Dear Friends, For years, I've observed what I call a "post-traumatic sexual stress disorder" gripping our nation. It's not just about sex – it's about the very fabric of our society. We're a culture living on edge, with 70% of us barely making it paycheck to paycheck. This constant stress, this sword of Damocles hanging over our heads, it's more than economic – it's deeply traumatic, and it seeps into every aspect of our lives, including our sexuality. Imagine, for a moment, that the very act of...
Jul 09, 2024•50 min•Transcript available on Metacast Dear Friends, Each of us has a decision to make: whether we want to put in the time and energy to be healthy, or if we're just going to let the chips fall where they may. Being healthy is a lifestyle choice. You might get lucky and stay healthy for years without effort, but most Americans end up with diabetes, heart disease, cancer, or other health issues well before they reach old age. The choice is yours. If you do choose a healthy lifestyle, I won't sugarcoat it – it's a lot of work. However,...
Jul 02, 2024•23 min•Transcript available on Metacast Dear Friends, How can we find peace and purpose amid the turmoil and distraction of the modern world? Actor, author, and Zen Buddhist priest Peter Coyote believes the answer lies in the timeless wisdom of Buddhism – translated for our modern lives. In my latest interview, Peter and I explore: * The Buddhist concept of "dependent origination" and its relevance to our interconnected world * How meditation can help us contain and investigate our emotions, leading to more dignified living * The powe...
Jun 25, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Transcript available on Metacast Dear Friends, In a world rife with division, how can we turn conflict into collaboration? Lawyer-turned-“resolutionary” Stewart Levine has spent over 35 years mastering the art of transforming breakdowns into breakthroughs. From feuding business partners to disgruntled employees to divorcing couples, he's been in the trenches of impossible situations - and emerged with relationships intact and millions of dollars saved. Now, he's distilled his hard-won wisdom into practical tools anyone can use ...
Jun 20, 2024•59 min•Transcript available on Metacast Dear Friends, In the early 1980s, as a clinical psychologist, I had a remarkable experience as a patient of Dr. Robert Cantor, the founder of the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology. He legally administered MDMA to me over a period of a year and a half, and the benefits were profound. My heart opened, my empathy increased, and my defenses lowered. At the time, therapists across the United States were reporting amazing results using MDMA with couples, claiming they achieved more progress in a f...
Jun 11, 2024•6 min•Transcript available on Metacast What if you were facing a terminal illness, wracked by anxiety and depression, and knew that a safe, promising treatment existed - but was denied to you? This is the heart-wrenching reality for many of Dr. Sunil Aggarwal's patients. A palliative care physician in Seattle, Dr. Aggarwal is fighting a landmark legal case for the right to treat his dying patients with psilocybin-assisted therapy. Psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, has shown remarkable potential in easing end-of-li...
Jun 04, 2024•1 hr•Transcript available on Metacast Dear Friends, Have you ever felt like giving up when faced with a seemingly insurmountable challenge? I know I have. But what I've learned through my own experiences is that persistence and consistent effort can work wonders. It all started with a devastating motorcycle accident that left me with both legs crushed. As I lay on the highway, I closed my eyes and prepared for the worst. But then, a voice inside me said these words: "You can still make a contribution." That was the moment I decided ...
May 28, 2024•11 min•Transcript available on Metacast Why is MDMA so effective at treating PTSD? Does microdosing LSD affect depressed individuals differently than those with a more positive outlook? Some of us have been waiting for answers to these kinds of questions about psychedelics for more than 50 years. As a young academic in the 1960s, I had my own life-changing experiences with psychedelics, which set me on a new career path as a clinical psychologist. But like many of my generation, I watched with dismay as these powerful tools were demon...
May 21, 2024•58 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this special monologue episode, Dr. Richard L. Miller shares his secret to a happy life: taking control of your mind. Drawing from his 64 years of experience and personal struggles, Dr. Miller emphasizes the importance of persistent practice in managing thoughts and emotions. He recounts how "mind control" and "Dog Yoga" helped him overcome physical challenges following a motorcycle accident and the recent pandemic. With his trademark wisdom and humor, Dr. Miller invites listeners to join his...
