Mind Body Health & Politics

“ The fact that homeopathic remedies are great, and they're safer and more powerful than conventional medicines, is something that's not a convenient thing for people invested in pharmaceuticals to know.”Jerry M. Kantor is the author of “Sane Asylums, The Success of Homeopathy Before Psychiatry Lost Its Mind” (2022). His previous books are; “Autism Reversal Toolbox, Strategies, Remedies, Resources”(2022); “The Toxic Relationship Cure: Clearing Traumatic Damage from a Boss, Parent, Lover, or Friend with Natural, Drug-free Remedies” (2014); “Interpreting Chronic Illness: The Convergence of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Homeopathy, and Biomedicine” (2013); and (under the pseudonym Chaim Yankel) “Heymischer Homeopathy, the Schmendrick’s Guide to Remedying Yiddish Kvetches” (2017). A forthcoming book will detail the relationship between existential quandaries and chronic illness. He holds a B.A. in philosophy from Queens College, CUNY; a master’s in the management of human services from Brandeis University; and is a graduate of the Advanced Acupuncture Program for Foreign Students, Nanjing College of Traditional Medicine, People’s Republic of China.Show notes:* What homeopathic treatment of the mentally challenged is* A homeopathic treatment example* The idea of animism* Can psychedelics be used in homeopathy?* Another case study with a homeopathic treatment* Where homeopaths get their information* “Moral Care” philosophy* The problems with pharmaceutical medicine* How homeopathy is doing as a profession in the United States* What the public should take away with regard to homeopathyLinks and references:* Psychedelic Wisdom – Dr. Richard L. Miller* Psychedelic Medicine – Dr. Richard L. Miller* Rolland Griffiths at Johns Hopkins* The Myth of Mental Illness– Thomas S. Szasz MD* Anatomy of an Epidemic – Robert Whitaker* Schools for Homeopathy- NASH* Stephen Beyer past episodeJerry and Richard speak a lot about the dangers of SSRIs- want to know more? Check out our past episode! https://www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/p/anatomy-of-an-epidemic-anti-depressants-358?r=1lcdpn&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web Thank you for reading Mind Body Health & Politics. This post is public so feel free to share it.Want the episode transcript and video? Join our Tribe!Mind Body Health & Politics is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. https://www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

You have heard the quote, “Those who don't learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” Our guest today – Dr. J. Christian Greer – has made it his life’s work to ensure we understand the history of psychedelic culture and learn from it. In our interview, you can hear the passion Greer has for this branch of religious history. We discuss psychedelic-assisted churches, the Grateful Dead fandom, and the global history of psychedelic spirituality. Why is understanding history important to the average person getting involved in psychedelics today? Greer hopes that society can return to the knowledge that psychedelics have always been an integral part of human culture, both as a source of healing and religious exultation. As it pertains to the current psychedelic renaissance, in Greer’s words, “we don't learn anything. We just remember what's always been.”“Let us focus on the sublime affection that love brings to us all.”Dr. J. Christian Greer is a scholar of Religious Studies specializing in the global history of psychedelic spirituality. While a postdoctoral researcher at Harvard Divinity School, he led a series of research seminars that culminated in the creation of the Harvard Psychedelic Walking Tour, a free audio guide detailing how the Harvard community has shaped the modern history of psychedelic culture. His latest book, Kumano Kodo: Pilgrimage to Powerspots (OSGH Press), analyzes pilgrimage folklore that animates the rainforest landscapes of Japan's Kii peninsula, and his forthcoming book, Angelheaded Hipsters: Psychedelic Militancy in Nineteen Eighties North America (Oxford University Press), explores the expansion of psychedelic culture in the late Cold War era. He is currently a lecturer at Stanford University.Show notes:* The history of psychedelic culture* “The Grateful Dead,” psychedelics, and spirituality* The importance of the past in psychedelic history* How psychedelics can help us heal our wounds* The origins of religion and psychedelics* Jesus was a mushroom? What does that mean?* Academic suicide– what happens when scholars speak up about psychedelics* Are we building towards a change in culture with the Psychedelic Renaissance?* Microdosing throughout history* The importance of inner research* The “stoned ape” theory* Real power is togethernessLinks and references:* Psychedelic Wisdom* Psychedelic Medicine* Timothy Leary* The Sacred Mushroom and the Cross by John Allegro* Books by J. Christian GreerThank you for reading Mind Body Health & Politics. This post is public so feel free to share it.Want the episode transcript and video? Join our Tribe!Have a Healing Story to Share?We’d love to hear from you on political and health issues, and are currently soliciting stories from individuals, couples, and families who would like to share their healing stories with psychedelics.Mind Body Health & Politics is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Ever wondered about the uses for psychedelic medicines such as LSD, psilocybin, Ayahuasca, and MDMA? How to use them, how to integrate their effects in to your every day life, or what potential health risks there are? Our guest this week – Dr. Rick Strassman – has the answers, fresh off of his marathon 4-hour-long appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience. Well, we only went for 2 hours, but that was a new record for my program.Following the release of his newest book, The Psychedelic Handbook: A Practical Guide to Psilocybin, LSD, Ketamine, MDMA, and Ayahuasca, Strassman discusses his ideas on the big four and everything in between. “I think you need to be open-minded about your experiences.”A native of Los Angeles, Dr. Strassman obtained his undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences from Stanford University and his medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University. He trained in general psychiatry at UC Davis in Sacramento and took a clinical psychopharmacology research fellowship at UC San Diego. Joining the faculty at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine in 1984, his clinical research with melatonin discovered its first known function in humans. Between 1990-1995 he performed the first new US clinical research with psychedelic drugs in a generation. His studies involved DMT, and to a lesser extent psilocybin, and received federal and private funding. From 1995-2008 he practiced general psychiatry in the community mental health and the private sectors. 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 book DMT: The Spirit Molecule (2001) has sold more than 250,000 copies, been translated into 14 languages, and is the basis of a successful independent documentary that he co-produced. In 2008, he co-authored Inner Paths to Outer Space. He has also written DMT and the Soul of Prophecy (2014) and his first novel, Joseph Levy Escapes Death, appeared in 2019. His latest book, The Psychedelic Handbook, came out in August 2022. Dr. Strassman is currently an Adjunct Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the UNM School of Medicine and lives in Gallup, New Mexico.Show notes:* A visionary in psychedelic medicine, Dr. Rick Strassman * Leo Zeff and Richard’s interaction with him * Good vs. evil in the world * How a medicine that facilitates empathy (MDMA) can bolster racism, misogyny, white supremacy, and hate * Rick Strassman’s motivation for writing the Psychedelic Handbook * The four major psychedelic medicines * Ketamine for treatment-resistant depression and other conditions * The difference between a “guide” and a “sitter” * The benefits of psilocybin and LSD * The risk of coming unraveled * Richard’s experience with DMT and the universe * The hallmark of any full psychedelic experience is that it is more real than real * Marijuana paranoia * The cardiovascular effects of MDMA * Stimulated imagination that comes from psychedelics * Is "psychedelic tourism" safe? * Salvia Divinorum * The importance of reading, studying psychology, and religion* Three important questions to ask yourself when taking psychedelics * Micro-dosing* Let’s talk integration Links and references:* Psychedelic Wisdom* Psychedelic Medicine* Secret Chief Revealed (Leo Zeff)* The Psychedelic Handbook Thank you for reading Mind Body Health & Politics. This post is public so feel free to share it.Want the episode transcript and video? Join our Tribe!Have a Healing Story to Share?We’d love to hear from you on political and health issues, and are currently soliciting stories from individuals, couples, and families who would like to share their healing stories with psychedelics.(Learn more about Wilbur Hot Springs)Mind Body Health & Politics is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Almost every person interviewed on this show has talked about one thing; the overwhelming sense of unity they feel after using psychedelic medicines. Our guest- Tommy Pool- is no different. Looking back on his first trip with LSD, he remembers the closeness he felt with the friends around him. Now, many years later, he believes he is much more open, insightful, creative, and grounded because of psychedelics. Having used (and sometimes misused) these drugs as a teen “sub rosa,” and in light of new legislation in states like Colorado and increased national support, Tommy feels it is time to speak openly about the lasting benefits found with psychedelic medicines.“To take that risk and be willing to see things in a different way... [It’s] Love. And as far as I can see, everything that you've talked about, it's love. "Tommy came to us as a listener of this program. He heard our call for stories and felt compelled to share his. He is a psychotherapist and addiction specialist with approximately 30 years in the field working to heal others, and credits his early drug use for his career path and life purpose. While he knows there is a risk to speaking out about alternative medicines and psychedelic-assisted therapy- especially in his home state of Texas- Tommy feels this is the next chapter of his life. By sharing his story, openly joining the psychedelic community, and learning from other pioneers in the field, Tommy hopes to bring new awareness to the vast benefits he has experienced firsthand. We hope listening to his journey will inspire others to speak out and share their experiences as well. Every story of healing strengthens the bond we share and is a welcome addition to the psychedelic renaissance we now find ourselves in.Show notes:- Tommy’s first experience with psychedelics (9:16)- What happened if he got caught with drugs growing up in Texas (16:24)- Tommy Pool’s purpose in life- to heal others (18:37)- The use of psychedelic medicines as part of the healing process (22:13)- After a 10 year hiatus, Tommy experimented with psychedelics again (33:29)- What happened to change Tommy’s attitude toward these substances (35:21)- The sense of unity that comes from psychedelic experiences (38:01)- The research supporting psychedelic medicine is growing (41:37)- Do people in Texas believe in Organic Food? (44:05)- Living in Texas, Tommy attributes the use of psychedelics to his open mindedness (50:58)Links and references:Psychedelic WisdomPsychedelic Medicine Thank you for reading Mind Body Health & Politics. This post is public so feel free to share it.Want the episode transcript and video? Join our Tribe! Have a Healing Story to Share?We’d love to hear from you on political and health issues, and are currently soliciting stories from individuals, couples, and families who would like to share their healing stories with psychedelics. Send stories to: [email protected] Mind Body Health & Politics is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

