The Psychedelic Podcast

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Dr. Rick Strassman, pioneering psychedelic researcher and author of "DMT: The Spirit Molecule." Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-284/?ref=278 Dr. Strassman shares insights from his groundbreaking DMT research in the 1990s, discusses recent developments in extended-state DMT studies, and explores the complex relationship between psychedelics, spirituality, and organized religion. Drawing from his new memoir "My Altered States," he offers a unique perspective on the intersection of personal experience, clinical research, and spiritual growth in the psychedelic field. A native of Los Angeles, Rick Strassman obtained his undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences from Stanford University, medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, general psychiatry training at UC Davis, and a clinical psychopharmacology research fellowship training at UC San Diego. Joining the faculty at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine in 1984, his clinical research on melatonin discovered its first known function in humans. Between 1990-1995 he performed the first new US clinical research with psychedelic drugs—DMT and psilocybin—in a generation. From 1995-2008 he practiced general psychiatry in community mental health and the private sector. He has authored or co-authored nearly 50 peer-reviewed papers, has served as guest editor and reviewer for numerous scientific journals, and consulted to various government, non-profit, and for-profit entities. His best-selling book DMT: The Spirit Molecule (2001) has been translated into 13 languages and is the basis of a successful independent documentary that he co-produced. In 2008, he co-authored Inner Paths to Outer Space. His interest in Hebrew biblical prophecy and psychedelia resulted in his 2014 book DMT and the Soul of prophecy. His first novel, Joseph Levy Escapes Death, was published in 2019. The Psychedelic Handbook appeared in 2022, and My Altered States, an illustrated collection of personal narratives, will appear in December 2024. Highlights: Origins of DMT research at University of New Mexico and initial melatonin studies The relationship between DMT and the pineal gland, discussing recent scientific findings Exploration of DMT's role in modulating our sense of reality Discussion of entity encounters in DMT experiences Extended-state DMT research and therapeutic applications Personal journey with psychedelics and Buddhist practice Challenges between psychedelics and organized religion Episode links: Dr. Strassman's new book, My Altered States Dr. Strassman's website DMT: The Spirit Molecule (book) (podcast) Navigating Complexity: Psychedelics, AI, & Extended-State DMT - Alexander Beiner (podcast) Beyond the Mainstream: Insights from Psychedelic Chemistry, Culture, & Consciousness - Hamilton Morris Episode Sponsor: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this special bonus episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes renowned ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin for an intimate preview of the upcoming Costa Rica Intensive in February 2025. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-283b/ Dr. Plotkin shares insights from his decades of work with indigenous communities in the Amazon, discusses the delicate balance between commercialization and preservation of sacred plant medicines, and explores the crucial distinctions between traditional shamanic practices and modern therapeutic approaches. As a special guest for the upcoming intensive, he offers valuable perspectives on integrating indigenous wisdom with contemporary psychedelic practices while emphasizing the importance of humility and continuous learning in working with these powerful medicines. Dr. Mark Plotkin is a renowned ethnobotanist who has studied traditional indigenous plant use with elder shamans of Central and South America for over 30 years. As President of the Amazon Conservation Team, which he co-founded in 1996, Dr. Plotkin works to protect biological and cultural diversity in the Amazon rainforest. Time Magazine named him an environmental "Hero for the Planet," and his TED Talk on protecting uncontacted tribes has garnered over a million views. His work combines rigorous scientific research with deep respect for indigenous wisdom and traditional healing practices. * Join Dr. Plotkin and Paul F. Austin this February 2025 at the Costa Rica Psychedelic Intensive, featuring three guided psilocybin experiences and exclusive workshops exploring the intersection of indigenous wisdom and modern healing practices. * Highlights: Dr. Plotkin's current work and the new Center for Protection of the Guardians of Ancestral Wisdom Updates on protecting uncontacted tribes and conservation efforts Perspectives on psychedelics' role in environmental connection Indigenous approaches to healing and community Historical context of mushroom use in Oaxaca Cautionary insights about commercialization of sacred medicines Episode Links: Amazon Conservation Team Plants of the Gods Podcast Upcoming book by Paul Stamets: "Psilocybin Mushrooms in their Native Habitat" Christopher Hobbs' "Medicinal Mushrooms: The Essential Guide" Fantastic Fungi documentary Third Wave's Psychedelic Intensive, Feb 8-15, 2025 in Costa Rica 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 Michael Madera, psychologist, executive coach, and author of "Playing Tag on the Roof." He is also a graduate of The Psychedelic Coaching Institute's Practitioner Certification Program. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-283/?ref=278 Michael shares his journey of growing up in a narcissistic family environment, where his father became a con man and his mother a Buddhist nun. He discusses how psychedelics, Internal Family Systems therapy, and other modalities helped him heal from childhood trauma and informed his approach to coaching family businesses. Through his work and personal experience, Michael illuminates the complex interplay between family dynamics, leadership, and the transformative potential of psychedelic medicines. Michael D. Madera is a psychologist, author, and executive coach specializing in family business dynamics and innovative healing modalities. Trained at Harvard institutions, he combines traditional psychology with ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and breathwork facilitation. His recently released book "Playing Tag on the Roof" explores recovery from narcissistic family dynamics through psychedelics and love. Michael's articles in Family Business press are frequently among the most downloaded in the field. He leads transformative plant medicine retreats in Costa Rica and maintains an active coaching practice helping individuals and family businesses thrive. Beyond his professional work, Michael leads a Boston-based dance band and enjoys sports. He lives near Boston with his wife and two college-age sons. Highlights: Growing up between Toronto and Boston Journey to becoming a psychologist Understanding narcissistic personalities Growing up with narcissistic parents Healing through psychotherapy and meditation The three circles of family business Psychedelics' role in healing trauma IFS and psychedelic integration Ancestral patterns in family businesses Episode Links: Resounding Circles Madera Partners Consulting Dr. Madera's new book, "Playing Tag on the Roof: Recovering from a narcissistic family through love and psychedelics" Episode Sponsor: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

Wendy Tucker, board chair of Shulgin Farm and owner of Transform Press, shares her deeply personal connection to the groundbreaking psychedelic pioneers, Sasha and Ann Shulgin. She recounts their enchanting love story and the historic significance of the Shulgin Farm, where over 200 psychedelic compounds were synthesized. Wendy discusses current preservation efforts for this crucial piece of psychedelic history and the legacy of open science fostered by the Shulgins. Their impact on today's psychedelic renaissance is highlighted throughout the conversation.

In this solo cast episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin shares deep insights on why group work is essential for practitioners in the psychedelic space. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-281/?ref=278 Drawing from Richard Rohr's essay on liminality and his own transformative experiences at Synthesis, Paul explores how collective psychedelic experiences create powerful containers for growth and transformation. He emphasizes three core aspects of effective group work—embodiment, nature connectedness, and community—while making a compelling case for why practitioners must "walk the walk" through their own guided group experiences before supporting others. Highlights: Liminality and its relationship to psychedelic experiences Personal story of group experience at Synthesis retreat The importance of "walking the walk" as practitioners Three core aspects of retreat work: embodiment, nature connectedness, and community The significance of choosing the right community for growth Guidance for practitioners considering group experiences Episode Links: Third Wave's Psychedelic Intensive in Costa Rica The Psychedelic Coaching Institute's Practitioner Certification Program Paul F. Austin is one of the most prominent voices in the world of psychedelics, and is the author of Mastering Microdosing: How to Use Sub-Perceptual Psychedelics to Heal Trauma, Improve Performance, and Transform Your Life. As the founder of Third Wave and Psychedelic Coaching Institute, he has educated millions on the importance of safe and effective psychedelic experiences. A pioneer at the intersection of microdosing, personal transformation, and professional success, he has been featured in Forbes, Rolling Stone, and the BBC's Worklife. Paul helps others use microdosing as a tool for professional development and increased self-awareness by treating the use of psychedelics as a skill refined through mentorship and courageous exploration. Learning how to master this skill will be crucial in the story of humanity's present-future evolution.