Third Wave Podcast

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Dr. Cassandra Vieten, Director of Research at the Arthur C. Clarke Center for Human Imagination and Clinical Psychology Director at the Psychedelics and Health Research Initiative at UCSD.  Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-286/?ref=278 Dr. Vieten shares insights on the relationship between imagination, psychedelics, and mental health, exploring how these elements intersect to create transformative experiences. She discusses groundbreaking research on psilocybin for phantom limb pain, the importance of both scientific rigor and therapeutic wisdom in psychedelic research, and how imagination can be cultivated as a vital skill for personal and societal transformation. Cassandra Vieten is Clinical Professor and Director of the Center for Mindfulness at the Centers for Integrative Health in the Department of Family Medicine at UC San Diego. She is also Director of Research at the Arthur C. Clarke Center for Human Imagination and Clinical Psychology Director at the Psychedelics and Health Research Initiative at UCSD. She is Senior Advisor of the John W. Brick Mental Health Foundation where she served as Executive Director from 2019-2023, and a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Noetic Sciences, where she served as President from 2013-2019. Her research has focused on spirituality and health, transformative experiences and practices, the development of mindfulness-based interventions for emotional well-being, and development of media technologies to inspire awe. She received her Ph.D. in clinical psychology at the California Institute of Integral Studies, and completed her research training in behavioral genetics at UC San Francisco. She has authored three books, published numerous articles in scientific journals, and is an internationally recognized keynote speaker and workshop leader.

Highlights:

• The mental health renaissance
• Exercise and mental wellness
• Origins of the Clarke Center
• Understanding noetic sciences
• Imagination and development
• Psilocybin for phantom limb pain
• Psychedelics vs opioids for pain
• Psychedelics with or without therapy
• Group vs individual treatment
• Imagination as transformation

Episode Links:

• Dr. Vieten’s Website
• Clark Center for Human Imagination Center for Mindfulness at UC San Diego
• Dr. Vieten’s TEDx Talk at TEDxSanDiego
• Institute of Noetic Sciences

Episode Sponsor:

• The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave’s Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Tiffany Hurd, a microdosing coach and business leadership advisor who bridges the worlds of psychedelics and corporate culture. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-285/?ref=278 Drawing from her 15-year corporate background and extensive experience with psychedelic medicines, Tiffany shares insights on bringing microdosing into professional environments, discusses her personal journey from Division I athlete to corporate executive to psychedelic advocate, and explores how these powerful tools can transform workplace culture and leadership. Tiffany Hurd is a microdosing coach, speaker, and business leadership advisor who has supported over 250 individuals and their teams through microdosing experiences. Drawing from her 15+ years in the corporate medical industry, where she held executive sales & business development roles at Fortune 500 companies, Tiffany helps organizations optimize their growth through customized microdosing protocols. Her expertise lies in teaching business leaders how to achieve professional and personal fulfillment using microdosing and emotional intelligence leadership skills. Her work focuses on helping companies retain talent, elevate team relationships, and cultivate emotional awareness while creating purpose-driven organizations at the intersection of business, leadership, and psychedelics.

Highlights:

• From challenging upbringing to Division I basketball player 
• Transition from corporate medical sales to psychedelic coaching
• Personal experience weaning off psychiatric medications through microdosing
• Discussion of microdosing protocols and safety considerations
• From productivity machine to conscious business
• Practical considerations for psychedelic workplace programs
• Vision for the future of psychedelics in business
• Integration of AI and psychedelics in business landscape

Episode Links:

• Website
• Tiffany on Instagram
• Tiffany on LinkedIn

Episode Sponsor:

• The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave’s Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Dr. Rick Strassman, pioneering psychedelic researcher and author of "DMT: The Spirit Molecule."  Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-284/?ref=278 Dr. Strassman shares insights from his groundbreaking DMT research in the 1990s, discusses recent developments in extended-state DMT studies, and explores the complex relationship between psychedelics, spirituality, and organized religion. Drawing from his new memoir "My Altered States," he offers a unique perspective on the intersection of personal experience, clinical research, and spiritual growth in the psychedelic field.

A native of Los Angeles, Rick Strassman obtained his undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences from Stanford University, medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, general psychiatry training at UC Davis, and a clinical psychopharmacology research fellowship training at UC San Diego. Joining the faculty at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine in 1984, his clinical research on melatonin discovered its first known function in humans.

Between 1990-1995 he performed the first new US clinical research with psychedelic drugs—DMT and psilocybin—in a generation. From 1995-2008 he practiced general psychiatry in community mental health and the private sector. He has authored or co-authored nearly 50 peer-reviewed papers, has served as guest editor and reviewer for numerous scientific journals, and consulted to various government, non-profit, and for-profit entities. His best-selling book DMT: The Spirit Molecule (2001) has been translated into 13 languages and is the basis of a successful independent documentary that he co-produced. 

In 2008, he co-authored Inner Paths to Outer Space. His interest in Hebrew biblical prophecy and psychedelia resulted in his 2014 book DMT and the Soul of prophecy. His first novel, Joseph Levy Escapes Death, was published in 2019. The Psychedelic Handbook appeared in 2022, and My Altered States, an illustrated collection of personal narratives, will appear in December 2024.

Highlights:

• Origins of DMT research at University of New Mexico and initial melatonin studies 
• The relationship between DMT and the pineal gland, discussing recent scientific findings
• Exploration of DMT's role in modulating our sense of reality 
• Discussion of entity encounters in DMT experiences 
• Extended-state DMT research and therapeutic applications 
• Personal journey with psychedelics and Buddhist practice 
• Challenges between psychedelics and organized religion 

Episode links: 

• Dr. Strassman’s new book, My Altered States
• Dr. Strassman’s website
• DMT: The Spirit Molecule (book) 
• (podcast) Navigating Complexity: Psychedelics, AI, & Extended-State DMT - Alexander Beiner
• (podcast) Beyond the Mainstream: Insights from Psychedelic Chemistry, Culture, & Consciousness - Hamilton Morris

Episode Sponsor:

• The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave’s Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this special bonus episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes renowned ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin for an intimate preview of the upcoming Costa Rica Intensive in February 2025.

Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-283b/

Dr. Plotkin shares insights from his decades of work with indigenous communities in the Amazon, discusses the delicate balance between commercialization and preservation of sacred plant medicines, and explores the crucial distinctions between traditional shamanic practices and modern therapeutic approaches. As a special guest for the upcoming intensive, he offers valuable perspectives on integrating indigenous wisdom with contemporary psychedelic practices while emphasizing the importance of humility and continuous learning in working with these powerful medicines.

Dr. Mark Plotkin is a renowned ethnobotanist who has studied traditional indigenous plant use with elder shamans of Central and South America for over 30 years. As President of the Amazon Conservation Team, which he co-founded in 1996, Dr. Plotkin works to protect biological and cultural diversity in the Amazon rainforest. Time Magazine named him an environmental "Hero for the Planet," and his TED Talk on protecting uncontacted tribes has garnered over a million views. His work combines rigorous scientific research with deep respect for indigenous wisdom and traditional healing practices.

* Join Dr. Plotkin and Paul F. Austin this February 2025 at the Costa Rica  Psychedelic Intensive, featuring three guided psilocybin experiences and exclusive workshops exploring the intersection of indigenous wisdom and modern healing practices. *

Highlights:

• Dr. Plotkin’s current work and the new Center for Protection of the Guardians of Ancestral Wisdom
• Updates on protecting uncontacted tribes and conservation efforts
• Perspectives on psychedelics' role in environmental connection
• Indigenous approaches to healing and community
• Historical context of mushroom use in Oaxaca  
• Cautionary insights about commercialization of sacred medicines

Episode Links:

• Amazon Conservation Team
• Plants of the Gods Podcast
• Upcoming book by Paul Stamets: "Psilocybin Mushrooms in their Native Habitat"
• Christopher Hobbs' "Medicinal Mushrooms: The Essential Guide"
• Fantastic Fungi documentary
• Third Wave’s Psychedelic Intensive, Feb 8-15, 2025 in Costa Rica

These show links may contain affiliate links. Third Wave receives a small percentage of the product price if you purchase through the above affiliate links.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Michael Madera, psychologist, executive coach, and author of "Playing Tag on the Roof." He is also a graduate of The Psychedelic Coaching Institute’s Practitioner Certification Program.

Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-283/?ref=278

Michael shares his journey of growing up in a narcissistic family environment, where his father became a con man and his mother a Buddhist nun. He discusses how psychedelics, Internal Family Systems therapy, and other modalities helped him heal from childhood trauma and informed his approach to coaching family businesses. Through his work and personal experience, Michael illuminates the complex interplay between family dynamics, leadership, and the transformative potential of psychedelic medicines.

