Episodios

  • Psilocybin and Motherhood: Breaking Stigma, Nurturing Connection, and Healing Generational Trauma

    Psilocybin and Motherhood: Breaking Stigma, Nurturing Connection, and Healing Generational Trauma
    Oct 1 2025
    Welcome back to Webdelics! In today’s episode, host Scott Mason sits down for an enlightening and heartfelt conversation with journalist and author Jennifer Chesak. Together, they dive deep into the increasingly relevant topic of moms and psychedelics—exploring everything from the science behind psilocybin and microdosing, to the societal stigma and practical realities facing mothers who are seeking alternative tools for self-care and healing. Jennifer unpacks the challenges that women, especially mothers, face in our fast-paced world—balancing careers, household responsibilities, perimenopause, aging parents, and even the weight of generational trauma. She sheds light on how psychedelics, when approached safely and intentionally, can be a valuable means to foster resilience, emotional healing, and stronger connections within families. This episode isn’t just about psychedelics as medicine—it’s about breaking down taboos, discussing the importance of consent and safety, and offering real-world tips for anyone considering this journey. Whether you’re a mom yourself, support someone who is, or are simply curious about the intersection of parenting and plant medicine, Scott and Jennifer’s open, honest dialogue offers thought-provoking insights, practical advice, and a reminder that self-care is a vital tool for every caregiver. So if you’ve ever wondered what happens when the worlds of motherhood and psychedelics collide, or how these tools might help break cycles of stress and trauma, you won’t want to miss this powerful episode of Webdelics. 00:00 Macrodosing vs. Microdosing for Parents 09:28 Breaking Cycles of Generational Trauma 10:51 Understanding Mom Stressors 16:19 Managing Stress with Mindfulness Tools 24:59 Child Services Threat in Shelter Cases 28:52 Psilocybin's Emotional Impact on Parenting 31:58 Microdosing: Stress Relief for Parents 38:58 Consent Crucial in Psychedelic Therapy 43:37 Vetting Facilitators: Community Tips 48:27 Reevaluating Troubled Relationships 57:44 Psilocybin: Connection and Reflection 01:01:24 Psychedelics and Trauma Processing 01:06:39 Conclusion
    Más Menos
    1 h y 8 m
  • Building Your Foundation for Psychedelic Self-Exploration with Ashley Booth

    Building Your Foundation for Psychedelic Self-Exploration with Ashley Booth
    Sep 23 2025
    Welcome back to Webdelics! In this episode, Scott Mason sits down with Ashley Booth—psychotherapist, psychedelic integration specialist, and recent Webdelics Top 100 honoree—for a deep dive into one of the most vital, yet often overlooked, topics in psychedelic exploration: developing a strong foundation for self-exploration. Ashley shares her personal journey from marine scientist to psychedelic therapist, weaving in transformative experiences at Burning Man and with 5-MeO-DMT, and reflects on the importance of frameworks—like Kundalini yoga and Internal Family Systems therapy—for navigating the sometimes turbulent waters of psychedelic discovery. Together, Scott and Ashley unpack the crucial concept that heightened self-knowledge doesn't automatically guarantee smooth sailing. In fact, Ashley emphasizes the risks of jumping into profound psychedelic experiences without foundational tools for integration, coping, and emotional processing. The conversation explores everything from intergenerational struggles with resilience, the search for stability and meaning, and the value of curiosity and the mystery of self. Ashley offers practical insights into preparing for psychedelic experiences, supporting oneself through the intense moments, and reconnecting with a deep inner resource—what she calls the “capital S Self.” Whether you're new to psychedelics or a seasoned explorer, this episode is an invitation to look within, strengthen your foundation, and approach the vast landscape of consciousness with respect, curiosity, and a dash of playfulness. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt, and thoroughly practical guide to the real work behind the psychedelic journey. 00:00 Introduction 03:58 Psychedelics and Kundalini Awakening 10:33 Fear of Death and Insanity 14:00 Psychedelics and Self-Discovery Journey 18:15 Navigating Personal Truth and Wisdom 20:44 Stability Through Self-Understanding 24:46 Internal Family Systems Framework 29:14 Easing Concerns About Spirituality 31:32 From Atheism to Spiritual Awakening 34:43 Mindful Medicine: Avoiding Internal Backlash 40:03 Journey into Psychedelic Therapy 42:11 Psychedelics, Connection, and Integration 47:43 Creating Personal Meaning Through Values 49:42 Embrace Life's Mystery 54:51 Conclusion
    Más Menos
    56 m
  • Modern Psychedelic Journeys: Integration, Individualism, and Ancient Wisdom with Gibran Rivera

    Modern Psychedelic Journeys: Integration, Individualism, and Ancient Wisdom with Gibran Rivera
    Sep 18 2025
    On this thought-provoking episode of Webdelics, host Scott Mason welcomes the insightful Gibran Rivera for a rich exploration of the often-overlooked context and community surrounding psychedelic experiences. Together, they delve into the ancestral roots of sacred plant medicines, examining how our hyper-individualistic culture has stripped these practices of their collective, spiritual, and ritual dimensions. Gibran challenges the assumption that psychedelic healing is a solo journey, urging listeners to rethink integration, the power of group ceremonies, and our disconnection from the mythic, animistic worldview of our ancestors. Scott opens up about his own transformative experiences, while Gibran explains the dangers of “Instagram shamans” and the risks of bringing modern narcissism to powerful medicines. They unpack the differences between therapy and healing, discuss the importance of community-based integration, and address how even the most skeptical or secular listeners can approach plant medicine respectfully. This episode will have you questioning what it means to truly “heal,” the responsibilities we carry when engaging with psychedelics, and whether rediscovering ritual and collective belonging might be the missing link for lasting transformation. Whether you’re a newcomer to psychedelics or a seasoned explorer, you’ll find powerful insights that could reshape your understanding of self, society, and the sacred. 00:00 Introduction 06:05 Exploring Psychedelic Integration History 12:20 Recontextualizing Plant Medicine 18:01 Modernity's Loss of Mythos 26:41 Self Sovereignty and Healing 30:40 Exploring Trauma, Narcissism, and Culture 37:23 Psychedelics, Community, and Ancestral Rituals 41:01 Ancestral Rituals and Resilience 49:40 Collective Healing Beyond Medicine 53:24 Public Vulnerability in Group Coaching 58:49 Embracing Diverse Spiritual Beliefs 01:03:29 Embracing Ancestral Wisdom for Connection 01:09:15 Modern Arrogance vs. Ancient Wisdom 01:14:42 Conclusion
    Más Menos
    1 h y 16 m
  • Can Psychedelics Really Change the World? Hope, Hype, and How Change Happens

    Can Psychedelics Really Change the World? Hope, Hype, and How Change Happens
    Sep 11 2025
    Welcome back to the Webdelics podcast! In this episode, host Scott Mason is joined by author, conference organizer, and ceremony leader, Stephen Gray, for an insightful discussion about the promise—and the limitations—of psychedelics as agents of personal and societal transformation. Together, they dive deep into big questions: Can psychedelics spark a global shift in consciousness? Are we overhyping their revolutionary potential? And how might the current "psychedelic renaissance" be threatened by commercialization and corporate interests? Stephen brings a wealth of experience, drawing from decades of work with plant medicines like ayahuasca and cannabis, to explore what it truly means to have a life-changing experience versus a fleeting one. The conversation touches on the spiritual, psychological, and cultural dimensions of the psychedelic movement, and why true transformation requires not just a powerful trip, but ongoing integration and humility. With reflections on meeting people where they are, the importance of context and culture, and the shadow side of resistance (both personally and collectively), this episode invites listeners to consider what it might really take to heal ourselves—and our world. If you’re curious about how psychedelics intersect with spirituality, power structures, and the urgent crises of our time, this thought-provoking episode is not to be missed. 00:00 Introduction 07:52 Global Psychedelic Impact: A Shared Crisis 14:08 Unlimited Love and Acceptance 22:06 Paths to Tyranny or Renewal 25:39 Embracing Love, Psychedelics, and Change 29:11 Effective Communication Strategies 34:11 Psychedelics' Impact on Leadership Dynamics 41:41 Psychedelic Renaissance: Hype or Suppression? 48:24 Psychedelics & Morphogenetic Resonance 54:57 Reimagining Power Dynamics for Psychedelics 58:16 Collapse, Control, and Fear Dynamics 01:01:21 Conclusion
    Más Menos
    1 h y 4 m
  • Exploring Kambo: Caitlin Thompson on Frog Medicine, Healing, and Harm Reduction

    Exploring Kambo: Caitlin Thompson on Frog Medicine, Healing, and Harm Reduction
    Sep 4 2025
    Welcome to another fascinating episode of Webdelics! Today, host Scott Mason dives deep into the world of Kambo with our guest, Caitlin Thompson—a neurobiologist, researcher, and passionate advocate for sacred medicines. If you’ve ever been curious about the mysterious “frog medicine” known as Kambo, this episode is for you. Caitlin breaks down what Kambo truly is, sharing its history as a traditional Amazonian practice using the potent skin secretions of the Phyllomedusa bicolor frog. We explore how this ritual, once primarily used by indigenous hunters for physical endurance, mental clarity, and even hunting “magic,” has made its way into Western wellness culture—transforming along the way into a tool for spiritual growth, self-discovery, and overcoming chronic health struggles. Throughout the conversation, Caitlin gets real about the science behind Kambo, its unique (but definitely not psychedelic) effects, and the powerful post-ceremony clarity many experiencers report. She also candidly discusses the potential risks, why harm reduction and proper facilitation are non-negotiable, and how misinformation can create real dangers—plus the legal gray area surrounding Kambo’s use worldwide. In this episode, you’ll also hear Caitlin’s personal healing journey—from battling chronic illness to forging a deep connection with Kambo—and learn why discernment, intention, and careful preparation are key for anyone drawn to this medicine. We wrap up with a look at the future of Kambo, sustainability concerns, and the evolving conversation around access and responsible use. So get ready for an enlightening, myth-busting, and refreshingly honest look at one of the most intriguing sacred medicines on the planet. Let’s jump right in! 00:00 Introduction 08:08 Kambo: Enhancing Mental Clarity and Connection 10:33 Kambo's Clarity and Clairvoyance Benefits 17:21 Kambo: Potent Opioid Alternative? 24:05 Kambo: Integration Beyond the Experience 29:50 Realizing Health Issues Through Kambo 34:36 Psychedelic Journeys and Well-Being 42:53 Preventing Injuries During Fainting 44:43 Risks of Sudden Blood Pressure Changes 51:36 Choosing the Right Practitioner 56:02 Kambo Prohibition Risk in Australia 01:02:47 Sacredness in Synthetic Matter 01:06:54 Understanding Substance Differences 01:10:51 Conclusion
    Más Menos
    1 h y 13 m
  • Breaking the Stigma: How Psychedelics Bring Hope to Cluster Headache Sufferers

    Breaking the Stigma: How Psychedelics Bring Hope to Cluster Headache Sufferers
    Aug 27 2025
    Welcome to another episode of Webdelics! Today, we’re delving deep into a topic that will change the way you think about headaches—and psychedelic medicine. Hosts Bob Wold and Scott Mason open up an astonishing conversation about cluster headaches, a rare but devastating condition described as one of the most painful experiences a person can have. Bob, who has lived with cluster headaches for decades, shares his personal journey—through years of misdiagnosis, ineffective treatments, and finally, groundbreaking self-experimentation with psychedelic substances like LSD and psilocybin. You’ll hear about the debilitating impact of cluster headaches—not only the physical agony, but also the stigma, mental health struggles, and high suicide rates plaguing this community. Bob explains how substances like LSD and magic mushrooms, often maligned and misunderstood, are offering life-changing relief where traditional medications have failed—backed by emerging research and hard-won advocacy. We also get a candid look at the medical resistance and legal hurdles standing in the way of wider access, and why decriminalization and education are so critical for people desperate for relief. This is more than a story of medical discovery—it’s a call to empathize with invisible suffering and to challenge the stigma that keeps effective treatments out of reach. Whether you’ve never heard of cluster headaches or have struggled to be believed or find answers, this conversation promises to open your mind—and your heart—to a brave new world of healing. Stick around for insights, compassion, and a glimpse at the future of psychedelic medicine and headache treatment.
    Más Menos
    57 m
  • Why Decriminalizing Nature Matters: Psychedelics, Archetypes, and Shifting Public Mindsets