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes food and nature writer Eugenia Bone to discuss her new book, "Have a Good Trip: Exploring the Magic Mushroom Experience." Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-280?ref=278 Drawing from extensive research, personal experimentation, and interviews, Eugenia shares insights into the world of psilocybin mushrooms, from cultivation to ceremonial use. She explores the intersection of citizen science and clinical research, the role of indigenous wisdom, and offers a balanced perspective on the current psychedelic renaissance. Eugenia Bone is food and nature writer whose work has appeared in many anthologies, magazines, and newspapers, including The New York Times, The National Lampoon, Saveur, Gourmet, BBC Science, and The Wall Street Journal, where she is a frequent book reviewer. She is a member of the National Association of Science Writers and former president of the New York Mycological Society. She is faculty at the New York Botanical Garden where she teaches classes on psychedelic mushrooms and mycophagy. She is the author or co-author of nine books on food and biology, and has won or been nominated for a variety of awards, including the Nautilus Award, the Colorado Book Award and the James Beard Award. Eugenia has been featured on many dozens of radio shows and podcasts, lectured widely in diverse venues like The New York Public Library, the Denver Botanical Garden and The telluride Mushroom Festival where she is a regular presenter. She is featured in the documentary directed by Louie Schwartzberg, Fantastic Fungi (2019), and in the Netflix children's show about food, Waffles + Mochi (the mushroom episode) produced by Michele Obama's Higher Ground Productions. Highlights: Introduction to Eugenia's new book and her approach to writing about psychedelics The process of researching and writing "Have a Good Trip" The "Noccers" of Seattle: Urban mushroom cultivation activists Experience with indigenous ceremonies and curanderas Personal journey with mushroom cultivation The role of citizen science in psychedelic research Insights from microdosing experiences Final wisdom about having a good trip Episode Links: Eugenia's website Eugenia's book, Have a Good Trip Instagram: @EugeniaGBone Eugenia's Substack 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.

Paul Chek, a world-renowned expert in holistic wellness and founder of the CHEK Institute, dives into the intersection of psychedelics and personal mythology. He highlights the transformative power of plant medicines in uncovering individual myths and emphasizes the importance of sacred preparation. Chek also discusses the delicate balance between therapeutic benefits and risks, differentiating between recreational and ceremonial use. With insights on consciousness, love, and the influences of power and money, he advocates for responsible engagement with psychedelics in one's spiritual journey.

In Part 1 of this special two-part episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Paul Chek, a world-renowned expert in holistic wellness, kinesiology, and spiritual development. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-278-paul-chek/ Paul Chek shares his extensive experience working with plant medicines and helping people integrate challenging psychedelic experiences. He discusses his early spiritual development through the Self-Realization Fellowship and his journey developing remarkable abilities in remote viewing and energy work. Drawing from his unique blend of clinical expertise and spiritual wisdom, he explores the importance of proper preparation, screening, and container-building for ceremonies, including his use of art therapy and Tarot in pre-ceremony screening. Part 1 emphasizes the critical need for reverence and responsibility in working with plant medicines, while sharing practical insights for practitioners supporting others through these experiences. Use code THIRDWAVE15 for 15% off any membership at Spirit Gym at myspiritgym.com Paul Chek is a world-renowned expert in the fields of corrective and high-performance exercise kinesiology, stress management, holistic wellness and integrative lifestyle management. For over forty years, Paul's unique, integrated approach to coaching and education has changed the lives of many of his clients, his students and their clients. By treating the body as a integrated system of systems and finding the root cause of a problem, Paul has been successful where traditional approaches have consistently failed. Author of numerous books, videos and professional development courses, he is the creator of Spirit Gym, founder of the CHEK