Psychedelic Conversations

Susan Guner
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Oct 26, 2025 • 20min

Psychedelic Conversations | Dr. Michele Ross, 7-HOPE Alliance #PsychedelicScience2025

Welcome to the Psychedelic Conversations Podcast!In this episode, we speak with Dr. Michele Ross, a neuropharmacologist and founder of the 7-HOPE Alliance, to explore the healing potential of Kratom and its key alkaloid, 7-Hydroxymitragynine. We discuss how this plant medicine, long used in Southeast Asia, offers hope for people managing chronic pain, trauma, and opioid withdrawal. Dr. Ross shares her personal journey from addiction researcher to plant medicine advocate, and explains why education, safety, and mindful, intentional use are crucial in harm reduction. Together, we reflect on conscious healing practices, accessibility, and the importance of viewing plant medicines as allies in recovery.About Michele:Dr. Michele Ross is a neuropharmacologist, addiction expert, and best-selling author who has been at the cutting edge of plant-based therapies for over a decade. Her journey with 7-OH is both scientific and personal: after suffering a near-fatal pulmonary embolism from prescribed medications, she turned to natural alternatives like cannabis, mushrooms, and kratom to reclaim her health. Today, she brings that expertise and lived experience to her role at 7-HOPE, where she leads efforts to educate consumers, train healthcare professionals, and push forward scientific research on 7-OH. Dr. Ross is a powerful advocate for patient rights and responsible regulation, committed to ensuring that tools like 7-OH are understood, accessible, and safe.7-HOPE Alliance:https://7hopealliance.org/Connect with Michele:- Website: https://drmicheleross.com/- Twitter: https://x.com/drmicheleross?lang=en- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmicheleross- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmicheleross/Thank you so much for joining us! Psychedelic Conversations Podcast is designed to educate, inform, and expand awareness.For more information, please head over to https://www.psychedelicconversations.comPlease share with your friends or leave a review so that we can reach more people and feel free to join us in our private Facebook group to keep the conversation going. https://www.facebook.com/groups/psychedelicconversationsThis show is for information purposes only, and is not intended to provide mental health or medical advice.About Susan Guner:Susan Guner is a holistic psychotherapist with a mindfulness-based approach grounded in Transpersonal Psychology, focusing on trauma-informed, community-centric processes that offer a broader understanding of human potential and well-being.Connect with Susan:Website: https://www.psychedelicconversations.com/Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/susan.gunerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-guner/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/susangunerTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/susangunerBlog: https://susanguner.medium.com/Podcast: https://anchor.fm/susan-guner#PsychedelicConversations #SusanGuner #MicheleRoss #PsychedelicPodcast #PsychedelicScience
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Oct 25, 2025 • 31min

Psychedelic Conversations | Brynja Magnusson - Ceremoniance #PsychedelicScience2025