Michael D. Madera is a psychologist, author, and executive coach specializing in family business dynamics and innovative healing modalities. Trained at Harvard institutions, he combines traditional psychology with ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and breathwork facilitation. His recently released book "Playing Tag on the Roof" explores recovery from narcissistic family dynamics through psychedelics and love. Michael's articles in Family Business press are frequently among the most downloaded in the field. He leads transformative plant medicine retreats in Costa Rica and maintains an active coaching practice helping individuals and family businesses thrive. Beyond his professional work, Michael leads a Boston-based dance band and enjoys sports. He lives near Boston with his wife and two college-age sons.

Highlights:

• Growing up between Toronto and Boston 
• Journey to becoming a psychologist 
• Understanding narcissistic personalities
• Growing up with narcissistic parents 
• Healing through psychotherapy and meditation 
• The three circles of family business
• Psychedelics' role in healing trauma
• IFS and psychedelic integration 
• Ancestral patterns in family businesses

Episode Links:

• Resounding Circles
• Madera Partners Consulting
• Dr. Madera’s new book, “Playing Tag on the Roof: Recovering from a narcissistic family through love and psychedelics”

Episode Sponsor:

• The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave’s Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Wendy Tucker, board chair of Shulgin Farm and owner of Transform Press.

Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-282-wendy-tucker/?ref=278

Wendy shares intimate stories about her stepfather Alexander "Sasha" Shulgin and mother Ann, including their remarkable love story and groundbreaking work in psychedelic research. She discusses the historic significance of the Shulgin Farm, where Sasha's famous lab produced over 200 novel compounds, and details current efforts to preserve this important piece of psychedelic history. The conversation explores the Shulgins' legacy of open science, collaborative research, and their impact on the current psychedelic renaissance.

Highlights:

• History of Shulgin Farm and its significance since 1935 
• The love story of Sasha and Ann Shulgin
• MDMA, 2-CB, and a litmus test of lovemaking
• The Shulgins’ legacy of bold research and open science
• The longterm vision of the Farm and Shulgin Foundation
• Wendy's initial impressions of Sasha
• Sasha's methodical approach to creating and testing new compounds
• The 1994 DEA raid and its impact
• Transform Press and the story of PiHKAL & TiHKAL
• Current preservation efforts and fundraising goals

Links:

• Shulgin Farm
• Transform Press
• Instagram: @shulginfoundation

Episode Sponsor:

• The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave’s Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this solo cast episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin shares deep insights on why group work is essential for practitioners in the psychedelic space.

Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-281/?ref=278

Drawing from Richard Rohr's essay on liminality and his own transformative experiences at Synthesis, Paul explores how collective psychedelic experiences create powerful containers for growth and transformation. He emphasizes three core aspects of effective group work—embodiment, nature connectedness, and community—while making a compelling case for why practitioners must "walk the walk" through their own guided group experiences before supporting others.

Highlights:

• Liminality and its relationship to psychedelic experiences
• Personal story of group experience at Synthesis retreat 
• The importance of "walking the walk" as practitioners 
• Three core aspects of retreat work: embodiment, nature connectedness, and community
• The significance of choosing the right community for growth 
• Guidance for practitioners considering group experiences 

Episode Links:

• Third Wave’s Psychedelic Intensive in Costa Rica
• The Psychedelic Coaching Institute’s Practitioner Certification Program
• ‘Between Two Worlds’ by Richard Rohr

Paul F. Austin is one of the most prominent voices in the world of psychedelics, and is the author of Mastering Microdosing: How to Use Sub-Perceptual Psychedelics to Heal Trauma, Improve Performance, and Transform Your Life.

As the founder of Third Wave and Psychedelic Coaching Institute, he has educated millions on the importance of safe and effective psychedelic experiences. A pioneer at the intersection of microdosing, personal transformation, and professional success, he has been featured in Forbes, Rolling Stone, and the BBC’s Worklife.

Paul helps others use microdosing as a tool for professional development and increased self-awareness by treating the use of psychedelics as a skill refined through mentorship and courageous exploration.

Learning how to master this skill will be crucial in the story of humanity’s present-future evolution.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes food and nature writer Eugenia Bone to discuss her new book, "Have a Good Trip: Exploring the Magic Mushroom Experience."

Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-280?ref=278

Drawing from extensive research, personal experimentation, and interviews, Eugenia shares insights into the world of psilocybin mushrooms, from cultivation to ceremonial use. She explores the intersection of citizen science and clinical research, the role of indigenous wisdom, and offers a balanced perspective on the current psychedelic renaissance.