We're all dreaming up together, and if we don't recognize that, we're fated to destroy ourselves. That's what my work is about. That's what I'm continually trying to get across to people.In 1981, due to intense personal trauma, Paul Levy had a life-changing spiritual awakening in which he began to recognize the dreamlike nature of reality. During this year, Paul was (mis)diagnosed with what was then called manic-depression (now called bipolar disorder). Little did the doctors realize, however, that he was taking part in a mystical awakening/shamanic initiation process, which at times mimicked psychosis, but in actuality was a spiritual experience of a far different order.After the trauma of his shamanic breakdown/breakthrough, he became a certified art teacher. Due to his interest in the work of C. G. Jung, by the end of the decade, he became the manager of the C. G. Jung Foundation Book Service in New York, as well as the advertising manager for the Jungian journal Quadrant. In 1993, he began giving talks and facilitating groups based on how life is a shared waking dream that we are all co-creating and co-dreaming together. He is the founder of the Awakening in the Dream Community in Portland, Oregon. A Tibetan Buddhist practitioner for over 30 years, he has intimately studied with some of the greatest spiritual masters of Tibet and Burma. He was the coordinator of the Portland chapter of the Padmasambhava Buddhist Center for over twenty years. A pioneer in the field of spiritual emergence, Paul is a wounded healer in private practice, helping others who are also awakening to the dreamlike nature of reality.Show notes:Introducing a pioneer in the field of spiritual emergence- Paul Levy (2:10)Awakening in the Dream community (3:43)What is the Wetiko virus? (8:40)The “mental breakdown” that lead to Paul’s spiritual awakening (12:43)“A shamanic descent into the darkness of the underworld of the unconscious” AKA Psychiatric Hospitalization (23:43)Wetiko in the outside world (28:00)How is the virus transmitted? (30:26)The effects on our collective psyche (36:59)Is Wetiko like Satan or Jung's concept of animus? (40:10)The treatment plan for this mind virus (42:05)Wetiko can take over and possess anyone- how to be a part of the solution (51:22)Why it is so important to self-reflect (58:18)Links and references:The Madness of George W. Bush Jung’s Animus Paul’s other booksAwaken In the DreamThank you for reading Mind Body Health & Politics. This post is public so feel free to share it.Want the episode transcript and video? Join our Tribe!Have a Healing Story to Share?We’d love to hear from you on political and health issues, and are currently soliciting stories from individuals, couples, and families who would like to share their healing stories with psychedelics.Mind Body Health & Politics is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Did you know, if a government official takes a psychedelic treatment for PTSD, they lose their security clearance? After finding success with psychedelics for the treatment of his own PTSD, that government restriction is exactly what our guest, Jon Connors, hopes to lift. I sat down with Jon to hear about his personal experiences and what has inspired him to take action on a national level. This episode covers some heavy topics such as suicidal tendencies, depression, and isolation; but ends on a positive note with the healing psychedelic therapy can offer- and how to get involved so the people who need it most can access the help they deserve.“I do remember enjoying the creativity of the experience and then unlocked aspects of myself that, I think, I carry through much of my life”Jon Connors has embarked on his healing of Complex PTSD via psychedelic medicine since 2017. His experiences have inspired him to help others heal as well. He is the founder of Heal Government Insiders, a nonprofit initiative to amend United States National Security rules to allow insiders to heal their PTSD with psychedelics and retain their Security Clearance. He is a passionate activist for both restoring psyches and restoring the planet through regenerative agriculture. For the latter, Jon is also the founder of Blockchain for Ecology and loves using art to fundraise for social impact initiatives. Show notes: *Trigger warning- recollections of suicidal behaviors** A sailor, ecoactivist, and person undergoing psychedelic treatment- Introducing Jon Connors (9:32)* The difference between Californians and Bostonians (13:13)* Jon’s first experience with psychedelics at age 14 (14:20)* An anecdote about Saudi Arabia and measurement (15:25)* Why he never took these medicines again for decades (19:53)* Entering into a psychotherapeutic endeavor (23:27)* A bus accident memory turns out to be a repressed suicide attempt (28:46)* His personal experience with Complex PTSD has inspired him to help others (31:35)* The most powerful medication for depression is aerobic exercise (35:00)* Isolation and COVID- we all are struggling (40:26)* Martin Polanco and Ibogaine treatments (42:12)* Heal Government Insiders- social initiative (43:55)* The “demon rum” aka alcohol and alcoholism (45:33)* “I don't want to go against the man. I want to heal the man” (49:05)Links and references:* Duke University Study* Dr. Martin Polanco* Albert Hofmann and his bike trip* Heal Government InsidersThank you for reading Mind Body Health & Politics. This post is public so feel free to share it.Want the episode transcript and video? Join our Tribe!Have a Healing Story to Share?We’d love to hear from you on political and health issues, and are currently soliciting stories from individuals, couples, and families who would like to share their healing stories with psychedelics.Mind Body Health & Politics is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

