In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes New York Times bestselling author Norman Ohler. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-297/?ref=278 Norman shares his deep research into the hidden history of LSD, revealing the untold connections between Arthur Stoll (CEO of Sandoz), Nazi Germany, and the CIA's MKUltra program. He explains how LSD's development as a mental health medicine was derailed by intelligence agencies seeking a "truth drug" for interrogations, and how the substance traveled from Swiss laboratories to Nazi concentration camps and eventually to American universities. Norman also discusses his personal connection to psychedelics through his mother's Alzheimer's treatment with microdosing, and offers thoughtful reflections on the current psychedelic renaissance. Norman Ohler is one of Germany's best living writers: a New York Times Bestselling author, translated into over 30 languages. His books include "Blitzed", "The Bohemians", and "Tripped". He has 2 children and lives in Berlin. Highlights: Welcome & introduction Who is Arthur Stoll, the grandfather of psychedelics? The Nazi Germany and LSD connection Albert Hoffman's complicated relationship with LSD The pharmaceutical politics behind psychedelic suppression Reflections on the modern psychedelic renaissance The challenges of psychedelics in a globalized society From "Blitzed" to "Tripped": Norman's research journey Norman's personal connection: Microdosing for Alzheimer's The mysterious story of JFK and LSD Episode Links: Website Instagram: @normanohler Norman’s book "Tripped: Nazi Germany, the CIA and the Dawn of the Psychedelic Age" Norman’s previous book "Blitzed: Drugs in the Third Reich" Rise and Fall of the Third Reich" by William Shirer These show links may contain affiliate links. Third Wave receives a small percentage of the product price if you purchase through the above affiliate links.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Dr. Tracy Townsend, a Harvard-trained physician who left orthopedic surgery to become a licensed psilocybin facilitator in Oregon. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-296/?ref=278 Dr. Townsend shares her journey from conventional medicine to psychedelic facilitation, describing how her own transformative experiences with plant medicines led her to question the limitations of Western healthcare. She discusses the Oregon psilocybin model, challenges within the current regulatory framework, and draws fascinating parallels between physical surgery and the "mind surgery" of psychedelic experiences. Dr. Townsend also explores emerging research on psychedelics for autoimmune conditions and shares her hopes for policy changes that could expand access to these powerful healing modalities. Dr. Tracy Townsend is a Harvard trained medical doctor, licensed psilocybin facilitator, and vitality coach. She has an undergraduate degree in biochemistry, as well as a medical degree, both from the University of Virginia. She completed orthopedic surgical training at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles, CA and a fellowship in pediatric orthopedic surgery at Boston Children's Hospital of Harvard University. She is a graduate of the Innertrek Psilocybin Facilitator training program. After personally experiencing transformative healing with psychedelic medicines, Tracy went on to become the Co-Founder and CEO of Project Circle, a legal psilocybin service center and practice based in Portland, Oregon. Highlights: From surgeon to psychedelic facilitator: Tracy's journey The parallels between surgery and psychedelic "mind surgery" Navigating Oregon's legal psilocybin framework Addressing necessary regulatory improvements Psychedelics and psychiatric medications The mind-body connection in autoimmune healing Hope for psychedelic policy under new HHS leadership