Welcome to the Psychedelic Conversations Podcast!In this episode of Psychedelic Conversations, we speak with visionary artist and shamanic practitioner Brynja Magnusson to explore the intersection of art, ceremony, and the spiritual journey. We discuss Brynja’s apprenticeship with a Basque shaman, her creation of archetypal and divinatory systems, and how her art acts as a bridge between the mystical and the tangible. Brynja shares the symbolism behind her powerful animal-inspired paintings, her insights on the dance between the masculine and feminine energies, and the importance of approaching psychedelics with reverence and ceremony. This deeply moving conversation invites us to reflect on fear, intuition, and the sacred path of creative embodiment.About Brynja:Brynja Magnusson is a student of shamanic practice, visionary artist, and author of archetypal and energetic reference books. Her work bridges the mystical and the tangible, uniting spirituality, art, and symbolism into a single language of transformation. Through her art, Brynja translates complex systems of divination, archetypes, and cosmology into visual form, helping others engage with meaning, beauty, and the deeper layers of consciousness. Her creative process explores the symbolic nature of the universe, where art becomes a vehicle for communication, healing, and momentum. Integrating the ceremonial with the scientific and the natural world with the academic, Brynja’s work invites us to see art as both a spiritual and social catalyst, an “electrolyte of society” that directs collective attention toward awareness, education, and unity.Connect with Brynja:- Website: https://www.ceremoniance.com/- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brynja.visionaryart/?hl=en- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brynja-magnusson-875581277Thank you so much for joining us! Psychedelic Conversations Podcast is designed to educate, inform, and expand awareness.For more information, please head over to https://www.psychedelicconversations.comPlease share with your friends or leave a review so that we can reach more people and feel free to join us in our private Facebook group to keep the conversation going. https://www.facebook.com/groups/psychedelicconversationsThis show is for information purposes only, and is not intended to provide mental health or medical advice.About Susan Guner:Susan Guner is a holistic psychotherapist with a mindfulness-based approach grounded in Transpersonal Psychology, focusing on trauma-informed, community-centric processes that offer a broader understanding of human potential and well-being.Connect with Susan:Website: https://www.psychedelicconversations.com/Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/susan.gunerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-guner/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/susangunerTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/susangunerBlog: https://susanguner.medium.com/Podcast: https://anchor.fm/susan-guner#PsychedelicConversations #SusanGuner #BrynjaMagnusson #PsychedelicPodcast #PsychedelicScience
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Oct 12, 2025 • 31min

Psychedelic Conversations | Jonathan Sabbagh - Journey Clinical #PS2025

Welcome to the Psychedelic Conversations Podcast!In this episode, we speak with Jonathan Sabbagh, co-founder and CEO of Journey Clinical, to explore his remarkable transformation from a career in finance to pioneering work in psychedelic-assisted therapy. We discuss Jonathan’s personal healing journey through Ayahuasca and Ketamine therapy, which inspired him to create an accessible, therapist-centered model for delivering psychedelic care. Together, we unpack how Journey Clinical empowers licensed therapists with training, medical support, and infrastructure to safely integrate psychedelics like ketamine into mental health treatment. We also touch on the future of psychedelic medicine, regulation, education, and community building within this evolving field. Join us as we dive deep into how psychedelics are reshaping mental health care and paving the way for responsible, scalable healing in the Western world.About Jonathan:Jonathan Sabbagh is the co-founder and CEO of Journey Clinical, the world’s largest platform empowering licensed therapists to deliver safe, effective psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Originally from Switzerland, Jonathan spent over two decades in the finance industry, where he founded and scaled two companies before experiencing severe burnout. His personal healing journey began with Ayahuasca and later Ketamine-assisted therapy, which led to a transformative recovery from depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Motivated by his own experience and a deep desire to make psychedelic care accessible, Jonathan co-founded Journey Clinical in 2021 alongside his wife during the pandemic. Under his leadership, the company has grown into a thriving ecosystem supporting thousands of therapists with medical infrastructure, education, and community resources. Jonathan’s work bridges entrepreneurial innovation with compassionate mental health care, advancing the responsible integration of psychedelics into mainstream clinical practice.Connect with Jonathan:- Website: https://www.journeyclinical.com/- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonathansabbagh/?hl=en- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-sabbagh-62631318/Thank you so much for joining us! Psychedelic Conversations Podcast is designed to educate, inform, and expand awareness.For more information, please head over to https://www.psychedelicconversations.comPlease share with your friends or leave a review so that we can reach more people and feel free to join us in our private Facebook group to keep the conversation going. https://www.facebook.com/groups/psychedelicconversationsThis show is for information purposes only, and is not intended to provide mental health or medical advice.About Susan Guner:Susan Guner is a holistic psychotherapist with a mindfulness-based approach grounded in Transpersonal Psychology, focusing on trauma-informed, community-centric processes that offer a broader understanding of human potential and well-being.Connect with Susan:Website: https://www.psychedelicconversations.com/Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/susan.gunerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-guner/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/susangunerTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/susangunerBlog: https://susanguner.medium.com/Podcast: https://anchor.fm/susan-guner#PsychedelicConversations #SusanGuner #JonathanSabbagh #PsychedelicPodcast #Microdosing #PsychedelicScience
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Oct 9, 2025 • 31min

