Podcast appearances and mentions of Paul F Austin

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Ian Gardner, founder and CEO of The Acraya, about dark retreats as an ancient contemplative practice now entering Western culture. This episode is sponsored by The Acraya. Listeners of The Psychedelic Podcast can receive 5% off an Acraya retreat. Visit https://acraya.global/thirdwave and use discount code 3WAVE when booking. Ian explains what happens when external stimulation disappears, why boredom and difficult inner material can become central parts of the experience, and how dark retreats compare with psychedelics and extended meditation. He also discusses screening, facilitator training, post-retreat integration, and his vision for technologically supported retreat centers in Costa Rica, Nepal, Bali, and beyond. Episode Highlights: Ancient roots of dark retreat practice What remains when sensory anchors disappear Psychedelics versus gradual inner awakening Boredom as a gateway to deeper material Preparing for several days in darkness Why facilitators need embodied experience Screening for psychological contraindications Technology designed to support retreat safety Integrating before returning to ordinary life Scaling dark retreat centers worldwide Ian Gardner is the founder and CEO of The Acraya, a network of dark meditation retreat sanctuaries. A seasoned entrepreneur, he has founded and exited five companies across biotechnology, renewable energy, and electric vehicles in private and public markets. While earning his MBA from the University of California, Los Angeles, Ian was introduced to yoga and meditation. He later explored Transcendental Meditation, Self-Realization Fellowship, Eckankar, Mudrashram, and the Bridge Path. In 2001, he traveled to Allahabad, India, for the Maha Kumbh Mela before entering a year of seclusion, during which he meditated for up to eight hours daily. Ian has written six books related to esoteric teachings and spent two years working at the Esalen Institute. In 2023, he founded the Church of the Acraya to support the development of dark meditation retreat centers worldwide. He lives in Scottsdale, Arizona, with his wife and children and maintains a daily meditation practice. Epoisode Links: Explore The Acraya and receive 5% off with code 3WAVE Additional Episode Sponsors: The Psychedelic Practitioner Certification by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-367/?ref=278 Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes." Disclaimer: This episode is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical, psychological, or legal advice. Any views, experiences, or claims expressed by the guest are his own and do not necessarily represent those of Third Wave or The Psychedelic Podcast.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes TOMS founder Blake Mycoskie for an honest conversation about depression, psychedelics, recovery, and the lifelong need to prove his worth. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-366/?ref=278 Blake explains how an early ayahuasca experience gave him the sense that he had already done enough, even though he had not yet learned to feel that he was enough. He shares what followed after selling TOMS, including a profound depression, a psychiatric diagnosis he later came to question, four medications, and a carefully supported nine-month taper. Paul and Blake also discuss the daily meditation practice that helped reshape his relationship with self-worth, the return of his entrepreneurial energy, his $100 million commitment to psychedelic research and access, and why the future of psychedelic care will require scalable integration, group support, and careful use of emerging AI tools. Blake Mycoskie is the founder of TOMS and creator of the One for One movement, which provided more than 100 million pairs of shoes to children in need. After selling TOMS and navigating a profound depression, he founded WE ARE ENOUGH, a movement supporting mental health organizations and challenging the belief that worth depends on achievement. Blake is also the host of the No Magic Pill podcast and has pledged $100 million to psychedelic research and access. Today, he brings his renewed entrepreneurial energy to ventures including Morning Water and Moovlab. Highlights: Building TOMS through the One for One model Ayahuasca and the feeling of having done enough Depression, misdiagnosis, and psychiatric medication tapering Reworking the belief of never being enough Entrepreneurship and purpose after recovery Funding psychedelic research and access Scaling integration through group support AI therapy and psychedelic integration Episode Links: Blake's Website: https://blakemycoskie.com/ We Are Enough: https://weareenough.co/ No Magic Pill: https://nomagicpill.com/ Morning Water: https://morningwater.co/ Episode Sponsors: The Psychedelic Practitioner Certification by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes. Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization.

In this solo episode, Paul F. Austin offers a candid introduction to 5-MeO-DMT, one of the shortest and most intense psychedelic experiences. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-365/?ref=278 Paul distinguishes synthetic 5-MeO-DMT from Bufo, compares it with N,N-DMT and psilocybin, and examines the risks that social media narratives often leave out. He also explores low-dose versus breakthrough work, nervous system readiness, medication interactions, facilitator screening, reactivations, ecological responsibility, and why integration may matter far more than the experience itself. Paul F. Austin is an entrepreneur, educator, and pioneer in the psychedelic field. He is the founder of Third Wave, a leading platform dedicated to psychedelic education, and the Psychedelic Coaching Institute, which trains coaches and practitioners to responsibly support psychedelic experiences and integration. As host of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul has interviewed hundreds of researchers, clinicians, Indigenous wisdom keepers, entrepreneurs, and cultural innovators. His work focuses on psychedelics, leadership, personal development, mental health, and cultural transformation. Highlights: 5-MeO-DMT beyond the social media hype Synthetic 5-MeO-DMT versus Bufo How 5-MeO differs from N,N-DMT Low-dose work versus complete ego dissolution Why nervous system readiness matters Medication interactions and physical safety How to evaluate a 5-MeO facilitator Why integration outlasts the experience Episode Links: The Practitioner Pychedelic Practitioner Certification by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Third Wave's Ultimate Guide to 5-MeO-DMT Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization.

In this special replay of a past Psychedelic Coaching Institute webinar, Paul F. Austin is joined by Victoria J. Cvitanovic, attorney and leader of the Psychedelic Medicine and AI Governance practices at Rudick Law Group, for a practical conversation on how AI is reshaping psychedelic practice. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-364/?ref=278 Together, Paul and Victoria explore why psychedelic content can get flagged online, how automated moderation systems are changing what practitioners can safely post, and why educational content may still be misread by platforms like Meta. They also discuss payment processor risk, account freezes, client data privacy, AI note-taking tools, website compliance, and the legal nuance practitioners need to understand before building or growing their work online. Victoria J. Cvitanovic is a psychedelic medicine, cannabis, wellness, and tech attorney. In addition to her law degree, Victoria holds CIPP-US and AIGP certifications from the International Association of Privacy Professionals. She leads the Psychedelic Medicine and AI Governance practices at Rudick Law Group, where she also serves as the firm's Data Privacy Officer. Her work covers cybersecurity, data privacy, AI governance, regulatory compliance, corporate formation, licensing, and healthcare integration. Highlights: AI moderation and psychedelic content Why psychedelic posts get flagged online Posting about psychedelics responsibly Payment processors and risk reviews What to do when funds freeze Data privacy in client work AI tools and practitioner liability Website compliance basics Episode Links:  Rudick Law Group Psychedelic Coaching Institute Episode Sponsors:    The Practitioner Certification Program by The Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes."

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Steven C. Hayes, Ph.D., originator of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, creator of Relational Frame Theory, and one of the most cited psychologists in the world. Full Show Notes: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-363/?ref=278 Hayes reflects on his early experiences in the Summer of Love, why psychedelics were never meant to be treated as a party, and how those formative explorations helped shape his lifelong work on psychological flexibility. Paul and Steven explore what psychedelics can reveal about the nature of self, the role of preparation and context in safe outcomes, and why psychedelic therapy must not be reduced to a patented, "script and go" biomedical model. Their conversation also examines ACT, trauma, attachment, group experience, spiritual community, and the importance of honoring each person's unique path rather than forcing transformation into averages, labels, or protocols. Steven C. Hayes, Ph.D., is a Nevada Foundation Professor of Psychology Emeritus at the University of Nevada, Reno and President of the Institute for Better Health, a 45-year-old charitable organization that promotes quality in mental and behavioral health services. He is the originator of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, creator of Relational Frame Theory, and a co-developer of Process-Based Therapy. Hayes has authored nearly 750 scientific articles and 48 books, including Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life and A Liberated Mind. His methods are distributed worldwide by the World Health Organization and other major scientific agencies, and are commonly used in psychedelic-assisted therapy. His TEDx talks and blogs have been viewed or read by more than five million people, and he is among the most cited psychologists in the world. Highlights: Psychedelics as tools of the mind The Summer of Love's unfinished lessons Self as context and spiritual awareness Why good trips feel like coming home ACT as psychological flexibility Preparation, safety, and lasting change The danger of "script and go" psychedelics Group ceremony and relational healing Particularity, averages, and human uniqueness Psychedelics beyond the therapy frame Episode Links: Steven's Website Steven on Medium Steven Instagram Steven on Linkedin Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes."

In this conversation, Paul F. Austin speaks with Dr. Dave Rabin, neuroscientist, board-certified psychiatrist, and co-founder of Apollo Neuroscience, about one of the most important questions in psychedelic work: why do some journeys become overwhelming, destabilizing, or difficult to integrate? Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-362/?ref=278  Dave explains why safety is not just a matter of set, setting, or a strong screening form. It is a physiological state in the nervous system. Together, Paul and Dave explore how fear, trauma, and dysregulation can shape a person's ability to receive and process a psychedelic experience, and why preparation must include a deeper understanding of the body. The conversation also covers pre-session nervous system assessment, vagus nerve activity, HRV, haptic vibration, breathwork, therapeutic touch, consent, and the role of tools like Apollo Neuro in helping clients feel safe enough to surrender, process, and integrate. Dr. David Rabin, MD, PhD, is a neuroscientist, board-certified psychiatrist, health-tech entrepreneur, and inventor who has studied the impact of chronic stress in humans for more than a decade. He is the co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer at Apollo Neuroscience, and co-founder and executive director of the Board of Medicine, a nonprofit organization establishing evidence-based clinical guidelines for the safe use of unregulated alternative medicines, including plant medicines. His research focuses on non-invasive therapies for treatment-resistant conditions, trauma recovery, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, and the neurobiology of belief. Highlights: Why safety is physiological Beyond set and setting How fear interrupts healing Pre-session nervous system assessment MDMA and the safety cascade Haptic vibration and soothing touch HRV as a preparation signal Breathwork for embodied regulation Consent and therapeutic touch Scaling safe psychedelic care Episode Links: Apollo Neuro Dr. Dave Rabin on Instagram Dr. Dave's Book, "A Simple Guide to Being Alive" Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout 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. Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin sits down with Dr. Stefanie Kleine, psychospiritual coach, author of BE THE WORK, and co-founder of The Sacred House of Eden, to explore the hidden wound that often drives achievement and why lasting transformation happens on the level of being rather than doing. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-361/?ref=278  Drawing on more than two decades of experience coaching executives, founders, athletes, physicians, and other high performers, Stefanie shares how her first psychedelic experience revealed the pattern beneath a lifetime of accomplishment and opened a path toward deeper self-acceptance. She explains her framework of grasping versus generative desire, the Be-Do-Have inversion, and why many personal growth and wellness practices can unintentionally reinforce the same striving they aim to heal. The conversation also explores psychedelic integration, Internal Family Systems-informed coaching, conscious leadership, nervous system regulation, AI and human connection, and what it means to move from proving your worth to inhabiting it. Throughout, Stefanie offers a grounded perspective on why ceremony is only the beginning and how true transformation unfolds through the choices we make afterward. Dr. Stefanie Kleine is a psychospiritual coach, guide, and author who has spent more than 23 years coaching executives, founders, attorneys, physicians, athletes, and other high performers. She holds a master's degree and PhD in psychology and is the co-founder of The Sacred House of Eden, one of the leading psychedelic retreat centers in the United States. Since 2018, she has guided more than 1,600 ceremonies and integration processes. Her work centers on what she calls the Be-Do-Have Inversion: the shift from human doing to human being. She is the author of BE THE WORK: The Shift from Human Doing to Human Being and has been featured in Bloomberg, The Wall Street Journal, and Forbes. Highlights: The wound beneath high achievement Stefanie's first psychedelic awakening Grasping versus generative desire Why transformation happens on the being level The Be-Do-Have inversion Psychedelic integration beyond ceremony Internal Family Systems and coaching Conscious leadership after psychedelic work AI, humanity, and authentic connection Moving from striving to wholeness Episode Links: Dr. Stefanie's website The Sacred House of Eden "BE THE WORK" book Free Guided Meditation by Dr. Stefanie Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

In this solo episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin explores one of the most common questions in the psychedelic space: which psilocybin mushroom strain is actually best? Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-360/?ref=278  Moving beyond the search for the "strongest" mushroom, Paul breaks down the factors that truly shape a meaningful experience, including strain selection, potency, preparation methods, storage practices, individual sensitivity, and the critical role of context. Drawing on years of experience through Third Wave and the Psychedelic Coaching Institute, Paul compares popular strains such as Golden Teacher, Penis Envy, Ghost, Enigma, and Psilocybe natalensis. He also explains why preparation methods like lemon tekking matter, how to think about microdosing versus macrodosing, and why integration remains one of the most important variables in long-term outcomes. Paul F. Austin is an entrepreneur, educator, and pioneer in the psychedelic field. He is the founder of Third Wave, a leading platform dedicated to psychedelic education, and the Psychedelic Coaching Institute, which trains coaches and practitioners to responsibly support psychedelic experiences and integration. As the host of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul has interviewed hundreds of leading researchers, clinicians, indigenous wisdom keepers, entrepreneurs, and cultural innovators at the forefront of the psychedelic renaissance. Highlights: Why stronger isn't always better The myth of the strongest strain Golden Teacher vs. Penis Envy Understanding Ghost and Enigma Psilocybe natalensis explained How lemon tek changes the journey Why storage affects potency Microdosing vs. macrodosing Context shapes psychedelic outcomes Integration beyond the peak experience Episode Links: Paul on Instagram The Psychedelic Podcast The Psychedelic Coaching Institute Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

In this special solo episode, adapted from a recent live training, Paul F. Austin explores one of the most important and often overlooked realities of microdosing: different substances create different outcomes. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-359/?ref=278  Drawing on more than a decade of experience in psychedelic education and coaching, Paul compares psilocybin, LSD, huachuma (San Pedro), ketamine, and iboga through the lens of client goals, nervous system regulation, emotional processing, cognitive performance, and contraindications. Paul explains why generic microdosing protocols often fall short, how practitioners can better match substances to individual needs, and why context, preparation, and integration matter far more than any single medicine. He also shares why huachuma has become the foundation of the Psychedelic Coaching Institute's microdosing methodology and offers guidance for practitioners looking to support clients with greater precision and care. Highlights: Why generic microdosing protocols can fall short How psilocybin supports emotional processing and inner work LSD's role in focus, creativity, and physiological performance Why huachuma may be especially useful for nervous system regulation Ketamine's role in SSRI tapering and clinical support Iboga's potential for neurodegenerative conditions and brain injury How to match substances to a client's goals and baseline state Why contraindications and clinical-grade intake matter How microdosing can support post-journey integration Why "more medicine" is not always the answer Episode Links: Paul on Instagram The Psychedelic Podcast The Psychedelic Coaching Institute Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Jason Grechanik, master tabaquero and host of The Universe Within Podcast, for a deep exploration of sacred tobacco as Amazonian plant medicine. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-358/?ref=278  Sacred tobacco is usually understood in the West through the lens of cigarettes, addiction, and commercial misuse. But in Amazonian traditions, Nicotiana rustica is understood very differently: as a master plant, a protector, and a powerful medicine that requires lineage, discernment, and right relationship. Drawing from nearly a decade of Amazonian immersion and more than 1,000 people guided through plant ceremonies, Jason shares how tobacco is worked with in dieta, ayahuasca ceremony, energetic protection, and direct relationship with plant spirits. Paul and Jason also discuss cannabis, indigenous cosmologies, safety, and what tobacco's history can teach the modern psychedelic movement about power, humility, and proper containers. Jason Grechanik is a master tabaquero trained in the Mamankunawa tradition under curandero Don Ernesto Garcia Torres. With nearly a decade of Amazonian immersion and more than 1,000 people guided through plant ceremonies, Jason spent many years at the renowned Shipibo healing center Temple of the Way of Light. He is the host of The Universe Within Podcast, with 180+ episodes and 20K+ monthly listeners, co-founder of the Nicotiana Rustica project, and has been featured in DoubleBlind Magazine. Highlights: Jason's path into Amazonian tobacco medicine Tobacco beyond commercial cigarettes Why tobacco is considered a master plant Dieta as direct plant relationship Tobacco as portal and protector Ayahuasca, diagnosis, and plant doctors Safety, toxicity, and proper containers Jaguar and hummingbird tobacco archetypes Cannabis, dreams, and plant relationship Lessons for the psychedelic renaissance Episode Links: The Universe Within Podcast Nicotiana Rustica Project Jason on Instagram Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Dr. Chandra Estelle Khalifian, a clinical psychologist, relationship researcher, and co-founder of Enamory, about the intersection of attachment science, couples therapy, and psychedelic-assisted healing. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-357/?ref=278  Drawing from her work in ketamine-assisted couple therapy and MDMA research, Chandra explores how relationships are shaped by nervous system regulation, attachment wounds, and patterns developed long before adulthood. The conversation examines how ketamine and MDMA can help couples move through rigidity, betrayal, grief, and disconnection by creating greater emotional openness and flexibility. Paul and Chandra also dive into conscious uncoupling, relational growth, community, and the deeper distinction between love as a feeling versus love as a practice. Chandra Khalifian, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist, researcher, and educator specializing in psychedelic-assisted couple therapy. She co-founded Enamory, alongside Dr. Kayla Knopp, a private practice clinic, training institute, and research foundation based in San Diego, California. Their work focuses on ketamine-assisted couple therapy, including clinical data collection and therapist training programs designed to support practitioners integrating psychedelic-assisted couple therapy into their practices. Chandra's work bridges attachment science, nervous system regulation, relationship psychology, and psychedelic medicine. Highlights: How Attachment Shapes Adult Relationships Ketamine for Breaking Relational Rigidity Why Secure Attachment Feels Safe MDMA for Betrayal & Repair Conscious Uncoupling Without Hatred Why Love Alone Isn't Enough Healing Grief Through Psychedelic Therapy Couples Therapy as Nervous System Work Episode Links: Enamory Website Enamory Couples KAP Training Enamory on Instagram Dr. Chandra on Instagram Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Dr. Lauren Macdonald, a clinical trial physician and psychedelic therapist, about the evolving role of community in psychedelic-assisted therapy. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-356/?ref=278  Lauren shares insights from her work at Imperial College London, where she contributed to research on psilocybin for anorexia and fibromyalgia, as well as DMT for treatment-resistant depression. She reflects on the limitations of purely individual therapeutic models and explores how group-based approaches can foster deeper healing through connection, shared experience, and what she describes as communitas. The conversation also touches on the contrast between clinical and ceremonial settings, the role of group dynamics in emotional processing, and the challenges of access and affordability as psychedelic therapy expands. Dr. Lauren Macdonald has a background in psychiatry, psychedelic-assisted therapy, and group retreat facilitation, working at the intersection of science, soul, and spirit. At the Centre for Psychedelic Research at Imperial College London, she has served as a clinical trial doctor and psychedelic therapist on studies exploring psilocybin for anorexia and fibromyalgia, and DMT for treatment-resistant depression. Highlights: Psilocybin therapy in clinical research Limits of individual therapy models Why group work deepens healing Communitas and shared experience Bridging science and spirituality Psychedelics in palliative care Relational safety in altered states Episode Links: Lauren Macdonald's Website The Reconnection: Women's Psilocybin and Somatic Retreats Bridging Worlds: 6-Month Training Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with David Adam Burns, a transformational coach, artist, and founder of The Mysteries, about what may be missing from today's psychedelic conversation. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-355/?ref=278  David challenges the emphasis on insight in psychedelic work, suggesting that deeper transformation comes through presence, healing, and embodied evolution. He outlines a framework for healing through integration, purification, and emotional "thawing," and explains why presence may be the most important skill for navigating psychedelic experiences. They also explore myth and storytelling as tools for collective growth, including David's work with The Mysteries and Earthsong, a retelling of the Persephone myth, and discuss the role of community, leadership, and stewardship in shaping the future of psychedelics. David Adam Burns is a transformational coach, artist, and facilitator devoted to helping human beings remember who they are. Since 2015, he has guided leaders through deep personal transformation in his one-on-one practice and co-founded The Mysteries, an artists' collective dedicated to expressing the ineffable through myth and performance. Highlights: Why insight is often overvalued Healing as integration, purification, and thawing Presence as the core psychedelic skill Story and myth as collective technologies The role of community in transformation Why leadership determines long-term outcomes Episode Links: David Adam Burns Website The Mysteries / Earthsong David on LinkedIn Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Heather Smith, founder of The Moxie School and a certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist, about the intersection of parts work and psychedelic healing. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-354/?ref=278  Heather explains how IFS offers a practical framework for working with what arises during psychedelic experiences. She describes IFS as an approach that helps people stay present with different parts of themselves, especially when difficult or unexpected material comes up. The conversation explores how psychedelic experiences can bring awareness to underlying patterns and past experiences, and why that awareness on its own often doesn't lead to lasting change. They also discuss common misconceptions about combining IFS with psychedelics, the role of preparation and integration, and how working directly with parts supports more stable change over time. Highlights: Misconceptions about IFS in psychedelic work IFS as a mindset, not a method How psychedelics reveal internal parts Why insight alone isn't enough The unburdening process in healing Working with fear and difficult experiences Preparation and integration as core skills Practitioner integrity and embodied practice Heather Smith is a visionary in the field of psychedelic healing, blending Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy with expanded states of consciousness to catalyze deep transformation. A Certified IFS therapist, she has completed Levels 1–3 of training and served as a Program Assistant multiple times. She is the founder of The Moxie School®, where she trains psychedelic facilitators in IFS-informed approaches and supports both personal and professional development through immersive training and retreat experiences. Episode Links: The Moxie School How to Journey: An IFS Field Guide to Psychedelic Journeys Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Kathryn L. Tucker, J.D., a leading civil rights attorney and advocate for end-of-life autonomy, about the legal effort to expand access to psilocybin-assisted therapy for patients facing serious illness. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-353/?ref=278  Kathryn shares how decades of work in right-to-die litigation led her to recognize a critical gap in palliative care, addressing psychological and existential suffering at the end of life. Drawing from emerging clinical research, she explains why psilocybin may offer meaningful relief for anxiety, depression, and distress in terminal patients. The conversation explores the legal pathways being pursued to make this treatment accessible, including Right to Try laws, federal litigation with the DEA, and efforts to reschedule psilocybin. Kathryn also reflects on the broader cultural and ethical implications of allowing individuals greater choice in how they approach death. Kathryn L. Tucker, JD, is a nationally recognized leader in advancing improved care for seriously ill and dying patients. She has held leadership roles across multiple nonprofit organizations, including the National Psychedelics Association, the End of Life Liberty Project, and Compassion & Choices. Tucker has litigated landmark cases before the U.S. Supreme Court, including Washington v. Glucksberg and Vacco v. Quill, and has played a key role in both end-of-life litigation and psychedelic policy advocacy. Highlights: Right to Try laws explained Psilocybin as investigational medicine DEA barriers to patient access Litigation strategies for psychedelic access Rescheduling psilocybin efforts Palliative care gaps in mental suffering Legal vs underground psychedelic Episode Links: National Psychedelics Association Kathryn's LinkedIn  Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

Healing Before Leading: Psychedelics and Political Integrity In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Laura Dunn, civil rights attorney and congressional candidate, about trauma, leadership, and the role of psychedelic healing. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-352/?ref=278  Laura shares how her work advocating for survivors led her to confront the deeper limitations of legal and institutional systems. While policy change can create meaningful protections, it often fails to address the underlying trauma individuals carry. They explore how psychedelic experiences became part of her personal healing journey, and how that informs her approach to leadership, public service, and political integrity. Laura Dunn is an award-winning civil rights attorney, former public school teacher, and congressional candidate in New York's 12th District. She helped shape Title IX protections, contributed to the Violence Against Women Act reauthorization, and founded SurvJustice, a nonprofit supporting survivors of sexual violence. Her work bridges advocacy, policy, and trauma-informed leadership. Highlights: From survivor advocacy to policy reform Limits of legal systems in trauma healing Why leadership requires inner work Psychedelics as tools for self-awareness Breaking stigma in political leadership Bipartisan support for reform Veterans and policy momentum Trauma and leadership integrity A vision for conscious governance Episode Links: Laura Dunn (Congress campaign Instagram) SurvJustice (founded by Laura Dunn) Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.  

Western Philosophy on Drugs: Consciousness, Dreams, and Reality In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Dr. Justin Smith-Ruiu about how psychedelic experiences challenge long-standing assumptions about consciousness, perception, and reality. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-351/?ref=278  Justin explains how Western philosophy has historically privileged rational, sober, and waking states of mind, often dismissing dreams and altered states as unreliable. He explores how psychedelic experiences push against these assumptions, raising deeper questions about knowledge, language, and what counts as real. The conversation also examines the tension between therapeutic and existential uses of psychedelics, and how medicalization may shape the cultural role these substances play moving forward. Justin Smith-Ruiu is a professor of history and philosophy of science at the Université Paris Cité and author of On Drugs: Psychedelics, Philosophy, and the Nature of Reality. His work explores intellectual history, consciousness, and the limits of rational thought, and he writes regularly for Harper's, WIRED, and The New York Times. Highlights: How philosophy excludes altered states Why dreams are dismissed as unreliable Psychedelics and limits of rationality Language and ineffability of experience Therapeutic vs existential frameworks Medicalization and cultural impact Philosophy beyond sober cognition Episode Links: Justin Smith-Ruiu's website Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.  

