A look back to 2026

Unspoken Intelligence

Other Ways of Knowing, Extraordinary Cognition,

and the Edges of Consciousness

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The 2025 International Forum on Consciousness continued the exploration of the evolution of consciousness, focusing on the dynamic intersection of diverse cultural, scientific, and spiritual perspectives. Bridging Worlds emphasized the transformative potential of converging insights from ancient wisdom, emerging technologies, neuroscience, and modern scientific advancements to inspire personal transformation and collective progress.

2025 Presenters

Speakers & Abstracts

Casey Brown, Ho-Chunk Filmmaker

Wade Davis, Ph.D., Abstract: BC Leadership Chair in Cultures and Ecosystems at Risk; Professor of Anthropology at University of British Columbia

Gül Dölen, M.D., Ph.D., Abstract: Professor, Bob & Renee Parsons Endowed Chair in the Department of Psychology, the Berkeley Center for the Science of Psychedelics and the Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute at the University of California, Berkeley

Melissa Etheridge, Rock Star and Founder, The Etheridge Foundation

Mia Maestro, Musician, Actress & Filmmaker

Jeff Orlowski-Yang, Filmmaker, photographer, Entrepreneur, Problem-Solver

Charles Raison, M.D., Abstract: Professor of Human Ecology and Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison and Director of Clinical and Translational Research, Usona Institute

Dana Sawyer, Abstract: Professor Emeritus of Philosophy and World Religions at Maine College of Art & Design

Manvir Singh, Ph.D., Abstract: Assistant Professor, University of California, Davis

Brian Stafford, M.D., MPH, Abstract: Senior Guide, Trainer, Board Member, and Director of the Wild Mind Training Program, Animas Valley Institute

Tawni Tidwell, Ph.D., TMD, Abstract: Research Assistant Professor, Center for Healthy Minds, UW-Madison

Immersion Artists and Musicians

Sheila Darcey, Visionary Artist and Author, Venice Beach, CA

Becca McKnight, Manager, Emotional and Social Intelligence Program, Promega Corporation

Mark Seelig, Ph.D., Clinical Psychotherapist and Musician, Kelseyville, CA; Lead Therapist Trainer, Usona Institute, Madison, WI

Moderators

Bill Linton, President & CEO, Promega Corporation; President, BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute; Co-Founder & Executive Director, Usona Institute

Penny Patterson, Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Promega Corporation

Tura Patterson, Senior Director, Strategic Partnerships, Usona Institute

Steve Paulson, Executive Producer, To The Best of Our Knowledge, Wisconsin Public Radio and host of Luminous, a podcast about psychedelics

2025 Schedule

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