Institute, and the host of the popular Spirit Gym with Paul Chek podcast. Highlights: Paul's early spiritual development and experiences with Self-Realization Fellowship Family background and influence of meditation at age 12 Development of remote viewing abilities and validation through CIA program The importance of soul recovery in plant medicine work Critical screening and preparation protocols before ceremonies Using art therapy and mandalas for pre-ceremony assessment The role of Tarot in ceremony preparation and guidance Links: Chek Institute Spirit Gym (use code THIRDWAVE15 for 15% off any membership) paulchek.com Paul's YouTube Channel Episode Sponsor: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Carlos Tanner, founder and director of the Ayahuasca Foundation in Iquitos, Peru. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-277-carlos-tanner/?ref=278 Carlos shares his transformative journey from addiction to becoming an apprentice of master shaman Don Juan Tangoa Paima, leading to the creation of the Ayahuasca Foundation in 2009. He discusses the integration of Western educational approaches with ancestral healing traditions, the foundation's groundbreaking research on ayahuasca's effects on PTSD, and his vision for bridging indigenous wisdom with modern psychedelic therapy. Carlos Tanner has been studying ayahuasca and plant medicine in the Amazon Rainforest since 2003. As the director of the Ayahuasca Foundation, which he founded in 2009 in Iquitos, Peru, Carlos organizes healing retreats and educational courses led by indigenous curanderos. These programs help people heal from conditions ranging from depression to cancer or learn about Amazonian ancestral healing traditions. Since 2017, the Ayahuasca Foundation has partnered with Onaya Science to research the ayahuasca tradition's effects on depression, anxiety, and trauma. The research has led to over a dozen published articles showing significant reductions in depression and anxiety symptoms, along with improvements in PTSD, chronic pain, and other health issues. Highlights: Journey from depression and addiction to discovering ayahuasca in Peru The transformative experience of his first ayahuasca ceremonies Background on Don Juan Tangoa Paima and his unique multicultural lineage Development of structured educational programs for ayahuasca training Discussion of the art form approach to plant medicine Evolution of the Ayahuasca Foundation over 15 years The importance of spirit relationships in healing work Research on ayahuasca and PTSD Ayahuasca's potential effects on PTSD and childhood trauma Episode Sponsor: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Stephanie Karzon Abrams, a neuropharmacologist and founding advisor of Beyond Consulting. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-276-stephanie-karzon-abrams With her unique background spanning clinical pharmacology, corporate healthcare, and the music industry, Stephanie shares insights on the intersection of psychedelic science, integrative medicine, and community building. She discusses the transformative potential of psychedelics from a neuropharmacological perspective, her work supporting ketamine clinics and plant medicine brands, as well as her journey from traditional healthcare to pioneering innovative approaches in the psychedelic space. Stephanie Karzon Abrams, a neuropharmacologist with a Masters of Science in Clinical Pharmacology, is the founding advisor of Beyond Consulting, providing science, research, operations, and strategy solutions to organizations in the natural product, plant medicine, and psychedelic sectors. Her career spans from clinical research and Johnson & Johnson to pioneering innovative healthcare approaches. Beyond her scientific work, she co-creates community initiatives including Public Secret music label and Mt. Mushmore educational dinner series. As a prescriber for MDMA and psilocybin therapy through Canada's Special Access Program and scientific advisor for the Microdosing Collective, she champions the integration of cutting-edge therapeutic approaches with traditional healthcare. Her work focuses on bridging scientific expertise with strategic thinking to advance innovative healthcare solutions. Highlights: Origins of Public Secret record label and global groove music collective Rich cultural background and journey from Montreal to California Stephanie breaks down clinical psychopharmacology Mount Mushmore Transition from J&J to psychedelic medicine consulting Stephanie's firm, Beyond Consulting Supporting ketamine clinics and integrative medicine centers Deep dive into neuropharmacology of psychedelics vs traditional medications Microdosing applications for ADHD and anxiety Importance of lifestyle changes alongside psychedelic protocols Managing work-life balance in the psychedelic industry Links: Beyond Consulting Public Secret Music Label Microdosing Collective Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute.