Episode 322
Sterling Cooley
In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Sterling Cooley, a researcher and entrepreneur exploring the cutting edge of consciousness science. Sterling shares how his personal battle with ulcerative colitis led him to discover the unique effects of gaseous anesthetics like nitrous oxide and, eventually, the noble gas xenon.
They discuss xenon’s surprising psychedelic-like properties, its role in microtubule research alongside Dr. Stuart Hameroff, and why Sterling sees xenon as both a potential therapeutic tool and a safer alternative to other substances. From the science of microtubules to reports of visionary experiences, Sterling brings a mix of research, story, and speculation about how this unusual gas might reveal new dimensions of human consciousness.
Sterling Cooley is a researcher and biotech entrepreneur working in ultrasound neuromodulation and noninvasive vagus nerve stimulation. Over the past decade, he has collaborated with Dr. Stuart Hameroff on research into microtubules, quantum consciousness, and novel anesthetics. Sterling is particularly focused on xenon, a noble gas with both anesthetic and psychedelic-like properties. Through his writing, teaching, and community at Skool.com/Ultra, Sterling helps psychonauts and researchers alike set safe expectations around xenon while exploring its therapeutic and consciousness-expanding potential.
Podcast Highlights
- What xenon is and why it fascinates researchers
- Sterling’s personal health journey and discovery of gaseous anesthetics
- How xenon interacts with microtubules and quantum consciousness models
- Differences between xenon, ketamine, and nitrous oxide
- Harm reduction and safety considerations around gaseous psychedelics
- Reports of visionary and higher-self experiences with xenon
- Xenon’s potential therapeutic applications for pain and PTSD
- The role of microtubules in bridging mind, matter, and Platonic ideals
Show Links
- Ultra Skool
- Skool.com/Ultra (Sterling’s community and xenon classroom)
- Ultra DAO
- Sterling on X
- Purchase Xenon Gas (USA)
- Stuart Hameroff & Roger Penrose, Orch-OR theory of consciousness
- Hamilton's Pharmacopeia episode on xenon
- Hamilton Morris (Episode 225 – Beyond the Mainstream: Insights from Psychedelic Chemistry, Culture, & Consciousness)
- Third Wave Ultimate Guide to Ketamine
- PCI Practitioner Certification Program
This episode is brought to you by The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave’s Psychedelic Coaching Institute. To learn more about our flagship 6-month training program for coaches who want to integrate psychedelic modalities into their practice, click here.