Psychedelic Conversations | Charles Lazarus - Building the Global Mycelium Network #PS2025

Welcome to the Psychedelic Conversations Podcast!In this episode, we speak with returning guest Charles Lazarus, a pioneer in the global mycology and psilocybin industry, to explore Jamaica’s evolving role in the international psychedelic supply chain. We discuss Charles’s groundbreaking exports of legal psilocybin products, the complex logistics behind international regulations, and the collaborative process of cultivating mushrooms for therapeutic use. Charles also shares insights into his retreat programs for veterans, the spiritual and ecological dimensions of mushroom cultivation, and how community, trust, and innovation drive his mission. Together, we reflect on the power of connection, responsibility, and the growing global movement toward healing through psychedelics.About Charles:Charles Lazarus, Chief Executive Officer of Rose Hill, has over a decade of expertise in psilocybin genetic development, cultivation, extraction, and logistics, culminating in the cultivation and delivery of the world’s largest legal premium psilocybin shipment. Since 2015, he has developed proprietary psilocybin genetics and solutions for the Jamaican market and major R&D clients. Additionally, he owned and operated Island Fresh Ltd., exporting fresh fruit and Jamaican brands to the UK market and achieving the highest export volumes from Jamaica for three consecutive years. He also served as Harvest Manager in California from 2013 to 2017.Connect with Charles:- Website: https://rosehill.life/- Linkedin: https://jm.linkedin.com/in/charles-lazarus-b208b832- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlesrootz/?hl=enThank you so much for joining us! Psychedelic Conversations Podcast is designed to educate, inform, and expand awareness.For more information, please head over to https://www.psychedelicconversations.comPlease share with your friends or leave a review so that we can reach more people and feel free to join us in our private Facebook group to keep the conversation going. https://www.facebook.com/groups/psychedelicconversationsThis show is for information purposes only, and is not intended to provide mental health or medical advice.About Susan Guner:Susan Guner is a holistic psychotherapist with a mindfulness-based approach grounded in Transpersonal Psychology, focusing on trauma-informed, community-centric processes that offer a broader understanding of human potential and well-being.Connect with Susan:Website: https://www.psychedelicconversations.com/Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/susan.gunerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-guner/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/susangunerTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/susangunerBlog: https://susanguner.medium.com/Podcast: https://anchor.fm/susan-guner#PsychedelicConversations #SusanGuner #CharlesLazarus #PsychedelicPodcast #Microdosing #PsychedelicScience
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Oct 9, 2025 • 23min

Psychedelic Conversations | Mia Cosco - Psychedelic Science #PsychedelicScience2025