Apr 30, 2024•36 min•Transcript available on Metacast Obi Kaufmann, artist, writer, and conservationist, discusses California's ecology, water management, and biodiversity. Kaufmann challenges conventional environmentalism, questioning the language used to describe nature and the paradox of trading nature to save it. He emphasizes the importance of indigenous-led ecological thought and the resilience provided by biodiversity. Kaufmann shares insights from his book "The State of Water" and his upcoming release "The State of Fire: Why California Burn...
Apr 24, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Transcript available on Metacast I sit down with the trailblazing Dr. John McDougall, a leading expert in plant-based nutrition and the author of the groundbreaking book, "The Starch Solution." Dr. McDougall shares his decades of experience as a physician and researcher, revealing the power of a whole-food, starch-based diet in preventing and reversing chronic diseases, promoting sustainable weight loss, and optimizing overall health. Discover how shifting away from animal products and processed foods and embracing starches lik...
Apr 12, 2024•53 min•Transcript available on Metacast Cathy Reisenwitz is a writer and creator of the Sex and the State substack publication. She has been featured on TV and in various publications such as TechCrunch, The Week, VICE, and Daily Beast. In this podcast episode, Cathy discusses the concept of authoritarianism and its impact on society. She explores the traits of an authoritarian personality, including a focus on conformity, lack of diversity, and a preference for in-groups. Cathy also delves into the connection between violence and aut...
Mar 27, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Transcript available on Metacast Podcast Episode: David Nutt - Psychedelics and Mental Health Guest: Professor David Nutt Short Bio: David Nutt is a psychiatrist specializing in the effects of drugs on the brain. He has made significant contributions to our understanding of how psychedelics work and their clinical applications. He co-founded the first academic psychedelic research center and has recently launched his book "Psychedelics: The Revolutionary Drugs That Could Change Your Life – A Guide from the Expert." In the podca...
Mar 21, 2024•57 min•Transcript available on Metacast Dr. Robert Strahan, a highly accomplished psychiatrist, shares his insights on the crucial topic of adverse effects in psychedelic medicine. With a diverse background spanning forensic psychiatry, integrative medicine, and leadership roles in prestigious institutions, Dr. Strahan emphasizes the importance of transparency, proper screening, and preparation when considering psychedelic treatments. Explore the potential risks and benefits of psychedelics, the significance of set and setting, and pr...
Mar 12, 2024•45 min•Transcript available on Metacast Jules Evans is an author and researcher with a particular interest in psychedelic medicine and adverse effects. He has personal experience with a challenging trip that led him to explore mental health and philosophy. Jules is dedicated to understanding the risks and harms associated with psychedelics and finding ways to support individuals who have had challenging experiences. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ww...
Mar 05, 2024•1 hr•Transcript available on Metacast Chris Ryan, author of Sex at Dawn and Civilized to Death, and host of Tangentially Speaking podcast, questions the concept of normative heterosexual monogamy as a sustainable way of people living together. He argues that understanding human nature as a promiscuous species can lead to more compassion and self-awareness in relationships. Ryan discusses the cultural and historical influences on our perception of monogamy and challenges the assumption that it is a natural and universal behavior. He ...
Mar 01, 2024•1 hr•Transcript available on Metacast Kelan Thomas, pharmacologist and pharmacist, explores the potential risks and benefits of psychedelics in a podcast episode. He discusses the effects of different substances on receptors in the body and the importance of understanding their mechanisms of action. The conversation delves into topics such as the combination of psychedelics with SSRIs, the potential risks of heart valve problems, and the use of MDMA in therapeutic settings. Kelan emphasizes the need for responsible use and provides ...
Feb 15, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Transcript available on Metacast Valerie White, a polyamory advocate, chronicles the challenges and joys of living in a polyamorous polycule. She discusses the dynamics of her relationship with her partner Ken and his other partner Peg, highlighting the importance of open communication and therapy in navigating jealousy and evolving relationship dynamics. Valerie also shares insights on the Polyamory Foundation, a grant-making organization that supports individuals in the polyamory community. Throughout the episode, Valerie emp...
Feb 07, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, relationship expert Jessica Fern delves into the challenges and joys of open relationships. She discusses strategies for navigating jealousy and provides insights into the future of non-monogamous relationships. Jessica highlights the significance of having a guide and support system when embarking on this social experiment. The conversation also explores the necessity for new terminology to describe various relationship dynamics, as well as the influence of societal movements o...