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Ava Johanna, founder and CEO of The Academy of Breath. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-295/?ref=278 Ava shares her journey from corporate burnout and weekend escapism to discovering breathwork as a powerful, accessible tool for transformation. She discusses how breathwork provided the same ecstatic states she once sought through substances, but in a healing, sustainable way. Beyond the practice itself, Ava offers valuable insights for coaches and practitioners looking to build successful businesses in the wellness space, emphasizing the importance of creating "bulletproof offers," trauma-aware sales approaches, and exceptional client experiences. Ava Johanna is the author of upcoming book, Your Vision Board Life, set to be released in April 2025 and the founder and CEO of The Academy of Breath™ an online education brand for entrepreneurs and coaches bridging the gap between neuroscience and spirituality in the realm of breathwork and meditation. After working with brands like Yoga Journal, Mindbodygreen and Wanderlust, Ava built The Academy of Breath™ that has now certified over 700 students across the globe. Blending science, mysticism and business, The Academy of Breath™ is blazing a trail in the breathwork industry making the practices more accessible than ever before while providing teachers with the tools to be able to lead with integrity, make a global impact, and safely facilitate lasting transformation in their client's lives. Highlights: Corporate burnout to breathwork: Ava's transformational journey How breathwork creates substance-free ecstatic states Building a sustainable coaching business: from 0 to 100K Creating "bulletproof offers" that can't be commoditized Trauma-aware sales approaches for wellness practitioners The power of exceptional client experiences Transitioning from hourly sessions to value-based packages Breathwork as an accessible gateway to spiritual connection Trusting your intuition as an entrepreneur Episode Links:  Website Academy of Breath Ava on Instagram Icons with Ava Johanna Podcast Pre-order Ava Johanna's Book These show links may contain affiliate links. Third Wave receives a small percentage of the product price if you purchase through the above affiliate links. Episode Sponsor:  The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave’s Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul welcomes Dr. Austin Perlmutter, a board-certified internal medicine physician, New York Times bestselling author, and researcher. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-294/?ref=278 Dr. Perlmutter shares his perspective on how psychedelics can help "unstick" the brain from harmful patterns, explores the relationship between inflammation and mental health, and discusses his current research on ayahuasca's effects on epigenetics and the microbiome. From understanding the biological basis of our mental states to finding balance in a modern world that often works against our wellbeing, this conversation offers valuable insights on integrating psychedelics with healthy lifestyle practices for optimal brain function and mental health. Dr. Austin Perlmutter is a board-certified internal medicine physician, New York Times bestselling author, published researcher and international educator. His mission is to help people improve their health by targeting the biological basis of "stuckness" in our brains and bodies. His writing, presentations, podcasts, and online educational programs have reached millions. Dr. Perlmutter has been featured on PBS, Rolling Stone, Newsweek, NPR and other media outlets. He is a co-producer of the Alzheimer's, the Science of Prevention series, and host of the Better Brain Blueprint series. Dr. Perlmutter currently serves as the managing director at Big Bold Health, a food-as-medicine company where he published a pioneering study on plant nutrients and human aging through epigenetics. He also consults with the Helfgott Research Institute, researching the effects of ayahuasca on epigenetics, metabolism, microbiome and immune function. Highlights: The biology of mental health and decision-making Inflammation's crucial role in brain function How psychedelics create perspective shifts Balancing psychedelic use with lifestyle practices Breaking the cycle of chronic inflammation Understanding the autonomic nervous system's response The microbiome's connection to brain health Research on ayahuasca's epigenetic effects The importance of post-psychedelic environments Moving beyond the "psychedelic as panacea" mindset Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave’s Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

Nick Musica, founder and CEO of Optics In, is an SEO expert turned psychic animal communicator. He shares his enlightening journey from digital marketing to understanding animal consciousness, sparked by psychedelics and meditation. Listeners will be fascinated by his bond with his cat Chucky and how animals can act as spiritual teachers. The conversation also touches on the shifting landscape of SEO, especially within the psychedelic industry, and the challenges that arise with changing algorithms and AI reliance.

Robert Edward Grant, a polymath inventor and entrepreneur, delves into his journey of merging psychedelics with consciousness exploration. He discusses how psilocybin enhances cognitive abilities and connects ancient wisdom to modern problems. Grant argues for the importance of integrating science and spirituality while revealing hidden pyramids and the potential of AI. He emphasizes personal growth through adversity and the role of unconditional love in understanding the complexities of reality, advocating for simplified solutions to profound challenges.

Jeff Krasno, entrepreneur and wellness pioneer, takes listeners on a transformative journey from leading Wanderlust to confronting his health crisis. He discusses the concept of 'good stress' and how embracing discomfort can enhance resilience and wellbeing. With insights from evolutionary biology, he promotes rewilding and connecting with nature. Krasno also delves into the intersection of physical health and spirituality, exploring humanity's connection to the cosmos and challenging perceptions of mortality.

David Jay Brown, an accomplished author and consciousness researcher, delves deep into the intersections of psychedelics, lucid dreaming, and technology. He discusses his early work with MAPS and the revival of psychedelic research. Brown explores how psychedelics might enhance awareness as we approach the technological singularity. He shares practical techniques for inducing lucid dreams and emphasizes the transformative potential of DMT experiences, questioning the very nature of reality and consciousness.

Chris Villar, an accomplished executive coach and former Goldman Sachs finance leader, shares his fascinating transition into psychedelic coaching. He discusses the burgeoning psychedelics industry and its projected growth, emphasizing the ethical landscape and practical strategies for success. Villar highlights the pivotal role of self-awareness and well-being in coaching, exploring how psychedelics can unlock personal transformation. Insightful tips on scaling a coaching practice and the importance of community engagement further enrich the conversation.

Daniel Carcillo, a two-time Stanley Cup champion and former NHL player, shares his transformative journey from professional hockey enforcer to psychedelic therapy advocate. He reveals how psilocybin helped him heal from traumatic brain injuries and severe post-concussion syndrome. The discussion touches on the scientific potential of psychedelics in addressing TBI, the establishment of treatment centers, and new frameworks for integrating these therapies in sports. Carcillo emphasizes the importance of community support and ongoing research in this pioneering field.