There is an old idiom that says when the pendulum goes one way, it’s bound to swing back the other. Our guest, my old acquaintance and esteemed academic, Dr. Mariavittoria Mangini, has found that phrase applies to many aspects of her life. While we may be in precarious and difficult times, Mariavittoria has managed to stay positive, knowing that things can always change for the better. We sit down to have a full and wide-ranging conversation on politics, the state of the nation, privilege, and, of course, the profoundly lasting impression psychedelics have made on her life.“I feel like I've had a lot more adventures and a lot more color and texture in my life because of those experiences.”Mariavittoria Mangini, Ph.D., FNP has written extensively on the impact of psychedelic experiences in shaping the lives of her contemporaries and has worked closely with many of the most distinguished investigators in this field. She is one of the founders of the Women’s Visionary Council, a nonprofit organization that supports investigations into non-ordinary forms of consciousness and organizes gatherings of researchers, healers, artists, and activists whose work explores these states. She is Professor Emerita in the School of Science, Allied Health, and Nursing at Holy Names University and a visiting scholar at the Berkeley Center for the Science of Psychedelics. For the last 50 years, she has been a part of the Hog Farm, a well-known communal family based in Berkeley and Laytonville, California.Show notes:* Psychedelic elder and visionary- Mariavittoria Mangini- featured in the forthcoming book Psychedelic Wisdom (0:42)* Mariavittoria's first experiences at the age of 16 (2:17)* Realizations about death and the change in life course (3:18)* The effects on her life happiness (4:33) * The Haight Ashbury free clinic – a barefoot patient and later a Chairman of the Board (6:38)* Will the American experiment in democracy last? (10:00)* The problem with unremitting negativity in the media (10:22)* The dangers of political polarization (12:48)* Is religion the source of moralizing divisions? (14:44)* Has America ever been a theocracy? (17:01)* The dawn of open discussion of psychedelics and radical social changes of the past 30 years (21:21) * The role of community radio in a democracy (25:27)* Why communities need elders (31:24)* What's going on with elders who lack wisdom? (34:32)* The lingering effects of racism and white supremacy (37:00)* The appropriate age to introduce children to psychedelics in a post-legalization world (45:30)* The legacy of Betty Eisner and the idea of "Matrix" (46:29)* The idealized view of universal access to psychedelics (48:47)* How "matrix" effects one's protocol for administering psychedelics (50:27)* What were the Eleusinian mysteries? (53:23)Links and references:* Psychedelic Wisdom* Betty Eisner- “Set, Setting, and Matrix”* Stephen Jenkinson* Ann Shulgin* The Way of the Psychonaut- Mariavittoria’s interviewMariavittoria’s previous episode on MBHP: Thank you for reading Mind Body Health & Politics. This post is public so feel free to share it.Want the full transcript and episode videos? Join our Tribe!Have a Healing Story to Share?We’d love to hear from you on political and health issues, and are currently soliciting stories from individuals, couples, and families who would like to share their healing stories with psychedelics.Mind Body Health & Politics is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

PART 2- Picking up where we left off, I continue the discussion with my daughter about psychedelic medicine and its place in our lives. This week, Evacheska has the opportunity to ask me more about my own experience and preferences. We talk about MDMA, LSD, Ketamine, Ayahuasca, and how I have used them in my life. Evacheska will be a reoccurring cohost for the show, and I am so excited to share this space with her.-Part one of this episode available here-The founder of Temple Sotto Luce, a community project designed to be a gateway to consciousness expansion and a higher state of being through the use of both traditional methods and approaches, and more esoteric tools, Evacheska is a certified Mindfulness and Meditation facilitator, Integrative Coach, Trauma and Somatics Practitioner, certified in Psych-K®, and is currently pursuing a degree in psychology at CUNY, studying yogic philosophy and the power of plant medicines. She has also recently returned from Peru where she studied with the Ayahuasca Foundation.Evacheska has dedicated her life’s work and energy to creating and holding space for healing and expansion. She leverages her unique background abilities to create distinctive experiences focused on supporting each participant’s internal work. Hear her unique perspective in this week’s new episode and the conclusion to a two-part discussion between father and daughter.Show notes:* Examples of experiences with Ayahuasca & LSD (0:00)* Can you function in the normal world under the influence of ayahuasca? (4:15)* Why you shouldn’t look in a mirror (7:21)* Signs that ayahuasca may not be for you (11:30)* Consider the intention behind taking psychedelic medicine (12:15)* Possible unpleasant side effects (14:11)* If you regurgitate, does your body tell you it’s poison? (15:38)* George Bach’s fighting therapy (17:23)* Why LSD & MDMA are the best option (19:38)* Where exactly is your consciousness seated? (27:33)* Why MDMA may not be for you (29:30)* Is amphetamine (MDMA) addictive? (33:27)* Why ketamine is not a psychedelic and why it may not be for you (35:45)* What’s the difference between an entheogen and a psychedelic experience? (39:09)* Call to Action For Stories (46:16)Links and references:In Conversation with Evacheska DeAngelis PART 1Psychedelic Wisdom Temple Sotto LuceThe Sage InstituteWant the full transcript and episode video? Join our Tribe!Have a Healing Story to Share? We’d love to hear from you on political and health issues, and are currently soliciting stories from individuals, couples, and families who would like to share their healing stories with psychedelics.Mind Body Health & Politics is a listener-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Show Notes:How did Evacheska go from being an executive in the fashion world to an integrative counselor in the psychedelic world? (1:22)What was it like on the trip to Peru? (4:29)It’s difficult for the average person to figure out which places offering psychedelic experiences in Peru, Jamaica, or Costa Rica are real and which ones are trying to make a quick buck. What did you do to ensure that the place you were visiting was righteous? (5:40)Why did Evacheska decide on Ayahuasca as opposed to taking LSD experiences or a series of psilocybin experiences? (10:38)Are the ceremonies and the setting around the psychedelic medicine as important or more important than the medicine itself? (13:08)What’s the difference (approach, cultural, medicinal) between opioid prescriptions in American culture and psychedelic ceremonies? (13:50)Why do I need to go to the Peruvian jungle to have a ceremony? Why can’t I have the same experience in my own neighborhood? (15:40)How does Evacheska use sound to open neural pathways and have a psychedelic journey, even without psychedelics? (17:46)How does a strong dose of psilocybin compare to an Ayahuasca experience? (21:14)What are the downsides of taking Ayahuasca? (24:15)Considering that Roland Griffith’s research showed that a one-time dose of psilocybin still had an effect on depression patients after a year, what’s the advantage of taking Ayahuasca three times a week for an entire month? (25:57)Could you imagine a future where people trained in LSD therapy or psilocybin therapy might prescribe taking those three times a week or a month? (27:37)What happens in an integration session? (29:03) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

It is always fascinating to hear an artist's tale. This one is no different. Our guest, Kevin Barron, is one of the world’s leading and prolific LSD blotter artists. His story is full of twists and turns, from working with the Rolling Stones to opening a cooking school in Greece, a federal sting operation, and the art he has created along the way.Kevin Barron experienced psychedelics for the first time at 17, and his perception of the world was changed forever. "As a budding artist, the whole experience was just this opening of perception. [He] was starting to look at things for the first time." While his initial careers were not in fine arts, he eventually found his way back to it. Through his journey Kevin worked for Island Records, basically discovered Cat Stevens, dabbled in the wine industry, and opened a cooking school in Greece; but it was in the late 80s when he found himself in San Francisco and returning to his artisan roots. Kevin was introduced to "Blotter Art", and immediately knew this was what he wanted to do. His first design known as the Holy Grail was met with huge success. Kevin then embarked on a widely successful, albeit tempestuous, career making LSD blotter art which ended in an arrest and lifetime ban from the U.S.A.Now Kevin is back creating new art and selling them as NFTs but in a new, revolutionary, way. Intrigued? Hear all about it in this week's new episode. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Conversations with old friends warm the soul. This week my heart is full as I found myself catching up with my dear friend Dr. Eugene Schoenfeld and reminiscing about his "firsts" with mind-altering substances. We go back 57 years to hear about his experiences and journey with these substances, and how they changed the course of his life. Dr. Eugene Schoenfeld is a psychiatrist, author, lecturer, and popular underground newspaper columnist. He got his medical degree at the University of Miami School of Medicine, interned at Herrick Memorial Hospital (Berkeley, CA), and got his Master of Public Health from Yale University. While he has made a name for himself in the field of Psychology, you might know him better as "Dr. Hip". Dr. Eugene Schoenfeld wrote the popular underground column "Ask Dr. Hip" where people could submit their questions about sexuality and drugs. The anti-censorship philosophy that inspired the awakening of an underground press in the 1960s allowed Schoenfeld the freedom to answer those forbidden questions. He quickly became a popular source of reliable, common-sense information. Schoenfeld published his column from 1967 to 1973 and again from 1978 to 1979 in the underground, as well as in various mainstream newspapers including the Chicago Sun Times, Tampa Times, San Francisco Chronicle, and the San Francisco Examiner. Schoenfeld was a pioneering radio personality on Bay Area stations in the 1970s, and subsequent talk show doctors credit him for being a trailblazer. I, myself, was deeply inspired by Eugene's work. He is quite famous, and quite well liked, in the Bay Area for bringing medical science to popular newspapers.A true pioneer in advocating for the benefits of mind-altering medicine, Dr. Schoenfeld (AKA Dr. Hip) gets personal about his experiences with LSD and how his life has been enhanced in this week's new episode. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

In this week's episode, we bring you a thought-provoking discussion on the Psychedelic Renaissance. Our guest, historian and professor Erika Dyck, offers her perspective on where psychiatry and medical research intersect with psychedelic research. She also speaks about society's moral panic; what it means and what we should be doing about it. Erika is a Professor and a Canada Research Chair in the History of Health & Social Justice at the University of Saskatchewan. She was introduced to us by a previous guest, Paul Gootenberg, and we are so glad he made the introduction. With over 20 years of research under her belt, Erika is not only an expert on the history of psychedelic research but is also plugged into its future. She is the author or co-author of several books, including Psychedelic Psychiatry (2008); A Culture’s Catalyst: Historical Encounters with Peyote and the Native American Church in Canada (2016); Psychedelic Prophets: The Letters of Aldous Huxley and Humphry Osmond (2018); and co-author of The Acid Room: the Psychedelic Trials and Tribulations of Hollywood Hospital (2022). She is also the guest editor of the Chacruna Series on women in the history of psychedelic plant medicines. At the University of Saskatchewan, Erika teaches courses in the history of medicine and madness. She is particularly interested in making history inclusive and learning about people who have been written about but rarely listened to. Some of the community-engaged collaborations have created space for these discussions, see: https://madnesscanada.com/ and www.eugenicsarchive.ca.This has extended to work focused on the COVID-19 pandemic with the COVID-19 Community Archive.Erika works to think about things in a global and interconnected way, bringing strong research and authentic passion to the topics she speaks on. Are you ready to think about the world in a different way? Join the discussion with Erika and me in this week's new episode. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

As a society, Americans are stressed out. Currently, we are facing perhaps the greatest uncertainty and stressors of our lifetime. Whenever we feel stressed out we suffer from not only anxiety and depression, but other health issues as well. Last week you heard cardiologist Dr. Christopher Davis, talking about the rise in heart conditions and the role stress has played. This week, in a very special extended episode, you will be hearing more about the root cause of many of our societal health problems – stress – from an expert on the subject. Over the years I’ve had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Gabor Maté several times on Mind Body Health & Politics. Dr. Maté is a bestselling author of four books published in over thirty language and an internationally renowned speaker highly sought after for his expertise on addiction, trauma, childhood development, and the relationship of stress and illness. His book on addiction, In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts, received the Hubert Evans Prize for literary non-fiction.Rather than offering quick-fix solutions to these complex issues, Dr. Maté weaves together scientific research, case histories, and his own insights and experience to present a broad perspective that enlightens and empowers people to promote their own healing and that of those around them. For his groundbreaking medical work and writing he has been awarded the Order of Canada, his country’s highest civilian distinction, and the Civic Merit Award from his hometown, Vancouver. He is also an expert on trauma, chemical dependence, and the broader topic of today’s program: stress and the mind-body connection.In the first part of this episode we look at stress and addiction, while the second part focuses on a less obvious manifestation of stress and disease- the proliferation of diagnoses of ADHD. Do we live in a toxic culture? Are we making ourselves sick? Dr. Gabor Maté answers these questions and more in this week's new episode. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Did you know that a staggering 80 percent of the U.S. population has either low or moderate cardiovascular health? That means just one in five people have a heart that’s in excellent shape, according to a new study by the American Heart Association. While these numbers are cause for concern, our guest this week is an Interventional Cardiologist and is here to tell you what you need to do to keep a healthy heart. In this episode, we welcomed Dr. Christopher Davis to the show. Dr. Davis practices Cardiology and Functional Medicine at Manatee Cardiovascular Wellness Institute and Reveal Vitality, where he is the founder and CEO. In his practice he incorporates nutrition, hormone balance, fitness, and permanent weight control. His board certifications are in internal medicine, cardiovascular disease, and interventional cardiology. Other specialties of practice include nutrition, fitness, and functional medicine. Dr. Davis has always been passionate about providing top-notch care and compassion to his clients. His achievements and training are a reflection of his pursuit of excellence in the treatment of chronic illnesses and performance enhancement. Dr. Davis trained at the prestigious Johns Hopkins/Sinai Hospital for his Internal Medicine residency. During his training, he was recognized and honored for his incredible talent and commitment to patient care by being bestowed the honor of Chief Medical Resident at Johns Hopkins/Sinai University. Dr. Davis continued his training in cardiology and interventional cardiology with fellowships at the renowned University of Virginia. He then pursued training in Functional Medicine, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement, and Regenerative Medicine to truly help his patients thrive and achieve reversal of disease and optimal vitality. This approach has earned Dr. Davis an outstanding reputation in the medical community and with his patients. Dr. Davis breaks down heart health and the need for a healthy lifestyle in a way that is both approachable and applicable to every day living. Learn all about it in this week's new episode. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