Eugenia Bone is food and nature writer whose work has appeared in many anthologies, magazines, and newspapers, including The New York Times, The National Lampoon, Saveur, Gourmet, BBC Science, and The Wall Street Journal, where she is a frequent book reviewer. She is a member of the National Association of Science Writers and former president of the New York Mycological Society. She is faculty at the New York Botanical Garden where she teaches classes on psychedelic mushrooms and mycophagy. She is the author or co-author of nine books on food and biology, and has won or been nominated for a variety of awards, including the Nautilus Award, the Colorado Book Award and the James Beard Award. Eugenia has been featured on many dozens of radio shows and podcasts, lectured widely in diverse venues like The New York Public Library, the Denver Botanical Garden and The telluride Mushroom Festival where she is a regular presenter. She is featured in the documentary directed by Louie Schwartzberg, Fantastic Fungi (2019), and in the Netflix children’s show about food, Waffles + Mochi (the mushroom episode) produced by Michele Obama’s Higher Ground Productions.

Highlights:

• Introduction to Eugenia's new book and her approach to writing about psychedelics 
• The process of researching and writing "Have a Good Trip"
• The "Noccers" of Seattle: Urban mushroom cultivation activists
• Experience with indigenous ceremonies and curanderas
• Personal journey with mushroom cultivation
• The role of citizen science in psychedelic research
• Insights from microdosing experiences
• Final wisdom about having a good trip

Episode Links:

• Eugenia’s website
• Eugenia's book, Have a Good Trip
• Instagram: @EugeniaGBone
• Eugenia's Substack

These show links may contain affiliate links. Third Wave receives a small percentage of the product price if you purchase through the above affiliate links.

Episode Sponsor:

• The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave’s Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In Part 2 of this profound conversation, Paul Chek delves deep into the relationship between psychedelics, personal mythology, and spiritual development.

Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-279-paul-chek/?ref=278 

He explores how plant medicines can help unveil our individual myths while emphasizing the critical importance of proper preparation and sacred intention. Drawing from decades of experience as both a therapist and medicine carrier, Paul discusses the delicate balance between therapeutic potential and risk, sharing insights about the nature of God, consciousness, and responsible engagement with powerful medicines. He offers wisdom about the differences between recreational and ceremonial use, while exploring how our relationship with power, mind, love, and money influences our medicine experiences.

Use code THIRDWAVE15 for 15% off any membership at Spirit Gym at myspiritgym.com

Paul Chek is a world-renowned expert in the fields of corrective and high-performance exercise kinesiology, stress management, holistic wellness and integrative lifestyle management. For over forty years, Paul’s unique, integrated approach to coaching and education has changed the lives of many of his clients, his students and their clients. By treating the body as a integrated system of systems and finding the root cause of a problem, Paul has been successful where traditional approaches have consistently failed. Author of numerous books, videos and professional development courses, he is the creator of Spirit Gym, founder of the CHEK Institute, and the host of the popular Spirit Gym with Paul Chek podcast.

Highlights:

• Paul explains his vaporized tobacco blend
• Understanding myth and its role in psychedelic experiences
• Importance of preparation and screening for ceremonies
• Four key areas of life to examine before ceremony: power, mental energy, love, & money
• Managing power and responsibility with plant medicines
• Distinctions between sacred use and recreational consumption
• Spirit Gym and Paul's comprehensive teaching approach

Links:

• Part 1 of this 2-part conversation with Paul Chek
• Chek Institute
• Spirit Gym (use code THIRDWAVE15 for 15% off any membership)
• paulchek.com
• Paul’s YouTube Channel

Episode Sponsor:

• The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave’s Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In Part 1 of this special two-part episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Paul Chek, a world-renowned expert in holistic wellness, kinesiology, and spiritual development.

Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-278-paul-chek/

Paul Chek shares his extensive experience working with plant medicines and helping people integrate challenging psychedelic experiences. He discusses his early spiritual development through the Self-Realization Fellowship and his journey developing remarkable abilities in remote viewing and energy work. Drawing from his unique blend of clinical expertise and spiritual wisdom, he explores the importance of proper preparation, screening, and container-building for ceremonies, including his use of art therapy and Tarot in pre-ceremony screening.

Part 1 emphasizes the critical need for reverence and responsibility in working with plant medicines, while sharing practical insights for practitioners supporting others through these experiences.