Jan 31, 2024•1 hr•Transcript available on Metacast Rachel Lehmann-Haupt, an expert in single motherhood and author, chronicles the journey of being a single mom by choice. In this episode, we examine the challenges and joys of single motherhood, discussing topics such as reproductive choice, community support, and the importance of acceptance. We also explore the cultural changes needed to fully embrace different family structures and highlights the need for flexibility in the workplace. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this wi...
Jan 26, 2024•49 min•Transcript available on Metacast Paul Austin, psychedelic advocate and founder of the Third Wave, discusses the benefits of microdosing and the importance of integrating it with healthy lifestyle habits. Our conversation also touches on the challenges of income inequality and the need for social change. Paul chronicles the role of psychedelics in catalyzing personal and collective transformation, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with nature and reestablishing a reciprocal relationship with the environment. This is a p...
Jan 16, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, psychotherapist and researcher Dr. Neal Goldsmith takes us on a journey exploring the nature of consciousness and the universe. We delve into the world of psychospiritual development and the transformative potential of psychedelics, and discuss the importance of breathing and the developmental process in therapy. Neal speaks about the need for a deep understanding of oneself and the universe to become a good therapist. He challenges the notion that psychedelics alone can lead to...
Jan 10, 2024•2 hr 51 min•Transcript available on Metacast I'm thrilled to share my recent interview with Dr. Ben Sessa, a leading figure in the field of psychedelic research and the author of The Psychedelic Renaissance. Dr. Ben Sessa is a qualified medical professional who obtained his medical degree from University College London in 1997. He has been a member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists since 2002. With a specialization in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry from Oxford in 2005, Dr. Sessa has worked in various mental health services, including ...
Dec 27, 2023•1 hr 2 min•Transcript available on Metacast Dr. David Smith, founder of the Haight Ashbury Free Clinic, shares his perspective on the relationship between psychedelics and addiction. He challenges the theory that psychedelics directly lead to addiction, emphasizing the influence of other factors such as predatory drug dealers. Join the conversation to explore the complexities of this topic and gain insights into the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get...
Dec 19, 2023•52 min•Transcript available on Metacast Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, a leading researcher in psychedelic science, examines the impact of psychedelics on the brain and discusses the future of mind-altering therapies, while delving into topics such as brain connectivity, suggestibility, and harm reduction. 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...
Dec 14, 2023•1 hr 13 min•Transcript available on Metacast This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org Dive into the intricacies of psychedelic side effects, integration processes, and societal 'matrix' on 'Mind, Body, Health, and Politics'. Join Dr. Richard Miller and Dr. Mariavittoria Mangini in a compelling dialogue that unravels the challenges and necessities of transparent and informed discussions in the field of psychedelic medicine....
Dec 13, 2023•30 sec•Transcript available on Metacast This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org Dive into the intricacies of psychedelic side effects, integration processes, and societal 'matrix' on 'Mind, Body, Health, and Politics'. Join Dr. Richard Miller and Dr. Mariavittoria Mangini in a compelling dialogue that unravels the challenges and necessities of transparent and informed discussions in the field of psychedelic medicine....
Nov 22, 2023•49 min•Transcript available on Metacast This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org Richard Dixey, research scientist and meditation practitioner, examines the concept of reactivity and its effects on our daily lives. He chronicles the journey of rediscovering our humanity through meditation, exploring the power of self-awareness and the potential for personal transformation.
Nov 16, 2023•1 hr 11 min•Transcript available on Metacast This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org Jahan Khamsehzadeh, psychedelic guide and addiction specialist, chronicles psychedelic risks like trauma and impaired judgment while examining how certain leaders justify unethical actions through "spiritual bypassing" and "guru syndrome" mentalities that condemn anger, a vital emotion for positive change....
Nov 08, 2023•1 hr 16 min•Transcript available on Metacast This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org Psychedelic medicine pioneer Sherry Rais joins Dr. Richard Miller to discuss expanding access through insurance coverage. The Enthea founder shares her quest to navigate psychedelic reimbursement and reduce human suffering.
Oct 31, 2023•36 min•Transcript available on Metacast