Open Mind Episode One: A Conversation with Natasha Bracken
Online Paranormal Shows
Today (10 hours ago)
4 minute read.
The first episode of Open Mind, hosted by mentalist and hypnotist Keith Barry, introduces listeners to Natasha Bracken, a self-described psychic medium based in Ballycumber, County Offaly. This episode sets the tone for the series by exploring the blurred lines between belief and scepticism in matters of the spiritual and metaphysical.
Barry, known for his performances based on suggestion and illusion, opens the episode by stating that he approaches this conversation not to validate or disprove psychic claims, but with an “open mind”. Bracken claims to have had psychic abilities from the age of four and describes lifelong experiences involving spirit guides, "white witches", and what she identifies as energy-based healing.
Throughout the interview, Bracken explains that she works with people suffering from a variety of physical and emotional issues, including drug addiction and trauma. She asserts, for example, that she can "change the DNA" of an individual using energy manipulation. When pressed by Barry on whether this could be verified by scientific means, she replied, “I can't sit here and say, oh, Natasha, said she can. No, but I'm sure you could.”
Bracken introduces various metaphysical concepts, such as the "fifth dimension", which she describes as a state entered during trauma when the soul leaves the physical body. She also claims to assist in reconnecting or healing this divide through energy work and spiritual guidance.
The conversation also delves into personal experiences of grief, with Barry revealing that he had recently lost his father. Bracken responds with her perspective on spiritual signs, such as robins being messengers from deceased loved ones. While Barry remains cautious about spiritual interpretations, he acknowledges the emotional comfort such beliefs can offer.
One of the episode’s more dramatic anecdotes involves Bracken recounting a near-miss car accident in which she claims to have been warned by a spirit not to let her son into the car - shortly before a piece of equipment in the boot caused significant damage to the child’s seat during the crash. She describes this experience as the turning point that solidified her commitment to her psychic work.
Barry questions the ethical implications of psychic readings, particularly in relation to grief and trauma. Bracken agrees that timing and approach are crucial, stating, “It really depends on who you go to,” and insists she would not perform readings if someone is in a vulnerable mental state.
Notably, Bracken does not use divination tools such as tarot or crystal balls during readings, although she does use dowsing rods for healing. She also highlights that many of her family members share similar spiritual sensitivities.
While Bracken’s claims are extraordinary and often unverifiable, Barry remains respectful but inquisitive, representing what he calls the “open-minded sceptic”. He draws distinctions between cynicism and critical thinking, making it clear that belief is a deeply personal choice.
Conclusion
The debut episode of Open Mind is an intriguing dive into spiritual and alternative healing practices through the lens of a sceptical but curious host. While Natasha Bracken’s descriptions of spiritual phenomena are highly subjective and lack empirical support, the episode successfully invites listeners to reflect on the value of belief, healing, and open dialogue. Barry’s approach maintains a necessary balance between inquiry and empathy, leaving room for both curiosity and critical thought.
You can listen to episode one of the new podcast at the link at the bottom of this article.
Podcast episode description,
Barry, known for his performances based on suggestion and illusion, opens the episode by stating that he approaches this conversation not to validate or disprove psychic claims, but with an “open mind”. Bracken claims to have had psychic abilities from the age of four and describes lifelong experiences involving spirit guides, "white witches", and what she identifies as energy-based healing.
Throughout the interview, Bracken explains that she works with people suffering from a variety of physical and emotional issues, including drug addiction and trauma. She asserts, for example, that she can "change the DNA" of an individual using energy manipulation. When pressed by Barry on whether this could be verified by scientific means, she replied, “I can't sit here and say, oh, Natasha, said she can. No, but I'm sure you could.”
Bracken introduces various metaphysical concepts, such as the "fifth dimension", which she describes as a state entered during trauma when the soul leaves the physical body. She also claims to assist in reconnecting or healing this divide through energy work and spiritual guidance.
The conversation also delves into personal experiences of grief, with Barry revealing that he had recently lost his father. Bracken responds with her perspective on spiritual signs, such as robins being messengers from deceased loved ones. While Barry remains cautious about spiritual interpretations, he acknowledges the emotional comfort such beliefs can offer.
One of the episode’s more dramatic anecdotes involves Bracken recounting a near-miss car accident in which she claims to have been warned by a spirit not to let her son into the car - shortly before a piece of equipment in the boot caused significant damage to the child’s seat during the crash. She describes this experience as the turning point that solidified her commitment to her psychic work.
Barry questions the ethical implications of psychic readings, particularly in relation to grief and trauma. Bracken agrees that timing and approach are crucial, stating, “It really depends on who you go to,” and insists she would not perform readings if someone is in a vulnerable mental state.
Notably, Bracken does not use divination tools such as tarot or crystal balls during readings, although she does use dowsing rods for healing. She also highlights that many of her family members share similar spiritual sensitivities.
While Bracken’s claims are extraordinary and often unverifiable, Barry remains respectful but inquisitive, representing what he calls the “open-minded sceptic”. He draws distinctions between cynicism and critical thinking, making it clear that belief is a deeply personal choice.
Conclusion
The debut episode of Open Mind is an intriguing dive into spiritual and alternative healing practices through the lens of a sceptical but curious host. While Natasha Bracken’s descriptions of spiritual phenomena are highly subjective and lack empirical support, the episode successfully invites listeners to reflect on the value of belief, healing, and open dialogue. Barry’s approach maintains a necessary balance between inquiry and empathy, leaving room for both curiosity and critical thought.
You can listen to episode one of the new podcast at the link at the bottom of this article.
Podcast episode description,
In this thought-provoking episode, Keith sits down with Natasha Bracken , a respected psychic medium, for an open-minded and honest conversation that bridges the worlds of science, intuition, and the unexplained. Together, they explore the boundaries of belief, the nature of consciousness, and what may lie beyond this life.
Natasha shares her personal journey, experiences with spirit communication, and the emotional realities of her work. This is not a debate—it's a dialogue. Whether you're a believer, a skeptic, or somewhere in between, this conversation invites you to suspend judgment and lean into curiosity.
Tune in for an exchange of ideas that challenges perceptions, sparks curiosity, and dives deep into the mysteries of the human mind and spirit.