Welcome to the Psychedelic Conversations Podcast!In this episode of Psychedelic Conversations, we speak with researcher Mia Cosco to explore her groundbreaking work on psychedelics and women’s health. We discuss the “Code Red” study, which investigates how psychedelics may help alleviate pain related to the menstrual cycle. Mia shares both her personal and professional journey, from her early research in child development to her passion for bridging Western science with indigenous plant medicine wisdom. Together, we reflect on the challenges women face in accessing education about their own bodies, the importance of intentional community, and how personal experiences often fuel meaningful research in the psychedelic space. We also consider the broader need for more funding, awareness, and conversations around women’s health in psychedelic research.About Mia:Mia Cara Cosco is passionate about studying the long-term effects of childhood trauma and grief. She worked as a research assistant at the University of British Columbia Peer Relationships in Childhood Lab (PEARL) while co-leading the first UBC Psychedelic Club with Manesh Girn. Upon graduating, she worked with venture capitalists and toured psychedelic labs as a project manager at Perception Medicine Foundation. Mia went on to volunteer with MAPS Canada and The Zendo Project at Burning Man in both 2019 and 2022. She lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and works as both a model and research assistant with Quantified Citizen, studying how psychedelics (among other things) affect women’s premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder symptoms. She hosts support groups for grief both online and offline through her membership platform, The Beauty of Grief, and sometimes in partnership with Daybreaker at The Belong Center Boston. She also writes freelance on mental health, New Age spirituality and psychedelics.Connect with Mia:- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MiaCosco- IG: https://www.instagram.com/miawritesinthecemetery/- Website: https://www.miacosco.com/Thank you so much for joining us! Psychedelic Conversations Podcast is designed to educate, inform, and expand awareness.For more information, please head over to https://www.psychedelicconversations.comPlease share with your friends or leave a review so that we can reach more people and feel free to join us in our private Facebook group to keep the conversation going. https://www.facebook.com/groups/psychedelicconversationsThis show is for information purposes only, and is not intended to provide mental health or medical advice.About Susan Guner:Susan Guner is a holistic psychotherapist with a mindfulness-based approach grounded in Transpersonal Psychology, focusing on trauma-informed, community-centric processes that offer a broader understanding of human potential and well-being.Connect with Susan:Website: https://www.psychedelicconversations.com/Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/susan.gunerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-guner/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/susangunerTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/susangunerBlog: https://susanguner.medium.com/Podcast: https://anchor.fm/susan-guner#PsychedelicConversations #SusanGuner #MiaCosco #PsychedelicPodcast #Microdosing #PsychedelicScience
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Oct 9, 2025 • 23min

Psychedelic Conversations | Colette Condorcita - Neurodelics #PsychedelicScience2025

Welcome to the Psychedelic Conversations Podcast!In this episode of Psychedelic Conversations, we speak with Colette Condorcita, founder of Neurodelics, to explore her remarkable journey through trauma, healing, and the transformative power of psychedelics. Colette shares her story of surviving a spinal cord injury as a teenager, the profound out-of-body experiences that shaped her path, and how these moments inspired decades of study in altered states of consciousness, shamanic practices, and community healing. Together, we discuss bridging science and spirituality, honoring indigenous wisdom, and the critical role of community in addressing today’s mental health crisis. Colette also introduces her groundbreaking work with Neurodelics—a digital therapeutic platform designed to support neurodivergent individuals in harnessing suggestibility and neuroplasticity in safe, empowering ways. This inspiring conversation highlights resilience, integration, and the need for balance in the psychedelic movement.About Colette:Colette Condorcita is a researcher, facilitator, and advocate whose life was transformed after a spinal cord injury at age fourteen. Defying a two-percent chance of recovery, she taught herself to use self-directed neuroplasticity and eventually walked out of the hospital, catalyzing a lifelong exploration of altered states of consciousness. Her experiences opened access to visionary states, ancestral connection, and psychic sensitivity, shaping what she identifies as a “shamanic neurotype.” With a BA in International Relations and Development, she has worked globally in regenerative agriculture, permaculture, and ecological activism, deepening her understanding of humanity’s relationship with nature. Over the past thirteen years, Colette has trained with Indigenous ayahuasca cultures in South America while expanding her expertise in hypnotherapy, trauma work, and neuroscience. She is the founder of Decriminalize Nature Philadelphia, a consultant on psychedelic education and safety, and a guest facilitator at Tandava Retreat Center, passionately advocating for responsible, community-centered psychedelic practices.Connect with Colette:- Website: https://www.neurodelics.com/- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colette-condorcita-schmitt-89815815Thank you so much for joining us! Psychedelic Conversations Podcast is designed to educate, inform, and expand awareness.For more information, please head over to https://www.psychedelicconversations.comPlease share with your friends or leave a review so that we can reach more people and feel free to join us in our private Facebook group to keep the conversation going. https://www.facebook.com/groups/psychedelicconversationsThis show is for information purposes only, and is not intended to provide mental health or medical advice.About Susan Guner:Susan Guner is a holistic psychotherapist with a mindfulness-based approach grounded in Transpersonal Psychology, focusing on trauma-informed, community-centric processes that offer a broader understanding of human potential and well-being.Connect with Susan:Website: https://www.psychedelicconversations.com/Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/susan.gunerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-guner/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/susangunerTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/susangunerBlog: https://susanguner.medium.com/Podcast: https://anchor.fm/susan-guner#PsychedelicConversations #SusanGuner #ColetteCondorcita #PsychedelicPodcast #Microdosing #PsychedelicScience
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Oct 9, 2025 • 18min