This week I am pleased to welcome Dr. William Courtney back to the program along with his wife Kristen Courtney for a second part to their interview. Dr. Courtney's area of special interest is in the dietary uses of cannabis to which he considers as a conditionally essential nutrient in the diet of individuals of 40 years and older, and Kristen brings a decade of personal experience and research to the area of whole plant use for prevention and treatment.In research, Dr. Courtney has presented on high dose non-psychoactive dietary uses at Cannabis Therapeutics in Rhode Island (April 2010), the Institute of Molecular Psychiatry at the University of Bonn (June 2010), the Institute for Advanced Studies at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (November 2010), and the International Cannabinoid Research Society conference in Chicago (July 2011). Kristen has presented her case study and research to the International Cannabinoid Research Society (ICRS), the International Cannabis As Medicine Society, in Bonn, Germany (on the Endocannabinoid System), in Israel at the Institute for Advanced Studies and the Israel Science Foundation, and at the International Cannabis As Medicine conference in Germany. She is heading up the experimental research design department in Ettelbruck, Luxembourg, working with the Association Luxembourgeoise des Methodes Preventives. Kristen is also reporting for Shaughnessy: The Journal of Cannabis In Clinical Practice.From personal experience stems Kristen's healing story is a powerful motivator. She has used fresh cannabis leaf to put her Systemic Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Endometriosis, and numerous other conditions into a sustained remission. With 14 surgeries and 4 years of bed rest she has empathy as well as knowledge that has arisen from her education in statistics and research design, which helps her bridge the gap between patients, physicians, and researchers.Dr. Courtney and Kristen co-founded Cannabis International, which is working to reverse the United Nation’s Convention One Treaty in order to allow people access to cannabis worldwide, and currently reside in the Commonwealth of Dominica, where they run the Nature Isle Sanctuary- offering consultations with individuals suffering from Endogenous Cannabinoid System deficiencies. Want to learn more about what they do? Check out their video on juicing raw cannabis. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Paul is a professor of history and sociology at Stony Brook University (New York). Originally trained as an interdisciplinary Latin Americanist at Oxford University and the University of Chicago, his career now mostly focuses on drug and global commodity history.Outside of the university, Paul has chaired various programs at the Social Science Research Council in Brooklyn including the Drugs, Security, and Democracy program; and is the General Editor for The Oxford Handbook of Global Drug History (recently published by Oxford University Press). He currently is the president of the Alcohol and Drugs History Society (2021-2023).He has published three books on cocaine; Andean Cocaine: The Making of a Global Drug (UNC, 2008), Cocaine: Global Histories (Routledge, 1999), and with Liliana M. Dávalos, The Origins of Cocaine: Peasant Colonization and Failed Dedevelopment in the Amazon Andes (Routledge, 2018). This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

This week I am pleased to welcome Dr. William Courtney to the program, joining us from the middle of the rainforest, nonetheless. With an extensive medical education and having been immersed in the experiences of thousands of patients who use raw cannabis daily, Dr. Courtney’s area of special interest is in the dietary uses of cannabis- which he considers a conditionally essential nutrient in the diet of individuals. Dr. William Courtney began with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from the University of Michigan, he received his Doctor of Medicine from Wayne State University, Interned for Residency in Psychiatry at California Pacific Medical Center, and then went on to earn his Post Doctorate in Forensic Examination and Forensic Medicine. Now, he is a member of the American Academy of Cannabinoid Medicine, the International Cannabinoid Research Society, the International Association of Cannabis as Medicine, and the Society of Clinical Cannabis. Dr. Courtney has also been teaching Continuing Medical Education (CME) courses in clinical cannabis.One of the world's foremost pioneers in cannabis research, Dr. Courtney seeks to consolidate the science regarding the essential nature of the phytocannabinoid contributions to health maintenance and restoration. Some notable achievements in his career are he has presented on high dose non-psychoactive dietary uses at Cannabis Therapeutics in Rhode Island in April 2010, the Institute of Molecular Psychiatry at the University of Bonn in June 2010, the Institute for Advanced Studies at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem in November 2010, the International Cannabinoid Research Society conference in Chicago in July 2011, and is the father of AC/DC (Alternative Cannabinoid Dietary Cannabis), a high CBD content cultivar from Cannatonic seeds acquired during a visit to Barcelona, Spain from Resin Seeds. Dr. Courtney owns Cannabis International and currently resides in the Commonwealth of Dominica, where he runs the Nature Isle Sanctuary- offering consultations with individuals suffering from Endogenous Cannabinoid System deficiencies. His work now primarily focuses on consultations and strain development/ advice. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

This week I am pleased to welcome renowned musician Gary Muszysnki to the program.Gary Muszynski is a percussionist, composer, bandleader, and leadership coach who creates original music that combines jazz, world, and classical music. He plays a wide variety of world percussion, including handpan, berimbau, pandeiro, surdo, udu, mbira, conga, bongo, and cajon. He has performed at venues such as SF Jazz (with Bobby McFerrin), the Freight and Salvage in Berkeley, CA, the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville and at TEDxBerkeley. Gary received an artist’s grant to study Brazilian folkloric and popular music at the Carlos Gomez Conservatory in Belem, Para (Brazil) at the mouth of the Amazon through the Partners of the Americas in 1989. It was at that time that he also met Martinho da Villa, one of Brazil's most important samba singers and composers, and began to study and parade with the Vila Isabel School of Samba in Rio de Janeiro, and then with Olodum in Salvador, Bahia in 2005.Gary was one of the first percussionists to spread samba in the US, founding a samba school in the Midwest in 1987. He founded One World Music at that time, a non-profit performing arts and education organization, receiving funding from the Missouri Arts Council and the St. Louis Regional Arts Commission.Currently residing in the SF Bay Area; Gary’s newest album is called Roots and Wings, featuring Sting’s pianist and arranger Frank Martin; Mark Summer, the former cellist and co-founder of the Turtle Island Quartet; Cuban jazz-piano legend, Omar Sosa, and Deepak Ram, North Indian bansuri flute master as well as many other musical luminaries. Roots & Wings won the top award at the Global Music Awards in 2021 and was then voted as one of the best CDs of 2021.In addition to his career as a recording and performing artists, Gary has been brining musical experiences and thinking into organizations to further leadership, collaboration, and innovation for the past 30 years. He has reached more than 150,000 leaders and managers through organizational trainings and interactive conference keynotes on five continents and has worked with Apple, Disney, Google, and Xerox Parc among many other organizations. You can see his work through Orchestrating Excellence here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

With training from the Harvard Mind/Body Medical Institute and over 25 years of clinical mental health and mind/body expertise, Heather Lee is truly passionate about guiding people into connection with their inner wisdom to promote health, healing, and hopefulness. In addition to being certified in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and skilled as a behavior change specialist, she is the past Director of Wellness Education at The University of Virginia Medical Center, is on the advisory board of Silo Wellness, and runs her company Medicine Women Retreats.As a psychedelic psychotherapist, speaker, consultant, and transformational travel facilitator, Heather has dedicated her career to helping people learn how to skillfully navigate stress, anxiety, challenging life transitions, and relationships. One of Heather’s many areas of expertise is woman’s health, and her Medicine Woman Retreats are the first psilocybin retreats designed exclusively for women; offering exclusive nature immersion and plant medicine experiences around the world. Other signature topics are psychedelics for self-care, psilocybin for eco-anxiety, and psilocybin in cancer care- something she has first-hand experience with. In the same week, Heather received her certification as a psychedelic-assisted psychotherapist, received a diagnosis of breast cancer, and received a call from Silo Wellness to help develop cancer and end of life retreats. In Heather’s own words, “sometimes the alignment and synchronicity of everything shines so bright.” As if the universe came together, she sees her cancer as an opportunity to deepen her connection with the use of psilocybin for navigating disease. Heather uses her experience as a psychotherapist as well as her journey to cultivate calm and consciousness for one’s cancer journey. Our first featured guest in the series “Healing Stories of Psychedelics”, Heather A. Lee is both a healer and finding healing. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

There is much talk these days about a psychedelic renaissance taking place – both in terms of scientific research, as well as personal experimentation all over the world. Part of this renaissance has included greater awareness and emphasis on the integration component, or what one does afterward with the information/healing they obtain on their psychedelic journey.I was honored to be a part of a panel discussion organized by my dear friend Lorna Li, whom I met years ago at Wilbur Hot Springs. Lorna did an amazing job with this year's Plant Spirit Summit. The discussion focused on the different approaches of psychedelic psychotherapy versus coaching. I and the other panel participants are particularly concerned to answer this question: What can we do to create an inclusive, responsible, and ethical Psychedelic Renaissance? This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

