Shows
The Psychedelic SkepticBeyond Extraction: Colorado's Psilocybin Revolution with Dori Lewis and Dr. Shannon HughesIn this episode of The Psychedelic Skeptic, we speak with Dori Lewis and Dr. Shannon Hughes, co-founders of Elemental Psychedelics, one of Colorado's first state-approved psilocybin facilitator training programs.Key Topics:Colorado's regulated psilocybin access model following the passage of Prop 122The tension between medicalization and honoring the whole-mushroom experienceWhat to expect from a psilocybin session in a licensed healing centerThe unique approach of their facilitator training programTransitioning from underground practice to the regulated spacePricing and accessibility concerns in the regulated modelThe importance of developing a relationship with the medicine before becoming a facilitatorAbout...2025-05-2343 min
The Psychedelic SkepticPsychedelics as Human Enhancement: Philosophical Perspectives with Dr. Daniel MoseleyIn this episode of The Psychedelic Skeptic, Dr. Anne Metz speaks with Dr. Daniel Moseley, Assistant Professor of Bioethics at East Carolina University's Brody School of Medicine. Dr. Moseley brings his unique background spanning philosophy and psychiatry to explore the ethical dimensions of psychedelics through the lens of human enhancement.Episode Highlights:Dr. Moseley discusses his journey from philosophy to bioethics and his work on human enhancement for the Stanford Encyclopedia of PhilosophyThe distinction between therapeutic treatments versus enhancement uses of medical technologiesHow psychedelics differ from other enhancement technologies by affecting the whole person rather than...2025-04-2531 min
The Psychedelic SkepticBeyond Good Intentions: Power, Privilege and Psychedelics with Dr. Béalleka MakauDr. Béalleka Makau, cultural consultant and educator, joins The Psychedelic Skeptic to discuss the critical intersection of cultural awareness, power dynamics, and psychedelic healing.As a Kenyan-born, Black queer scholar who left academia after experiencing systemic inequities, Dr. Makau shares her transformative REDE (Radical Empathy Disrupts Entitlement) framework and its adaptation for psychedelic spaces. She reveals how psychedelic experiences can either reinforce harmful dynamics or catalyze profound societal change depending on our willingness to confront uncomfortable truths.Through candid personal stories of experiencing harm in predominantly white psychedelic circles, Dr. Makau illustrates why preparation w...2025-03-2147 min
The Psychedelic SkepticThe Death of Brandon Begley: A Father's Fight for Justice After a Fatal Ayahuasca CeremonyIn 2018, 22-year-old Brandon Begley lost his life after participating in ayahuasca ceremonies at SoulQuest Church in Orlando, Florida. In this powerful episode, Brandon's father John Paul Begley and attorney William Chapman discuss their successful $15 million wrongful death lawsuit against SoulQuest and its founder Chris Young.
Brandon, a joyful young man passionate about music and sports, attended SoulQuest seeking spiritual growth. During his second retreat, he developed severe acute hyponatremia (low blood sodium) after combining ayahuasca ceremonies with kambo. Despite showing clear signs of medical distress, SoulQuest staff delayed calling emergency services for over three hours. Brandon passed...2025-02-2158 min
The Psychedelic SkepticWe Need to Talk About Ketamine: Separating Facts from Fear with Sam MandelAfter Matthew Perry's tragic death raised new questions about ketamine therapy, Sam Mandel, CEO of Ketamine Clinics Los Angeles, joins us to separate fact from fiction. With over 30,000 infusions administered and an 83% success rate, KCLA is at the forefront of mental health innovation. Sam breaks down:
The crucial differences between recreational use and clinical treatment
Why ketamine remains the fastest-acting antidepressant available
How supervised infusion therapy actually works
The future of ketamine alongside other psychedelic treatments
Common misconceptions and stigma around ketamine therapy
This episode offers a clear-eyed look at ketamine's therapeutic potential while acknowledging valid concerns...2025-01-2441 min
The Psychedelic SkepticBridging Ancient Wisdom and Modern Science: Dr. Melissa Frost on Psychedelics and Indigenous KnowledgeIn this episode of 'The Psychedelic Skeptic,' Dr. Anne Metz discusses the impact of the psychedelic renaissance on indigenous communities with Dr. Melissa Frost, a Spanish professor at the University of Virginia. They delve into the historical and contemporary use of psychoactive substances like psilocybin mushrooms and peyote, particularly focusing on the Mazatec and Wirarika communities. They also address the complexities of cultural appropriation versus cultural appreciation and the importance of indigenous reciprocity in advancing psychedelic therapy.
00:00 Introduction to the Psychedelic Skeptic
00:28 Impact of Psychedelic Renaissance on Indigenous Communities
01:42 Guest Introduction: Dr. Melissa Frost
02:32 Historical Context of Psychedelics...2024-08-2645 minThe Psychedelic SkepticWhen the Trip Never Ends: HPPD Recovery, Research, and Clinical Implications (Part 2)In the second part of our conversation with Ed Prideaux, we explore the recovery process, research developments, and clinical implications of Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD). Ed shares:
His personal recovery journey and coping strategies
The importance of accepting the reality of one's condition
The potential pitfalls of online HPPD communities
Current research on HPPD, including studies on different psychedelics
The need for better diagnostic criteria and understanding among clinicians
The relationship between HPPD and other visual disorders like Visual Snow Syndrome
Insights on how therapists can better support individuals with HPPD
Ed also discusses the broader...2024-08-0532 min
The Psychedelic SkepticWhen the Trip Never Ends: Understanding HPPD with Ed Prideaux (Part 1)In this eye-opening first part of our conversation with Ed Prideaux, we explore the world of Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD). Ed, a researcher and someone who has personally experienced HPPD, provides a comprehensive explanation of this rare condition that can occur after psychedelic use. He discusses:
The definition and symptoms of HPPD
His personal journey with the condition
The varying degrees of HPPD severity, from mild to debilitating
The potential link between adolescent psychedelic use and HPPD
The challenges of diagnosis and self-diagnosis
The intersection of HPPD with other conditions like depersonalization and derealization
Ed offers...2024-07-2232 min
The Psychedelic SkepticChurch of the Psychedelic: Sean McAllister on Legal Battles and Religious RightsIn this episode of *The Psychedelic Skeptic*, Dr. Anne Metz dives into the world of psychedelic churches with guest Sean McAllister. Sean, an attorney based in Colorado, has dedicated nearly 25 years to drug policy reform, making significant strides in the legal recognition of psychedelic practices.
Join us as Sean shares his journey from cannabis legalization to defending the Church of the Eagle and Condor in a landmark case. Discover the intricacies of religious freedom law, the potential of psychedelic churches for broader accessibility, and the challenges these communities face within the legal framework.
We also explore the critical role...2024-06-2929 min
The Psychedelic SkepticNavigating the New Frontier: Psilocybin Facilitation in Oregon with Dr. Ryan ReeseDr. Anne Metz, a licensed and skeptical psychedelic therapist, dives into the intricacies of the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act with her guest Dr. Ryan Reese from Oregon State University. They discuss the requirements and training for becoming a licensed psilocybin facilitator, potential adverse experiences, and the accessibility of psilocybin services. Dr. Reese shares his process for client preparation, dosing, and integration, emphasizes the importance of a holistic support system, and highlights the challenges and nuances of this growing field. The conversation also touches on broader implications for mental health and the integration of eco wellness into therapeutic practices.
2024-06-1246 min
The Psychedelic SkepticBeats, Bytes, and Beyond: DJ Spooky on Art, Altered States and the Climate Crisis
In this episode of The Psychedelic Skeptic, host Dr. Anne Metz sits down with Paul Miller, aka DJ Spooky, to explore the intersection of psychedelics, music, and environmental activism. Paul shares his journey from DJing in Antarctica to becoming a vocal advocate for climate literacy through the arts. The conversation meanders through the role of psychedelics in addressing the climate crisis, Paul's experiences with outdoor adventures, and his deep thoughts on the cultural and psychological impacts of music, art, and technology on society. Anne and Paul delve into the intricacies of psychedelics as tools for critical thinking, their potential...2024-05-2434 min
The Psychedelic SkepticHealing in the Deep End: Therapeutic Psilocybin Journeys at MycoMeditationsIn this episode of the Psychedelic Skeptic, Dr. Anne Metz dives deep into the world of psilocybin-assisted therapy retreats with Justin Townsend, CEO of MycoMeditations in Jamaica. MycoMeditations is one of the most established and respected psilocybin retreat centers, known for their high-dose protocols and impressive results in treating depression, PTSD, anxiety and more.
Justin shares fascinating insights into the intensive therapeutic processes that take place during their retreats. He discusses their rigorous facilitator training program, extensive safety measures, and the profound experiences guests undergo as they navigate powerful catharsis and emotional healing.
While acknowledging the challenges and risks involved...2024-05-1743 minThe Psychedelic SkepticIt's a Psychedelic Church, Man: Meet California's mushroom Church of Ambrosia
Join us as we explore the controversial world of psychedelic churches and the legal battles they face, focusing on the Church of Ambrosia and its founder, Dave Hodges. We'll discuss the church's use of psilocybin mushrooms as a sacrament, the ongoing fight for legalization, and the complex issues surrounding religious freedom and drug policy. Stay tuned for an exclusive upcoming interview with Sean McAllister, lead counsel for the Church of the Eagle and Condor, who recently won the right to import ayahuasca for religious purposes.
https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/church-of-ambrosia-magic-mushroom-19372526.php
2024-05-1407 minThe Psychedelic SkepticIt's the Psychedelic Space, Man: Unveiling Colorado's Psilocybin Services ProgramIn this episode of The Psychedelic Skeptic, Dr. Anne Metz explores the newly proposed regulations for Colorado's upcoming legal psilocybin services program. She delves into the challenges and potential benefits of becoming a certified psilocybin facilitator in Colorado, highlighting the impact on mental health professionals and the accessibility of psychedelic therapy. Join Dr. Metz and Psychedelic Spaceman as they discuss the implications of these regulations and share their insights on the evolving landscape of psychedelic therapy.
2024-05-0109 minThe Psychedelic SkepticThe Psychedelic Skeptic Season 1 Trailer
So why the psychedelic skeptic? Well, skeptics play an essential role in any discussion surrounding psychedelics. While there are those who embrace the potential benefits and transformative experiences that psychedelics offer, there are also skeptics who approach these substances with caution and skepticism. They raise valid concerns and questions that deserve to be explored and addressed.
2024-02-2304 min
The Psychedelic SkepticSwimming in the Sacred: A conversation with Dr. Rachel Harris
Note to listeners, I remixed this episode to include our new theme music by Wes Swing. Dr. Rachel Harris, author of 'Swimming in the Sacred,' discusses her research on underground guides and the importance of their wisdom in the field of psychedelics. She distinguishes between ceremonial work and research, highlighting the transformative focus of the former. Dr. Harris emphasizes the need for researchers to consult experts and learn from the experiences of underground guides. She explores the historical context of the psychedelic underground and the challenge of holding these medicines in the modern world. The conversation also delves...2024-01-2634 min
The Psychedelic SkepticEnvisioning community-oriented healing environments with Dr. Katherine MacLeanDr. Katherine MacLean, a neuroscientist and expert in the effects of mindfulness meditation and psychedelics, discusses the future of psychedelics, addressing inequity and lack of access, preventing abuse in psychedelic therapy, navigating spiritual and recreational use, informed consent and risks, and the role of gender dynamics in psychedelic work. The conversation explores the importance of community-oriented healing environments. It also delves into the topic of gender in psychedelic therapy and the need for education on psychedelics for young people. https://www.katherinemaclean.org/
Takeaways
Greater access to MDMA therapy for PTSD can help improve mental health, but broader access beyond...2024-01-1243 min
The Psychedelic SkepticMindful Guides: Training Psychedelic Therapists with Dr. Elizabeth NielsonThis week's guest is Dr. Elizabeth Nielson. Dr. Nielson is a co-founder of Fluence and a psychologist with a focus on developing psychedelic medicines as empirically supported treatments for PTSD, substance use problems, and mood disorders. Dr. Nielson was a Site Co-Principal Investigator and therapist for an FDA-approved Phase 3 clinical trial of MDMA-assisted Psychotherapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. She has also served as a therapist on FDA-approved clinical trials of psilocybin-assisted treatment of alcohol use disorder, psilocybin-assisted treatment of treatment-resistant depression, and earlier phase 2 and 3 trials of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy. Through Fluence, she provides continuing education and training programs for...2023-12-2939 min
The Psychedelic SkepticREMIX! What is the psychedelic paradigm? A conversation with Dr. Scott ShannonHey everyone! I'm trying out a new format for the show. Let me know what you think. hello@annemetz.com
Dr. Scott Shannon, a psychiatrist with a background in consciousness studies and holistic mental health, discusses various topics related to psychedelics and mental health. He shares his early interest in consciousness and psychedelics, compares the limitations of SSRIs and psychedelics, and explores different paradigms in mental health. Dr. Shannon also discusses the role of the inner healing intelligence and the current societal context in the use of psychedelics. He emphasizes the individual response to...2023-12-1538 min
The Psychedelic SkepticMeet the Acid King: A Conversation with Leonard PickardOur guest today was Alleged to have produced "90% of the world's LSD," William Leonard Pickard is a former drug policy fellow at Harvard's Kennedy School of Government, research associate in neurobiology at Harvard Medical School, and deputy director of the Drug Policy Analysis Program at UCLA. With two life sentences without parole, he served 20 years in maximum security federal prisons, and was released in 2020. Currently, he is a senior advisor for JLS Fund II LP and the Fireside Project. He is a research affiliate with Harvard Law School, Petrie-Flom Center on Health Law Policy, Biotechnology and Bioethics, Program on...2023-12-0135 minThe Psychedelic SkepticHow skepticism can make psychedelics betterIn this inaugural episode of "Psychedelic Skeptic," we dive deep into the fascinating intersection of philosophy, skepticism, and the rapidly evolving world of psychedelic therapy. Our charming guest, Dr. Matthew Adams, a renowned philosophy professor from Indiana University, guides us through the intellectual tradition of skepticism and why it might be more crucial than ever as psychedelics gain recognition as a legitimate treatment for mental health issues.
https://www.matthewadamsphilosophy.net/2023-11-1728 min
The Psychedelic SkepticPsychedelic Skeptic Trailer
Thank you for tuning in to this introductory episode of our podcast. Make sure to subscribe, as we have many exciting conversations lined up with experts and pioneers in the field. Stay curious, stay open-minded, and let's dive headfirst into the wonderful world of psychedelics.
2023-10-0205 min