Living for the City

Wed, Dec 3, 2025 11:00 AM

Info

Hosts: Michael G. Haskins

Topics:

A memoir of magic, rock and roll, and becoming who you are -
• Traces the author’s journey from bassist and founding member of Blondie to writer on consciousness and the esoteric tradition. -
The book blends memoir with metaphysical reflection. Which came first—the urge to tell the story, or the desire to explore the ideas behind it? -
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When writing a book that’s so personal, how do you balance storytelling with philosophical analysis? -

Synopsis:

On today's program we’re joined by a writer who has spent decades exploring the hidden currents beneath culture, consciousness, and history. Many listeners will remember him from his earlier life in music, but Gary Lachman has since become one of the most respected voices in contemporary occult and esoteric studies.

His new book, Touched By The Presence, is—in his own words—both a prequel and a sequel. It reaches back before his years in the music world and moves forward beyond them, tracing the experiences, influences, and inner promptings that shaped his journey from performer to philosopher. The book is about insight, intuition, and the often-mysterious forces that seem to push life just a bit in unexpected directions.

Returning for another remarkable year of the African Diaspora Film Festival—a space where global Black stories are honored, challenged, and celebrated.

We are especially thrilled to welcome back Diarah N-Daw Spech, Co-Creator and Co-Director of the African Diaspora Film Festival. Diarah, thank you for the enduring vision of yourself and PhD Reinaldo Spech, your commitment to artistic excellence, and for cultivating a home where filmmakers from across the diaspora can share work that pushes boundaries and deepens understanding.

Guests:

Gary Lachman -
Diarah N' Daw - Spech
Ime N. Etuk -

Playlist:

Stevie Wonder -
Blonde -
Jennifer Hudson -

Info / Links:

https://www.gary-lachman.com/
www.NYADIFF.org

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