    Why Decriminalizing Nature Matters: Psychedelics, Archetypes, and Shifting Public Mindsets
    Aug 26 2025
    Welcome back to another episode of Webdelics! This time, host Scott Mason sits down with Larry Norris, a passionate advocate for psychedelic decriminalization and co-founder of Decriminalize Nature. Together, they dive deep into the fascinating world of archetypes—those powerful, recurring patterns that shape both our personal psychedelic journeys and the broader debates over plant medicine in society. Larry shares insight from years of academic research, integration work, and advocacy, unpacking how archetypes like the prohibitionist, the gatekeeper, and the "savior complex" repeatedly show up in policy discussions and personal attitudes around psychedelics. Scott and Larry explore why these default patterns of thinking persist, how they impact legal and cultural battles over plant medicine, and what it takes to move the conversation forward with more awareness and nuance. They also touch on the commercialization of psychedelics, the importance—and risks—of mystical experiences, and why some see transformative inner journeys as threatening to mainstream, religious, or corporate interests. If you’ve ever wondered why the same arguments keep cropping up in the public debate on psychedelics, or how to have more enlightened conversations about plant medicines, this episode is for you. Get ready for a thoughtful, honest, and sometimes surprising look at the archetypes driving the psychedelic renaissance—and what it means for the future of healing, policy, and personal growth. 00:00 Introduction 09:58 Nuance in Experiences and Reactions 14:39 Challenging Mystical Experience Perceptions 19:38 Deep Inner Experience Fuels Transformation 24:32 Contemplating Peace and Consumerism Disconnect 30:24 Psychedelics: Threat to Religion and Commerce? 34:57 Risks of Psychedelic Commercialization 44:25 Worldview's Role in Healing Experiences 50:06 FDA Trials vs. Decrim Therapy 55:01 Ayahuasca and Nature's Forgotten Connections 57:04 Rational Thinking vs. Archetypal Debate 01:01:23 Conclusion
    Más Menos
    1 h y 2 m
  • Navigating Stigma and Science: SSRIs, Psilocybin, and the Future of Healing

    Navigating Stigma and Science: SSRIs, Psilocybin, and the Future of Healing
    Aug 12 2025
    Welcome to another episode of Webdelics! In today's enlightening conversation, host Scott Mason sits down with the brilliant Dr. Erica Zelfand—a physician, psychedelic facilitator, and advocate for integrated healing—to explore the evolving intersection of psychiatric drugs and psychedelics in mental health treatment. Together, they unpack the complex debates around SSRIs, psilocybin, and other healing modalities, cutting through controversy and polarization to reveal a nuanced, deeply human approach to care. Dr. Zelfand challenges the "either/or" mentality between pharmaceuticals and psychedelics, sharing real-world stories and clinical insights about combining—or carefully not combining—these treatments for optimal patient outcomes. From differentiating between anecdotal and clinical evidence, to highlighting the importance of honoring body, mind, and soul in every healing journey, this episode is packed with hard truths, hope, and practical advice for anyone struggling with—or curious about—mental health care outside the conventional box. Whether you're a patient, practitioner, or just psychedelic-curious, you won’t want to miss Dr. Zelfand’s grounded wisdom on forging a safer, more soulful path forward. So grab a seat and get ready to reimagine the future of mental health—one that embraces the spectrum of tools available, keeps the lines of communication open, and always remembers the power of the human spirit. 00:00 Introduction 04:00 Healing Systems: Bridging Psychedelics and Medicine 07:13 Psychedelic Experiences: Balancing Perspectives 11:47 Psilocybin Safe with SSRIs 16:54 Psilocybin, SSRIs, and Serotonin: Risks? 18:53 Psychiatric Meds and Withdrawal Challenges 22:10 Psychedelic Healing with Medication Guidance 25:21 Risks of Unsupervised Medication Changes 28:44 Merging Mysticism and Medicine 33:43 Bridging Medical Distrust and Treatment 37:05 Regulating Psychedelic Therapy Integration 40:30 Oregon Psilocybin Law Change 43:01 Barriers to Adoption of Experimental Therapies 45:43 Aligning Mind, Body, and Spirit 50:11 Holistic Approach to Ketamine Use 53:51 Body, Mind, Soul Connection 56:16 Conclusion
    Más Menos
    57 m