It’s Hot Nerd Summer and we’re playing the hits! We’re bringing the traditional trifecta of “sex, drugs, and rock n’ roll” into the modern age with sexuality in video games, re-matriation of psychedelics, and the real life inspiration behind the darkly comedic film “The Men Who Stare at Goats.” It’s going to be a wild ride, and where else would you rather beat the summer heat?
“Virtual Intercourse is Real: Sexuality in Video Games Part 2”
By: Mark Shteller
Come join us on another wild journey through the world of video games and sex. We’ll do a deep exploration of simulated intimacy in Virtual Reality, dive straight into the caves of anime games, and have a hard and long look at the hottest daddies in gaming.
Mark Shteller is the founder and director of the queer game company Diamond Dust Games. With their first commercial title, Neon Death Drop aims to create a queer revolution in gaming.
Mark has been a game developer for over 10 years, spent 3 years working at Meta Reality Labs creating future looking prototypes for AR and VR devices. Kickstarter campaign launching soon, follow for updates!
“From Patriarchy to Matriarchy: Psychedelics and the Feminine Wisdom”
By: Kristina Soriano
Ever wondered how the transition from patriarchal to matriarchal values could shape the psychedelic space? Join Kristina Soriano for a mind-expanding journey through the role of feminine wisdom in psychedelics. Learn about the transformative power of women and elders, dive into the legacy of pioneers like Ann Shulgin and Laura Huxley, and discover the groundbreaking work of the Women’s Visionary Council. Plus, hear firsthand experiences from Kristina’s recent dieta retreat in Pucallpa. Prepare for an evening filled with insights, inspiration, and a dash of humor!
Kristina Soriano is a Texan-born Filipina who has called San Francisco home since 2005. With a Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration, she is dedicated to advancing psychedelic advocacy through her work with the Women’s Visionary Council and the Psychedelic Literacy Fund, which she co-founded to translate psychedelic therapy books into various languages. Kristina is also a classically-trained pianist and music teacher who loves to sing medicine songs while playing the ukulele. When not volunteering at festivals like Burning Man, she works at the UC Berkeley Center for the Science of Psychedelics. Kristina brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her talks, all delivered with a touch of humor and a lot of heart.
“The Warrior Monk Revisited”
By: Dave Wegbreit
A look at Jim Channon, the U.S. Army lieutenant who inspired the film Men Who Stare at Goats, his attempts to bring the New Age into the United States army, and the lessons we can learn from the last hundred years on how to do better together.
Dave Wegbreit contains nerdy multitudes. These days he helps teams develop business software and obsesses over processes and frameworks. In the past he has produced video games, covered the school bus industry as a journalist, and written and directed a take on Vagina Monologues about classic movie monsters.