duncan mentions a recent paper suggesting the existence of galaxies that appear older than the universe itself, proposing that our universe might reside within a black hole. He poses a thought-provoking question: "If we are in a black hole, how does that connect with magic?" ([03:50])

Quantum Computing and Interdimensional Theories

Mitch Horowitz elaborates on the implications of these scientific discoveries, drawing parallels between quantum mechanics and ancient esoteric practices. He references Google's quantum computing prototype, Willow, which purportedly solved a complex equation in less than five minutes—a task estimated to take ten septillion years ([05:00]-[09:00]).

“We might live under Newtonian mechanics, but there's something going on outside that orderly intimacy.” ([08:20])

Mitch introduces the concept of interdimensional thesis, suggesting that quantum entanglement might allow for interactions beyond our conventional understanding of time and space.

Retrocausality and the Laws of Psyche

The conversation shifts to the fascinating topic of retrocausality, inspired by psychologist Darrell Bem's controversial studies. Mitch explains Bem's experiments, where subjects who mentally prepared for the future showed improved performance in the present ([20:36]-[24:35]).

“It's crazy. I remember I was talking to the religious studies chair at Rice, and she was like, 'Let me get this shit straight.'" ([20:36])

Duncan amplifies the absurdity and intrigue of these findings, pondering whether our emotional states and intentions might influence our reality through mechanisms akin to quantum entanglement.

Practical Magic and Manifestation Techniques

Mitch introduces practical exercises rooted in his upcoming book, "Modern Occultism and How", aimed at harnessing these esoteric concepts for everyday transformation ([81:33]-[89:00]).

1. Sexual Transmutation ([81:44]-[82:04]):

   • Mitch: “When you're feeling sexual desire, consciously channel that energy towards a cherished or necessary task.” ([82:04])

2. Retrocausality Practice ([83:34]-[84:20]):

   • Mitch: “Keep focusing on your desired outcome, even after experiencing setbacks.” ([83:34])

3. Eliminating Negative Online Behavior ([86:00]-[89:54]):

   • Mitch: “Stop trash talking on social media for a month to cultivate a more positive and confident self.” ([83:34])

Duncan and Mitch emphasize the importance of simplicity in these practices, making them accessible and actionable for listeners seeking personal growth and collective transformation.

Anecdotes and Real-World Applications

Mitch shares compelling anecdotes illustrating the effectiveness of his methods. Notably, he recounts advising Thai kickboxer Spencer Hanley to use retrocausality techniques before his championship bout, resulting in unexpected, positive outcomes ([26:00]-[28:23]).

“He won. May have won anyway. And for his entry music, he chose Belinda Carlisle's 'Heaven is a Place on Earth,'... months later, Belinda Carlisle contacted me.” ([28:23])

These stories serve to bridge the gap between abstract theories and tangible results, reinforcing the potential of practical magic in influencing real-world events.

Cultural Implications and Responsibility

The dialogue addresses the broader cultural landscape, discussing how new scientific discoveries validate ancient mystical practices and the societal blockages that prevent widespread adoption of these ideas ([70:04]-[77:14]).

Mitch warns against the dangers of adopting apocalyptic mindsets without actionable steps, advocating for "quantum activism"—actively shaping one's reality through focused intention and ethical behavior.

Conclusion and Call to Action

As the episode nears its end, Mitch promotes his book, "Modern Occultism and How", available for pre-order on March 25th. He encourages listeners to engage in the proposed exercises, particularly the month-long challenge to cease negative online interactions, labeling it a form of "quantum activism" that can lead to personal and collective betterment ([81:33]-[89:34]).

“If you're in, I'm in. Friends, let's do it. Let me know in the comments. That's a month of no talking online.” ([89:34])

Notable Quotes

• “We might live under Newtonian mechanics, but there's something going on outside that orderly intimacy.” — Mitch Horowitz ([08:20])

• “Your emotional feeling states are determinative of reality.” — Mitch Horowitz ([20:36])

• “Just stop fucking trash talking over social media. Stop it. It's disgusting.” — Mitch Horowitz ([82:21])

• “You despise negativity, so manifest positivity through your actions and intentions.” — Duncan Trussell ([55:31])

Final Thoughts

This episode of the Duncan Trussell Family Hour masterfully intertwines cutting-edge scientific theories with ancient mystical practices, presenting a compelling case for the existence and application of practical magic in the modern world. Mitch Horowitz's insights offer listeners not only a deeper understanding of these complex ideas but also practical steps to harness their transformative power.

Resources

• Book: Modern Occultism and How by Mitch Horowitz
• Retreat Information: Duncan's Road Shows