Psychedelic Spotlight Podcast

Matthew Dunehoo and David delve into an enlightening discussion about the hurdles, victories, and breakthroughs propelling PSYC ahead. They explore how Psychedelic Spotlight is adapting to changes and what these developments signify for stakeholders and the broader community, reaffirming their dedication to advancing psychedelic medicine.

 Host David Flores welcomes Dr. Steven L. Mandel, President and Founder of Ketamine Clinics Los Angeles, to shed light on the misconceptions and stigmas associated with ketamine therapy. They tackle the widespread misinterpretations of Perry’s autopsy report and its unintended consequences on the public's understanding of ketamine's role in treating mood disorders. Dr. Mandel elucidates the stark difference between the recreational abuse of substances like ketamine and their controlled, therapeutic use, drawing an analogy with alcohol consumption to clarify this distinction. Throughout the episode, they explore various aspects of ketamine therapy, discussing its effectiveness, the risks associated with recreational use, and its application in addiction treatment. Insights into the high standards maintained in ketamine clinics and the impactful patient stories further illuminate the significant, life-changing breakthroughs achieved through this treatment, often in combination with psychotherapy. This enlightening conversation aims to dispel myths and educate listeners on the safe and responsible use of psychedelics like ketamine in medical settings, emphasizing their transformative potential when used correctly.  

Host, David Flores, is joined by Joseph Caltabiano, the newly appointed Chairman and CEO of The Healing Realty Trust ("The HRT"), and Cody Shandraw, President and Founder of The HRT for an enlightening discussion on the critical role real estate is expected to play in helping to establish the clinical infrastructure necessary to support the effective rollout of psychedelic-assisted therapy in the months and years ahead.   

Riley and David chat about "Peace of Mind," the ESPN documentary that premiered this spring highlighting the role psychedelic therapy has played in the healing journeys of retired professional athletes like Riley who spent several years participating in physically violent sports like hockey, football, and boxing. They also take a deep dive into the debated, and at times, controversial, topic related to the important role spirituality plays in the psychedelic healing experience.

Kevin Colley, a former professional hockey player with over a decade of experience, including a stint with the NHL's New York Islanders, embarked on a profound journey earlier this year. Invited by fellow retired NHL player Riley Cote, Kevin participated in a transformative psychedelic-focused retreat as a patient of WAKE's clinical program in Jamaica. This experience allowed him to shed years of emotional and physical trauma stemming from a devastating neck injury in January 2006 that prematurely ended his hockey career and plunged him into a dark and seemingly hopeless period of his life.Our conversation also delves into the concept of male masculinity, particularly in individuals like Kevin who spent their lives in physically demanding and "tough guy" sports such as hockey. Kevin's story highlights the importance of finding the courage to seek help when needed. It's yet another inspirational tale of healing and discovering one's true self through the transformative power of psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Hadas provides insights into her role at APPA and the organization's mission to seamlessly integrate psychedelic medicine into the U.S. healthcare system.We also dive into the significance of the first-ever professional practice guidelines for psychedelic-assisted therapy co-published by APPA and BrainFutures. These guidelines are shaping the future of psychedelic therapy and ensuring its safety and effectiveness.Additionally, we discuss APPA's strategic partnership with The Daschle Group and its role in advancing the implementation of psychedelic-assisted therapy within the healthcare system.Join us for a captivating conversation about the transformative potential of psychedelics in healthcare and the vital work being done by APPA to make it a reality.  

This revolutionary service is designed to cater to individuals who find themselves in the midst of a psychedelic experience or in need of vital integration support.The Fireside Project is a shining beacon in the expanding landscape of psychedelic research and advocacy. It stands as a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of providing compassionate and informed assistance to those who choose to explore the profound realms of psychedelics outside of clinical settings. Joshua White's leadership in spearheading this initiative underscores the urgency and significance of creating a safe space for individuals to turn to during their psychedelic journeys.One of the key points of discussion in this episode is the critical role of a helpline specifically tailored for nonclinical psychedelic users. With the resurgence of interest in psychedelics as a therapeutic tool, many individuals are embarking on personal journeys without the guidance of medical professionals. This reality emphasizes the need for accessible and empathetic support, ensuring that anyone who chooses to explore these substances can do so with a sense of security and trust in the process.To learn more about Fireside, visit: firesideproject.org.

Reason for Hope is a national non-profit organization with a focus on advocating for policy and legal reforms to make safe, ethical, and affordable access to psychedelic-assisted therapy a reality.Brett Waters shares his personal motivation behind founding Reason for Hope after the tragic loss of his mother to suicide in 2018. He discusses his role in drafting psychedelic legislation in multiple states, including Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and New York, and his involvement in briefings for the White House Domestic Policy Council, HHS, and members of Congress regarding the importance of an inter-agency psychedelic task force.The conversation dives into Reason for Hope's mission to prevent deaths of despair by promoting accessible psychedelic medicine and assisted therapies. They support the bipartisan Breakthrough Therapies Act, aimed at expediting research and deployment of psychedelic therapies with breakthrough status.Brett also introduces the collaborative efforts of Reason for Hope's team, which includes strategic minds from various fields, working together in drafting legislation, preparing legal briefings, educating legislators, and building advocacy coalitions. Currently, Reason for Hope focuses on establishing MDMA- and psilocybin-assisted therapy expanded access pilot programs for those unable to wait for FDA approval.Tune in to explore the inspiring work of Reason for Hope and Brett's personal journey driving legislative change for psychedelic therapies. Subscribe to the Psychedelic Spotlight podcast for more insightful conversations and stay connected with Psychedelic Spotlight on your favorite social media platforms. Find out more about Reason for Hope here: https://www.reason-for-hope.org/

Charles Lazarus, Chief Cultivation and Production Officer, and Kevin Bourke, Chief Marketing and Branding Officer, share insights with us into Rose Hill's three channels of business units:Rose Hill: The historic Rose Hill Estate has transformed into a hub for cultivating organic produce and functional and psychedelic mushrooms, showcasing sustainable practices and research collaborations.PATOO: As the world's first legal psilocybin brand, PATOO offers an array of products, including capsules, honey, chocolate bars, and gummies, all infused with psilocybin.ONE Psilocybin Retreats: An upcoming venture that provides immersive psilocybin retreat experiences in Jamaica, designed in partnership with veterans.Our guests also discuss Rose Hill's innovative collaborations in genetics and substrates, their role in pioneering research on PTSD and depression, and their commitment to accessible, sustainable, and responsible use of psilocybin. Join us as we dive into the intriguing world of psilocybin innovation with Rose Hill's visionary leaders.For more information on Rose Hill, please visit: https://rosehill.life/science/

Most of us have probably heard some version of the saying “a happy and healthy employee is a productive employee”. But requesting a meeting with your company’s HR representative or CEO to discuss ketamine assisted therapy might feel like something that could get you fired from your job given the long-standing and ill-advised stigma that remains tied to many psychedelic and dissociative medicines like ketamine.This is exactly where Enthea is focused on bridging the divide between employers and legal access to psychedelic-assisted therapies within the workplace. Enthea is a mental health company dedicated to providing access to safe and affordable psychedelic-assisted therapy, beginning with ketamine therapy.Listen to this week's episode of the Psychedelic Spotlight Podcast to learn about Enthea and their goal to make psychedelics more accessible and affordable to everyone!To learn more about Enthea, visit their website at https://www.enthea.com/ and https://www.enthea.net/