This week I interview Dr. Laura McGuire (they/them or she/her) - an internationally recognized consultant, survivor, researcher, seminarian, and author of the book Creating Cultures of Consent (Rowman & Littlefield, 2021). They were named as one of the 2022 Champions of Pride by the Advocate Magazine and are regularly featured in media outlets for their expertise and approachability. Dr. Laura is also the founder of The National Center for Equity and Agency. In 2019 they created the world's first certification in trauma-informed care for legal professionals and in 2021 expanded it to include the insurance industry. They currently teach at both Widener and Dominican University and work as a trainer, mediation advisor, and author.Please be sure to check out their website: www.drlauramcguire.com/ and follow them on Instagram at: www.instagram.com/drlauramcguire/?hl=en This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

This week I interview Tom Weidlinger – a writer and filmmaker who has been writing, directing and producing documentaries for 35 years. His most recent film, The Restless Hungarian, is his most personal project, and will be featured at the upcoming Mendocino Film Festival on June 3.In this searingly honest melding of the personal and historical Weidlinger uncovers the epic story of four generations. Central to the story is Tom’s father, Paul Weidlinger, a brilliant structural engineer who fled Europe just ahead of the Holocaust—but who kept secret, even from his children, the fact that he was a Jew.The film unfolds in 1920s and ‘30s Budapest, Zurich, London, Paris, La Paz (Bolivia), then 1940s, ‘50s and ‘60s Chicago and New York, as Weidlinger traces his famous father’s account of his fantastical life. Attempting to untangle truth from fiction, he uncovers a hidden story and lays bare the scars from his family’s experience of war, displacement, and immigration.Combining documentary material with recreated scenes from his own childhood, the filmmaker discovers how family tragedies, psychosis and suicide, are manifestations of historical trauma passed on from one generation to the next. Weidlinger’s profoundly thoughtful quest makes meaning from his family’s suffering, resulting in a healing work that breaks the cycle of intergenerational trauma.The Restless Hungarian’s trajectory intersects with the rise of Modern Architecture, the Holocaust, the Hungarian Jewish Diaspora, and the nuclear arms race.Twenty-one of Weidingers's previous films have been broadcast on public television. Many have won festival and industry awards and all remain in distribution. For detailed information, including trailers, please visit http://moiraproductions.com/. The documentary is also available in book form under the title The Restless Hungarian: Modernism, Madness, and the American Dream. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

This week I have the pleasure of speaking with Paulita Pappel – a Madrid/Berlin-based filmmaker and feminist pornographer. Paulita works as a producer, director and intimacy coordinator, and is an advocate for a sex-positive, consent-based culture.‍After studying comparative literature in Berlin, Paulita decided to follow her passion for both cinema and sexuality. She started working as an adult performer, and soon explored many different roles. Her knowledge of film counts now over 10 years of experience balancing work between the mainstream film and adult film industry. She has worked as producer, director, casting director, scriptwriter and performer. She has produced feature-length films that were shown and awarded internationally in festivals and she has produced, directed and performed many short films.‍She is the co-founder of Lustery, a platform dedicated to the sex lives of real-life couples from around the world. She is one half of HardWerk, an independent studio creating cinematic hardcore, where she directs and produces. Since 2013 she has been a curator for the Pornfilmfestival Berlin. She also works as an intimacy coordinator for mainstream productions.‍Our conversation will focus on her work challenging societal taboos, removing the stigma around sex and pleasure, and fostering a sex-positive consent culture, in which people are free to express themselves sexually within the boundaries of mutual consent. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Carlos has been studying the science of ayahuasca and plant medicine in the Amazon Rainforest since 2003. He currently works as the program director for the Ayahuasca Foundation, a non-profit organization he began in 2009 based out of Iquitos, Peru. He organizes healing retreats and educational courses with authentic indigenous healers, called curanderos, to help people in need of healing anything from depression to cancer or who are interested in learning the indigenous healing traditions of the Amazon Rainforest.In 2017 Carlos opened the Riosbo Ayahuasca Research Center. The research there was recently published in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry demonstrating that attending an ayahuasca retreat can produce epigenetic changes and significantly reduce depression and anxiety. Research continues at the center and will now include studying chronic pain, PTSD, and changes to the gut biome. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

In this week's program, I continue my series on Sexual Medicine in a conversation with Dr. Stella Resnick – Clinical Psychologist, Gestalt therapist, certified sex therapist and developer of the Embodied Relational Sex Therapy (ERST) process and therapist training. Stella's holistic approach recognizes sexual health, and capacity for pleasure and play as intertwined with self-development throughout life, and as basic elements in emotional, physical, and relational health and happiness.She developed this "full-spectrum" approach over many years of experience. It is a body-based, present-centered, experiential method for individuals and couples, centered on personal and relational healing and growth and focused on enhancing the capacity to enjoy greater physical, emotional and sexual pleasure. The process involves looking into early programming, not as an intellectual process of mere understanding but as felt-sense memories that are locked in the body through chronic physical tension, withheld breathing, and unresolved old emotions that trigger programmed reactions to stress.Through breath and body awareness, in the present moment, we learn to become more mindful and self-aware in the moment. By breathing into painful emotions and experimenting with new ways to respond in emotionally fraught situations, we can access inner resources that we may not even know we have, and call forth more loving and pleasurable responses from others.Stella believes this is especially true in romantic and sexual relationships, viewing relational and sexual problems are as opportunities to heal from early emotional pain and shame, to broaden the ability to love and be loved, and to share emotional and sexual pleasure with a lover or mate. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Dear Neighbors,In this week's program, I speak with Sheryn Hildebrand about the serious problem of child sex trafficking in Mendocino County. As painful as it may be to hear her words, we must listen. In this gut-wrenching interview, we will hear about how children in Mendocino county California are courted, drugged, groomed, and put out to the public as child prostitutes. They are coerced, psychologically and physically abused, extorted, and blackmailed, in order to keep them in virtual captivity.Authorities are understaffed and the public is so horrified, by the topic itself, that it does not receive the public outcry needed.Sheryn Hildebrand is the Director of the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program in Lake & Mendocino County. Sheryn has served as director for 21 years and also works with neighboring counties (Lake, Humboldt, Del Norte) facilitating Child Abuse Prevention opportunities. She sits on both Mendocino and Lake Counties' child abuse prevention councils as well as participates at the state level on the critical incidents citizen review panel (CRP). Learn more at the California CASA website.A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is a trained volunteer appointed by a judicial officer to provide advocacy for a child who is under the jurisdiction of the courts due to abuse or neglect. The CASA serves as the “eyes and ears” of the judge for children in foster care. Volunteers spend time with children, monitor needed services, and provide child-focused recommendations to the court based on the best interest of the children they serve.From March 28 - 31, the iEmpathize organization will be featuring an exhibit called The Apathy Effect at the Ukiah Conference Center (200 S. School St., Ukiah, CA). The purpose of the iEmphathize organization is to help communities ignite empathy to end childhood exploitation. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