Use code THIRDWAVE15 for 15% off any membership at Spirit Gym at myspiritgym.com

Paul Chek is a world-renowned expert in the fields of corrective and high-performance exercise kinesiology, stress management, holistic wellness and integrative lifestyle management. For over forty years, Paul’s unique, integrated approach to coaching and education has changed the lives of many of his clients, his students and their clients. By treating the body as a integrated system of systems and finding the root cause of a problem, Paul has been successful where traditional approaches have consistently failed. Author of numerous books, videos and professional development courses, he is the creator of Spirit Gym, founder of the CHEK Institute, and the host of the popular Spirit Gym with Paul Chek podcast.

Highlights:

• Paul's early spiritual development and experiences with Self-Realization Fellowship
• Family background and influence of meditation at age 12
• Development of remote viewing abilities and validation through CIA program
• The importance of soul recovery in plant medicine work
• Critical screening and preparation protocols before ceremonies
• Using art therapy and mandalas for pre-ceremony assessment
• The role of Tarot in ceremony preparation and guidance

Links:

• Chek Institute
• Spirit Gym (use code THIRDWAVE15 for 15% off any membership)
• paulchek.com
• Paul’s YouTube Channel

Episode Sponsor:

• The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave’s Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Carlos Tanner, founder and director of the Ayahuasca Foundation in Iquitos, Peru.

Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-277-carlos-tanner/?ref=278 

Carlos shares his transformative journey from addiction to becoming an apprentice of master shaman Don Juan Tangoa Paima, leading to the creation of the Ayahuasca Foundation in 2009. He discusses the integration of Western educational approaches with ancestral healing traditions, the foundation's groundbreaking research on ayahuasca's effects on PTSD, and his vision for bridging indigenous wisdom with modern psychedelic therapy.

Carlos Tanner has been studying ayahuasca and plant medicine in the Amazon Rainforest since 2003. As the director of the Ayahuasca Foundation, which he founded in 2009 in Iquitos, Peru, Carlos organizes healing retreats and educational courses led by indigenous curanderos. These programs help people heal from conditions ranging from depression to cancer or learn about Amazonian ancestral healing traditions.

Since 2017, the Ayahuasca Foundation has partnered with Onaya Science to research the ayahuasca tradition’s effects on depression, anxiety, and trauma. The research has led to over a dozen published articles showing significant reductions in depression and anxiety symptoms, along with improvements in PTSD, chronic pain, and other health issues.

Highlights:

• Journey from depression and addiction to discovering ayahuasca in Peru
• The transformative experience of his first ayahuasca ceremonies
• Background on Don Juan Tangoa Paima and his unique multicultural lineage
• Development of structured educational programs for ayahuasca training
• Discussion of the art form approach to plant medicine
• Evolution of the Ayahuasca Foundation over 15 years
• The importance of spirit relationships in healing work
• Research on ayahuasca and PTSD
• Ayahuasca's potential effects on PTSD and childhood trauma

Episode Sponsor:

• The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave’s Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Stephanie Karzon Abrams, a neuropharmacologist and founding advisor of Beyond Consulting.

Find full show notes and links here:  https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-276-stephanie-karzon-abrams

With her unique background spanning clinical pharmacology, corporate healthcare, and the music industry, Stephanie shares insights on the intersection of psychedelic science, integrative medicine, and community building. She discusses the transformative potential of psychedelics from a neuropharmacological perspective, her work supporting ketamine clinics and plant medicine brands, as well as her journey from traditional healthcare to pioneering innovative approaches in the psychedelic space.

Stephanie Karzon Abrams, a neuropharmacologist with a Masters of Science in Clinical Pharmacology, is the founding advisor of Beyond Consulting, providing science, research, operations, and strategy solutions to organizations in the natural product, plant medicine, and psychedelic sectors. Her career spans from clinical research and Johnson & Johnson to pioneering innovative healthcare approaches.

Beyond her scientific work, she co-creates community initiatives including Public Secret music label and Mt. Mushmore educational dinner series. As a prescriber for MDMA and psilocybin therapy through Canada's Special Access Program and scientific advisor for the Microdosing Collective, she champions the integration of cutting-edge therapeutic approaches with traditional healthcare. Her work focuses on bridging scientific expertise with strategic thinking to advance innovative healthcare solutions.