Can Ketamine Help Benzodiazepine Withdrawal? - Melissa Bond & Dr. Amy de la Garza In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Melissa Bond and Dr. Amy de la Garza about the hidden risks of benzodiazepines, the reality of dependency, and what recovery can require. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-350/?ref=278  Melissa shares her experience of becoming dependent on prescribed medication, and the physical and emotional challenges of withdrawal. Dr. de la Garza brings a clinical perspective, explaining how benzodiazepines affect the nervous system and why withdrawal can be prolonged and destabilizing. The conversation also looks at where conventional care often falls short, and how more integrative approaches are beginning to emerge. This includes the use of low-dose ketamine as a potential tool to support the nervous system during withdrawal, particularly in more complex or prolonged cases. Melissa Bond is a narrative journalist and poet. Her memoir Blood Orange Night, which chronicles her experience with benzodiazepine dependency, was published by Simon & Schuster and recognized by The New York Times as one of the best audiobooks of 2022. Her work has appeared on PBS, The New York Times Podcast, RadioWest, and TEDx. Dr. Amy de la Garza is a board-certified physician in Family and Addiction Medicine, a certified Functional Medicine practitioner, and co-founder of Nosis Health, a virtual outpatient addiction medicine platform. Her work integrates functional, lifestyle, and emerging therapies, including ketamine-assisted treatment, to support recovery. Highlights: Melissa Bond's experience with benzodiazepine dependency and withdrawal How prescribed use can gradually lead to physical dependence Why benzodiazepine withdrawal can be prolonged and destabilizing The neurological effects of benzodiazepines on the nervous system Gaps in conventional approaches to anxiety and addiction treatment The role of functional and lifestyle medicine in recovery How low-dose ketamine is being explored to support withdrawal What a more integrative, whole-person model of care can look like Episode Links: Melissa's memoir, "Blood Orange Night" Dr. Amy de la Garza's Website Nosis.health Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with a molecular geneticist exploring what it could look like to rethink how psychedelic medicines are sourced at a fundamental level. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-349/?ref=278  Jeffrey Gerst explains how his work in RNA biology and gene expression has led him to explore bioengineering as a way to produce psychedelic compounds without relying on wild harvesting or traditional chemical synthesis. The conversation looks at how cells organize and communicate, and how those same biological principles could be used to create more sustainable and scalable systems for medicine production. Paul and Jeff also reflect on the broader implications of this shift, from environmental stewardship to the long-term integrity of the psychedelic ecosystem. Professor Jeffrey Gerst is a molecular geneticist and Full Professor at the Weizmann Institute of Science, where he studies how cells regulate gene expression through RNA trafficking and localized protein synthesis. His research has advanced understanding of how mRNA moves within and between cells, revealing new forms of cellular communication and potential applications in therapeutic delivery. More recently, his work has expanded into the bioengineering of psychedelic compounds, with a focus on developing sustainable, scalable, and ethical methods of production. Highlights: Why sourcing is becoming a central challenge in psychedelics Bioengineering as a scalable alternative to wild harvesting How RNA biology informs new approaches to medicine production The limits of "natural" when demand increases Environmental risks of large-scale psychedelic use How yeast and cells can produce psychedelic compounds Balancing biotechnology with traditional practices What sustainable access could look like in the future The evolving relationship between science and psychedelics Episode Links: Prof. Jeffrey Gerst - Academic Profile (Weizmann Institute) Prof. Jeffrey Gerst - Metaformity (Project / Initiative) Episode Sponsors: Psychedelic Coacing Institute's Intensive for Psychedelic Professionals in Costa Rica - a transformative retreat for personal and professional growth. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.  

Herbal Ecstasy & The Billion Dollar Smart Drug Boom In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin sits down with entrepreneur Shaahin Cheyene, creator of the controversial 1990s supplement "Herbal Ecstasy," which helped launch the legal smart-drug movement. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-348/?ref=278 Shaahin shares how he built a multimillion-dollar business at just fifteen by creating a legal herbal alternative to MDMA during a shortage in the rave scene. The conversation explores 1990s rave culture, the ethics of prohibition, and how natural supplements intersect with psychedelics, entrepreneurship, and personal freedom. They also discuss his later ventures in Amazon commerce, podcast media, and YouTube. Shaahin Cheyene is the creator of Herbal Ecstasy, a supplement that helped spark the legal smart-drug movement in the 1990s. He built the business as a teenager into a multimillion-dollar company. Over the past three decades, Shaahin has become an award-winning entrepreneur, Amazon expert, inventor, author, and filmmaker whose ventures have generated over a billion dollars in revenue. He is the founder of PodcastCola and Viral Mirage. Through his businesses, Shaahin continues to mentor entrepreneurs and develop health and wellness products focused on optimizing human performance. Highlights: Creating Herbal Ecstasy at age fifteen The MDMA shortage that created opportunity Rave culture and the 1990s club scene Natural supplements as legal alternatives Freedom, regulation, and drug policy debates Health and wellness entrepreneurship Building product brands in emerging markets Podcasting and YouTube as influence platforms Episode Links: Shaahin's website PodcastCola Billion: How I Became King of the Thrill Pill Cult – Shaahin Cheyene Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Jonathan Dickinson, CEO and Co-Founder of Ambio Life Sciences, about the evolving role of ibogaine in psychedelic medicine. Listen to the full episode: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-347/?ref=278 Jonathan shares his path from leading the Global Ibogaine Therapy Alliance to helping build one of the field's most prominent ibogaine treatment organizations. Together they explore ibogaine's expanding therapeutic potential for traumatic brain injury, addiction, and neurological conditions, along with the clinical realities of delivering this powerful medicine safely. They also discuss the challenges of scaling ibogaine treatment, the importance of preparation and integration, and how traditional Bwiti knowledge from Gabon continues to shape ethical and culturally grounded approaches to this work. Jonathan Dickinson is the CEO and Co-Founder of Ambio Life Sciences and a leading expert on ibogaine therapy. With more than 15 years of experience in psychedelic research, clinical care, and traditional practice, he has helped shape global safety standards for ibogaine treatment. A Mexico-licensed psychologist and former Executive Director of the Global Ibogaine Therapy Alliance, Jonathan has published research on ibogaine's therapeutic potential for trauma, traumatic brain injury, and neurological conditions. He has also been initiated into the Bwiti traditions of Gabon and holds a Nagoya-compliant export license for Tabernanthe iboga root. Highlights: Jonathan Dickinson's path from the Global Ibogaine Therapy Alliance to Ambio Life Sciences How ibogaine treatment expanded beyond opioid detox The growing use of ibogaine for traumatic brain injury and veterans' recovery Why ibogaine treatment requires extensive medical screening and preparation The importance of integration and community support after treatment What Bwiti traditions in Gabon teach about working with iboga The challenges of scaling ibogaine treatment safely Why ibogaine may create a longer window for lasting change

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Christopher Solomon, founder of Salvia Healings, about how Salvia divinorum can be approached as a therapeutic and introspective tool when used with preparation and somatic awareness. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-346/?ref=278  They discuss dosage, harm reduction, and the importance of building a supportive container for working with intense altered states. The conversation explores how somatic awareness, breath, and pacing can help transform the Salvia experience into an opportunity for meditation, trauma processing, and self guided healing. Christopher Solomon is a somatic Salvia guide and educator focused on helping people approach Salvia with safety, structure, and intention. Drawing from his training in somatic psychotherapy, he teaches how to work with this powerful plant in ways that support introspection and personal growth. Highlights: Reframing Salvia's cultural reputation Set and setting with Salvia Somatic awareness during altered states Microdosing vs threshold experiences Harm reduction and preparation Episode Links: Christopher's website Somatic Salvia Network Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes."

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Jodi Lomask, an artist, choreographer, and creative guide whose work bridges art, science, embodiment, and psychedelic experience. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-345/?ref=278  They explore how psychedelic experiences can be approached as acts of creative design shaped by context and environment. Jodi shares insights from decades of immersive performance work and discusses flow, embodied intelligence, psychological safety in groups, and the differences between microdosing and vision quests. Jodi Lomask is an artist and founder of Capacitor, a performance company exploring the intersection of dance, science, and consciousness. Through Creative Journey, she supports individuals and teams in cultivating creative flow and embodied insight. Highlights: Designing psychedelic experiences intentionally Embodiment and integration Flow states and healing Psychological safety in group work Microdosing versus vision quests Episode Links: Creative Journey Jodi's website   Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Hunt Priest, founder of Ligare, about Christianity, mysticism, and the ethical integration of psychedelic experience within spiritual life. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-344/?ref=278  They discuss Hunt's participation in a 2016 Johns Hopkins psilocybin study for clergy, Christianity's long history of mystical experience, and how non-ordinary states can be held within ethical and communal containers. The conversation also explores legality versus ethics, justice and institutional risk, and how psychedelics relate to prayer, meditation, and service within a broader spiritual life. Hunt Priest is a Christian minister and founder of Ligare, a nonprofit exploring the relationship between Christianity and psychedelics. Formerly an Episcopal priest, he works at the intersection of spiritual formation, ethics, and community-based integration of mystical experience. Highlights: Johns Hopkins clergy study Christian mysticism and non-ordinary states Psychedelics as catalysts for spiritual practice Legal versus ethical tensions Institutional risk and grace Episode Links: Ligare Hunt on Substack Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Justin Wolf, co-founder and CEO of New Brew, about plant-based alternatives to alcohol and how social drinking culture may be shifting. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-343/?ref=278  Justin shares how exploring kava and kratom traditions in Mexico shaped New Brew's approach to formulation, emphasizing reliable dosing, transparency, and harm reduction. Together, they discuss why alcohol became the default social drug, the limits of most "functional beverages," and the nuance behind terms like "Cali sober." The conversation also explores dependency risk, intention, moderation, and why plant-based alternatives are not positioned for those pursuing full abstinence. At its core, this episode is about expanding optionality and building new social rituals responsibly. Justin Wolf is the co-founder and CEO of New Brew, a plant-powered social tonic designed as an alternative to alcohol. Prior to launching New Brew, Justin spent five years leading Global Partnerships at Google and helped launch DripDrop, an electrolyte hydration brand now sold nationwide. Inspired by kava and kratom traditions he encountered in Mexico, he founded New Brew with a focus on transparency, education, and harm reduction. He is also an early investor and advisor in the psychedelic medicine Highlights: Why alcohol became the default social drug The limits of "functional" beverages Discovering kava and kratom in Mexico Harm reduction through formulation and dosing Intention over abstinence or excess The nuance behind "Cali sober" Building new social rituals responsibly Episode Link: New Brew (use code: THIRDWAVE) Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Dr. Paul Ryder, founding minister of the Congregation for Sacred Practices, about an alternative framework for psychedelic work rooted in spirituality, ritual, and community rather than medicine alone. Paul Ryder shares how his own experiences led him to treat psychedelics as sacraments, and why he believes the medical model, while valuable, represents only an early phase of the psychedelic renaissance. Together, they explore how CSP operates as both a church and a seminary, training licensed ministers to hold ceremonies ethically, safely, and within a religious legal framework. The conversation also examines the role of community in long-term transformation, the distinction between therapists and ministers, and why practices like breathwork, meditation, and integration circles are central to spiritual development. Throughout, Ryder offers a grounded perspective on how psychedelics can support not just healing, but maturation, responsibility, and a deeper sense of purpose. You can find the full episode summary and related resources here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-342/?ref=278 Episode Links The Congregation for Sacred Practices Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Jhaimy Alvarez-Acosta, a traditional Andean curandero from Cusco, Peru, about lineage, ceremony, and responsibility within Indigenous wisdom traditions. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-341/?ref=278  They explore Andean cosmology as a living worldview and reframe master plant work as a form of deep education rather than clinical healing. The conversation emphasizes mentorship, initiation through lived experience, and healing as a relational process rooted in land, ancestors, and community. Maestro Jhaimy Alvarez Acosta has walked the path of Andean wisdom for over thirty years, guiding ceremonies and pilgrimages throughout the Andes and internationally. His work emphasizes humility, relationship, and long-term commitment to lineage-based traditions. Highlights: Fear as a guide rather than an obstacle Initiation through lived experience Huachuma in Andean tradition Roles within Indigenous healing lineages Master plants as teachers, not tools Healing as acceptance and relationship Andean cosmology in the modern world Mentorship and community-based learning Episode Links: Children of the Seven Rays Heart of the Condor Podcast Jhaimy's Instagram Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes."

Can Europe Legalize Psychedelic Therapy? In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Théo Giubilei, founder of PsychedeliCare, about how psychedelic therapy could become a public health issue at the European Union level. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-340/?ref=278  They discuss how EU policymaking works, why stigma and political risk continue to shape reform, and the challenges of coordinating psychedelic care across multiple healthcare systems. The conversation also explores why patient testimony and citizen-led advocacy may be essential to shifting public health policy in Europe. Théo Giubilei is a Brussels-based mental health advocate and founder of the PsychedeliCare European Citizens' Initiative. A graduate in European Politics and Public Affairs from Sciences Po Strasbourg, he previously worked in European public affairs before dedicating himself full-time to psychedelic policy reform. Since 2022, Théo has led a grassroots coalition across all 27 EU member states working to advance safe, legal, and equitable access to psychedelic therapies as a public health issue. Highlights: European Citizens' Initiative explained Political and cultural barriers to reform Patient testimony in policy debates U.S. vs EU access models Public funding and coordination Episode Links: PsychedeliCare Initiative European Commission ECI Page Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes."  

African Psychoactive Plants: Dreams, Ancestors, and Healing In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Jean-Francois Sobiecki, a South African ethnobotanist, clinical nutritionist, and healer whose work challenges the assumption that Africa lacks psychoactive plant traditions. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-339/?ref=278  Drawing from over two decades of research and a 15-year apprenticeship with a Northern Sotho healer, Jean-Francois explores dream-enhancing medicines like Ubulawu, ancestral healing systems, and cross-cultural parallels with Amazonian plant traditions. The conversation also examines conservation, initiation, and the role of African psychoactive plants in global mental health. Jean-Francois Sobiecki is a South African ethnobotanist, clinical nutritionist, and healer with over two decades of experience researching African psychoactive plant traditions. A research associate at the University of Johannesburg and founder of Phytoalchemy, he has documented more than 300 psychoactive plant species and completed a 15-year apprenticeship under Northern Sotho healer Leti Maponya. He is the author of African Psychoactive Plants: Journeys in Phytoalchemy. Highlights: Challenging myths about African visionary plants Ubulawu and dream-based healing Psychoactive vs psychedelic distinctions African and Amazonian initiation parallels Archaeological evidence of psilocybin in Africa Conservation and healing gardens Episode Links: Jean-Francois Sobiecki's Website Jean-Francois book, African Psychoactive Plants: Journeys in Phytoalchemy 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 Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes."

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin sits down with Zach Leary to explore how psychedelic culture has evolved from its countercultural roots into today's rapidly commercializing landscape. They discuss mysticism versus medicalization, the ethics of psychedelics in capitalist systems, the rise of psychedelic churches, and why integration and responsibility matter more than peak experience alone. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-338/?ref=278 Zach Leary is a psychedelic educator, integration coach, and host of the Psychedelics Then and Now Podcast. He has spent over 30 years immersed in psychedelic culture and is the author of Your Extraordinary Mind, forthcoming from Sounds True. Highlights: Countercultural roots of psychedelics Medicalization vs mysticism Psychedelics in capitalism Set and setting Psychedelic churches Integration and stewardship Episode Links: Zach Leary Website Zach Leary Instagram Psychedelics Then and Now Podcast Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin reconnects with computational neurobiologist and author Dr. Andrew Gallimore to explore the mysteries of DMT, intelligence, and extended-state psychedelic technologies. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-337/?ref=278  They revisit themes from their earlier conversation and dive deeper into Andrew's latest book, Death by Astonishment, examining DMT as an information-gating technology, its relationship to non-human intelligences, and its emerging therapeutic and neuroprotective applications. Andrew also shares updates on DMTx infusion research and reflects on what extended-state experiences could mean for the future of consciousness science and human evolution. Dr. Andrew Gallimore is a computational neurobiologist, chemical pharmacologist, and writer based in Tokyo. He holds a master's degree in chemical pharmacology and a PhD in biological chemistry from the University of Cambridge, and has completed postdoctoral research fellowships in computational neuroscience at the Universities of York, Oxford, and Okinawa. For more than two decades, Andrew has studied the neuropharmacology of psychedelics, with a particular focus on DMT and its implications for understanding consciousness. He is the author of Alien Information Theory, Reality Switch Technologies, and Death by Astonishment (St. Martin's Press, 2025). In collaboration with Dr. Rick Strassman, he helped develop the DMTx continuous intravenous infusion protocol for extended journeys in the DMT space. Highlights: Revisiting the brain as an information-gating system DMT as a technology rather than a drug "Alien intelligences" and what intelligence really means The Intelligence Principle and post-biological minds Why extended-state DMT (DMTx) matters Continuous infusion as deep-sea diving vs. free-diving Psychedelics as tools for expanding intelligence Non-human entities and "galactic data networks" Neuroprotective effects of DMT during stroke The future of selective sigma-1 receptor agonists Episode Links: Andrew Gallimore – Building Alien Worlds Death by Astonishment (Macmillan) Episode 146 with Andrew: DMT, Alien Intelligence, and Transhuman Ascension Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout 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. Disclaimer: Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes. This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Giovanni Bartolomeo, founder of Elemental Rhythm Breathwork, about how breathwork can support meaningful personal change and deepen integration after psychedelic experiences. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-336/?ref=278  Gio shares his journey from high-pressure entrepreneurship into a more grounded, heart-led approach to life and business. He reflects on how Elemental Rhythm emerged through years of breathwork practice, somatic exploration, and deep work with plant medicine, eventually evolving into a system that blends breath, music, movement, meditation, and guided inquiry. Together, Paul and Gio explore why accessible practices like breathwork can cultivate real agency rather than dependency, how preparation and integration shape long-term change, and what it means to take responsibility for one's own growth in both spiritual and entrepreneurial contexts. Giovanni Bartolomeo is the founder of Elemental Rhythm Breathwork, where he shares breathwork resources and trains others to facilitate breathwork-based transformational coaching. A lifelong entrepreneur, Gio's own journey through self-discovery led him to create a grounded, embodied approach to personal and professional transformation. Today, he teaches workshops, trainings, and retreats internationally. Highlights: From serial entrepreneur to inner-led leadership Growing beyond inherited belief systems How Elemental Rhythm emerged through plant medicine work Breathwork as a tool for agency and clarity Preparation and integration in psychedelic work Empowerment versus dependency in facilitation Responsibility as a cornerstone of transformation Ethical questions in entrepreneurship and healing spaces Insights from the Microdosing Practitioner Certification beta Daily breathwork and nervous system resilience Episode Links: Elemental Rhythm Breathwork Psychedelic Coaching Institute – Microdosing Practitioner Certification Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout 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. Disclaimer: Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes. This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with human connection specialist and Create The Love founder Mark Groves about how psychedelics reveal the hidden patterns shaping our relationships. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-335/?ref=278  Mark shares how heartbreak, honesty, and plant medicine helped him move from external validation to inner truth. Together, they explore emotional safety, attachment wounds, technology's influence on agency, and the growing overlap between relational healing and psychedelic integration. Mark Groves is a human connection specialist, author, speaker, coach, podcast host, and founder of Create The Love. For over a decade, he has helped individuals and organizations transform relationships through emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and radical honesty. Highlights: Psychedelics and relationship patterns Attachment wounds and emotional safety Honesty as integration practice Technology, agency, and attention Personal sovereignty in partnership Episode Links: Mark Groves Website Create The Love Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout 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. Disclaimer: Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes. This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Ashley Carmen, LMFT, psychotherapist and founder of the Psychedelic Guide Network (PGN). Ashley offers insight into Austin's rapidly growing psychedelic landscape and the ethical foundations needed to support safe, grounded facilitation. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-334/?ref=278 Paul and Ashley explore sovereignty, accountability, dual relationships, and the subtle dynamics that arise in non-ordinary states. They also discuss how PGN's Wisdom Circles help facilitators deepen their practice through honest reflection and community-based support. Together they consider how ethics can function as medicine—clarifying power, strengthening boundaries, and honoring the integrity of the work. Ashley Carmen, M.S., LMFT is a psychotherapist and founder of the Psychedelic Guide Network. She supports both licensed clinicians and community facilitators as they incorporate psychedelic modalities into ethical practice. Ashley trained with MAPS in MDMA-assisted psychotherapy and completed psilocybin guide training through the School of Consciousness Medicine, influenced by Mazatec traditions of Huautla de Jiménez, Oaxaca. Her work centers on fostering diversity, accountability, and ethical maturity within the expanding psychedelic field. Highlights: Austin's emergence as a psychedelic hub Sovereignty and responsibility in facilitation Dual relationships and clean boundaries Power dynamics and sexual projection Inside PGN's peer Wisdom Circles Support for licensed psychedelic practitioners Scope guidance for non-clinical facilitators Ethics as a core healing practice Episode Links: Psychedelic Guide Network Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout 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. Disclaimer: Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes. This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin reconnects with longtime Buddhist practitioner and former Synthesis co-founder Martijn Schirp, founder of Upāyosis. They explore his journey from pioneering modern psilocybin retreats to creating A Path Between Worlds, a year-long contemplative training that integrates Buddhist practice, ecological ethics, and psychedelic skillful means. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-333/?ref=278  Martijn shares lessons from Synthesis's rise and collapse, how time in the Himalayas reshaped his contemplative path, and why "ego porousness" may offer a healthier frame than "ego death." He and Paul discuss how Buddhist principles like interdependence and skillful means can guide responsible psychedelic work — and why awakening today must include service to a planet in crisis. Martijn Schirp is a longtime Buddhist practitioner and founder of Upāyosis, where he leads A Path Between Worlds, a yearlong contemplative training blending Buddhist practice, ecological ethics, contemplative science, and optional psychedelic components. Previously, he co-founded the Synthesis Institute, helping pioneer modern, medically supervised psilocybin retreats and training programs. He writes, teaches, and mentors at the intersection of Buddhist wisdom, contemplative science, and psychedelic practice. Highlights: From Synthesis to spiritual renewal in the Himalayas Lessons from crisis: leadership, burnout, impermanence What Buddhism can teach the psychedelic field The fifth precept and "skillful means" First principles of skillful psychedelic use Ego porousness vs. ego dissolution Ecological ethics as spiritual practice A Path Between Worlds: a contemplative year of service Episode Links: Upāyosis A Path Between Worlds 12-month program Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout 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. Disclaimer: Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes. This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization.

In this special AMA episode, Paul F. Austin answers the most common, and most nuanced questions emerging from recent trainings, webinars, and community sessions. Drawing from a decade of experience in microdosing, facilitation, and practitioner training, Paul explores how to choose the right microdosing protocol, the relationship between nervous system health and performance, the role of psychedelics in coaching, and the ethical boundaries practitioners must uphold. He also discusses SSRI tapering, creativity, leadership, and how to guide clients through integration with clarity and skill. Highlights How to choose a microdosing protocol Why nervous system health comes first Microdosing vs. macrodosing for integration SSRIs, tapering, and safe sequencing Creativity and leadership with microdosing Embodiment as the key to integration Coaching vs. therapy in psychedelic work Ethical boundaries for practitioners Episode Links Free Webinar on Dec 11, 2025: Social Media, Psychedelics, and the Law: What Practitioners Need to Know Practitioner Certification Program Microdosing Practitioner Certification

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Dr. Michael Ryoshin Sapiro, a Zen Buddhist monk, psychologist, and psychedelic psychotherapist whose new book Truth Medicine explores how awakening and clinical science meet through the heart. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-332/?ref=278  They discuss how Zen simplicity informs psychedelic work, the nuances between psychedelic-assisted and psychedelic psychotherapy, and how Dr. Sapiro tailors ketamine sessions for trauma recovery in first responders and veterans. Together they unpack the art of surrender, the role of spirituality in therapy, and why genuine healing begins with nervous-system regulation long before medicine is introduced. Dr. Sapiro is also offering a free live video event with The Shift Network, Find Your Truth Behind the Masks You Wear, where he'll guide experiential practices in futuremaking, compassion, and embodied awareness. During this session, he'll also introduce his new seven-week live course, a deeper journey into conscious living, authenticity, and the principles explored in Truth Medicine. Michael Ryoshin Sapiro, PsyD is an ordained Zen Buddhist monk, clinical and first-responder psychologist, psychedelic psychotherapist, author, and meditation teacher. He serves as integrative psychologist at Boise Ketamine Clinic, runs international transformational retreats, and appears in the documentary An Act of Service on ketamine treatment for first responders (featured by The New York Times). His work within the special-operations and first-responder communities centers on trauma recovery, ethical service, and awakened leadership. His book Truth Medicine: Healing and Living Authentically Through Psychedelic Psychotherapy is available now. Highlights: Zen Buddhist ordination and early training How Zen shapes psychedelic psychotherapy Assisted therapy vs. psychedelic psychotherapy Ketamine dosing nuance and "golden hour" Working with first responders and veterans Non-dual states and "I am love" experiences Spiritual ethics in psychedelic care Nervous-system preparation for medicine Community, retreats, and the sacred heart Episode Links: Dr. Sapiro's Website Dr. Sapiro's book, Truth Medicine Dr. Sapiro's free video event: Find Your Truth Behind the Mask You Wear Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout 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. Disclaimer: Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes. This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Chen Lizra, founder of the Power of Somatic Intelligence. A somatic coach, TED Speaker, and plant medicine facilitator, Chen bridges embodiment, trauma healing, and shamanic wisdom to help high achievers reconnect with the body's innate intelligence. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-331/?ref=278  Drawing from her own healing journey and decades of work in the Amazon, Chen shares how somatic intelligence allows us to regulate the nervous system, dissolve ancestral imprints, and reclaim authentic power. She and Paul explore how movement, breath, and plant medicine can open pathways to emotional mastery and feminine embodiment. Chen Lizra is the founder of The Power of Somatic Intelligence, a somatic coach, TED Speaker, professional dancer, and plant medicine facilitator helping high achievers heal their nervous systems and release emotional blocks. With more than 30 years of experience blending embodiment, somatics, and shamanic wisdom, Chen guides clients toward inner alignment and authentic expression. She also leads retreats in the Amazon with a shamanic maestra, combining plant medicine, dieta, and somatic coaching for deep transformation. Highlights: How trauma lives in the body—and how to release it The five pillars of somatic intelligence Why nervous system regulation precedes spiritual awakening Integrating shamanic plant medicine with embodiment work Healing ancestral imprints through somatic awareness Balancing divine feminine energy and grounded power Moving from survival patterns to inner alignment The art of "feeling safe enough to feel" Episode Links: Power of Somatic Intelligence Chen's Ayahuasca & Somatic Healing Retreat – Mention 'Third Wave Special' for $300 off. Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes. This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin sits down with Jeff Stevens and David Shisel, co-founders of Psyched Wellness, the first publicly traded company in North America to bring an Amanita muscaria extract to market. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-330/?ref=278  Together, they discuss the mushroom's unique pharmacology, Psyched Wellness' multi-year path through Health Canada's safety testing, and the broader implications for the future of functional fungi. Paul also explores the tension between innovation and regulation, as Jeff and David share insights from operating in the gray area between supplements and psychedelics. Jeff Stevens and David Shisel are the co-founders of Psyched Wellness. With backgrounds spanning capital markets, legal compliance, and product development, they've led the effort to bring Amanita muscaria into mainstream wellness through rigorous science and education. Highlights: Understanding Amanita muscaria's active compounds Why Health Canada approval took three years How Psyched Wellness rebranded a controversial mushroom What separates Amanita from psilocybin Legal gray zones and ethical entrepreneurship Microdosing Amanita: early findings and consumer safety Building trust through transparency and research Episode Links: Psyched Wellness Episode 197 with Jeff: Decoding Amanita muscaria: A New Era of Mushroom Healing Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute helps you master Paul F. Austin's microdosing protocol and build a meaningful, profitable coaching practice in just 4 months. Early Bird pricing ends November 23. Program begins January 6, 2026.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Jay Fiset, best-selling author and founder of The Psychedelic Coach Accelerator. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-329/?ref=278  Jay shares how psychedelics have transformed his marriage, business, and view of leadership—offering a look into what he calls Functional Psychedelics, a practice of intentionally using medicine to expand awareness, connection, and creativity. Together they discuss how to hold trauma-informed space, translate insights into everyday leadership, and why integration is the true measure of transformation. Want to join The Psychedelic Coach Accelerator? Get a special discount with code THIRDWAVE. Go Here. Jay Fiset is a psychedelic educator, advocate, and guide. A best-selling author, global speaker, and mastermind mentor, he has helped thousands of entrepreneurs expand both their businesses and consciousness. Through The Connection Experience and The Psychedelic Coach Accelerator, Jay and his wife Cory train psychedelic guides and coaches to integrate medicine work into leadership and relational growth. Highlights: • What "Functional Psychedelics" really means • How couples' journeys deepen emotional intelligence • Integration as innovation in business • The importance of trauma-informed facilitation • Building ethical, scalable psychedelic leadership • Balancing achievement with embodiment • Why business can be a spiritual practice Episode Links: The Psychedelic Coach Accelerator  (Use Code THIRDWAVE for a special discount) The Connection Experience  Integrate In Between Guide Certification  Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute helps you master Paul F. Austin's microdosing protocol and build a meaningful, profitable coaching practice in just 4 months. Early Bird pricing: $4,000 (until November 16). Program begins January 6, 2026. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Elina Teboul, author of Feminine Intelligence: Visionary Leaders Reshaping Business. A former corporate attorney turned leadership coach, Elina explores how psychedelics and altered states can reconnect leaders to empathy, purpose, and environmental stewardship. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-328/?ref=278 Drawing on her background in law, psychology, and mindfulness, Elina shares how "feminine intelligence" can help leaders balance logic with intuition and reimagine business through love, creativity, and service. Elina Teboul is a leadership expert and executive coach with degrees in psychology and law from Columbia University. She founded Light Up Lab, serves as an executive coach with The Preston Associates, and sits on the advisory board of the Earth Law Center. Her work bridges corporate leadership with spiritual and ecological awareness, offering a transformative model for conscious capitalism. Highlights: From Big Law to psychedelic leadership Integrating empathy and purpose in business Psychedelics as tools for wholeness Positive psychology for high-stress professions Conscious capitalism and planetary stewardship Ethical frameworks for psychedelics at work Episode Links Elina's Website Book: Feminine Intelligence Episode Sponsor The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute helps you master Paul F. Austin's microdosing protocol and build a meaningful, profitable coaching practice in just 4 months. Early Bird pricing: $4,000 (until November 16). Program begins January 6, 2026. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Dr. Conor H. Murray, a neuroscientist at UCLA whose research explores how psychedelics affect the brain. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-327/?ref=278  Conor shares insights from his placebo-controlled LSD microdosing study revealing measurable increases in neural complexity, suggesting unique neurological benefits even at sub-perceptual doses. He and Paul discuss what these findings mean for depression, addiction, and brain plasticity, as well as the future of citizen neuroscience through Conor's platform Psynautics. They also touch on his ongoing psilocybin study for cocaine use disorder and why low-dose research may hold keys to understanding consciousness itself. Interested in participating in Dr. Murray's Microdosing Study? Get 10% Off Your Enrollment! Use code WAVE3 to receive 10% off your study kit. https://www.psynautics.com/microdosing Conor Murray is a neuroscientist specializing in altered states of consciousness at UCLA. He is also the founder of Psynautics, the world's first citizen neuroscientist platform built for testing hypotheses related to altered states of mind and brain, from meditation to microdosing. His scientific expertise spans from the neurobiology of addiction to the effects of cannabis and psychedelics on the brain. Highlights How Dr. Murray entered psychedelic research by chance What LSD microdosing reveals about neural complexity The “sweet spot” around 13 micrograms for mental clarity Why placebo effects don't fully explain brain changes Microdosing vs macrodosing in neuroplastic outcomes BDNF, inflammation, and the mechanisms of healing Psilocybin's potential for cocaine use disorder How environment influences addiction and relapse The rise of citizen neuroscience and DIY EEG studies Where psychedelic science is headed next Episode Links Conor H. Murray, PhD Personal website Psynautics (Citizen Neuroscience Project) Psynautics Microdosing Study (Use code WAVE3 to receive 10% off your study kit) Episode Sponsors The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Jay Campbell, five-time bestselling author, men's physique champion, and founder of BioLongevity Labs. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-326/?ref=278  Together they explore how peptides, hormones, and energy form a new model of regenerative health. Jay explains how these signaling molecules work at the cellular level and why coherence and self-awareness are essential to sustainable vitality. The discussion bridges scientific rigor with personal transformation—redefining what it means to be “optimized.” Jay Campbell is a bestselling author, athlete, and co-founder of BioLongevity Labs. Recognized for his expertise in hormone and peptide science, he blends decades of physical training experience with a deep understanding of consciousness and energetic alignment. Highlights: Peptides as a bridge between biology and consciousness Why emotional regulation supports physical health The “God Stack” for daily optimization How light and sound technologies aid healing The future of energy-based medicine Love and service as true performance enhancers Episode Links: BioLongevity Labs - Use Code THIRDWAVE for 15% off Jay's Website Episode Sponsors The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Kevin Cannella, co-founder and executive director of Thank You Life, a nonprofit removing financial barriers to psychedelic therapy. Kevin shares his path from early mystical experiences and time at a Peruvian retreat center to becoming a licensed professional counselor and MAPS-trained therapist, then building a pay-it-forward fund that partners with clinics nationwide. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-325/?ref=278  Kevin explains how Thank You Life works with 120+ ketamine clinics, why group programs matter for cost and connection, and what's realistic about insurance coverage today. He also explores integration support, community pods, and how state partnerships could expand access for veterans, first responders, and more. Kevin Cannella is the co-founder and executive director of Thank You Life, a 501(c)(3) psychedelic therapy access fund. A licensed professional counselor and MAPS-trained psychedelic therapist, Kevin founded the organization with Dr. Dan Engle to eliminate the financial barriers that prevent many from accessing psychedelic healing. Thank You Life partners with over 120 ketamine clinics in 35 states, offering financial assistance and group support programs to individuals in need. Rooted in his own transformative journey with meditation, intensive retreat work, and psychotherapy, Kevin is dedicated to advancing health equity, reciprocity, and compassionate care in the psychedelic field. Highlights: Service-driven path into psychedelic care Founding Thank You Life as a pay-it-forward fund Partnering with 120+ ketamine clinics nationwide Group ketamine care: cost and community benefits Insurance realities: Spravato vs. generic ketamine Integration support through clinics and community pods Scaling access via philanthropy and state partnerships Episode Sponsors: Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin sits down with meditation teacher and social entrepreneur Dr. Fleet Maull to explore how Neuro-Somatic Mindfulness (NSM) intersects with psychedelic therapy. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-324/?ref=278  Fleet shares his journey from a 14-year federal prison sentence—where he founded the first prison hospice program and led daily meditation groups—to developing NSM, a radically embodied, neuroscience- and trauma-informed approach to practice. He explains how NSM trains five key brain networks, why embodiment quiets a noisy mind more reliably than “thinking about” the breath, and how pairing NSM with ketamine or psilocybin can help shift insights from state to trait. The conversation offers a grounded roadmap for practitioners and seekers who want deeper stability, safety, and integration in expanded-state work. Fleet Maull, PhD, CMT-P is an author, meditation teacher, mindset coach, and social entrepreneur working at the intersection of personal and social transformation. He is the founder & CEO of Heart Mind Institute, which integrates Western science with contemplative wisdom across trauma healing, resilience, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, and conscious entrepreneurship. While serving a 14-year federal sentence (1985–1999), he founded Prison Mindfulness Institute and National Prison Hospice Association, catalyzing national movements in contemplative rehabilitation and end-of-life care. A senior Dharma teacher in Tibetan Buddhism and a Zen Roshi, Dr. Maull developed Neuro-Somatic Mindfulness (NSM), a deeply embodied, trauma-informed practice for healing and awakening. *This October 14–19, 2025, Paul will also co-host Heart Mind Institute's free online Microdosing & Psychedelic Retreats Summit, featuring 35+ global leaders including Paul Stamets, Deepak Chopra, and James Fadiman. Register free via the links below. Highlights Why embodiment beats “thinking about” the breath Prison as practice: hospice, service, and sobriety What is Neuro-Somatic Mindfulness (NSM)? DMN vs. task-positive network in practice Training five neural networks for resilience From state to trait: integration by design NSM with low-dose ketamine: retreat outcomes Rigidity, chaos, and the Goldilocks zone Episode Links FleetMaull.com: https://www.fleetmaull.com/ Heart Mind Institute: https://www.heartmind.co/ Microdosing & Psychedelic Retreats Summit (Free Registration):  https://thethirdwave.co/wp/?bwfan-link-trigger=9662151721791b9c6c99a7d8adb5929c  Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin sits down with medicine woman and transpersonal psychotherapist Lena Franklin to explore grief as a doorway to the sacred, bridging clinical training with embodied spirituality, and the ethics of honoring indigenous lineages in modern practice.  Find full show notes and links here: http://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-323?ref=278 Lena shares “The Method,” a 90-day psilocybin-supported program (three ceremonies + twelve sessions), and reflects on lessons learned from founding and composting EAST Institute. She also previews a new global initiative for advanced, root-cause healing centers and closes with an embodied playbook for leaders. Lena Franklin is a Medicine Woman, Transpersonal Psychotherapist, and transformational speaker bridging ancient medicine and modern technology for global healing. Raised in a Buddhist/Christian home, she integrates Eastern philosophy with Western neuroscience across meditation, energy medicine, longevity, human optimization, plant medicine, shamanism, and ecosystem consciousness. Formally trained in psychology (B.S.) and clinical social work (M.S.) at the University of Georgia, Lena weaves lineages from Mahayana Buddhism, Mopan Maya Ancient Medicine, Q'ero Peruvian shamanism, and Shipibo wisdom into ceremonial and teaching work worldwide. She founded The QUINTESSENCE Approach for activating Revolutionary Medicine Woman leadership, The BEING Method for mindfulness-based human potential, and The Meditation Membership of audio/video teachings. Her work has been featured in Vogue, The New York Times, Telegraph, and more.  Highlights: Grief as a sacred portal Clinician and mystic, not either/or Lineage stewardship and councils of elders “Harm reduction is bi-directional” Lessons from founding EAST Institute The 90-day, three-ceremony Method From psycho-emotional to psycho-spiritual Why assessment must stay rigorous Vision for root-cause healing centers Daily grounding for embodied leadership Episode Links: Lena's website Lena on Instagram Episode Sponsor: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes researcher and entrepreneur Sterling Cooley to explore xenon—the noble gas with surprising psychedelic-like effects. Sterling shares how his own health crisis led him from nitrous oxide to xenon, and why he believes gaseous anesthetics open a unique window into consciousness. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-322/?ref=278 Sterling connects xenon to microtubule research (Orch OR), contrasts it with ketamine and nitrous, and discusses harm-reduction considerations, trip reports, and integration. The discussion bridges Sterling's personal journey with emerging scientific theories, offering a thoughtful look at xenon's potential role in consciousness and healing. Guest Bio Sterling Cooley is a researcher and biotech entrepreneur working in ultrasound neuromodulation and noninvasive vagus nerve stimulation. Over the past decade, he has collaborated with Dr. Stuart Hameroff on microtubules, quantum consciousness, and novel anesthetics. Sterling is focused on xenon, a noble gas with both anesthetic and psychedelic-like properties. Through his community at Skool.com/Ultra, he supports safe, informed exploration of xenon's therapeutic and consciousness-expanding potential. Highlights: What xenon is and why it fascinates researchers Sterling's personal health journey with gaseous anesthetics Microtubules, Orch OR, and models of consciousness Xenon vs. ketamine vs. nitrous: similarities and differences Harm-reduction guidance for gaseous psychedelics Visionary and higher-self experiences on xenon Potential applications for pain and PTSD Why microtubules may bridge mind, matter, and ideals Episode Links: Ultra Skool Skool.com/Ultra (Sterling's community and xenon classroom) Sterling on X Purchase Xenon Gas (USA) Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: Third Wave's content is for educational and informational purposes only. We do not provide medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your mental or physical health. Nothing here is intended as encouragement to use any substance, and we do not advocate for illegal activity.

Can intentional psychedelic use contribute to personal growth, creative insight, and professional transformation? What conditions does one need to live a truly profound existence? In this conversation, Paul F. Austin joins us to discuss his take on microdosing psychedelics and how this plays into the story of humanity's present-future evolution… Paul is an entrepreneur, author, and coach who sees psychedelic use as a skill – one cultivated through clear intention, supportive mentorship, and courageous exploration. He has guided countless psychedelic experiences through his work as the founder of Third Wave and consistently integrates psychedelics with professional development at the Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Hit play to learn about: How Paul's experiences with altered states of consciousness shaped his personal and professional path. The ways in which psychedelic use has become destigmatized. The value of exploration and experimentation. The two most common reasons why people come into contact with microdosing. You can follow along with Paul on Instagram @paulaustin3w and by visiting his personal website!

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Lana Pribic, ICF Professional Coach, co-founder of Kanna Wellness, and host of the Modern Psychedelics Podcast. Lana shares her deep reverence for African medicines—iboga and kanna—and why she resists quick-fix narratives in psychedelic culture. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-321/?ref=278  She opens up about her ceremonies in Baja, the long arc of iboga integration, and the role of preparation, intention, and patience in this work. The conversation also explores kanna as a gentle daily ally and the cultural roots of both medicines. Lana Pribic, M.Sc., is an ICF Professional Coach, co-founder of Kanna Wellness, and producer & host of the Modern Psychedelics Podcast. With over 230 hours of professional training and four coaching certifications, Lana specializes in psychedelically-informed coaching, guiding individuals through profound inner transformation. Based in Ontario, she merges the power of psychedelics, consciousness, and self-discovery to facilitate deeply impactful experiences. When she's not immersed in her work, you'll likely find her dancing to electronic beats, creating art in the kitchen, practicing patience with her cat, curating her dream wardrobe, or diving into a book. Highlights: How iboga differs from classic psychedelics Preparation as the overlooked key to safe journeys How to craft meaningful questions for iboga Rejecting the quick-fix narrative in psychedelic work Facing shadow material in ceremony The long arc of iboga integration Kanna as a subtle, supportive ally Safety concerns around microdosing iboga The cultural inseparability of iboga and Bwiti Balancing medicalization with ancestral reverence Episode Links: Modern Psychedelics Podcast  Kanna Wellness – Use code THIRDWAVE for 10% off Episode Sponsors: Psychedelic Coacing Institute's Intensive for Psychedelic Professionals in Costa Rica - a transformative retreat for personal and professional growth. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

Paul F. Austin, founder of Third Wave and Psychedelic Coaching Institute, coaches elite leaders - CEOs, founders, and executives - on integrating psychedelics with conscious leadership for peak performance, problem solving, and tangible transformation. Top3 Value Bombs 1. The biggest opportunities are found in not playing by the rules but in rewriting them and that success is not only about personal achievement but about serving something bigger and that true fulfilment comes from aligning  your work to a deeper mission that creates true impact in families, communities and the world. Finding the intersection of these things defines what success is. 2. Microdosing is not a magic pill that anyone can take to fix things. Yes it helps in neuroplasticity but its not just about taking the drug that matters, what really matters is integration. 3. The best leaders just don't grow their business, they grow themselves first and Psychedelic coaching accelerate that evolution. Go to his website and send him a direct note for a one on one chat if you are an entrepreneur who is ready to refine your vision, elevate your leadership and evolve into the next level of your business and life - Paul Austin Website Sponsors Northwest Registered Agent - Don't wait. Protect your privacy, build your brand and set up your business in just 10 clicks in 10 minutes. Visit NorthwestRegisteredAgent.com/fire and start building something amazing. Franocity - Franocity has helped hundreds of people leave unfulfilling jobs and invest in recession-resilient businesses through franchising. Visit Franocity.com to book a free consultation and start your franchising journey with expert guidance.