On this week's episode we talk with Deborah Bowes, a licensed Feldenkrais instructor, on how she uses this method to bring about healing and growth in her life and the lives of her clients. She works with people with ongoing, complex medical conditions to foster hope and improve function. Her expertise and experience includes Feldenkrais Method, Chi Kung, Tai Chi, and other awareness based movement and health practices. She co-founded this group private practice in 1988. They specialize in teaching Feldenkrais Method and work with individuals who would like to improve how they move and function. She has success with people who have not been helped by more traditional therapy, who may have been injured by a health care provider, people dealing with pain, people with brain injuries, and people with complex health needs or conditions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

On this week's episode we talk with Diana Richardson on the power of mindful sex.Diana Richardson is known as the pioneer of the Slow Sex movement and, along with her partner, Michael Richardson, is the creator of the life-changing weeklong Making Love Retreat, which they have been offering in Europe since 1995. She wrote her first book in 1996, published as The Love Keys in 1999, and then later republished as The Heart of Tantric Sex, a best seller. Since then has written a further 7 books on the tantric approach to love and sex. These are translated into German, Spanish, French, with certain books translated in Russian, Korean, Czech, and Estonian.Diana is now based in Switzerland with Michael, where they continue to guide couples in the art of slow, conscious sex in their highly successful Making Love Retreats. For more information about their backgrounds, retreats, books, please visit their websites:www.livinglove.com or www.love4couples.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Based out of New York, Evacheska is the founder of Temple Sotto Luce, a community project designed to be a gateway to a higher state of being through the use of both traditional methods and approaches, and more esoteric tools. Evacheska is a former Executive Leader, having spent over a decade working in corporate America where she held positions as Vice President of Marketing and Strategy and Executive Director at multi-million-dollar businesses such as Avon, Rodan + Fields, Stella & Dot, and TYRA Beauty. In 2019, she decided to make a career shift to be in service of others and return to school to expand her expertise and skill set. Since then, Evacheska has dedicated her life’s work and energy to creating and holding space for healing and expansion. She leverages her unique background abilities to create distinctive experiences focused on supporting each participant’s internal work. She is a certified Mindfulness and Meditation facilitator, Integrative Coach, and Trauma and Somatics Practitioner, and is also certified in Psych-K®. She is currently pursuing a degree in psychology at CUNY, studying yogic philosophy, and studying the power of plant medicines, of which she has worked with many, both in her personal work and work with others. She recently returned from a month in Peru where she studied with the Ayahuasca Foundation. Evacheska has taken her unique background and personal passions and applied it to a myriad of different areas of work. She currently leads seminars and workshops on Quantum Time Manifestation, Harnessing Personal Power, and leads Mindfulness Meditation and Medicine Music & Movement events. She also offers one-on-one guidance through Zoom and in-person sessions for deeper work, and facilitates customized group retreats. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

On this week's episode we talk with the wonderful Faith Jones, a summa cum laude graduate from Georgetown and who was raised in the "Children of God" cult, about her book "Sex Cult Nun".Faith was raised in and escaped from the infamous cult, the Children of God. It was founded by her paternal grandfather. The group was notorious for its radical practices, which required members to become full-time missionaries, forgo income and formal education, and submit to the “Law of Love,” a doctrine which encouraged spouse sharing and (for a time) sexual relations with children, and used female disciples as sex “bait” to gain followers and supporters."I was able to emancipate myself at 23 and, through self-taught study, was later accepted into Berkeley Law school. I give an intimate description of life inside a secretive cult, and most importantly, the framework of how to set oneself free of mental and spiritual manipulation in hopes of helping others stand up for themselves.” Faith says."Both inspiring and disturbing, Sex Cult Nun unravels Jones’ complicated upbringing,the trauma she endured as a result and her path to liberation" - TIME Magazine This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

On this week's episode, we talk with Maeve Moon - a former sex worker turned trauma recovery coach as she shares with us her story of recovery and victory. Maeve goes through her heartbreaking yet harrowing journey as a young woman in the sex industry, and what it took for her to find her true self and escape. She is now using her story to enlighten other women in the industry, and to provide hope. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

"The woman who can create her own job is the woman who will win fame and fortune." – Amelia Earhart Though she isn't a professional therapist, Maggie McNeill's decades of studying human sexuality from very close up has given her a remarkable degree of insight into sexuality, relationships, and many other related topics; people have therefore long sought out her advice on such topics.Maggie McNeill was a librarian in suburban New Orleans, but after divorce economic necessity spurred her to take up sex work; from 1997 to 2006 she worked first as a stripper, then as a call girl and madam. She eventually married her favorite client, retired, and moved to a ranch in the rural Upper South. There she writes a daily blog called “The Honest Courtesan” which examines the realities, myths, history, lore, science, philosophy, art, and every other aspect of prostitution; she also reports sex work news, critiques the way her profession is treated in the media and by governments, and is frequently consulted by academics and journalists as an expert on the subject. "The Honest Courtesan" is quite possibly the largest single-author blog on the internet, containing over 3500 essays written over the past decade. You can find her book "Ask Maggie" and its subsequent volumes on amazon, and please be sure to follow her on twitter. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Despite the increasing visibility of LGBTQ people in American culture, our understanding of bisexuality remains superficial, at best. Our guest, Ritch Savin-Williams PhD provides an important new understanding of bisexuality as an orientation, behavior, and identity in his book titled, "Bi". Bi shows us that bisexuality is seen and embraced as a valid sexual identity more than ever before, giving us timely and much-needed insight into the complex, fascinating experiences of bisexual youth themselves.This episode features Professor Emeritus Ritch Savin-Williams. Savin-Williams teaches developmental psychology at Cornell University and specializes in gay, lesbian, and bisexual research. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

On this next episode of Mind, Body, Health, and Politics I speak with the team from the Grass Roots Institute. We will hear from the insightful Peter McNamee, Carrie Durkee, and Jim Tarbell.The Grassroots Institute: A progressive solutions group for the Common Good (GRI) is confronting our deteriorating political, economic and environmental systems. GRI looks at the systemic problems created by wealthy corporate elites instituting public policies benefiting their own good rather than the common good. GRI also promotes citizen-based solutions that are creating a vibrant future.GRI offers two free study guides. One for the Grassroots Solutions and Corporate Power course, and the other for the Building the Economy for the Common Good course. Their study guides educate concerned citizens on corporations, democracy and building an economy for our common good. The solutions to our sustainable future are already at work in our communities. We just have to recognize them, bring them together and support them. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

On today's episode I speak with author, Tibetan Lama, Elder, and Polymath Mike Crowley. Mike began studying Buddhism with a Tibetan lama in 1966, becoming an upasaka of the Kagyud lineage in 1970. In order to augment his Buddhist studies, he acquainted himself with Sanskrit, Tibetan and Mandarin Chinese. Mike has lectured at the Jagellonian University, Cracow, the Museum of Asia and the Pacific, Warsaw, the California Institute for Integral Studies, San Francisco, and at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His work has been published in Fortean Studies, Time & Mind, the Journal of Archeology, Consciousness and Culture, Psychedelic American, and Psychedelic Press UK.He is the author of, "Secret Drugs of Buddhism". Drawing on a wide range of disciplines (including pharmacology, iconography, botany, and scriptural sources), this book calls attention to the central role which psychedelics played in Indian religions, tracing their history from the soma of the Vedic period to amrita, the sacramental drink of Vajrayana Buddhism. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Sumati has been a personal and spiritual growth junkie her entire life. Her training includes having attended over 40 workshops with the Human Awareness Institute, also known as HAI, is a trained Zegg Forum Facilitator and part of the Network for a New Culture, has studied Non-Violent Communication (or NVC) with Marshall Rosenberg, has been practicing 12-step work in the areas of relationship and addiction since 1985, is a trained PSYCH-K Facilitator (a process used to remove limiting beliefs), has a Yoga & Meditation teacher certification through the Sivananda school, and has studied sacred sexuality with Evalena Rose, Baba Dez and other prominent teachers.Sumati Sparks’ first name was given to her by the great living saint, Amma (Mata Amritananda Mayi). Sumati means pure essence. She is a relationship coach with a life PhD! Since 2000, she has been coaching people in the areas of relationship and sexuality and now specializes in helping people create successful open relationships. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Veronica Monet is an American author and activist for sex worker rights. Her early activism focused on debunking stereotypes about sex workers and advocating for the decriminalization of all sex work. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Dear Neighbors,We want to end this year thanking you, our listeners, and by wrapping up with some of our most cherished moments from the podcast. With the Confessions series a huge hit with all of you, we wanted to pull key moments to look back on. We also have sections from Dean Edell, Dennis McKenna, Tim Scully, and more. You will find the links to all of the full episodes in the show notes of tomorrows broadcast.Again, it has been a wonderful year with all of you. We have even more stimulating and insightful conversations on the horizon for 2022. If this show has impacted you in any way, please be sure to share with you loved ones. If you have any questions or comments please reach out to us - we would love to hear from you.Tally Ho! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Letha Hadady is one of the nation's leading experts on natural Chinese remedies and author of books on health and beauty. She has lead stress management workshops and acted as natural product consultant for Sony Entertainment Inc., Dreyfus, Ogilvy & Mather, and Consumer Eyes, Inc. in New York.In 1980 Letha became involved with novelist Michael Foster and librarian and poet Barbara Foster in a work-oriented menage a trois of writers. Together they researched and the Fosters wrote two biographies of Alexandra David-Neel: Forbidden Journey and The Secret Lives of Alexandra David-Neel. Their book Three in Love: Menages a Trois from Ancient to Modern Times has been called "racy and engaging" by Entertainment Weekly. The three have been featured in television and radio interviews and a European documentary "Menage a Trois" in 2008 by Catherina Klusemann. She has also authored "Tea for Three: The Other Woman by Letha Hadady", as well as co-authored "Outlaws of Love: A History of Forbidden Desire". Please be sure to check out her website for more info at: www.asianhealthsecrets.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Link to the Flash Technique Video: https://youtu.be/f-QNuzTdJVYLewis is a licensed psychologist and has been practicing in San Francisco and Marin County for over 40 years. His approach to therapy is interactive and he seeks to understand his clients’ struggles and collaboratively develop a process to resolve their difficulties.Currently, his area of specialization is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is an effective and well researched therapy originally developed for the treatment of the aftereffects of severe trauma such as combat, physical and sexual abuse, sexual assault, traffic accidents and natural disasters.In 2017, he assisted Philip Manfield, Ph.D. in the development of a revolutionary new technique, the Flash Technique, which combined with EMDR allows for the rapid and painless resolution of traumatic memories. EMDR and Flash are also successful in effectively treating anxiety, depression, avoidance, phobias and panic. These symptoms can arise either from major trauma or simply from the ordinary strains of growing up in a family and other challenges of life.In addition, he has written a popular book, Imaginary Crimes, that addresses why some of us sabotage ourselves and prevent ourselves from being happy and successful. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Affectionately dubbed "Her Deepness", by The New Yorker magazine, Dr. Sylvia Earle, one of the world’s top experts on ocean science and conservation, shares her inspiring wisdom in NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC OCEAN: A GLOBAL ODESSY showcasing how the ocean--with its forces, habitats, creatures, and global influence--has a tremendous impact on our everyday lives. President & Chairman of Mission Blue, Dr. Earl describes the evolution, beauty, and impact of our ocean, the challenges it faces, such as climate change, plastic, and overfishing, and the myriad ways we can help protect it. With a special focus on new discoveries in the deepest reaches of the ocean, Dr. Earle’s book reveals wonders that few have witnessed before and broadens our understanding of this essential realm of life on Earth. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

For this week's episode we are speaking with Mike Jay, author of "Mescaline: A Global History of the First Psychedelic".He writes regularly for the London Review of Books (free access long reads on madness and revolution, Edgar Allan Poe, memory, and hallucinations), the Wall Street Journal and the Literary Review (free access piece on Philip K. Dick).Mike Jay has written widely on the history of science and medicine, and particularly on the discovery of psychoactive drugs during the 18th and 19th centuries. His books on the subject include Emperors of Dreams: drugs in the nineteenth century (2000, revised edition 2011) and most recently High Society: mind-altering drugs in history and culture (2010), which accompanied the exhibition he curated at Wellcome Collection in London. The Atmosphere of Heaven is also the third book in his series of biographical narratives of political reformers in 1790s Britain. It follows The Air Loom Gang (2003, revised edition forthcoming 2012) and The Unfortunate Colonel Despard (2004). This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

For this week's episode we are featuring a wonderful conversation with The Maudsley Learning Podcast. (Be sure to check out their podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/maudsley-learning-podcast-psychiatry-psychotherapy/id1466932169)Maudsley Learning is part of one of the world’s most renowned mental healthcare organisations and unifies education. Their mission is to produce the highest quality mental health and well-being education and training products. They design and deliver courses to meet the continuing professional development needs of individual professionals in the healthcare workforce, but also to many others including colleagues in social services, policing, schools and in the private sector.We are discussing MDMA, Psychedelics & the Therapeutic Milleu on this week's show This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

This week I am interviewing Mr. Sanjay Singhal - entrepreneur and founder of the Nikean Project.Sanjay is a Canadian tech entrepreneur and author best known for founding and selling Audiobooks.com. He created the 500 Startups Canada fund in 2016 and actively remains an ongoing investor in over 20 startups. His memoir “Zero to Tesla,” published in 2018, chronicles the whole messy journey. He launched the Nikean Foundation in 2019 to fund mental health research, focusing on novel psychedelic therapies to treat mental disorders including anorexia, depression, and PTSD. The Nikean Foundation currently funds research trials around the world, with a focus on developing knowledge and infrastructure in Canada. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

This week we are flipping the script and asking some hard hitting questions with our Host; Dr. Richard Louis Miller.Our Producer - Charlie Deist, along with our Audio Engineer - David Springer, will be addressing some questions from our listeners on this weeks episode.We love hearing from you! So please email us any questions you may have and we will do our best to bring those up in a future episode! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Dr. David L. Geisinger, is the 82-year-old author of Kicking It: The New Way to Stop Smoking and Permanently Going The Distance: Finding and Keeping Lifelong Love, written with his life partner, Dr. Lonnie Barbach.Dr. Howard I. Levene – 85-year-old former Commander and medical officer in the U.S. Navy – is founder of Diabasis House, and a faculty member at the C.G. Jung Institute of San Francisco and Department of Psychiatry, UCSF Medical School. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

This week we speak with Jeremy Narby, author and anthropologist, on botanics and biology and their applications in psychedelic therapy. He has written several books including "Plant Teachers" and "The Cosmic Snake" as well as co-authored "The Psychotropic Mind".Jeremy grew up in Canada and Switzerland, studied history at the University of Canterbury, receiving a doctorate in anthropology from Stanford University. Jeremy spent several years living with the Ashaninca tribe in the Peruvian Amazon, cataloging indigenous uses of rainforest resources.Jeremy has worked since 1989 as Amazonian projects director for the Swiss non-profit Nouvelle Planète, backing projects for the self-determination of Amazonian indigenous peoples that involve land rights, primary education, village health, botanical knowledge, fish farms, tree nurseries, and other local initiatives. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe