Altered States

Allegations of sexual, financial, and psychological abuse sometimes arise in the growing psychedelic church movement in Utah and beyond. A leader or guide might use their authority to pressure people – usually women – into having sexual contact with them. How might mind-altering substances play into such abuses of power? How should practitioners navigate consent? And what can psychedelic churches do to keep people safe?

In November 2024, police raided Singularism, an establishment that claims to be a new religion founded by a former Mormon man. But before the state could press charges, Singularism went on the offensive, saying the seized psilocybin was a religious sacrament. Singularism sued the state of Utah, claiming religious freedom. So far, a federal judge has been adamant: psychedelic religion is still religion.

Francesca Rose Annenberg, an eating disorder recovery coach from Cape Town, shares her powerful journey from anorexia to recovery through psychedelics. She reveals how ayahuasca and psilocybin provided her vital insights and a sense of self-worth separate from her eating disorder. Marisa Raymond Flesch, a UCSF physician, discusses a groundbreaking clinical trial exploring psilocybin-assisted therapy for young adults with anorexia. Both highlight the urgent need for innovative treatments as traditional methods lag behind, emphasizing the potential for psychedelic therapies.

Adriana Rodriguez, a dedicated reporter, immerses herself in the peyote harvesting rituals of South Texas. She discusses her journey to document Indigenous practices alongside spiritual leader Sandor Ironrope and elder-relative Julius Not Afraid. They explore the cultural significance of peyote, the conservation efforts to protect this sacred plant, and how ceremonies reconnect youth with their language and identity. Adriana shares her personal experiences of harvest and her emotional journey home to her Lakota roots.

Clint Cannell is a neuroscientist focused on serotonin receptors and psychedelic compounds. He shares insights on how researchers determine if mice are experiencing psychedelics, notably through the curious head-twitch response. The conversation dives into the significance of this behavior in drug development and the link to human consciousness. They also explore whether mice have mystical experiences, the history of animal psychedelic research, and the implications of non-hallucinogenic therapeutics to aid mental health.

Curtis Fox, a seasoned reporter and producer, shares the compelling journey of a former Navy SEAL, Craig, who faced memory loss after nearly three decades in military service. They discuss Craig’s pivotal decision to seek ibogaine treatment in Mexico, sparked by rising cognitive issues. The podcast delves into Craig's intense experience during the session, leading to unexpected feelings of relief. Gretchen, Craig’s wife, offers insights into their family struggles, emphasizing that while ibogaine can initiate change, healing requires ongoing effort.

Julia Diaz-Carnero, an investigative reporter from Brazil, explores the intersection of spirituality and politics within the União do Vegetal, a prominent ayahuasca church. She discusses shocking allegations of political indoctrination and brainwashing during rituals. Former members reveal a connection to Brazil's political turmoil, including pro-Bolsonaro sentiment among influential figures. Julia highlights internal conflicts, legal challenges, and the struggles of LGBTQ members. Ultimately, she calls for reform while acknowledging the complexities of community attachment and the need for accountability.

Chief Yama Nomanawa, a guardian of the ayahuasca tradition from Brazil's Nomanawa/Nokekoi community, shares insights on the urgent need to protect the Amazon. He discusses the devastating impact of deforestation on the land and ancestral medicines like uni. Chief Yama explains the cultural importance of ayahuasca, its role in healing, and the responsibilities of pajé healers. He advocates for respectful engagement with this sacred plant and condemns its commercialization, emphasizing the need for collaboration with indigenous guardians to preserve their traditions.

Halima Shah, an investigative reporter and producer, delves into Eben Alexander's profound near-death experience during a coma. They explore whether his visions of the afterlife were genuine or simply the brain's DMT response. Halima discusses skepticism around NDEs, Rick Strassman's DMT research, and fascinating animal studies. Eben shares his transformation from a materialist scientist to a spiritual advocate, highlighting the limitations of scientific explanations for death. They ponder the cultural influences on these experiences and the ethical implications of using psychedelics as death preparation.

Bill Richards, a clinical psychologist and pioneer in psychedelic-assisted therapy, shares insights on the origins and evolution of the Johns Hopkins playlist, highlighting how music shapes different phases of psychedelic experiences. Fred Barrett, a cognitive neuroscientist, explores the intersection of memory and music during psychedelic sessions, revealing gaps in understanding this relationship. They discuss the need for cultural sensitivity in playlist design and ponder whether music alone can evoke psychedelic-like effects, leaving listeners intrigued by the science behind sound and the mind.