Microdosing as a Skill: AMA with Paul F. Austin

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin reconnects with longtime Buddhist practitioner and former Synthesis co-founder Martijn Schirp, founder of Upāyosis. They explore his journey from pioneering modern psilocybin retreats to creating A Path Between Worlds, a year-long contemplative training that integrates Buddhist practice, ecological ethics, and psychedelic skillful means. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-333/?ref=278  Martijn shares lessons from Synthesis's rise and collapse, how time in the Himalayas reshaped his contemplative path, and why "ego porousness" may offer a healthier frame than "ego death." He and Paul discuss how Buddhist principles like interdependence and skillful means can guide responsible psychedelic work — and why awakening today must include service to a planet in crisis. Martijn Schirp is a longtime Buddhist practitioner and founder of Upāyosis, where he leads A Path Between Worlds, a yearlong contemplative training blending Buddhist practice, ecological ethics, contemplative science, and optional psychedelic components. Previously, he co-founded the Synthesis Institute, helping pioneer modern, medically supervised psilocybin retreats and training programs. He writes, teaches, and mentors at the intersection of Buddhist wisdom, contemplative science, and psychedelic practice. Highlights: From Synthesis to spiritual renewal in the Himalayas Lessons from crisis: leadership, burnout, impermanence What Buddhism can teach the psychedelic field The fifth precept and "skillful means" First principles of skillful psychedelic use Ego porousness vs. ego dissolution Ecological ethics as spiritual practice A Path Between Worlds: a contemplative year of service Episode Links: Upāyosis A Path Between Worlds 12-month program Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout These show links may contain affiliate links. Third Wave receives a small percentage of the product price if you purchase through the above affiliate links. Disclaimer: Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes. This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization.

In this special AMA episode, Paul F. Austin answers the most common, and most nuanced questions emerging from recent trainings, webinars, and community sessions. Drawing from a decade of experience in microdosing, facilitation, and practitioner training, Paul explores how to choose the right microdosing protocol, the relationship between nervous system health and performance, the role of psychedelics in coaching, and the ethical boundaries practitioners must uphold. He also discusses SSRI tapering, creativity, leadership, and how to guide clients through integration with clarity and skill. Highlights How to choose a microdosing protocol Why nervous system health comes first Microdosing vs. macrodosing for integration SSRIs, tapering, and safe sequencing Creativity and leadership with microdosing Embodiment as the key to integration Coaching vs. therapy in psychedelic work Ethical boundaries for practitioners Episode Links Free Webinar on Dec 11, 2025: Social Media, Psychedelics, and the Law: What Practitioners Need to Know Practitioner Certification Program Microdosing Practitioner Certification

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Dr. Michael Ryoshin Sapiro, a Zen Buddhist monk, psychologist, and psychedelic psychotherapist whose new book Truth Medicine explores how awakening and clinical science meet through the heart. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-332/?ref=278  They discuss how Zen simplicity informs psychedelic work, the nuances between psychedelic-assisted and psychedelic psychotherapy, and how Dr. Sapiro tailors ketamine sessions for trauma recovery in first responders and veterans. Together they unpack the art of surrender, the role of spirituality in therapy, and why genuine healing begins with nervous-system regulation long before medicine is introduced. Dr. Sapiro is teaching a seven-week live video course, "Truth Medicine," at The Shift Network starting January 6, 2025. This course will offer a deeper journey into conscious living, authenticity, and the principles explored in his new book. Michael Ryoshin Sapiro, PsyD is an ordained Zen Buddhist monk, clinical and first-responder psychologist, psychedelic psychotherapist, author, and meditation teacher. He serves as integrative psychologist at Boise Ketamine Clinic, runs international transformational retreats, and appears in the documentary An Act of Service on ketamine treatment for first responders (featured by The New York Times). His work within the special-operations and first-responder communities centers on trauma recovery, ethical service, and awakened leadership. His book Truth Medicine: Healing and Living Authentically Through Psychedelic Psychotherapy is available now. Highlights: Zen Buddhist ordination and early training How Zen shapes psychedelic psychotherapy Assisted therapy vs. psychedelic psychotherapy Ketamine dosing nuance and "golden hour" Working with first responders and veterans Non-dual states and "I am love" experiences Spiritual ethics in psychedelic care Nervous-system preparation for medicine Community, retreats, and the sacred heart Episode Links: Dr. Sapiro's Website Dr. Sapiro's book, Truth Medicine Dr. Sapiro's seven-week live video course starting Jan 6, 2025 Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Practitioner Certification Program at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout These show links may contain affiliate links. Third Wave receives a small percentage of the product price if you purchase through the above affiliate links. Disclaimer: Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes. This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Chen Lizra, founder of the Power of Somatic Intelligence. A somatic coach, TED Speaker, and plant medicine facilitator, Chen bridges embodiment, trauma healing, and shamanic wisdom to help high achievers reconnect with the body's innate intelligence. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-331/?ref=278  Drawing from her own healing journey and decades of work in the Amazon, Chen shares how somatic intelligence allows us to regulate the nervous system, dissolve ancestral imprints, and reclaim authentic power. She and Paul explore how movement, breath, and plant medicine can open pathways to emotional mastery and feminine embodiment. Chen Lizra is the founder of The Power of Somatic Intelligence, a somatic coach, TED Speaker, professional dancer, and plant medicine facilitator helping high achievers heal their nervous systems and release emotional blocks. With more than 30 years of experience blending embodiment, somatics, and shamanic wisdom, Chen guides clients toward inner alignment and authentic expression. She also leads retreats in the Amazon with a shamanic maestra, combining plant medicine, dieta, and somatic coaching for deep transformation. Highlights: How trauma lives in the body—and how to release it The five pillars of somatic intelligence Why nervous system regulation precedes spiritual awakening Integrating shamanic plant medicine with embodiment work Healing ancestral imprints through somatic awareness Balancing divine feminine energy and grounded power Moving from survival patterns to inner alignment The art of "feeling safe enough to feel" Episode Links: Power of Somatic Intelligence Chen's Ayahuasca & Somatic Healing Retreat – Mention 'Third Wave Special' for $300 off. Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes. This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin sits down with Jeff Stevens and David Shisel, co-founders of Psyched Wellness, the first publicly traded company in North America to bring an Amanita muscaria extract to market. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-330/?ref=278  Together, they discuss the mushroom's unique pharmacology, Psyched Wellness' multi-year path through Health Canada's safety testing, and the broader implications for the future of functional fungi. Paul also explores the tension between innovation and regulation, as Jeff and David share insights from operating in the gray area between supplements and psychedelics. Jeff Stevens and David Shisel are the co-founders of Psyched Wellness. With backgrounds spanning capital markets, legal compliance, and product development, they've led the effort to bring Amanita muscaria into mainstream wellness through rigorous science and education. Highlights: Understanding Amanita muscaria's active compounds Why Health Canada approval took three years How Psyched Wellness rebranded a controversial mushroom What separates Amanita from psilocybin Legal gray zones and ethical entrepreneurship Microdosing Amanita: early findings and consumer safety Building trust through transparency and research Episode Links: Psyched Wellness Episode 197 with Jeff: Decoding Amanita muscaria: A New Era of Mushroom Healing Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute helps you master Paul F. Austin's microdosing protocol and build a meaningful, profitable coaching practice in just 4 months. Early Bird pricing ends November 23. Program begins January 6, 2026.

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Jay Fiset, best-selling author and founder of The Psychedelic Coach Accelerator. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-329/?ref=278  Jay shares how psychedelics have transformed his marriage, business, and view of leadership—offering a look into what he calls Functional Psychedelics, a practice of intentionally using medicine to expand awareness, connection, and creativity. Together they discuss how to hold trauma-informed space, translate insights into everyday leadership, and why integration is the true measure of transformation. Want to join The Psychedelic Coach Accelerator? Get a special discount with code THIRDWAVE. Go Here. Jay Fiset is a psychedelic educator, advocate, and guide. A best-selling author, global speaker, and mastermind mentor, he has helped thousands of entrepreneurs expand both their businesses and consciousness. Through The Connection Experience and The Psychedelic Coach Accelerator, Jay and his wife Cory train psychedelic guides and coaches to integrate medicine work into leadership and relational growth. Highlights: • What "Functional Psychedelics" really means • How couples' journeys deepen emotional intelligence • Integration as innovation in business • The importance of trauma-informed facilitation • Building ethical, scalable psychedelic leadership • Balancing achievement with embodiment • Why business can be a spiritual practice Episode Links: The Psychedelic Coach Accelerator  (Use Code THIRDWAVE for a special discount) The Connection Experience  Integrate In Between Guide Certification  Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute helps you master Paul F. Austin's microdosing protocol and build a meaningful, profitable coaching practice in just 4 months. Early Bird pricing: $4,000 (until November 16). Program begins January 6, 2026. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Elina Teboul, author of Feminine Intelligence: Visionary Leaders Reshaping Business. A former corporate attorney turned leadership coach, Elina explores how psychedelics and altered states can reconnect leaders to empathy, purpose, and environmental stewardship. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-328/?ref=278 Drawing on her background in law, psychology, and mindfulness, Elina shares how "feminine intelligence" can help leaders balance logic with intuition and reimagine business through love, creativity, and service. Elina Teboul is a leadership expert and executive coach with degrees in psychology and law from Columbia University. She founded Light Up Lab, serves as an executive coach with The Preston Associates, and sits on the advisory board of the Earth Law Center. Her work bridges corporate leadership with spiritual and ecological awareness, offering a transformative model for conscious capitalism. Highlights: From Big Law to psychedelic leadership Integrating empathy and purpose in business Psychedelics as tools for wholeness Positive psychology for high-stress professions Conscious capitalism and planetary stewardship Ethical frameworks for psychedelics at work Episode Links Elina's Website Book: Feminine Intelligence Episode Sponsor The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute helps you master Paul F. Austin's microdosing protocol and build a meaningful, profitable coaching practice in just 4 months. Early Bird pricing: $4,000 (until November 16). Program begins January 6, 2026. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Dr. Conor H. Murray, a neuroscientist at UCLA whose research explores how psychedelics affect the brain. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-327/?ref=278  Conor shares insights from his placebo-controlled LSD microdosing study revealing measurable increases in neural complexity, suggesting unique neurological benefits even at sub-perceptual doses. He and Paul discuss what these findings mean for depression, addiction, and brain plasticity, as well as the future of citizen neuroscience through Conor's platform Psynautics. They also touch on his ongoing psilocybin study for cocaine use disorder and why low-dose research may hold keys to understanding consciousness itself. Interested in participating in Dr. Murray's Microdosing Study? Get 10% Off Your Enrollment! Use code WAVE3 to receive 10% off your study kit. https://www.psynautics.com/microdosing Conor Murray is a neuroscientist specializing in altered states of consciousness at UCLA. He is also the founder of Psynautics, the world's first citizen neuroscientist platform built for testing hypotheses related to altered states of mind and brain, from meditation to microdosing. His scientific expertise spans from the neurobiology of addiction to the effects of cannabis and psychedelics on the brain. Highlights How Dr. Murray entered psychedelic research by chance What LSD microdosing reveals about neural complexity The "sweet spot" around 13 micrograms for mental clarity Why placebo effects don't fully explain brain changes Microdosing vs macrodosing in neuroplastic outcomes BDNF, inflammation, and the mechanisms of healing Psilocybin's potential for cocaine use disorder How environment influences addiction and relapse The rise of citizen neuroscience and DIY EEG studies Where psychedelic science is headed next Episode Links Conor H. Murray, PhD Personal website Psynautics (Citizen Neuroscience Project) Psynautics Microdosing Study (Use code WAVE3 to receive 10% off your study kit) Episode Sponsors The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Jay Campbell, five-time bestselling author, men's physique champion, and founder of BioLongevity Labs. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-326/?ref=278  Together they explore how peptides, hormones, and energy form a new model of regenerative health. Jay explains how these signaling molecules work at the cellular level and why coherence and self-awareness are essential to sustainable vitality. The discussion bridges scientific rigor with personal transformation—redefining what it means to be "optimized." Jay Campbell is a bestselling author, athlete, and co-founder of BioLongevity Labs. Recognized for his expertise in hormone and peptide science, he blends decades of physical training experience with a deep understanding of consciousness and energetic alignment. Highlights: Peptides as a bridge between biology and consciousness Why emotional regulation supports physical health The "God Stack" for daily optimization How light and sound technologies aid healing The future of energy-based medicine Love and service as true performance enhancers Episode Links: BioLongevity Labs - Use Code THIRDWAVE for 15% off Jay's Website Episode Sponsors The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin welcomes Kevin Cannella, co-founder and executive director of Thank You Life, a nonprofit removing financial barriers to psychedelic therapy. Kevin shares his path from early mystical experiences and time at a Peruvian retreat center to becoming a licensed professional counselor and MAPS-trained therapist, then building a pay-it-forward fund that partners with clinics nationwide. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-325/?ref=278  Kevin explains how Thank You Life works with 120+ ketamine clinics, why group programs matter for cost and connection, and what's realistic about insurance coverage today. He also explores integration support, community pods, and how state partnerships could expand access for veterans, first responders, and more. Kevin Cannella is the co-founder and executive director of Thank You Life, a 501(c)(3) psychedelic therapy access fund. A licensed professional counselor and MAPS-trained psychedelic therapist, Kevin founded the organization with Dr. Dan Engle to eliminate the financial barriers that prevent many from accessing psychedelic healing. Thank You Life partners with over 120 ketamine clinics in 35 states, offering financial assistance and group support programs to individuals in need. Rooted in his own transformative journey with meditation, intensive retreat work, and psychotherapy, Kevin is dedicated to advancing health equity, reciprocity, and compassionate care in the psychedelic field. Highlights: Service-driven path into psychedelic care Founding Thank You Life as a pay-it-forward fund Partnering with 120+ ketamine clinics nationwide Group ketamine care: cost and community benefits Insurance realities: Spravato vs. generic ketamine Integration support through clinics and community pods Scaling access via philanthropy and state partnerships Episode Sponsors: Golden Rule Mushrooms - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute.