Are Myths Encrypted History? Ben Stewart on Consciousness, Creativity and the Technology Shaping Us

What if ancient myths are not simply stories, but encrypted records of forgotten history? And what if the technologies reshaping modern life are not separate from us, but extensions of human consciousness?

In this episode of The Biohacking Standards, filmmaker, podcast host and former professional musician Ben Stewart joins Ashley Grace for a thought-provoking conversation about consciousness, creativity, mythology, hidden history, technology and human evolution.

Ben has built his career exploring ideas that challenge conventional narratives and encourage people to think for themselves. Rather than creating films that tell audiences what to believe, he uses storytelling, imagery, music and emotion to open new possibilities. His goal is not to replace one accepted narrative with another. It is to inspire curiosity about who we are, where we came from and what we may be capable of becoming.

One of the episode’s most fascinating ideas is Ben’s view that mythology may serve as a form of encrypted history. Stories carried across generations may contain memories of real people, events and civilizations—even if those memories were gradually transformed into symbols. Ben discusses lesser-known historical accounts, including reports of mummified remains found in Kentucky, and asks whether parts of humanity’s past have been forgotten, misunderstood or excluded from the history most of us were taught.

The conversation also turns toward technology and its powerful effect on human behavior. We often think of technology as something external: a tool we create and control. Ben offers a different perspective. Smartphones, social platforms, artificial intelligence and other technologies can be seen as extensions of human thought, memory, communication and creativity.

But the relationship works both ways. We shape our technology, and our technology shapes us.

It influences what captures our attention, how we communicate, what we value and even how we perceive reality. If technology amplifies human consciousness, what happens when it is driven by fear, distraction or unconscious behavior? Could greater self-awareness allow us to use these tools in ways that support creativity, connection and human development?

Ben also shares the personal side of his creative journey. As a father of four, he is constantly balancing filmmaking and podcasting with the responsibilities of family life. Rather than seeing parenthood as an obstacle to meaningful work, he explains how raising