Psychedelic Conversations | Jamie Blazques, Artem Smirnov - Normalize Psychedelics

Welcome to the Psychedelic Conversations Podcast!In this episode of Psychedelic Conversations, we speak with Jamie Blazquez and Artem Smirnov at the Psychedelic Science conference in Denver, Colorado. We explore their personal journeys with psychedelics, Jamie’s rooted in a deep commitment to suicide prevention and healing from early trauma, and Artem’s shaped by reconnecting with presence and authenticity in his life. Together, they share how these experiences inspired the creation of Normalize Psychedelics, a community-driven project collecting thousands of first-person stories to help destigmatize these medicines. We discuss the importance of storytelling alongside science, the role of family conversations, and why honoring the sacredness of these practices is vital. We also reflect on shifts in the psychedelic space from commercialization toward community, connection, and reverence.About Jamie:Jamie Blazquez is the co-founder of Normalize Psychedelics, a project dedicated to sharing 1,000 personal healing stories to reduce stigma and foster open conversations around psychedelic therapies. Her path into this work began in 2019 after a pivotal conversation with a friend and reading How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan. This exploration brought forward deep emotions tied to the tragic loss of her uncle to suicide and her own experiences with depression, anxiety, and autoimmune disease. Through the healing potential of plant medicine, Jamie found a renewed sense of purpose and is now deeply committed to mental health advocacy, suicide prevention, and the integration of psychedelics into mainstream culture.About Artem:Artem Smirnov is the co-founder of Normalize Psychedelics, a storytelling initiative amplifying authentic voices in the psychedelic space. His passion for the project emerged during travels along the West Coast, where he witnessed how profoundly people felt called to share their own healing experiences. Inspired by these encounters, Artem recognized the importance of creating a platform that highlights real stories and encourages open dialogue. With a commitment to bringing these testimonials forward, he believes now is the critical moment for the world to listen and embrace the transformative potential of psychedelics.Connect with Jamie & Artem:- Website: https://www.normalizepsychedelics.com/- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/normalize_psychedelics/?hl=en- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/normalize-psychedelicsThank you so much for joining us! Psychedelic Conversations Podcast is designed to educate, inform, and expand awareness.For more information, please head over to https://www.psychedelicconversations.comPlease share with your friends or leave a review so that we can reach more people and feel free to join us in our private Facebook group to keep the conversation going. https://www.facebook.com/groups/psychedelicconversationsThis show is for information purposes only, and is not intended to provide mental health or medical advice.About Susan Guner:Susan Guner is a holistic psychotherapist with a mindfulness-based approach grounded in Transpersonal Psychology, focusing on trauma-informed, community-centric processes that offer a broader understanding of human potential and well-being.Connect with Susan:Website: https://www.psychedelicconversations.com/Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/susan.gunerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-guner/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/susangunerTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/susangunerBlog: https://susanguner.medium.com/Podcast: https://anchor.fm/susan-guner#PsychedelicConversations #SusanGuner #JamieBlazques #ArtemSmirnov #PsychedelicPodcast #Microdosing #PsychedelicScience
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Oct 9, 2025 • 12min