Highlights:

• Origins of Public Secret record label and global groove music collective
• Rich cultural background and journey from Montreal to California
• Stephanie breaks down clinical psychopharmacology
• Mount Mushmore
• Transition from J&J to psychedelic medicine consulting
• Stephanie's firm, Beyond Consulting
• Supporting ketamine clinics and integrative medicine centers
• Deep dive into neuropharmacology of psychedelics vs traditional medications
• Microdosing applications for ADHD and anxiety
• Importance of lifestyle changes alongside psychedelic protocols
• Managing work-life balance in the psychedelic industry

Links:

• Beyond Consulting
• Public Secret Music Label
• Microdosing Collective

Episode Sponsors:

• The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave’s Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Paul Karasik, a pioneering figure in both corporate leadership and psychedelic spaces.

Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-275-paul-karasik/?ref=278

Karasik shares his remarkable journey from co-founding Thompson's Ranch commune in Joshua Tree to becoming one of America's leading sales consultants. He discusses his recent book "Getting High on Leadership" and explores how psychedelics can transform leadership through heart-centered approaches. The conversation weaves through themes of community building, conscious business practices, and the vital intersection of higher consciousness with modern leadership principles.

Paul Karasik brings decades of experience in the world of psychedelics. He was a member of the early psychedelic community in New York and California, which included such luminaries as Timothy Leary and Ram Dass.

Paul co-founded Thompson's Ranch, one of the first alternative communities in Joshua Tree, CA. His ninth and most recent book, published in 2024 is "Getting High on Leadership: The Leader’s Guide to Higher Consciousness". Paul and the Psychedelic Institute of Los Angeles are dedicated to making information and safe access available to anyone and everyone who is seeking to awaken their consciousness.

Highlights:

• Founding Thompson's Ranch: From Haight-Ashbury to Joshua Tree
• Why the 60s missed the healing potential of psychedelics
• Health crisis catalyzes spiritual transformation in Brazil
• Creating with intention
• How compassionate leadership drives business success
• Building psychedelic community
• Collaborating with Cypress Hill's B-Real for Awakening 2024

Episode Sponsor:

• The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave’s Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Kat Courtney, a plant medicine pioneer with over 15 years of experience as a psychedelic integration coach. Kat shares her journey from struggling with mental health issues to finding healing through ayahuasca. She discusses the complementary relationship between ayahuasca and huachuma (San Pedro), the practice of master plant dietas, and her approach to psychedelic integration. Kat emphasizes the importance of intention, slowing down, and developing a daily spiritual practice for integrating ayahuasca experiences.

Tina “Kat” Courtney is a Plant Medicine pioneer with 2 decades of professional psychedelic experience. She’s the author of Plant Medicine Mystery School Vol 1: The Superhero Healing Powers of Psychotropic Plants, and she’s a traditionally trained Ayahuasquera and Huachumera. Kat’s also been working as a Psychedelic Integration Coach for 15 years, and is the CEO and Co-Founder of Plant Medicine People. Her entire life is devoted to helping humans discover the power of being in relationship with plant spirits.

Highlights:

• Kat's personal transformation through ayahuasca
• Ayahuasca and huachuma: divine feminine and masculine
• Master plant dietas: isolated vs. social approaches
• Intention and reverence in plant medicine work
• Essential practices for ayahuasca integration
• Overview of Kat's themed retreat offerings

Episode Links:

• Plant Medicine People: https://plantmedicinepeople.com
• Kat's personal website: https://afterlife.coach
• Third Wave’s Microdosing Experience: https://thethirdwave.co/sp/microdosing-experience/?ref=250  
• Third Wave's directory: https://thethirdwave.co/directory/?ref=250

Episode Sponsors:

• The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave’s Psychedelic Coaching Institute.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Susannah Rose Stokes, co-founder of Metamorphosis Ventures.

Click here for full show notes, links, & summary: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-273?ref=278 

Susannah shares her remarkable journey from Marine Corps officer to embodied priestess and psychedelic guide. She discusses her transformative experiences with plant medicines, the importance of integration, and her mission to create supportive containers for psychedelic healing.

Susannah explores the concept of metamorphosis, balancing microdosing and macrodosing protocols, and her approach to guiding others through profound personal change.

After serving in two combat tours in Afghanistan as a Marine Corps Officer, Susannah experienced a spiritual awakening that changed her life forever.

Since then, she’s dedicated her life as an Energy Priestess and Embodied Consciousness Guide. She’s served dozens of people in 1:1 and group ceremonies, guiding them in their own spiritual awakening process.

She co-founded House of Embodied Metamorphosis, a 508c1a Faith- Based Organization that utilizes The Metamorphosis Method and their proprietary strain of psilocybin to facilitate powerful personal transformations through retreats and coaching programs. She authored Entheogenerated, a comprehensive research study on existing research of psychedelics and their capacity to create individual and collective change.

She holds a Master's in Transformative Social Change, is a graduate of the US Naval Academy and speaks Mandarin Chinese and Spanish, all in service to creating more peace and connection.

As a changemaker, Susannah weaves ancient and modern techniques, paving a path for fellow leaders to create transformation toward a world full of trust, co-creation and abundance for all.

Highlights:

• Susannah's journey from the Marine Corps to plant medicine facilitation
• The transformative power of San Pedro ceremonies
• Shifting from warrior for war to warrior for peace
• The meaning and challenges of personal metamorphosis
• Balancing microdosing and macrodosing protocols
• The concept of the embodied priestess
• Founding Metamorphosis Ventures and The Metamorphosis Method

Episode Links:

• Metamorphosis Ventures
• Susannah on Instagram

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Dave Schoof, a master certified coach and international leadership consultant.

Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-272?ref=278

Dave shares his journey from working in intelligence to becoming a leadership coach, and how he eventually incorporated psychedelics into his practice. He discusses the power of integral theory in organizational development, the importance of emergence and unfolding in leadership, and how psychedelics can catalyze personal growth and leadership transformation. Dave also reflects on his experience in the Psychedelic Coaching Institute’s Practitioner Training Program, and offers insights on the future of leadership in our complex world.

Dave Schoof is an international leadership consultant specializing in helping leaders and teams build on their capabilities and move to the next level of performance and effectiveness. With over 25 years of experience across corporate, non-profit, and government sectors, Dave works with clients globally. He is a master-certified coach from the International Coach Federation and Integral Coaching Canada. Dave's background includes a 20-year career in the intelligence community. A long-time meditator, he enjoys finding practical ways to operationalize wisdom from various traditions into his work with leaders. Dave lives near Lausanne, Switzerland, where he enjoys hiking and photography.

Highlights:

• Dave's journey to Switzerland
• Dave's background in intelligence and transition to leadership coaching
• The development and impact of integral theory
• How psychedelics found Dave and their potential for leadership development
• The importance of nervous system regulation and safety in psychedelic experiences
• Dave's transformative experience at the Brave Earth retreat
• The evolving landscape of psychedelic acceptance in leadership circles
• The need for a new paradigm of leadership in the face of global challenges

Episode Links:

• Dave on LinkedIn
• The Psychedelic Coaching Institute’s Practitioner Training Program

In this special bonus episode, we’re sharing a replay of our recent live webinar, “Visionary Leadership: Revolutionizing Executive Coaching with Psychedelics.” Paul F. Austin is joined by two expert guests:

Dr. Amy Albright - An executive coach and intuitive who combines science-driven methodology with intuitive knowing. She has worked with companies valued from $10M to $3B and has a background in cognitive psychology and Chinese medicine.

Eric Kaufmann - An executive coach and author who blends business expertise with Zen wisdom. He mentors CEOs and executives through leadership challenges and is a Fellow at Harvard's Institute of Coaching.

The conversation explores how psychedelics and altered states of consciousness can enhance leadership development and executive coaching. Paul, Dr. Amy, and Eric dive into intersection of business, spirituality, and altered states of consciousness. They also explore using neurofeedback and meditation to complement psychedelic experiences, integrating psychedelic insights into corporate environments, and much more. 

Highlights:

• Amy shares her background and experience with altered states of consciousness
• Amy’s approach to executive coaching
• Eric’s perspective on altered states vs. altered traits of consciousness
• Neurofeedback and meditation as complementary practices to psychedelics
• Insights on integrating psychedelic experiences into corporate environments
• Perspectives on bringing feminine energy into business leadership

Episode Sponsor:

• KA! Empathogenics Kanna Supplements. Get 10% off with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Christi Myers, founder and CEO of Flow Integrative.

Find episode links, summary, and transcript here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-270-christi-myers/?ref=278

Christi shares her journey from emergency medicine to pioneering ketamine-assisted therapy protocols. She discusses the science behind ketamine's effects on the brain, her work developing standards for ketamine therapy with Dr. Bronner's, and her vision for expanding access to this transformative treatment.

Christi offers insights on responsible implementation of ketamine therapy and how it can be integrated with other healing modalities.

Christi Myers, the visionary Founder and CEO of Flow Integrative, has charted an inspiring path of transformation. With nearly two decades of experience as a Paramedic, she has made significant contributions to renowned organizations including the Department of Defense, American Medical Response, Air Methods, San Bernardino County Fire and Sheriff Department, and the Department of Justice.

Motivated by her firsthand experience with the mental health challenges that often plague first responders, and her own journey through PTSD, Myers founded Flow Integrative in 2020. The organization’s mission is to destigmatize and expand access to psychedelic therapies, offering tools for growth, symptom relief, and holistic well-being, with a particular focus on frontline workers dealing with complex trauma.

Highlights:

• Christi's background in emergency medicine and as an educator
• How ketamine works in the brain and impacts the default mode network
• Developing ketamine therapy protocols for Dr. Bronner's employees
• Combining ketamine with other healing modalities like PEMF and red light therapy
• Safety considerations and contraindications for ketamine therapy
• Christi's vision for empowering more practitioners to offer ketamine therapy

Episode Sponsor:

• KA! Empathogenics Kanna Supplements. Get 10% off with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Joshua Kappel, a founding partner of Vicente LLP and co-author of Colorado's Proposition 122, the Natural Medicine Health Act.

Find episode links, summary, and transcript here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-269-joshua-kappel-esq/?ref=278 

Joshua shares his journey from cannabis law to psychedelic policy reform, detailing the groundbreaking aspects of Colorado's legislation.

He discusses the nuances of becoming a licensed psychedelic facilitator, regulations for healing centers, and the state's approach to manufacturing and cultivation.

Joshua also explores the broader landscape of psychedelic policy reform across the United States, offering insights into potential future developments and the challenges faced by the emerging industry.

Joshua Kappel is a founding partner of Vicente LLP with a passion for helping entrepreneurs and visionaries build human-centric and regenerative companies in the cannabis and psychedelic industries. Joshua co-authored Colorado's Proposition 122, the Natural Medicine Health Act, and served as chair of the campaign committee for Natural Medicine Colorado. He helped draft Colorado's Amendment 64, the first state measure to legalize cannabis for all adults. Joshua is a founding board member of the Microdosing Collective and serves as a founding member of the Psychedelic Bar Association. He is recognized by his peers in Best Lawyers in America for his work in cannabis law and was repeatedly named one of "Denver's Top Lawyers" by 5280 Magazine.

Highlights:

• Joshua's background in cannabis law and transition to psychedelic policy
• Key components of Colorado's Natural Medicine Health Act
• Details on becoming a licensed psychedelic facilitator in Colorado
• Regulations for psychedelic healing centers and service locations
• Manufacturing and cultivation licenses for psychedelic products
• Outlook on psychedelic policy reform in other states

Links:

• Vicente LLP

• Microdosing Collective

Episode Sponsors:

• KA! Empathogenics Kanna Supplements. Get 10% off with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Chris Villar, a successful entrepreneur turned executive coach.

Find episode links, summary, and transcript here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-268-chris-villar/?ref=278

Chris shares his journey from Goldman Sachs to founding Frontpoint Security, a company he grew to $125 million in revenue before selling in 2020. He discusses his transition into psychedelic-assisted coaching, exploring how these experiences have shaped his approach to personal growth and professional development. Chris offers valuable insights on balancing high achievement with mental wellbeing, the importance of emotional processing, and how psychedelics can be integrated into a holistic approach to peak performance and self-discovery.

Chris Villar studied finance & accounting at Georgetown University and began his career at Goldman Sachs, where he led a $500 million investment portfolio in the home security industry. In 2007, he left Goldman and founded Frontpoint Security, an early disruptor for self-installed alarm systems and smart home technology.

Chris served as CEO from inception to over $125-million in revenue as the company grew to nearly 800 employees and received frequent recognition for both customer and employee satisfaction. After selling the company in 2020, Chris founded VILLAR Coaching, a boutique coaching practice focused on helping founders (and other high achievers) scale their companies while cultivating skills in peak performance and fundamental wellbeing.

Chris has done extensive work to overcome a lifetime of stress, anxiety, and burnout and to detach from the lifelong grip of achievement; and now enjoys helping others do the same. He lives in Washington, DC with his husband and their 10-year old beagle and enjoys the outdoors, hiking, and traveling.

Highlights:

• Chris's journey from Goldman Sachs to founding Frontpoint Security
• Key lessons learned as a founder and entrepreneur
• Chris's introduction to psychedelics and their impact on his life
• The role of psychedelics in emotional processing and creativity
• Insights from "The Path of Least Resistance" by Robert Fritz
• Chris's unique perspective as an executive coach with founder experience