Psychedelics Today
PT 588 - Neil Markey - Beckley Retreats
Mar 4, 2025
Neil Markey, CEO of Beckley Retreats and former Army Ranger, shares his transformative journey from military life to founding a leading psychedelic retreat organization. He discusses how meditation and psychedelics aided his healing from trauma. The conversation dives into Beckley Retreats' integration of mindfulness into therapy, the evolving legal landscape of psilocybin in Jamaica and the Netherlands, and the challenges of running a retreat business. Markey also explores the future of psychedelics and their potential impact on mental health care.
58:36
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Quick takeaways
- Neil Markey's transition from military service to leading Beckley Retreats highlights the transformative potential of psychedelics and meditation for trauma healing.
- The podcast discusses the evolving legal landscape of psychedelics in the U.S. and the importance of balancing access with education to ensure safe use.
Deep dives
Neil Markey's Background and Military Career
Neil Markey shares his journey, detailing his transition from studying math and pursuing a career in cryptology to serving as a lieutenant in the military after the events of September 11. His experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan, particularly within the Ranger Regiment, profoundly impacted his outlook on life and mental health. Markey witnessed the intense demands placed on soldiers and the long-term effects of traumatic experiences that are often overlooked. His military service ignited a quest for personal healing, ultimately leading him to meditation and professionally facilitated psychedelic experiences.
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