In this episode, Joe interviews Fayzan Rab, an MD candidate (when we recorded) at Emory University with a background in tech at Google and a focus on the intersection of psychedelics, spirituality, and public health. Fayzan shares Emory’s unique approach to psychedelic studies, emphasizing spiritual health and the lived religious and existential aspects of psychedelic experiences—what he and his team call “CERT.” The conversation explores Fayzan’s collaboration with health economist Elliot Marseille on economic modeling for psilocybin therapy, including their estimate that over 5 million Americans could be medically eligible. He shares insights into the policy challenges around payer systems and the importance of preparing implementation strategies before FDA approval. Fayzan also discusses his groundbreaking research on Muslim perspectives on psychedelics—revealing surprising openness, complex spiritual tensions, and a strong interest in integrating these substances into healing and faith-based frameworks. He highlights the need for inclusive infrastructure and upcoming work with clergy to deepen the conversation. Finally, they explore non-clinical psychedelic use among healthcare workers and entrepreneurs, discussing how psychedelics are being used to address burnout, identity, and life purpose. This is a powerful episode about interdisciplinary collaboration, cultural sensitivity, and the potential for psychedelics to transform not just individuals—but systems. Links Science on Spiritual Health Symposium 2025 Center for Psychedelics and Spirituality - Emory University

Dr. Hannah McLane, a physician and founder of the SoundMind Center, shares her vital insights into the evolving world of psychedelics. She discusses the legislative progress for psilocybin in states like New Jersey and compares it to models in Oregon and Colorado. The duo delves into the essential qualities of effective psychedelic facilitators and the challenges of entrepreneurship in this arena. Dr. McLane also emphasizes the importance of community, curiosity, and the integration of playful experiences in healing, reflecting on the balance between personal and professional life.

In this powerful episode of Psychedelics Today, we sit down with the team behind Natural Medicine Alaska to discuss their groundbreaking efforts to bring psychedelic reform to the state. With some of the highest rates of depression, suicide, and substance use disorders in the nation, Alaska stands at a pivotal moment in the movement for mental health transformation. Joe Moore speaks with Gina, President of Natural Medicine Alaska; David Aloff, an Alaska Native advocate; and Noria Clark, Veterans Coordinator to explore the origins of their movement, the importance of traditional healing protections, and their 2026 ballot initiative to decriminalize plant medicines and establish a regulated therapeutic model. The discussion dives into: The personal journeys that led each guest to this work How Alaska’s libertarian spirit aligns with psychedelic reform The push to make Alaska the first state to include Ibogaine clinics in legislation The urgent need for veteran and first responder access to psychedelic therapy Fundraising and grassroots efforts to get the initiative on the ballot The role of Alaska’s natural landscape in healing and psychedelic integration With national psychedelic policy at a crossroads, Alaska has the opportunity to become the North Star of this movement. Listen in to learn how you can support this critical campaign! Support Natural Medicine Alaska: 💰 Donate: NaturalMedicineAlaska.org 📢 Share this episode to raise awareness! 📅 Attend Arctic Visions Psychedelic Conference in August 2025: arcticvisions.com 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Podcast Show Notes: Psychedelics, Harm Reduction & Ethical Care with Erica Siegal In this episode of Psychedelics Today, Joe Moore sits down with Erica Siegal, founder of Nest Harm Reduction and Shine Collective, for a deep conversation on psychedelic harm reduction, ethical facilitation, and the evolving psychedelic landscape. Erica shares her journey from the Grateful Dead lot scene to festival harm reduction, social work, and leading initiatives to support survivors of psychedelic-related harm. The conversation covers: Erica’s background in hospitality, social work, and psychedelic harm reduction The mission of Nest Harm Reduction in offering psychedelic therapy, integration, and community education The work of Shine Collective, a nonprofit supporting survivors of psychedelic harm and abuse The challenges of ethical facilitation, power dynamics, and the importance of clear boundaries How the psychedelic community can better address harm, accountability, and survivor support The intersection of Jewish spiritual traditions and psychedelics through Shefa This episode is a must-listen for those passionate about harm reduction, ethical psychedelic practice, and building a safer, more accountable psychedelic culture.

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.

In this episode, Joe Moore of Psychedelics Today sits down with Paul Austin, founder of The Third Wave, to dive deep into the evolution of microdosing and its growing role in psychedelic culture. Paul shares how his journey with microdosing LSD led him to launch The Third Wave in 2015 to make psychedelics more accessible through education. The conversation explores the latest research on microdosing, including clinical trials demonstrating its potential benefits for depression, mental clarity, and creativity. Paul and Joe discuss the nuances of different microdosing protocols, the role of psychedelics in performance optimization, and the impact of these substances on neuroplasticity. They also tackle key challenges, such as the lack of robust clinical research due to regulatory hurdles and the perceived risks associated with overuse. Beyond microdosing, they touch on the broader psychedelic landscape—regulatory shifts, emerging coaching models, and the future of psychedelic-assisted transformation. The discussion even ventures into intriguing intersections between psychedelics, AI, and the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on where microdosing fits into the larger psychedelic resurgence.

In a captivating conversation with Louis Dorian, visionary behind Psychedelist, listeners dive deep into the transformative potential of psychedelics. Louis shares his personal journey through trauma and grief, revealing innovative trauma-processing techniques he developed using psychedelics, meditation, and breathwork. The dialogue explores the intricacies of addiction, critiques drug policies, and emphasizes the significance of harm reduction and community support. This engaging discussion also touches on the role of personal agency in navigating the complexities of substance use.

Neeka Levy, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and neuroscience expert, and Zach Skiles, a Marine veteran turned psychologist, discuss their groundbreaking work with Heal Ukraine Trauma. They delve into the journey of introducing psychedelic-assisted therapy to war-affected individuals in Ukraine. The conversation highlights the profound impact of intergenerational trauma, the necessity of group ketamine therapy, and the complexities of operating within Ukraine's regulatory landscape. They also touch on how Ukraine's collectivist culture shapes healing approaches, emphasizing a holistic view on trauma recovery.

Josh Lipson, a Ph.D. candidate in clinical psychology at Columbia University, dives into the fascinating realm of psychedelics and their impact on mental health. He explores how mystical experiences can transform individual consciousness and well-being. Lipson discusses the complexities of studying psychedelics in real-world settings and emphasizes the importance of integration afterward. He challenges the dominance of modern scientism and advocates for diverse perspectives in research, shedding light on how psychedelics reshape global consciousness and cultural understanding.

Nico and Susan Simon, co-founders of JourneyŌM, share their insights on matching individuals with vetted psychedelic facilitators. Nico, who has personally experienced psychedelic healing, emphasizes the significance of trust and safety in these relationships. Susan brings attention to the critical need for community support for partners during psychedelic journeys. They discuss the importance of movement in healing, the challenges of supporting family members, and how their extensive vetting process ensures transformative experiences for seekers.