Psychedelic Conversations | Dr. Steven Zeiler - Psychedelic Stroke Recovery #PsychedelicScience2025

Welcome to the Psychedelic Conversations Podcast!In this episode, Dr. Steven Zeiler, a physician at Johns Hopkins University, shares his groundbreaking research exploring how psychedelics might aid stroke recovery. We discuss the global impact of stroke, the limitations of current therapies, and the brain’s natural “early repair mechanisms.” Dr. Zeiler explains how psychedelics may reopen critical periods of neuroplasticity, offering hope for patients even years after a stroke. Together, we explore the potential of combining psychedelic-assisted therapy with intensive rehabilitation, not only for stroke but possibly other brain injuries. This conversation highlights the future of neuroscience, the importance of set and setting, and the promise of new approaches that could change countless lives.About Steven:Dr. Steven Zeiler focuses on the diagnosis and management of cerebrovascular disease (stroke), including acute stroke therapy, secondary prevention of stroke, and recovery from stroke. Dr. Steven Zeiler received his medical and doctor of philosophy degrees from the University of Colorado. He completed a one year internal medicine internship at the University of Colorado prior to coming to Johns Hopkins for his residency training in Neurology. Following his residency, Dr. Zeiler then completed a one year fellowship in Vascular Neurology also at Johns Hopkins.Connect with Steven:https://profiles.hopkinsmedicine.org/provider/steven-zeiler/2703002Thank you so much for joining us! Psychedelic Conversations Podcast is designed to educate, inform, and expand awareness.For more information, please head over to https://www.psychedelicconversations.comPlease share with your friends or leave a review so that we can reach more people and feel free to join us in our private Facebook group to keep the conversation going. https://www.facebook.com/groups/psychedelicconversationsThis show is for information purposes only, and is not intended to provide mental health or medical advice.About Susan Guner:Susan Guner is a holistic psychotherapist with a mindfulness-based approach grounded in Transpersonal Psychology, focusing on trauma-informed, community-centric processes that offer a broader understanding of human potential and well-being.Connect with Susan:Website: https://www.psychedelicconversations.com/Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/susan.gunerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-guner/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/susangunerTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/susangunerBlog: https://susanguner.medium.com/Podcast: https://anchor.fm/susan-guner#PsychedelicConversations #SusanGuner #StevenZeiler #PsychedelicPodcast #Microdosing #PsychedelicScience #PlantMedicines #PsychedelicResearch #Entheogens
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Oct 9, 2025 • 14min

Psychedelic Conversations | Scarlett Wallingford - Trusted Doula

Welcome to the Psychedelic Conversations Podcast!In this episode, we explore Scarlett's unique perspective on psychedelics, birth, and healing. We discuss the importance of connection within the psychedelic community, Scarlett’s work as a midwife and doula, and how plant medicines may help break down the “picket fences” of conditioning. Together, we reflect on sensitive questions around psychedelics in pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding, while acknowledging cultural differences and the need for more open dialogue. Scarlett also shares insights on using psychedelics as tools for self-healing, integration, and reducing the fear of death for those facing terminal illness. This heartfelt conversation emphasizes listening to the body’s wisdom, the healing potential of psychedelics, and the profound connections made at this gathering.About Scarlett:Scarlett Wallingford is a New Zealand–educated midwife and practicing doula based in the UK, with over 20 years of experience supporting women’s physical, emotional, and mental health. A passionate advocate for confident decision-making in childbirth and beyond, she has worked as both a midwife and counsellor, guiding women through birth stories and helping them heal from traumatic experiences. Inspired by the philosophy of “mothering the mother,” Scarlett brings a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and practical tools to her work with families. As both a mother and grandmother, she embodies the nurturing wisdom of the Grandmother archetype, while championing the importance of early bonding between parent and child as a foundation for lifelong wellbeing.Connect with Scarlett:- https://www.trusted-doula.co.uk/- https://www.instagram.com/trusteddoulascarlett/- https://www.instagram.com/the.transcending.grandmotherThank you so much for joining us! Psychedelic Conversations Podcast is designed to educate, inform, and expand awareness.For more information, please head over to https://www.psychedelicconversations.comPlease share with your friends or leave a review so that we can reach more people and feel free to join us in our private Facebook group to keep the conversation going. https://www.facebook.com/groups/psychedelicconversationsThis show is for information purposes only, and is not intended to provide mental health or medical advice.About Susan Guner:Susan Guner is a holistic psychotherapist with a mindfulness-based approach grounded in Transpersonal Psychology, focusing on trauma-informed, community-centric processes that offer a broader understanding of human potential and well-being.Connect with Susan:Website: https://www.psychedelicconversations.com/Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/susan.gunerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-guner/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/susangunerTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/susangunerBlog: https://susanguner.medium.com/Podcast: https://anchor.fm/susan-guner#PsychedelicConversations #SusanGuner #ScarlettWallingford #PsychedelicPodcast #PlantMedicines #PsychedelicResearch
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Oct 8, 2025 • 30min

Psychedelic Conversations | Sogyu Fukumura - Psychedelic Monk

Welcome to the Psychedelic Conversations Podcast!In this episode we discuss Sogyu's early psychedelic awakening in the 1960s, how LSD shaped his spiritual path, and his decade of rigorous Buddhist training. Sogyu shares the vision behind Yamauto – his Woodstock-style peace gathering festival – and the off-grid ecovillage and alternative school he founded in Japan. We dive into the challenges and possibilities of psychedelics in a culture where they remain underground, the importance of integration and community, and how Buddhist teachings can help navigate profound experiences. This inspiring conversation bridges East and West, tradition and counterculture, offering a rare glimpse into Japan’s underground psychedelic scene and one man’s lifelong mission to foster peace, creativity, and connection.About Sogyu Fukumura:Sogyu Fukumura is a Japanese Buddhist monk, gardener, and countercultural icon who blends Zen spirituality with the free-spirited ethos of the 1960s. Born in Kyoto in 1951, he trained in the Tendai and Rinzai Buddhist traditions before founding the off-grid ecovillage Sansui-jin ("Mountain–Water–People") in the mountains of Kutsuki. In 2005, Sogyu launched Yamauto, a one-of-a-kind, Woodstock-style music and peace festival that brings together artists, nature lovers, and seekers from across Japan. More than just a festival, Yamauto is a living experiment in community, sustainability, and co-creation – complete with unplugged nights, no-money days, and a vision of harmony with nature. Sogyu continues to inspire generations as a gentle, joyful elder of Japan’s alternative culture.Connect with Sogyu:- https://flameofhope.jp/sogyu/- https://yamauto.net/message-from-sogyu/- https://web.facebook.com/sogyu.fukumura/- https://www.instagram.com/sogyufukumura/Thank you so much for joining us! Psychedelic Conversations Podcast is designed to educate, inform, and expand awareness.For more information, please head over to https://www.psychedelicconversations.comPlease share with your friends or leave a review so that we can reach more people and feel free to join us in our private Facebook group to keep the conversation going. https://www.facebook.com/groups/psychedelicconversationsThis show is for information purposes only, and is not intended to provide mental health or medical advice.About Susan Guner:Susan Guner is a holistic psychotherapist with a mindfulness-based approach grounded in Transpersonal Psychology, focusing on trauma-informed, community-centric processes that offer a broader understanding of human potential and well-being.Connect with Susan:Website: https://www.psychedelicconversations.com/Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/susan.gunerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-guner/Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/susangunerTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/susangunerBlog: https://susanguner.medium.com/Podcast: https://anchor.fm/susan-guner#PsychedelicConversations #SusanGuner #SogyuFukumura #PsychedelicPodcast #PlantMedicines #PsychedelicResearch

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